NewzIntel.com

Category: Russian Federation

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Outlines Efforts to Advance Comprehensive Missile, Drone Detection & Defense Network

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven
    06.24.25
    Senator Joins Sullivan, Cramer in Introducing GOLDEN DOME Act, Highlights Critical Role of Grand Forks, Cavalier in Integrated Defense System
    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, today outlined efforts to ensure the U.S. is secure against threats both present and future, including advanced missile technologies and emerging threats from unmanned aircraft. To this end, Hoeven is joining with Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) in introducing the GOLDEN DOME Act, legislation that supports the establishment of a network of sensors and intercept capabilities to protect against the range of threats facing the U.S. Hoeven joined his colleagues at a press conference today announcing the legislation and highlighted key missions and initiatives in North Dakota that would fit into the Golden Dome architecture:
    The Space Development Agency’s (SDA) low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite mission in Grand Forks.
    In addition to his efforts to stand up the SDA mission, which will serve as the backbone of all U.S. military communications, Hoeven has been working to ensure the LEO satellites can provide missile tracking and advanced fire control.

    The Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS) radar at Cavalier Space Force Station, which provides early warning of incoming missiles.
    Hoeven is working as a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee to fund the modernization of PARCS.

    The counter-drone research and development taking place in the Grand Forks region.
    Hoeven is working to leverage Project ULTRA to develop counter-drone technologies, while bringing in new capabilities like securing access to the Federal Aviation Administration’s unfiltered radar data feed to support and accelerate these efforts.

    At the same time, Hoeven stressed the importance of maintaining an effective nuclear deterrent and keeping nuclear modernization on track, including for the dual-nuclear mission in Minot.
    “This is about integrating all of the systems we are developing throughout the various military branches to ensure we have a comprehensive defense network that works across all domains. Whether it’s ground-based radar in Cavalier, satellite detection out of Grand Forks, or the new missile and drone interception technologies we are advancing, we need all of these pieces to work seamlessly together,” said Hoeven. “At the same time, the best protection is a strong deterrent, so our adversaries don’t even consider striking the U.S. That’s why we need to keep our nuclear modernization programs moving forward, so we can match any of the capabilities being developed by hostile nations like Russia and China. This will be critical as we work to get the Golden Dome established and will remain essential even when these new defenses are in place.”
    Specifically, the GOLDEN DOME Act:
    Directs the Department of Defense (DoD) to establish a layered defense system that fully integrates all of the nation’s missile defense technologies.
    Enhances existing U.S. missile defense by authorizing procurement of additional sensors and interceptors.
    Enables SDA to develop, procure and deploy satellite-based sensors in support of Golden Dome.
    Requires the modernization of numerous early warning radar detection systems across the U.S., including PARCS at Cavalier Space Force Station.
    Supports development of advanced technologies to track and defeat enemy missile threats.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Outlines Efforts to Advance Comprehensive Missile, Drone Detection & Defense Network

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    06.24.25

    Senator Joins Sullivan, Cramer in Introducing GOLDEN DOME Act, Highlights Critical Role of Grand Forks, Cavalier in Integrated Defense System

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, today outlined efforts to ensure the U.S. is secure against threats both present and future, including advanced missile technologies and emerging threats from unmanned aircraft. To this end, Hoeven is joining with Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) in introducing the GOLDEN DOME Act, legislation that supports the establishment of a network of sensors and intercept capabilities to protect against the range of threats facing the U.S. Hoeven joined his colleagues at a press conference today announcing the legislation and highlighted key missions and initiatives in North Dakota that would fit into the Golden Dome architecture:

    • The Space Development Agency’s (SDA) low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite mission in Grand Forks.
      • In addition to his efforts to stand up the SDA mission, which will serve as the backbone of all U.S. military communications, Hoeven has been working to ensure the LEO satellites can provide missile tracking and advanced fire control.
    • The Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS) radar at Cavalier Space Force Station, which provides early warning of incoming missiles.
      • Hoeven is working as a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee to fund the modernization of PARCS.
    • The counter-drone research and development taking place in the Grand Forks region.
      • Hoeven is working to leverage Project ULTRA to develop counter-drone technologies, while bringing in new capabilities like securing access to the Federal Aviation Administration’s unfiltered radar data feed to support and accelerate these efforts.

    At the same time, Hoeven stressed the importance of maintaining an effective nuclear deterrent and keeping nuclear modernization on track, including for the dual-nuclear mission in Minot.

    “This is about integrating all of the systems we are developing throughout the various military branches to ensure we have a comprehensive defense network that works across all domains. Whether it’s ground-based radar in Cavalier, satellite detection out of Grand Forks, or the new missile and drone interception technologies we are advancing, we need all of these pieces to work seamlessly together,” said Hoeven. “At the same time, the best protection is a strong deterrent, so our adversaries don’t even consider striking the U.S. That’s why we need to keep our nuclear modernization programs moving forward, so we can match any of the capabilities being developed by hostile nations like Russia and China. This will be critical as we work to get the Golden Dome established and will remain essential even when these new defenses are in place.”

    Specifically, the GOLDEN DOME Act:

    • Directs the Department of Defense (DoD) to establish a layered defense system that fully integrates all of the nation’s missile defense technologies.
    • Enhances existing U.S. missile defense by authorizing procurement of additional sensors and interceptors.
    • Enables SDA to develop, procure and deploy satellite-based sensors in support of Golden Dome.
    • Requires the modernization of numerous early warning radar detection systems across the U.S., including PARCS at Cavalier Space Force Station.
    • Supports development of advanced technologies to track and defeat enemy missile threats.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoeven Outlines Efforts to Advance Comprehensive Missile, Drone Detection & Defense Network

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for North Dakota John Hoeven

    06.24.25

    Senator Joins Sullivan, Cramer in Introducing GOLDEN DOME Act, Highlights Critical Role of Grand Forks, Cavalier in Integrated Defense System

    WASHINGTON – Senator John Hoeven, a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee, today outlined efforts to ensure the U.S. is secure against threats both present and future, including advanced missile technologies and emerging threats from unmanned aircraft. To this end, Hoeven is joining with Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) in introducing the GOLDEN DOME Act, legislation that supports the establishment of a network of sensors and intercept capabilities to protect against the range of threats facing the U.S. Hoeven joined his colleagues at a press conference today announcing the legislation and highlighted key missions and initiatives in North Dakota that would fit into the Golden Dome architecture:

    • The Space Development Agency’s (SDA) low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite mission in Grand Forks.
      • In addition to his efforts to stand up the SDA mission, which will serve as the backbone of all U.S. military communications, Hoeven has been working to ensure the LEO satellites can provide missile tracking and advanced fire control.
    • The Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System (PARCS) radar at Cavalier Space Force Station, which provides early warning of incoming missiles.
      • Hoeven is working as a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Committee to fund the modernization of PARCS.
    • The counter-drone research and development taking place in the Grand Forks region.
      • Hoeven is working to leverage Project ULTRA to develop counter-drone technologies, while bringing in new capabilities like securing access to the Federal Aviation Administration’s unfiltered radar data feed to support and accelerate these efforts.

    At the same time, Hoeven stressed the importance of maintaining an effective nuclear deterrent and keeping nuclear modernization on track, including for the dual-nuclear mission in Minot.

    “This is about integrating all of the systems we are developing throughout the various military branches to ensure we have a comprehensive defense network that works across all domains. Whether it’s ground-based radar in Cavalier, satellite detection out of Grand Forks, or the new missile and drone interception technologies we are advancing, we need all of these pieces to work seamlessly together,” said Hoeven. “At the same time, the best protection is a strong deterrent, so our adversaries don’t even consider striking the U.S. That’s why we need to keep our nuclear modernization programs moving forward, so we can match any of the capabilities being developed by hostile nations like Russia and China. This will be critical as we work to get the Golden Dome established and will remain essential even when these new defenses are in place.”

    Specifically, the GOLDEN DOME Act:

    • Directs the Department of Defense (DoD) to establish a layered defense system that fully integrates all of the nation’s missile defense technologies.
    • Enhances existing U.S. missile defense by authorizing procurement of additional sensors and interceptors.
    • Enables SDA to develop, procure and deploy satellite-based sensors in support of Golden Dome.
    • Requires the modernization of numerous early warning radar detection systems across the U.S., including PARCS at Cavalier Space Force Station.
    • Supports development of advanced technologies to track and defeat enemy missile threats.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell on American Leadership; Standing with Israel and Ukraine

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell

    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, delivered remarks on the Senate floor today regarding U.S. national security interests in standing with Israel, supporting Ukraine, and investing sufficiently in our own defense. Prepared text of his speech follows:

    “When Iran’s proxies launched a full-scale war on Israel on October 7th, 2023, President Biden pledged an ‘unwavering commitment to Israel’s security’. This was the right message in the moment. But as I warned publicly at the time, Israel needed more than rhetorical solidarity.

    “Like Ukraine, Israel needed precious time, space to maneuver, and material support to defeat a shared enemy. And yet, as in Ukraine, America’s commitment has indeed wavered. Our support has not been ironclad.

    “Instead, under the previous Administration, American support was delayed, restricted, and paired with attempts to micromanage Israeli operations and even interfere with Israeli politics. And at every turn, the progressive left and isolationist right hyperventilated about the specter of so-called forever war.

    “Fortunately, Israel held its ground. Israelis weren’t enthused about a ground war in Gaza. Their leaders knew that war would be difficult. But they knew it was unavoidable so long as Hamas terrorists still refused to release its hostages. They also knew lasting security meant changing Iran’s calculus…Not just responding to attacks from its proxies. So Israel decided to turn Iran’s terrorist assets into liabilities.

    “Despite the pearl-clutching here in Washington, our ally simultaneously decapitated Hizballah and crippled Hamas. Their bold operations created a new opportunity for Lebanon to claw back its sovereignty from a terrorist state within a state.

    “Meanwhile, the collapse of the brutal Assad regime in Syria brought down a Russian vassal and Iran’s favorite corridor of weapons and terrorist finance. These are the circumstances President Trump inherited. What to do with them has been the subject of some debate. Some of his advisors and supporters came with Obama-Biden-era talking points, ready to urge him to continue his predecessor’s policy of constraining Israel. Some had argued publicly that America had no vital or existential interests in the Middle East or claimed the region was a distraction from other priorities. They warned of forever war. Some seemed to push for nuclear negotiations with parameters eerily similar to the nuclear deal he withdrew from during his first term. They even proposed Iran could keep enriching uranium, until the President rightly quashed that idea.

    “These mixed messages emboldened Iran and its proxies. After all, why give up if Administration officials saw the Middle East as little more than a distraction?…or if they seem as fearful of restoring deterrence as the previous guys? So Hamas kept holding hostages. The Houthis kept targeting Israel and Red Sea commerce. And the Islamic Republic kept marching toward a nuclear weapon. And in response, Israel took the next logical step to restore deterrence.

    “Once again, innovative and decisive strikes destroyed Iran’s air defenses and imposed immediate costs on Tehran. And leaders from across Israel’s politics stood united behind the daring operations. But here in America, the same restrainers, anti-Israel progressives, and self-proclaimed realists warned again of regional conflagration if the President intervened alongside – or even supported – Israel’s strikes.

    “The President’s own Director of National Intelligence traveled to Hiroshima to record a bizarre video message – not as a warning against Tehran’s nuclear ambitions but, presumably, against American or Israeli operations to blunt them.

    “Fortunately, the President rejected the pleas of appeasers and isolationists. The strikes he ordered dealt a massive blow to Iran’s nuclear program, bolstered American credibility, and strengthened U.S. and Israeli leverage to end Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons and its support for terrorism for good.

    “Thanks to Israel’s heroic efforts for more than a year and a half, Iran’s ability to threaten regional stability is massively degraded. Not since before the Islamic revolution has there been such an opportunity for America, Israel, and our Arab partners to reset regional dynamics on such favorable terms. Achieving it has required no large-scale deployment of U.S. ground forces. It required only supporting our friends. Israel is a close ally and a strategic asset. Not a liability. And the strategic return on our investment in assisting Israel is incalculable.

    “Standing with our Israeli friends offers a powerful lesson about American leadership, the value of alliances and partnerships, and the real nature of peace through strength. And this lesson extends far beyond the Middle East. If America refuses to apply it elsewhere – like Ukraine – we do so at grave risk to our own interests. But that’s exactly what some in Washington seem to be doing. Congress recently learned that a senior DoD official conducted a review of DoD security assistance efforts and concluded that the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), among other programs, was wasteful. This is a Republican Administration panning a program created by a Republican Congress in 2015 to counter President Obama’s toothless response to Russia’s initial invasion of Ukraine. I’d like to see the analysis behind the Administration’s decision to zero out USAI in its FY26 request. I’d like to hear them try to explain away the massive return on investment of America’s security assistance to Ukraine and the precious lessons we’ve learned from our Ukrainian partners.

    “The Secretary of the Army has rightly called Ukraine ‘the Silicon Valley of warfare’. Do his colleagues at the Pentagon think this assessment is wrong, or do they just not think access to the cutting edge of modern combat is valuable? Here’s the truth: USAI and other security assistance efforts have helped us measurably address shortcomings in strategy, capabilities, and production capacity that would have gone ignored until it was too late.

    “It’s an inconvenient reality for isolationists and restrainers, but – for a tiny percent of our defense budget – we helped a smaller military resist invasion by a vastly larger one and degrade a major U.S. adversary.

    “As with Israel, Ukraine is fighting an adversary of the United States. Our support does not entangle us in a far-off foreign conflict. For Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea, America is the main enemy – the great Satan. If these adversaries beat our friends, the threat to America become a thousand times greater. We should be grateful for friends so willing to defend our collective interests against common foes.

    “Partnership with Ukraine is teaching us what modern warfare could mean for U.S. forces when they do face direct conflict. It has tested our assumptions about munitions inventories, expenditure rates, electronic warfare, and the duration of conflict. Without Ukraine’s experience with U.S. weapons, we would have been surprised to find some advanced systems quickly rendered inoperable on future battlefields.

    “The money we invest in USAI on weapons for Ukraine expands our own production capacity in the process and will improve the quality of our own munitions. Supplemental appropriations on Ukraine and Israel, in turn, backfill our own stocks with brand-new capabilities – not just 155mm rounds, but air defenses and long-range fires, with specific investment in solid rocket motors. These investments help us prepare for conflict in the Indo-Pacific. And production would be slower in the absence of our partnership with Ukraine. Not doing more to address our growing defense needs isn’t a failure of foresight. It’s a failure of political will. Everyone wants to see an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine. But the price of peace matters. If we want enduring stability in Europe, we can’t fall for an illusory peace.

    “We should know enough history not to dismiss this as merely ‘a quarrel in a faraway country, between two people of whom we know nothing’. It’s a major war of conquest in Europe…The most significant since the days of Nazi Germany…And allies and adversaries half a world away are watching it closely for clues about America’s resolve. Certainly, Europe’s deepening commitments to collective defense will make real peace more enforceable. The President’s insistence has driven much of this progress; Putin’s brutality has reinforced it.

    “Since 2022, our European NATO allies have made historic investments in defense – often buying American. And many are preparing to make even larger commitments at this week’s NATO Summit. This is good news. But we can’t expect allies to continue signing up for 3.5% and 5% commitments if America insists on falling further behind. Likewise, we can’t expect Putin to end his aggression if he thinks America’s abandonment of Ukraine is only a matter of time. And we can’t expect anyone to take America’s threats and commitments seriously if we’re content to let our own strength atrophy.

    “A base budget request that cuts defense spending in real terms doesn’t show Moscow we’re serious – let alone Beijing. Leading from behind would be bad enough, but this is just plain falling behind. The strongest deterrence is denying an adversary’s objectives through military means. Israel is restoring this deterrence in the Middle East. Ukraine is achieving it by holding its own against Russia. But it needs help.

    “Recently, I’ve asked Administration officials simple questions, like: Who is the aggressor in this conflict? The answer is obvious. But a second, equally simple question seems to trip them up: Who do we want to win?

    “The President made the right call to stand with Israel. I hope he’ll also decide to stand with Ukraine, prevent Russian victory, and start reversing a dangerous, downward trend in our defense budgets. I hope he’ll recognize Russia’s attempt to ‘tap him along’ for what it is. Putin is getting mixed messages from Washington. He thinks he has time. He believes the West is weak and divided. But the President – at very little cost – can shatter this illusion. It’s time to impose sanctions, raise the price of Russia’s aggression, redouble security assistance to Ukraine, and drive the Kremlin to seek peace. It’s time for deterrence through denial.

    “There’s no surer path to just and enduring peace…No better way to demonstrate that peace through strength actually means something…No clearer sign to allies and adversaries watching closely from the Western Hemisphere to the Indo-Pacific that America still has the will to lead.”

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Completes 2025 Article IV Mission to Vietnam

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 24, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • Vietnam’s economy started 2025 strongly, with 6.9% year-on-year growth in the first
    • quarter. However, the outlook is more challenging amid global trade tensions and high uncertainty.
    • There is room for greater support by fiscal policy to cushion the impact of global shocks if needed. Allowing more flexibility in the exchange rate and strengthening the financial system will be important.
    • Implementation of the ambitious reform agenda encompassing institutional overhauls, private sector strengthening, and infrastructure improvements present an opportunity to raise medium-term growth. Further reforms to boost productivity, strengthen governance, and improve the business environment are also critical.

    Hanoi: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by Mr. Paulo Medas, held discussions for the 2025 Article IV consultation with the Vietnamese authorities from June 11-24, 2025. The team exchanged views with Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc, senior officials of the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), the Ministry of Finance, the National Assembly, and other government agencies. It also met with representatives from the private sector, think tanks, and other stakeholders.

    At the conclusion of the mission, Mr. Medas issued the following statement:

    “The Vietnamese economy rebounded strongly in 2024, growing at 7.1 percent backed by robust exports, resilient foreign direct investment (FDI), and supportive policies. This momentum continued into the first quarter of 2025, with economic activity expanding by 6.9 percent (y/y). Inflation remained contained. The current account surplus reached a record 6.6 percent of GDP in 2024.

    “The outlook is heavily dependent on the outcome of trade negotiations and is constrained by elevated global uncertainty on trade policies and economic growth. Our projections, in line with the IMF April 2025 World Economic Outlook, assumes high tariffs take effect in the third quarter. In such a scenario, economic growth is projected to slow to 5.4 percent in 2025 and decelerate further in 2026.  However, if global trade tensions subside, the economic outlook would improve significantly.

    “Downside risks are high. A further escalation in global trade tensions or a tightening of global financial conditions could weaken further exports and investment. Domestically, financial stress could re-emerge from tighter financial conditions and high corporate indebtedness. On the upside, achieving nondiscriminatory trade agreements and successfully implementing planned infrastructure and structural reforms could significantly boost medium-term growth.

    “Given the uncertain outlook, policy priorities should focus on preserving macro-financial stability while navigating economic adjustments. Fiscal policy, supported by low level of public debt, should take the lead in cushioning the near-term impact especially under downside scenarios. Accelerated implementation of public investment and strengthening social safety nets would be important.

    “Monetary policy has much more limited room and should be decisively focused on anchoring inflation expectations. Allowing the exchange rate flexibility will be critical as the economy adjusts to the external shock. Some monetary easing could be considered if global interest rates decline as expected and inflation falls. Vigilance is needed to monitor and act against inflation pressures arise, including due to external shocks. These challenges underscore the importance of modernizing the monetary policy framework to enhance its effectiveness and anchor stability, including by replacing credit growth limits with an improved prudential framework.

    “Further efforts are needed to strengthen financial sector soundness. To bolster banking system resilience, priorities include strengthening bank supervision, build liquidity and capital buffers, and further improving the bank resolution framework.

    “The government’s plans for an ambitious reform agenda are very welcome and could boost medium-term growth, but implementation will be key. The government’s focus on institutional reforms to enhance efficiency, strengthen private sector development, and plans to scale up public investment is a major step forward. It will be important to develop and implement concrete reforms to improve key infrastructure (e.g., logistics, energy), functioning of capital markets, education and training, and productivity.  To maximize the return on large investments, it is critical to strengthen public investment management and adopt a sound macro-fiscal strategy to preserve the health of public finances. Efforts to strengthen economic governance are essential, including strengthening the AML/CFT regime, and efforts in this regard are welcome. Vietnam’s rapid economic growth is outpacing the development of its economic statistics and urgent efforts are needed to close data gaps to support effective policymaking and risk management.

    “The team is grateful to the authorities for their warm hospitality and the candid and insightful discussions.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Pavis Devahasadin

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/24/pr-25214-vietnam-imf-staff-completes-2025-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ceasefires like the one between Iran and Israel often fail – but an agreement with specific conditions is more likely to hold

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Donald Heflin, Executive Director of the Edward R. Murrow Center and Senior Fellow of Diplomatic Practice, The Fletcher School, Tufts University

    President Donald Trump speaks to reporters outside the White House on June 24, 2025, in Washington, less than 12 hours after announcing a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    Within hours of President Donald Trump unexpectedly announcing an upcoming ceasefire between Israel and Iran on June 23, 2025, both countries launched airstrikes against the other.

    “We basically have two countries that have been fighting so long and so hard that they don’t know what the f–k they’re doing,” an angry and frustrated Trump told reporters outside the White House on June 24.

    While Iran and Israel have tentatively agreed to the truce – and Trump reiterated on June 24 that the “ceasefire is in effect” – it is not clear whether this deal can hold. Some research shows that an estimated 80% of ceasefire deals worldwide fail.

    Amy Lieberman, a politics and society editor at The Conversation U.S., spoke with former Ambassador Donald Heflin, an American career diplomat who serves as the executive director of the Edward R. Murrow Center at the Fletcher School, Tufts University, to understand how ceasefires typically work – and how the Israel-Iran deal stacks up against other agreements to end wars.

    An excavator removes debris from a residential building that was destroyed in Israel’s June 13, 2025, airstrike on Tehran, Iran.
    Majid Saeedi/Getty Images

    How do ceasefire deals typically happen?

    There are classes taught on how to negotiate ceasefires, but it is ad hoc with each situation.

    For example, in one scenario, one of the warring parties wants a ceasefire and has decided that the conflict isn’t going well. The second party might not want a ceasefire, but could agree that it is getting tired or the risks are too high, and agrees to work something out.

    The next scenario, which leads to more success, is when both parties want a ceasefire. They decide that the loss of life and money has gone too far for both sides. One of the parties approaches the other through intermediaries to say it wants a ceasefire, and the other warring party agrees.

    In a third situation – which is what we are seeing with the Iran-Israel deal – the outside world imposes a ceasefire. Trump likely told both Israel and Iran: Look, it’s enough. This is too dangerous for the rest of the world. We don’t care what you think. Time for a ceasefire.“

    The U.S. has done this in the Middle East before, like after the Yom Kippur War in 1973 between Israel and a coalition of Arab countries led by Egypt and Syria. Israel was achieving big military victories, but the risk was pretty great for the world. The U.S. came in and said, “That’s enough, stop it now.” And it worked.

    Does the US bring the warring parties to a table in this kind of situation, or simply pressure the countries to stop fighting?

    It is more of the U.S. saying, “We are done.” When the U.S. does something like this, it is often going to have backup from the European Union and other countries like Qatar, saying, “The Americans are right. It is time for a ceasefire.”

    It appears that this Israel-Iran deal does not have specific conditions attached to it. Is that typical of a ceasefire deal?

    This deal doesn’t seem to have any specific details attached to it. Ceasefires work better when they have that. Lasting ceasefires need to address the concerns of the warring parties and give each side some of what it wants.

    For instance, in the Ukraine and Russia war, we have not seen either one of those countries push for a ceasefire. Part of the problem is Crimea and eastern Ukraine, sections of land in Ukraine that Russia has annexed and claims as its own. Russia would be happy with a deal that puts it in charge of Crimea and Ukraine, but Ukraine won’t agree to that. The question of who controls specific areas of land has to be addressed in this conflict; otherwise, the ceasefire isn’t going to last.

    Search and rescue efforts continue in a building in Beersheba, Israel, hit by a ballistic missile fired from Iran shortly before the ceasefire announced by U.S. President Donald Trump came into effect on June 24, 2025.
    Mostafa Alkharouf/Anadolu via Getty Images)

    Who is responsible for ensuring that both sides uphold a ceasefire?

    Security guarantees are an important part of negotiating and maintaining long-term ceasefires. Big countries like the U.S. could say that if a warring party violates a ceasefire agreement, they are going to punish them.

    In the 1990s, the U.S. and Europe assured Ukraine that if it gave up its nuclear arsenal, the U.S. would defend Ukraine if Russia ever invaded it. Russia has invaded Ukraine twice since then, in 2014 and 2022. The U.S. gave a more substantial response in the form of sending weapons and other war materials to Ukraine after the 2022 invasion, but there have been no real consequences for Russia.

    That has created a problem for ceasefires in the future, because the U.S. didn’t deliver on its past security guarantees.

    The further away you get from Europe, the less interested the West is in wars. But in those kinds of disputes, United Nations and other international peacekeeping troops can be sent in. Sometimes, that can work brilliantly in one place, like with the example of international peacekeeping troops called the multilateral Observer Mission stationed between Israel and Egypt helping maintain peace between those countries. But you can copy it to another place and it just doesn’t work as well.

    How does this ceasefire fit within the history of other ceasefires?

    It’s too early to tell. What matters is how the details get fleshed out.

    Ideally, you can get representatives of the Israeli and Iranian governments to sit around a conference table to reach a detailed agreement. The Israelis might say, “We have got to have some kind of assurances that Iran is not going to use a nuclear weapon.” And the Iranians could say, “Assassinations of our military generals and scientists has got to stop.” That kind of conversation and agreement is what is missing, thus far, in this process.

    Why is it so common for ceasefire deals to fail?

    Some ceasefire deals don’t get to the underlying conditions of what really caused the problem and what made people start shooting this time around. If you don’t get to the core issues of a conflict, you are putting a Band-Aid on the situation. Putting a Band-Aid on someone when they are bleeding is a good move, but you ultimately might need more than that to stop the bleeding.

    The outside world might be pretty happy with a ceasefire deal that seems to stop the fighting, but if the details are not ironed out, the experts would say, “This isn’t going to last.”

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

    – ref. Ceasefires like the one between Iran and Israel often fail – but an agreement with specific conditions is more likely to hold – https://theconversation.com/ceasefires-like-the-one-between-iran-and-israel-often-fail-but-an-agreement-with-specific-conditions-is-more-likely-to-hold-259739

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ceasefires like the one between Iran and Israel often fail – but an agreement with specific conditions is more likely to hold

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Donald Heflin, Executive Director of the Edward R. Murrow Center and Senior Fellow of Diplomatic Practice, The Fletcher School, Tufts University

    President Donald Trump speaks to reporters outside the White House on June 24, 2025, in Washington, less than 12 hours after announcing a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    Within hours of President Donald Trump unexpectedly announcing an upcoming ceasefire between Israel and Iran on June 23, 2025, both countries launched airstrikes against the other.

    “We basically have two countries that have been fighting so long and so hard that they don’t know what the f–k they’re doing,” an angry and frustrated Trump told reporters outside the White House on June 24.

    While Iran and Israel have tentatively agreed to the truce – and Trump reiterated on June 24 that the “ceasefire is in effect” – it is not clear whether this deal can hold. Some research shows that an estimated 80% of ceasefire deals worldwide fail.

    Amy Lieberman, a politics and society editor at The Conversation U.S., spoke with former Ambassador Donald Heflin, an American career diplomat who serves as the executive director of the Edward R. Murrow Center at the Fletcher School, Tufts University, to understand how ceasefires typically work – and how the Israel-Iran deal stacks up against other agreements to end wars.

    An excavator removes debris from a residential building that was destroyed in Israel’s June 13, 2025, airstrike on Tehran, Iran.
    Majid Saeedi/Getty Images

    How do ceasefire deals typically happen?

    There are classes taught on how to negotiate ceasefires, but it is ad hoc with each situation.

    For example, in one scenario, one of the warring parties wants a ceasefire and has decided that the conflict isn’t going well. The second party might not want a ceasefire, but could agree that it is getting tired or the risks are too high, and agrees to work something out.

    The next scenario, which leads to more success, is when both parties want a ceasefire. They decide that the loss of life and money has gone too far for both sides. One of the parties approaches the other through intermediaries to say it wants a ceasefire, and the other warring party agrees.

    In a third situation – which is what we are seeing with the Iran-Israel deal – the outside world imposes a ceasefire. Trump likely told both Israel and Iran: Look, it’s enough. This is too dangerous for the rest of the world. We don’t care what you think. Time for a ceasefire.“

    The U.S. has done this in the Middle East before, like after the Yom Kippur War in 1973 between Israel and a coalition of Arab countries led by Egypt and Syria. Israel was achieving big military victories, but the risk was pretty great for the world. The U.S. came in and said, “That’s enough, stop it now.” And it worked.

    Does the US bring the warring parties to a table in this kind of situation, or simply pressure the countries to stop fighting?

    It is more of the U.S. saying, “We are done.” When the U.S. does something like this, it is often going to have backup from the European Union and other countries like Qatar, saying, “The Americans are right. It is time for a ceasefire.”

    It appears that this Israel-Iran deal does not have specific conditions attached to it. Is that typical of a ceasefire deal?

    This deal doesn’t seem to have any specific details attached to it. Ceasefires work better when they have that. Lasting ceasefires need to address the concerns of the warring parties and give each side some of what it wants.

    For instance, in the Ukraine and Russia war, we have not seen either one of those countries push for a ceasefire. Part of the problem is Crimea and eastern Ukraine, sections of land in Ukraine that Russia has annexed and claims as its own. Russia would be happy with a deal that puts it in charge of Crimea and Ukraine, but Ukraine won’t agree to that. The question of who controls specific areas of land has to be addressed in this conflict; otherwise, the ceasefire isn’t going to last.

    Search and rescue efforts continue in a building in Beersheba, Israel, hit by a ballistic missile fired from Iran shortly before the ceasefire announced by U.S. President Donald Trump came into effect on June 24, 2025.
    Mostafa Alkharouf/Anadolu via Getty Images)

    Who is responsible for ensuring that both sides uphold a ceasefire?

    Security guarantees are an important part of negotiating and maintaining long-term ceasefires. Big countries like the U.S. could say that if a warring party violates a ceasefire agreement, they are going to punish them.

    In the 1990s, the U.S. and Europe assured Ukraine that if it gave up its nuclear arsenal, the U.S. would defend Ukraine if Russia ever invaded it. Russia has invaded Ukraine twice since then, in 2014 and 2022. The U.S. gave a more substantial response in the form of sending weapons and other war materials to Ukraine after the 2022 invasion, but there have been no real consequences for Russia.

    That has created a problem for ceasefires in the future, because the U.S. didn’t deliver on its past security guarantees.

    The further away you get from Europe, the less interested the West is in wars. But in those kinds of disputes, United Nations and other international peacekeeping troops can be sent in. Sometimes, that can work brilliantly in one place, like with the example of international peacekeeping troops called the multilateral Observer Mission stationed between Israel and Egypt helping maintain peace between those countries. But you can copy it to another place and it just doesn’t work as well.

    How does this ceasefire fit within the history of other ceasefires?

    It’s too early to tell. What matters is how the details get fleshed out.

    Ideally, you can get representatives of the Israeli and Iranian governments to sit around a conference table to reach a detailed agreement. The Israelis might say, “We have got to have some kind of assurances that Iran is not going to use a nuclear weapon.” And the Iranians could say, “Assassinations of our military generals and scientists has got to stop.” That kind of conversation and agreement is what is missing, thus far, in this process.

    Why is it so common for ceasefire deals to fail?

    Some ceasefire deals don’t get to the underlying conditions of what really caused the problem and what made people start shooting this time around. If you don’t get to the core issues of a conflict, you are putting a Band-Aid on the situation. Putting a Band-Aid on someone when they are bleeding is a good move, but you ultimately might need more than that to stop the bleeding.

    The outside world might be pretty happy with a ceasefire deal that seems to stop the fighting, but if the details are not ironed out, the experts would say, “This isn’t going to last.”

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

    – ref. Ceasefires like the one between Iran and Israel often fail – but an agreement with specific conditions is more likely to hold – https://theconversation.com/ceasefires-like-the-one-between-iran-and-israel-often-fail-but-an-agreement-with-specific-conditions-is-more-likely-to-hold-259739

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Chairman Aguilar Relaunches National Security Task Force To Ensure America Remains Leader Of The Free World

    Source: US House of Representatives – Democratic Caucus

    The following text contains opinion that is not, or not necessarily, that of MIL-OSI – June 24, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar re-launched the Democratic Caucus National Security Task Force co-chaired by Reps. Jason Crow (CO-06), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) and Derek Tran (CA-45). The National Security Task Force will continue to engage experts and convene Members to reassert America’s role as the leader of the free world and develop policy solutions to complex challenges threatening both our national security and Democracy abroad.

    “House Democrats are committed to keeping the American people safe, protecting American interests and ensuring America remains the leader of the free world,” said House Democratic Caucus Chair Pete Aguilar. “The American people want a steady hand at the wheel and the Members leading the National Security Task Force will draw on their patriotism, expertise and commitment to service to provide the leadership that Donald Trump and Rubberstamp Republicans lack the courage and moral clarity to deliver. Donald Trump failed to deliver on his promise for peace and Congress must conduct rigorous oversight of the Trump Administration’s foreign policy, including the President’s decision to unilaterally strike Iran without Congressional authorization.”

    “My time in the Army taught me the essence of servant leadership. Servant leaders lead by example, jumping out of the plane first and eating last. Sadly, this is not the leadership we are seeing from President Trump. Instead, this administration’s reckless actions are making us less safe. As the co-chair of the House Democrats’ National Security Task Force, I will work to protect America’s national security and hold the Trump administration accountable,” said Rep. Jason Crow. 

    “America needs fighters in the United States Congress who will cut through the chaos, lead with a can-do spirit, and deliver on strengthening our national security and keeping the American people safe,” said Rep. Maggie Goodlander. “That’s what this Task Force is all about, and I’m proud to be part of it.”

    “Under Donald Trump and Secretary Hegseth, we’ve seen national security turned into a political prop — with chaos at the Pentagon, the sidelining of experienced military leaders, and decisions that put partisan loyalty ahead of America’s safety,” said Rep. Mikie Sherrill. “This reckless approach threatens the strength of our military and the security of our nation. My experience in the Navy as a helicopter pilot taught me what real leadership looks like and what we’re seeing from this Administration falls far short of that standard. That’s why I’m honored to serve as co-chair of the Democratic National Security Task Force so we can hold Trump accountable and ensure our military serves the American people, not a political agenda.”

    “I joined the Army Reserves when I was 18 to give back to the country that had given me so much,” said Rep. Derek Tran. “I bring that devotion to service with me to Congress, especially to protect our national security. I am proud to help lead the House Democratic Caucus National Security Task Force and ensure we protect our country’s standing as a leading global democracy. Growing Russian aggression toward Ukraine and China’s rapid expansion into the Indo-Pacific are defining issues of our time. I’ll continue to hold this Administration accountable and ensure that our national security priorities reflect the best interest of the American people.” 

    About the Task Force on National Security Members 
    Former Army Ranger and Bronze Star recipient, Rep. Crow grew up working class and enlisted in the National Guard to help pay his way through college. After graduating, Rep. Crow joined the active-duty Army and served in the Army’s storied 82nd Airborne Division and in the elite 75th Ranger Regiment, deploying to both Iraq and Afghanistan. 

    Before taking the oath to represent New Hampshire in the People’s House, Rep. Goodlander served as an intelligence officer in the United States Navy Reserve for over a decade.

    Rep. Sherrill is a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and served in the United States Navy for nearly a decade. She graduated from the first class of women eligible for combat roles, flew as a Sea King helicopter pilot leading missions across Europe and the Middle East, and was later a Russian policy officer.

    Rep. Tran enlisted in the Army Reserve at age 18 to give back to the country that welcomed his refugee parents and allowed them to build a foundation that helped him thrive. He served for eight years and was activated for Operation Noble Eagle/Enduring Freedom before earning an honorable discharge.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch Welcomes Release of 14 Political Prisoners in Belarus 

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today welcomed news that Belarus has freed 14 imprisoned opposition activists following a meeting between Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, and Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenka. Among those freed are top opposition leader Siarhei Tsikhanouski, husband of Belarusian political activist Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. 
    “Since the 2020 presidential elections, Belarusian authorities have arrested thousands of protestors, opposition figures, journalists, and civil society members. Hundreds remain behind bars subject to harsh conditions, including accusations of torture from credible human rights organizations. In particular, I remain concerned about the arbitrary detention of activist and opposition leader, Maryia Kolesnikova. Serious concerns have been raised about her health and treatment in a penal colony. 
    “These releases are a welcome first step. I am grateful that the Trump Administration facilitated this action and urge U.S. officials to continue to prioritize human rights in future discussions with Belarusian officials. The release of political prisoners must remain at the forefront in bilateral negotiations. I will continue to engage with the Trump Administration on the parameters of these and future discussions and urge Belarus to release all remaining political prisoners, including Maryia.” 
    Senator Welch has advocated for bipartisan cooperation to secure the release of political prisoners in Belarus and around the world. Last Congress, Senator Welch spoke on the Senate floor to highlight the story of Maryia Kalesnikava, a leading member of the Belarusian political opposition calling for free and fair elections in Belarus, who was apprehended in 2020 by officials driving an unmarked vehicle and taken to the Belarus border where they attempted to forcibly deport her to Ukraine. In November, Senator Welch met with political and human rights advocates, including Maryia’s sister, Tatsiana Khomic to discuss ways to help secure the release of Maryia and other political prisoners in Belarus.  
    Senator Welch also joined Senate Minority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) and Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) to meet with Belarusian opposition leader, Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya, to discuss efforts to push back against Belarus’s authoritarian leadership. Senator Welch also led his colleagues in urging Secretary of State Marco Rubio to preserve the staff and programs administered by the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labor (DRL) amid the Department’s proposed reorganization. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China calls on SCO member states to deepen cooperation in law enforcement and security

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong on Tuesday called on member countries of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) to deepen practical cooperation in law enforcement and security and promote the building of a closer SCO community with a shared future.

    Wang Xiaohong made the relevant statements at the 20th meeting of the secretaries of the security councils of the SCO member states, where he delivered a keynote speech. The minister noted that China is ready to make a new, even greater contribution to security and stability in the region and around the world together with all member countries.

    Wang Xiaohong recalled that the Global Security Initiative put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping advocates a new type of security path that involves dialogue instead of confrontation, partnership instead of alliances, and win-win instead of zero-sum. China stands ready to actively implement this initiative together with all member states, fully promoting the “Shanghai spirit,” the minister emphasized.

    During the meeting, Wang Xiaohong put forward a five-point proposal, calling on SCO member states to, first, adhere to genuine multilateralism and propose solutions to global problems; second, stand together in both calm and dangerous times, and avoid interference from extra-regional forces; third, focus on common concerns and strengthen regional counter-terrorism capabilities; fourth, improve cooperation mechanisms and strengthen a common platform to combat new types of transnational crime; fifth, deepen exchanges and mutual learning, generating experience for building a human security community. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mongolia and Uzbekistan signed a package of documents on cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ULAN BATOR, June 24 (Xinhua) — Mongolia and Uzbekistan have signed a package of documents on further development of bilateral relations and cooperation, the press service of the President of Mongolia said on Tuesday.

    Documents, including a joint declaration on the establishment of comprehensive partnership relations between Mongolia and the Republic of Uzbekistan and a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the field of mineral resources, were signed in Ulaanbaatar.

    President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev, accompanied by a high-ranking delegation, arrived in the capital of Mongolia on Tuesday afternoon for a two-day state visit at the invitation of Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khurelsukh.

    This is the first state visit of the President of Uzbekistan to Mongolia since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1992. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Death toll in Iran from Israeli strikes exceeds 600 – Health Ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TEHRAN, June 24 (Xinhua) — The death toll from Israeli strikes on Iranian territory over the past 12 days has reached 606, with 5,332 injured, Iranian Health Minister Mohammad Reza Zafarghandi said on Tuesday.

    He said the past 24 hours had seen “the most horrific attacks and acts of aggression” by Israel since the airstrikes began on June 13, killing 104 people and wounding 1,342.

    The Israeli Health Ministry has reported 28 deaths and 3,238 wounded on the Israeli side since the start of the conflict.

    On Monday evening, US President Donald Trump announced that a ceasefire between the two sides would go into effect on June 24 at around 04:00 GMT.

    Although Iran and Israel agreed to a ceasefire, within hours of it beginning both sides reported truce violations, vowing to strike back at each other. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iran ready to resolve issues at negotiating table — president

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TEHRAN, June 24 (Xinhua) — Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Tuesday that his country is ready to resolve issues within the international framework and at the negotiating table.

    According to a statement published on the website of the presidential office, M. Pezeshkian reported this during a telephone conversation with the President of the United Arab Emirates Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

    According to M. Pezeshkian, Iran expects the UAE to convey to the US that the Islamic Republic is only seeking its legitimate rights and is in no way seeking to develop nuclear weapons.

    The President stressed that the Iranian side is capable of responding to Israeli attacks, while expressing hope that the ceasefire between Iran and Israel will be maintained.

    He also expressed his country’s readiness to deepen relations with the UAE and stressed the importance of regional stability.

    “We consider the people of the UAE and other countries in the region to be our brothers and respect the territorial integrity of all states. We believe that we will be able to develop the region exclusively through stability and peace, and, of course, in the absence of foreign interference,” M. Pezeshkian said.

    The UAE President, in turn, stated that self-defense is a natural right of all states, emphasizing that Iran, the UAE and other countries in the region will always remain neighbors to each other. “We must understand how we can guarantee a better future for our peoples through bilateral relations,” Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan noted.

    He expressed the UAE’s support for Iran in the face of current challenges. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Innovation-Driven Growth Gains Momentum: Report

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — The results of innovation-driven development are becoming more evident every day, and the strategy of driving development through innovation is gaining momentum, a State Council report said Tuesday.

    Beijing, Shanghai and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area have made remarkable progress in becoming international hubs for scientific and technological innovation, according to a report submitted by the State Council to the current session of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress.

    In 2024, the integrated circuit industry saw rapid growth, with production increasing by 22.2 percent and its export value exceeding 1.1 trillion yuan (about 153 billion US dollars), reaching a historical high.

    The report states that new batches of high-tech domestically produced equipment have been put into operation, including high-power tractors with continuously variable transmission and large-capacity liquefied natural gas tankers.

    The report shows that China’s scientific, technological and industrial innovation are deeply integrated, and the country’s construction of a modernized industrial system is progressing at an accelerated pace.

    China has also made progress in promoting green and low-carbon development, with energy consumption per unit of GDP falling by more than 3 percent in 2024. The report emphasizes that China has created a good foundation and favorable conditions for cultivating productive forces of new quality. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cortez Masto, McCormick Push for Stronger Oversight to Prevent Currency Manipulation by Communist China

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Nevada Cortez Masto
    Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) and Dave McCormick (R-Penn.) introduced the China Exchange Rate Transparency (CERT) Act, which would direct the U.S. Executive Director at the IMF to advocate for enhanced transparency in China’s exchange rate arrangements at the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The bill also calls for stricter oversight of China’s compliance with its commitments under the IMF’s Articles of Agreement which prohibit countries from manipulating currencies.
    “As we work and trade with countries all around the world, it’s critical that every nation follows the same rules that make our global system fair,” said Senator Cortez Masto. “I will continue to push for Communist China to be held accountable for unfair trade practices, like currency manipulation, which take advantage of the rest of the world.”
    “China’s currency manipulation and secrecy are further examples of the CCP putting American businesses at a disadvantage in the global economy,” said Senator McCormick. “We need more transparency and stricter oversight of China’s economic commitments. That’s why I’m proud to partner with Senator Cortez Masto and fellow Pennsylvanian Rep. Dan Meuser on this legislation to stand up to China’s economic malpractice.”
    Under Article IV of the Articles of Agreement of the International Monetary Fund, the People’s Republic of China (PRC) has committed to orderly exchange rate arrangements, the avoidance of exchange rate manipulation, and cooperation with the Fund to ensure ‘‘firm surveillance’’ of PRC exchange rate policies. However, according to the Department of the Treasury’s most recent report on Macroeconomic and Foreign Exchange Policies of Major Trading Partners of the United States, “China stands out among our major trading partners in its lack of transparency around its exchange rate policies and practices.” When any country artificially lowers the value of their currency, it allows them to sell to more countries than other nations who are trying follow the rules, gaining an unfair trade advantage.
    Read the full bill here. The House companion bill, H.R. 692, was introduced by Rep. Dan Meuser (R-Penn.-09) and passed the House of Representatives on February 10.
    Senator Cortez Masto has led efforts in Congress to stand up to the Chinese Communist Party’s influence and protect the American national and economic security. She introduced the PASS Act to ban individuals and entities controlled by China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from purchasing agricultural land and businesses located near U.S. military installations or sensitive sites and the Strengthening Exports Against China Act, which would incentivize economic growth by eliminating barriers for American businesses competing directly with China in emerging industries like artificial intelligence and semiconductors. She’s also introduced the Pacific Partnership Act to strengthen the United States’ strategic partnerships with Pacific Island nations, support sustainable development, and combat the increasing Chinese aggression in the region. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Vice Premier Calls for High-Quality Development of Manufacturing Industry, Strengthening Industrial Safety

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TAIYUAN, June 24 (Xinhua) — Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has called for promoting high-quality development of the manufacturing industry and steadily strengthening industrial safety.

    Zhang Guoqing, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks during an inspection tour of north China’s Shanxi Province from June 22 to 24.

    High-quality development of the manufacturing industry is a top priority in achieving high-quality economic development, Zhang Guoqing stressed, pointing out that it is necessary to promote scientific and technological innovation and accelerate the construction of a modernized industrial system with advanced manufacturing as the core.

    The Vice Premier of the State Council called for promoting high-tech, digital and green transformation of the manufacturing industry.

    We should cultivate and strengthen green and low-carbon industries, increase the clean and efficient use of coal, and continuously promote the high-quality development of sectors such as coal liquefaction and gasification, fine chemicals and new materials, Zhang Guoqing said.

    The Vice Premier of the State Council also called for strengthening industrial safety in coal mines, combating various illegal activities in mines, and implementing strict liability measures for ensuring industrial safety. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China calls for real ceasefire, de-escalation in Middle East: Chinese FM

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — China supports Iran’s efforts to safeguard its national sovereignty and security and achieve a genuine ceasefire on this basis that will restore people’s normal lives and contribute to an early de-escalation of the situation in the Middle East, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said during a phone conversation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday.

    During the conversation with his Iranian counterpart, Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, said that China intends to promote the UN Security Council in fulfilling its due role and most important responsibility in maintaining world peace and security.

    Wang Yi said China hopes Iran will continue to ensure the safety of Chinese institutions, personnel and diplomatic missions in the country.

    A. Araghchi, for his part, emphasized that the dangerous actions of Israel and the United States, which attacked Iran’s nuclear facilities, are a serious violation of international law, and therefore Iran has no choice but to fight back.

    The Iranian diplomat noted that genuine negotiations can only begin after Israel stops its aggression.

    Iran wants to maintain close contacts with China and expects China to play a stronger role in easing tensions, A. Araghchi added. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chile Can Grow Faster – But it Won’t Be Like the 1990s Again

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    Faster investment approvals, greater labor force participation, public-private R&D collaboration and steps to harness critical minerals and renewable energy can support higher growth

    Many of Chile’s current socioeconomic debates—such as those related to fiscal sustainability, pension adequacy and college loans—can be attributed to the country’s growth slowdown over the past two decades. Back in the 1990s, Chile grew 6.2 percent per year on average and was Latin America’s posterchild success story. Over time, this robust growth trend steadily waned, and by the 2020s, growth barely went above 2 percent. The IMF’s recent annual economic health check of the country (Article IV consultation) addresses how Chile can reverse this trend.

    Comparing Chile to its peers, there is scope to grow faster. Higher-income countries that were once at a comparable income level to Chile grew at a rate of around 2.9 percent per year. However, Chile faces challenges that most of those economies did not encounter at the same stage of development: such as an aging population and a global slowdown, both of which will make it more difficult for Chile to reach this pace.

    Historical patterns

    As countries get richer, sustaining rapid growth simply becomes harder because of diminishing gains from investment and less scope for technology catch-up. To evaluate Chile’s growth potential, we compared its trajectory with other countries when they reached similar income levels, such as Australia in the late 1980s and Korea in the 2000s. According to the Penn World Table and our calculations, Chile’s GDP per person tripled from US$8,200 in 1990 to around US$26,000 in 2025, in constant 2017 U.S. dollars after purchasing power parity (PPP) adjustment.

    Among 28 economies that crossed the US$26,000 real GDP per capita threshold between 1950 and 2010, median annual GDP growth over the subsequent decade was 2.9 percent. This benchmark is well below Chile’s 1990s boom, but still above its current trend.

    Demographic and external drags

    While the comparison is useful and offers some optimism, Chile faces an aging population and a less favorable global growth environment – impediments that many of these other higher-income economies did not face during their development stage.

    Though still relatively young, Chile’s population is aging. According to the UN’s median population projection, Chile’s working-age population (15-64) will grow by just 0.15 percent per year during 2025-35. With modest gains in labor participation, employment will likely grow by 0.2-0.3 percent annually – below the 0.8 percent seen in the comparison group. This demographic drag alone saps ¼ percentage point from Chile’s potential growth.

    Global technological trends could also weigh on Chile’s outlook. In the 1990s, information technology boosted productivity across countries. Our comparison group of countries benefitted from a U.S. GDP growth rate – taken as a proxy for global technological trends – of 3.1 percent per year on average. In contrast, economists now expect more modest U.S. growth of 2.1 percent for the next decade. We estimate that a one-percentage point reduction in 10-year U.S. annual growth translates to a further 0.8 percentage point restraint on Chile’s potential growth.

    Transformational reforms

    While these are rough estimates, and outcomes could vary widely, the exercise suggests a long-term growth trend of around 1.9 percent, if Chile were to perform in line with the median country and the demographic and external headwinds persisted.

    So, how can Chile increase its potential and defy these drags on growth? Short-run macroeconomic stimulus is not the answer, and Chile’s economy is already balanced. The solution lies in deepening supply-side structural measures, consistent with the policy messages in our latest annual review of Chile’s economy (the Article IV consultation).

    First, it is critical to make regulatory requirements more efficient. As an extreme example, it can take up to 10 years to sort out permits and navigate bureaucracy to get a large mining project off the ground. Streamlining this lengthy process would help reduce barriers to investment and support technology adoption. Similarly, modernizing regulations related to maritime transport could lower trade costs and improve Chile’s competitiveness. 

    To address demographic challenges, Chile could stimulate labor participation, for example by improving the access to quality childcare that would enable more women to enter the labor force.

    Chile’s R&D spending is also substantially below the OECD average. Greater public-private collaboration here is essential, given limited budgetary resources. The proposed technology transfer bill, enabling university researchers to create tech companies and commercialize their work, could help narrow this gap.

    Finally, as the world’s largest copper producer, second largest lithium producer, and as a nation richly endowed with solar and wind resources, Chile can benefit from the high global demand for these critical minerals and through use of low-cost renewable energy.

    While there is no silver bullet for growth, together these reforms improve the chances of a better outcome. Lifting Chile’s growth potential is critical for improving living standards and addressing social and fiscal pressures. Chile has an established track record of prudent macroeconomic management. Building on this solid foundation, the country can achieve stronger growth in a challenging global environment.

    *****

    Si Guo is a senior economist and Andrea Schaechter is an assistant director in the Western Hemisphere Department.

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/24/cf-chile-can-grow-faster-but-it-wont-be-like-its-the-1990s-again

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War will be one of the main themes of the exhibition “Far East Street” within the framework of the EEF-2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    11 regions of the Far East and federal ministries will present their key projects at the exhibition “Far East Street”, which will be held as part of the Eastern Economic Forum – 2025. Among the main topics are the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and the victory over militarist Japan, support for a special military operation, the implementation of city master plans, and advanced technological developments.

    From September 3 to 6, the exhibition will be available to forum participants, and on September 7 and 8, it will be open to everyone. The exhibition is organized by the Roscongress Foundation with the support of the Office of the Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of Russia in the Far Eastern Federal District.

    “The exhibition “Far East Street” shows participants and guests of the Eastern Economic Forum qualitative changes in the economy and social sphere. This is a unique opportunity to introduce thousands of guests from dozens of countries of the world to the cultural features and unique traditions of various peoples, to attract investors and tourists to these territories. Everyone who comes to the EEF will be able to not only learn about the technological achievements of the Far Eastern regions, but also watch performances by creative groups, learn about the features of Kamchatka, Chukotka, Buryatia, Yakutia and other regions. Each region talks about its features, what it is proud of, presents plans for the future. This year, each Far Eastern region will pay special attention to two topics – the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and support for a special military operation. On “Far East Street” you can learn about the exploits of our fathers and grandfathers, about those guys who are defending the independence of the Motherland today, and about the support that the Far East provided then and provides now,” the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized. – Plenipotentiary Representative of the President in the Far Eastern Federal District Yuri Trutnev.

    Currently, the appearance of the pavilions and the content of the exhibits are being updated.

    “The Far East Street exhibition is a vivid embodiment of the dynamic development of the macro-region, its economic potential and rich cultural heritage. The EEF is becoming a platform where the successes of the implementation of state policy to strengthen the Far East as a strategic center of national development are demonstrated. New opportunities for investment, tourism and international cooperation are created here, which is fully consistent with the course for sustainable growth and prosperity of Russia in the Asia-Pacific region. This will traditionally be reflected in the expositions of the regions,” said Anton Kobyakov, Advisor to the President of Russia, Executive Secretary of the Organizing Committee for the Preparation and Holding of the Eastern Economic Forum.

    The Kuril landing operation on Shumshu, which took place in August-September 1945, was the last major episode of the Soviet-Japanese War and the end of World War II. The operation was aimed at liberating the Kuril Islands, which at that time were under the control of Japan. An installation dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War will be placed inside the Sakhalin Region pavilion. The exhibition “Roads of Victory” will tell about the Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk operation and the landing on Shumshu. It is planned to show a film about the expedition to the island, videos about the reconstruction of battles in the Kholmsky and Smirnykhovsky districts. The Tourism zone will present new programs: military-historical tours “Battle for Shumshu” and “Liberation of the South of Sakhalin”, seasonal offers for winter and summer recreation, as well as gastronomic tours and the project “Far East – Land of Adventures”. In a separate zone “UAV and BEK” data on the implementation of unmanned aircraft systems will be presented. This topic will be dedicated to a separate exposition aimed at promoting Sakhalin’s achievements in this area.

    In the Khabarovsk Krai pavilion, the combined zone “Everything for Victory” and “Aircraft and Shipbuilding” will tell about the industrial potential of the region, about the parade dedicated to the victory over militarist Japan and the end of World War II, on September 3. It is planned to use models of aircraft and ships as exhibition samples, and samples of products for the needs of the SVO will be demonstrated in holographic niches.

    A special place in the Magadan Region exposition will be given to the historical heritage – the role of Kolyma in the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, as well as its contribution to ensuring the country’s success during the special military operation. The small pavilion of the Magadan Region will house the “Kolyma – from Victory to Victory” zone, which will introduce visitors to facts about the contribution of Kolyma residents to the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and support for the SVO.

    An interactive stand in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War will be installed next to the Amur Region pavilion. Here visitors will be able to see unique historical materials, photographs, and veterans’ memories. Interactive elements will be presented that will allow you to delve deeper into the events of those years.

    The “Air Defense, Civil Defense and Emergencies” zone of the Primorsky Krai pavilion will be represented by a stand in the form of three vertical screens and will tell about the region’s contribution to the military-industrial complex of Russia, ensuring information and security of the population and participation in a special military operation. The stand can be controlled using a joystick. The section will show animated videos telling about Primorye residents – heroes of the Great Patriotic War. About 200 thousand residents of Primorsky Krai took part in the military operations of the Great Patriotic War – both on the European fronts and in China and the Korean Peninsula, where they fought against the Kwantung Army of Japan. Their feat became an integral part of the overall victory. It will also tell about modern fighters participating in the Air Defense. The format of the materials varies – from documentary biographies to artistic sketches reflecting the strength of spirit, courage and dedication of the people.

    The exploits of Yakutians in the Great Patriotic War and the special military operation will also be presented at the exhibition “Far East Street”. Snipers from Yakutia, such as Fyodor Okhlopkov and Ivan Kulbertinov, were known for their outstanding results and received wide recognition. In honor of Fyodor Okhlopkov, the All-Russian Long-Range Shooting Tournament is being held in Yakutia. In addition, the entire country knows the crew of the “Alyosha” tank, which performed a heroic feat during the SVO. Yakut enterprises supply electric enduro motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles and other equipment to the front lines. In particular, for their active civic position and assistance in the special military operation, the companies “Timir AT” and “Yakt-Sokol” were awarded the public and business prize “Star of the Far East” in the nomination “Everything for Victory”.

    The “80 Years of Victory” zone in the Zabaikalsky Krai pavilion will be dedicated to the achievements of the Great Patriotic War, as well as the heroes of the special military operation. The exposition will use augmented reality technologies with biographical materials about the participants of these events.

    The Buryatia exposition will be presented in two pavilions. An outdoor exhibition area, an area for holding master classes, and a new space will appear – a spiritual cleansing area. A Buryat yurt will be installed here, inside which the Center for Eastern Medicine will operate. As part of the exposition, those wishing to will be able to compete in national sports and take part in the games of the peoples of Buryatia. A separate exposition will be placed demonstrating Buryatia’s contribution to the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and support for a special military operation.

    The attention of visitors to the exhibition “Far East Street” will be attracted by the interactive museum of Kamchatka military glory, installed in the “Will of Man” zone of the regional pavilion. Guests will be able to learn about the exploits of the heroes of the Great Patriotic War and the special military operation.

    The Jewish Autonomous Region will dedicate a “living newspaper” to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and the exploits of the heroes of the special military operation. The structure with built-in screens and texts in the style of a printed spread will tell about fellow countrymen – participants of the Great Patriotic War and the Special Military Operation.

    The Chukotka exposition is dedicated to three significant dates: 95 years of the Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, 80 years of the Great Victory, and 10 years of the Eastern Economic Forum. The exposition will include a “Chukotka for Victory” zone, which will show video materials about Chukotka’s contribution to the victory during the Great Patriotic War. There will also be an interactive wall with images of defenders of the Fatherland: a pilot, a reindeer herder, and a soldier. The central element of the zone will be an art object dedicated to the participants of the special military operation.

    The unified exposition of the Ministry for the Development of the Far East and Arctic and the Far East and Arctic Development Corporation “Developing the Far” will be dedicated to the mechanisms of state investment support operating in the macroregion, as well as socially significant programs implemented on the instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin, aimed at improving the quality of life of people. Thematic multimedia expositions “Travel”, “Study”, “Work” and “Live” will tell about the dynamics of the development of the economy of Far Eastern cities, opportunities for obtaining higher and professional education, tourist routes and hospitality facilities for recreation and new experiences. Each thematic zone will be equipped with multimedia equipment and filled with text and video content.

    Participants of the All-Russian travel competition “The Far East – Land of Adventures” will share their personal experiences of traveling around the Far East with the guests of the exhibition – in the pavilion you can see their video diaries, study the routes they have taken and get inspired for new trips.

    Traditionally, the Ministry of Sports will present its expositions on the “Far East Street”. The “Sport is the Norm of Life” pavilion will become a platform for discussing current topics in the industry, and sports activities can be enjoyed in the “GTO Arena” pavilion.

    The exhibition will open the “House of the Falcon” pavilion. It is also planned to expand the “Arab Village” exposition, which won recognition from participants last year and was timed to coincide with the international forum “Day of the Falcon”.

    The central venue will traditionally host cultural program events with the participation of representatives from all Far Eastern regions.

    The 10th anniversary Eastern Economic Forum will be held from September 3 to 6 on the campus of the Far Eastern Federal University in Vladivostok. The organizer of the EEF is the Roscongress Foundation.

    The Roscongress Foundation is a socially oriented non-financial development institution and a major organizer of national and international congress, exhibition, business, public, youth, sporting and cultural events, created in accordance with the decision of the President of Russia.

    The Foundation was established in 2007 to promote the development of economic potential, advance national interests and strengthen Russia’s image. The Foundation comprehensively studies, analyses, formulates and covers issues on the Russian and global economic agenda. Provides administration and facilitates the promotion of business projects and the attraction of investments, promotes the development of social entrepreneurship and charitable projects.

    The Foundation’s events bring together participants from 209 countries and territories, more than 15,000 media representatives work annually at Roscongress venues, and more than 5,000 experts in Russia and abroad are involved in analytical and expert work.

    The Foundation interacts with UN structures and other international organizations. It develops multi-format cooperation with 226 foreign economic partners, associations of industrialists and entrepreneurs, financial, trade and business associations in 89 countries of the world, with 358 Russian public organizations, federal and regional executive and legislative bodies of the Russian Federation.

    Official telegram channels of the Roscongress Foundation: in Russian – T.Ta/Roscongress, in English – T.Ta/Roscongress, in Spanish – T.Ta/RoscongressP, in Arabic – T.Ta/Roscongressarabik. Official website and information and analytical system of the Roscongress Foundation: Roscongress.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Completes the Fourth Review Under the Extended Credit Facility Arrangement with the Union of the Comoros

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 24, 2025

    • The IMF Executive Board completed today the fourth review under the Extended Credit Facility Arrangement with the Union of the Comoros. Approval of the fourth review enables an immediate disbursement of SDR 3.56 million (about US$ 4.87 million).
    • Program performance remains broadly on track despite setbacks in 2024 linked to a lengthy political transition and external shocks. The authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to the ECF-supported reform agenda and are determined to demonstrate stronger program ownership in the period ahead.
    • Economic conditions remain broadly stable, supported by adequate external buffers and continued program engagement, despite persistent inflationary pressures. Implementation of the ECF-supported program is helping to safeguard macroeconomic stability, advance critical structural reforms, and mobilize concessional financing to address Comoros’s significant development and financing needs.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) completed today the fourth review under the Union of the Comoros’ Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement. The Executive Board’s decision allows for an immediate disbursement of SDR 3.56 million (about US$ 4.87 million), bringing the total disbursements so far under the arrangement to about $23.7 million. The 4-year ECF arrangement was approved on June 1, 2023 (See Press Release No. 23/194) with an access of SDR 32.04 million (about US$ 43 million).  

    In completing the review, the Executive Board also approved the authorities’ requests for (i) waivers of nonobservance of the quantitative performance criteria (QPCs) on tax revenue and the domestic primary balance at end of 2024 and the continuous QPC on the non-accumulation of external arrears and (ii) modifications to the end of December 2025 QPCs on tax revenue and domestic primary balance to reflect corrective actions for missing these QPCs at end-2024.

    While there is considerable progress towards the achievement of program objectives, significant and continued effort is required to maintain the reform momentum. The authorities have reiterated their strong commitment to the ECF-supported program and despite recent setbacks. Two of five QPCs were met as of end of December 2024 and 8 of the 11 structural benchmarks (SBs) expected between end of November 2024 and end of May 2025 were also met. 

    Comoros’ economic reform program supported by the ECF arrangement seeks to reduce fragility and increase economic resilience by building fiscal buffers, reducing debt vulnerabilities, strengthening the financial sector, and enhancing governance. Key policy priorities for the program remain unchanged and include: (i) mobilizing domestic revenue through reforms to strengthen tax and customs administration and streamline tax exemptions; (ii) stabilizing the financial sector including through the restructuring of the state-owned postal bank SNPSF and enhancing the Central Bank’s banking supervision and resolution capacities; and (iii) strengthening governance through PFM and anti-corruption reforms.

    Economic conditions remain broadly stable, though risks persist. Growth is estimated at 3.3 percent in 2024 and projected to rise to 3.8 percent in 2025, supported by public investment and recovering private sector credit. Inflation averaged 5 percent in 2024 and reached 7.3 percent (y/y) in March 2025, driven by food price pressures linked to cyclone-related supply disruptions and strong seasonal demand. As a result, average inflation for 2025 has been revised upward from 1.8 to 3.8 percent. Fiscal consolidation was weaker than expected in 2024 largely due to revenue shortfalls, but a stronger adjustment is planned for 2025, supported by corrective measures. The external position remains stable, with the current account deficit estimated at 2.2 percent of GDP and international reserves covering 7.4 months of imports in 2024. Reserves are projected to exceed 8.5 months over the program period.

    Following the Executive Board’s discussion, Mr. Nigel Clarke, Deputy Managing Director, and Acting Chair, issued the following statement:

    “The Comorian authorities remain committed to their reform agenda under the Extended Credit Facility-supported program, despite setbacks in 2024 linked to a lengthy political transition and external shocks. While the external position remains stable—supported by continued reserve accumulation—economic momentum softened amid elevated food inflation and cyclone-related supply shocks. These challenges highlight Comoros’s structural vulnerabilities as a small, fragile island state with limited fiscal space, weak diversification, and exposure to external and climate risks.

    “Fiscal policy continues to focus on a medium-term consolidation agenda to safeguard debt sustainability. Although 2024 fiscal outturns were weaker than expected driven largely by underperformance in tax revenue, the authorities are addressing the revenue shortfalls through corrective measures aimed at strengthening customs enforcement, improving taxpayer compliance, and recovering tax arrears.

    “Monetary policy remains focused on preserving external stability through the euro peg, alongside gradual improvements in liquidity management. While inflation remains elevated, the BCC stands ready to tighten its stance if inflation or reserve pressures persist. The central bank has expanded liquidity absorption capacity and begun publishing its operations calendar, with further reforms planned. Progress in financial supervision, resolution planning, and recapitalization—and sound operationalization of the new postal bank (BPC)—will be key to reinforcing financial sector resilience.

    “Governance and institutional reforms are progressing, though unevenly. Key achievements include operationalizing the Anti-Corruption Chamber, enhancing fiscal transparency, and adopting budget management regulations. Nonetheless, challenges persist in liquidity forecasting and cash management, accuracy in budget execution reporting, and reform implementation capacity. Strengthening the Treasury Committee, improving SOE oversight, and sustaining the PFM reform strategy remain essential to bolstering fiscal credibility.

    “Program implementation has regained momentum following a slowdown in late 2024. Continued engagement with the IMF and donor partners will be essential to safeguard macroeconomic stability, advance reforms, catalyze grants and concessional financing, and address capacity gaps.”

    Comoros Selected Economic Indicators (2024-28)
     

    Population (2018, thousands): 856

    Main products and exports: Cloves, ylang-ylang, vanilla

    Key export markets: Asia, European Union

    2024

    2025

    2026

    2027

    2028

    Est.

    proj.

    proj.

    proj.

    proj.

    Output

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Real GDP growth (%)

    3.3

    3.8

    4.3

    4.5

    4.3

    Employment

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Unemployment (%)

    n.a.

    n.a.

    n.a.

    n.a.

    n.a.

    Prices

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Inflation, period average (%)

    5.0

    3.8

    1.7

    2.1

    2.1

    Central government finances

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Revenue and grants (% GDP)

    16.2

    17.8

    17.2

    16.8

    16.7

    Expenditure (% GDP)

    19.2

    19.6

    18.9

    18.7

    18.8

    Fiscal balance (% GDP)

    -3.6

    -1.9

    -1.7

    -1.9

    -2.1

    Public debt (% GDP)

    33.7

    36.3

    37.7

    37.9

    39.3

    Money and Credit

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Broad Money (% change)

    5.1

    6.0

    5.5

    7.0

    5.0

    Credit to private sector (% change)

    1.6

    8.7

    5.2

    5.7

    5.5

    Balance of Payments

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Current account (% GDP)

    -2.2

    -3.1

    -4.1

    -3.6

    -3.0

    FDI (% GDP)

    0.4

    0.6

    0.6

    0.6

    0.6

    Reserves (months imports)

    7.4

    7.7

    8.4

    7.8

    9.5

    External debt (% GDP)

    30.0

    31.3

    33.8

    34.7

    36.5

    Exchange rate

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

      KMF/US$ (period average)

    449.7

    …

    …

    …

    …

    Sources: country authorities; and IMF staff’s estimates.
    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Pavis Devahasadin

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/24/pr25215-comoros-imf-completes-the-fourth-review-under-the-extended-credit-facility-arrangement

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Draft agenda – Wednesday, 9 July 2025 – Strasbourg

    Source: European Parliament

    25 Amending Regulation (EU) No 1026/2012 on certain measures for the purpose of the conservation of fish stocks in relation to countries allowing non-sustainable fishing
    Thomas Bajada (A10-0070/2025)      – Amendments; rejection Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 48 Draft amending budget no 1/2025: entering the surplus of the financial year 2024
    Victor Negrescu     – (possibly) Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 52 Mobilisation of the European Union Solidarity Fund: assistance to Austria, Poland, Czechia, Slovakia and Moldova relating to floods that occurred in September 2024 and Bosnia and Herzegovina relating to floods that occurred in October 2024
    Andrzej Halicki     – (possibly) Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 53 Mobilisation of the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund: Application EGF/2025/000 TA 2025 – Technical assistance at the initiative of the Commission
    Jean-Marc Germain     – (possibly) Amendments Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00 27 Product safety and regulatory compliance in e-commerce and non-EU imports
    Salvatore De Meo     – (possibly) Amendments by the rapporteur, 71 MEPs at least; Alternative motions for resolutions Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00     – (possibly) Joint alternative motions for resolutions Thursday, 3 July 2025, 12:00 60 The human cost of Russia’s war against Ukraine and the urgent need to end Russian aggression: the situation of illegally detained civilians and prisoners of war, and the continued bombing of civilians     – Motions for resolutions Wednesday, 2 July 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions Friday, 4 July 2025, 13:00 11 Debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150)     – Motions for resolutions Monday, 7 July 2025, 20:00     – Amendments to motions for resolutions; joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 13:00     – Amendments to joint motions for resolutions (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 14:00 Separate votes – Split votes – Roll-call votes Texts put to the vote on Tuesday Friday, 4 July 2025, 12:00 Texts put to the vote on Wednesday Monday, 7 July 2025, 19:00 Texts put to the vote on Thursday Tuesday, 8 July 2025, 19:00 Motions for resolutions concerning debates on cases of breaches of human rights, democracy and the rule of law (Rule 150) Wednesday, 9 July 2025, 19:00

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: At a Glance – Transitioning out of temporary protection for displaced people from Ukraine – 24-06-2025

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU’s temporary protection regime has provided predictability and legal certainty to both displaced people from Ukraine and the EU Member States. The situation in Ukraine, as a result of Russia’s ongoing war of aggression, still requires a common European response. The EU has therefore decided to extend temporary protection for a fifth year, until 4 March 2027. Moreover, the European Commission has proposed a coordinated approach to a smooth transition out of temporary protection, when the circumstances allow.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Questionable European intelligence service reports on an impending Russian attack on the EU as a pretext for debt-financed arms build-up programmes – E-001291/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The intelligence threats assessments of the Member States remain outside the remit of the Commission. Therefore, the Commission is not in a position to evaluate or assess them.

    The Commission officials, in their public statements, have been referring to open-source information in which Member States’ intelligence services assessed the probability of Russian aggressive actions against the EU as likely in a five-year perspective.

    Commission defence industry programmes and instruments aimed at boosting European defence are proposed in the context of growing threats to European security which are proliferating in a way that poses an acute challenge to the EU way of life. This was the case even before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

    However, the Russian full-scale war of aggression against Ukraine has forced the EU and its partners to confront the reality of high-intensity war returning on the European continent on a scale never seen since 1945. Consequently, in the Commission assessment the only way the EU can ensure peace is to gain the ability to deter those who could harm the EU.

    Therefore, in March 2025, the Commission and the High Representative/Vice-President presented jointly the White Paper for European Readiness 2030[1] and the President of the Commission previously proposed the ReArm Europe Plan that lays down sound funding foundations to support a surge in defence.

    This long-term endeavour will enable the Member States to build up their armed forces to face any scenario, including the most extreme military contingencies.

    • [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025JC0120.
    Last updated: 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Philip R. Lane: Monetary policy: new challenges

    Source: European Central Bank

    Speech by Philip R. Lane, Member of the Executive Board of the ECB, at the Barclays-CEPR Monetary Policy Forum 2025

    London, 24 June 2025

    Since the extraordinary inflation surges in 2021-2022, the primary challenge facing monetary policy has been to return inflation to target in a timely manner.[1] In terms of interest rate policy, this required a rapid hiking cycle from July 2022 to September 2023, followed by a “hold at peak” phase and then a gradual reversal of the restrictive stance starting in June 2024.[2] The gradualism in the easing phase reflected ongoing uncertainty about the speed of the disinflation process.

    While headline inflation is currently around the target, services inflation still has some distance to travel to make sure that inflation stabilises at the target on a sustainable basis. Still, there has been sufficient progress in returning inflation to target to consider that this monetary policy challenge is largely completed. This assessment is reinforced by the accumulating evidence that the remaining services disinflation is well on track: first, the projection errors for inflation, including for the services subcomponent, have been relatively small during the disinflation process; second, both the wage tracker data and survey indicators suggest that further deceleration in wage growth can be expected in both 2025 and 2026, facilitating further declines in services inflation.

    However, this disinflation challenge has been superseded by a new set of challenges and monetary policymakers have to make sure that the medium-term inflation target is protected in a volatile environment in which, amongst other factors, there is high uncertainty about the future of long-standing international trade system.[3] This uncertainty extends beyond the calibration of new tariff regimes and includes the possibility of a broader set of non-tariff barriers, a deeper intertwining of economic policies and security policies and possible revisions to the treatment of foreign portfolio investors and foreign direct investors. In addition to policy uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, such as Russia’s unjustified war against Ukraine and the tragic conflict in the Middle East, remain a major source of uncertainty. Reflecting these developments, we have seen high volatility in energy prices this year and substantial currency repricing. There has also been considerable financial market volatility.

    At the same time (and largely as an endogenous reaction to the changed security landscape), the fiscal outlook for the euro area has materially changed for the coming years, with the overall fiscal deficit looking set to remain above three per cent over the projection horizon. The near-term and medium-term implications for output and inflation of the structural changes associated with the green transition, the increasing business adoption of artificial intelligence applications and global shifts in comparative advantage are also highly uncertain, operating both on demand and supply with potentially different timelines.

    Especially under current conditions of high uncertainty, it is essential to remain data dependent and take a meeting-by-meeting approach in making monetary policy decisions, with no pre-commitment to any particular future rate path. In addition to observing how activity and inflation are actually behaving, data dependence also extends to the incoming data on policy settings outside the monetary domain, since shifts in international and domestic policy regimes are highly relevant for future inflation dynamics. In this environment, the primary task for monetary policy makers is to make sure that any temporary deviations from target do not turn into longer-term deviations.

    This orientation explains our June decision to cut rates by 25 basis points. The June projections were conditioned on a rate path that included a quarter-point reduction of the deposit facility rate (DFR) in June: model-based optimal policy simulations and an array of monetary policy feedback rules indicated a cut was appropriate under the baseline and also constituted a robust decision, remaining appropriate across a range of alternative future paths for inflation and the economy. By supporting the pricing pressure needed to generate target-consistent inflation in the medium-term, this cut helps ensure that the projected negative inflation deviation over the next eighteen months remains temporary and does not convert into a longer-term deviation of inflation from the target. This cut also guards against any uncertainty about our reaction function by demonstrating that we are determined to make sure that inflation returns to target in the medium term. This helps to underpin inflation expectations and avoid an unwarranted tightening in financial conditions.

    It is worth noting, in particular, that the robustness of the decision was also supported by a set of model-based optimal policy simulations conducted on various combinations of the trade scenarios discussed in the Eurosystem staff projections report, even when also factoring in upside scenarios for fiscal expenditure. By contrast, leaving the DFR on hold at 2.25 per cent could have triggered an adverse repricing of the forward curve and a revision in inflation expectations that would risk generating a more pronounced and longer-lasting undershoot of the inflation target. In turn, if this risk materialised, a stronger monetary reaction would ultimately be required.

    Looking ahead, our monetary policy will have to take into account not only the most likely path (the baseline) but also the risks to activity and inflation. To this end, it will be important to explore how alternative rate paths hold up in various plausible sensitivity and scenario analyses, in order to make sure we minimise the risk of extended deviations from our medium-term target.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Press release – Gas storage: deal with Council on refill flexibility to bring down prices

    Source: European Parliament

    The draft legislation aims to address speculation on the gas market and bring down prices, by introducing greater flexibility in rules on gas storage refilling.

    MEPs and the Polish Presidency of the Council reached an informal agreement on Tuesday to extend the EU’s 2022 gas storage scheme until 31 December 2027, as it would otherwise have expired at the end of 2025. The provision is designed to ensure gas supply security ahead of the winter season.

    MEPs and Council also introduced several amendments to ease tensions in the gas market, as speculation surrounding the existing mandatory 90% fill rate target by 1 November each year was driving the cost of refilling during the summer.

    Refilling flexibilities

    The agreed text will allow Member States to achieve the 90% filling target at any point in time between 1 October and 1 December, taking into account the start of the Member States withdrawal period. Once the 90% target is met, it should not be required to maintain that level until 1 December.

    Member States should have the possibility to deviate by up to ten percentage points from the filling target in case of difficult market conditions, such as indications of speculation hindering cost-effective storage filling.

    The Commission may further increase this deviation by delegated act, for one filling season, if these market conditions persist.

    Towards full independence from Russian imports

    The competent authority monitoring gas refilling shall also include information on the share of gas originating in the Russian federation being stored in that Member State, in line with the 17 June proposals from the European Commission, which will help in monitoring whether Russian gas is stored in the EU.

    Quote

    “The 2022 legislation showed that Europe was able to protect its citizens in a situation where Russia was using gas as a weapon of blackmail”, said rapporteur Borys Budka (EPP, Poland). “This revision will provide for more flexibility and less bureaucracy but above all to bring Europe’s gas prices down, while we continue towards energy independence from unreliable suppliers” he said.

    Next steps

    The informal agreement will be put to a vote in the Industry, Research and Energy committee on the 26th of June.

    Background

    Gas-storage facilities provide for 30% of the Union’s gas consumption during winter months. The EU’s energy security has been a critical concern in recent years, not least in light of its dependence on non-EU countries for primary energy supplies. The 2022 energy crisis, exacerbated by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent weaponisation of gas supplies, highlighted the urgent need for additional measures to ensure stable and affordable energy supplies.

    In response, the EU introduced new gas storage rules. However, the global gas market remains tight, with increased competition for liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies and persistent price volatility.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Rosatom’s plans to resume operations at the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant – E-002422/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002422/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Liudas Mažylis (PPE)

    Since the Russian Federation began its occupation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in 2022, this piece of strategically important infrastructure has become the focus of constant military action and geopolitical blackmail. On 6 June 2025, Russian nuclear energy chief Alexey Likhachev informed the IAEA that a detailed plan to restart the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant had been drawn up. There have also been reports that Russia intends to disconnect the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant from Ukraine’s electricity grid and integrate it into Russia’s energy system. Given Russia’s ongoing military operations around the nuclear power plant, restarting it would only increase the risk of a nuclear disaster.

    In light of this, could the Commission answer the following questions:

    • 1.Is the Commission aware of Russia’s plans to restart the reactors at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, and has an assessment been carried out in cooperation with the IAEA on the possible consequences for nuclear safety?
    • 2.How does the Commission assess the role of Rosatom in this process, and would it consider urgently adding this company and its subsidiaries in Europe to the EU sanctions list for its direct involvement in the reckless operation of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant?
    • 3.Given that some Member States, such as Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Poland, have already imposed national sanctions on Rosatom and its management, will the Commission consider adopting measures to coordinate these national decisions at EU level in order to ensure the overall effectiveness of the sanctions regime?

    Submitted: 16.6.2025

    Last updated: 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: McConnell Opening Statement at SAC-D Hearing on FY 26 Budget Request for the Navy

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kentucky Mitch McConnell
    Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, convened today’s hearing “A Review of the President’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Request for the Navy”. Prepared text of his opening statement follows:
    “I’ll begin by welcoming Secretary of the Navy John Phelan, Acting Chief of Naval Operations Admiral James Kilby, and Commandant of the Marine Corps General Eric Smith. I’m grateful to each of you for your willingness to lead at a pivotal moment for the Department, and to the sailors, Marines, and civilian personnel who advance Navy and Marine Corps missions and keep America safe every day.
    “I’m particularly grateful to the sailors who have stood watch in the Gulf and the Red Sea over the last 20 months helping to defend Israel, US interests, and freedom of navigation against Iranian-backed terrorists. And to the crews deployed there right now who launched Tomahawk cruise missiles as part of the joint operation to strike what I hope is a fatal blow to Iran’s nuclear aspirations.
    “I also want to recognize the Marine Corps, whose fallen comrades were among the earliest victims of Iran’s decades-long war against the United States and Israel — those taken hostage with U.S. Embassy personnel in Tehran and the hundreds killed in Beirut in 1983, before any of us on this dais showed up in Washington.
    “Generations of servicemembers carry the scars of Iran-backed attacks on American personnel in the region over the decades. Their sacrifices remind us that ‘Death to America’ is more than rhetoric.
    “For too long, Tehran itself faced negligible costs for the actions of their terrorist proxies. Thanks to Israel’s initiative in turning the tables – and the President’s decision to back them up – the Islamic Republic is finally paying a steep price.
    “This weekend’s events are yet a further reminder of the challenges facing the joint force today. And my colleagues and I hope to understand the extent to which you think the President’s budget request would provide the resources necessary to meet, deter, and defeat them.
    “Each of the Services is grappling in its own way with the reality of renewed major-power competition and with the increasing alignment of America’s adversaries. As you know, major transformations test assumptions and service culture. They test the capacity of the industrial base. And, importantly, they hinge on transparent working relations with Congress and on robust and consistent full-year investments in major priorities.
    “I’ll offer just a few observations in this vein. First, the good: Secretary Phelan, I’ve appreciated your recognition of Congress’ role in equipping the Navy and Marine Corps and the collaborative approach you’ve taken with this subcommittee. Your willingness to communicate transparently will continue to benefit our shared mission of restoring the Navy’s preeminence. I also appreciate your persistent engagement with the maritime industrial base. Your travels to see our shipbuilding challenges across the country, firsthand, have not gone unnoticed. We will not solve this problem without the private sector.
    “Likewise, General Smith – The Marine Corps spent years developing a clear rationale for major transformation, made tough and deliberate choices, and engaged Congress effectively along the way. Marine Corps Force Design 2030 continues to offer other services valuable lessons as they pursue transformation efforts of their own. I look forward to hearing how the Marine Corps’ own transformation to meet future threats is going: the good, the bad, and the ugly. But, to be quite frank, the decisions this Administration has made on resourcing the Department of Defense – a full-year CR that failed to address rising costs of operations and maintenance and major modernization requirements, a one-time reconciliation investment that risks new cliffs for sustainment, and a base request for FY26 even lower than the previous Administration’s FY25 request – make each of your jobs more difficult.
    “At the most basic level, an FY26 base defense topline that doesn’t keep pace with inflation – let alone with the ‘pacing’ threat of the PRC – does not show we’re serious about the tasks before us. Neither does pretending that one-time injections of funding are a substitute for consistent appropriations. For example, none of you needs me to point out the breadth of bipartisan support for accelerating procurement of Virginia-class submarines. If the Administration shares our interest in meaningfully expanding shipbuilding capacity, why are investments like this one not built into the base budget request? Why are we allocating funds under extraordinary parliamentary authorities for capabilities that would otherwise have been funded in an annual appropriation? Will the Navy even be able to complete two Virginia class subs with reconciliation money before the funding expires? 
    “Leaving aside the color of money, we’ll also want to hear your assessment of the impediments to delivering essential capabilities like submarines, destroyers, and amphibious vessels at the speed of relevance. This subcommittee has been consistently generous, but despite pouring billions more dollars into the effort, the timeline for producing a Virginia-class sub continues to stretch longer. Of course, we don’t just need to build platforms faster. We need to figure out how to make munitions more efficiently – especially the exquisite missile defense interceptors and long-range fires on which current operations are relying so heavily. How has the Navy handled the high operational tempo in the Red Sea? How does the FY26 request reflect the urgent need to deepen our magazines in a more cost-effective manner?
    “Finally, I’m curious about the lessons your services are taking from current conflicts. What has the Navy learned from the demands of long deployments and the costs of air wing accidents on the U.S.S. Truman? What lessons is the service taking from Ukraine’s decimation of Russia’s Black Sea fleet? How is the Navy approaching force protection itself? Is it hardening major assets, both in port and at sea? Does it have sufficient resources to do so?
    “What is the Marine Corps learning from Russia’s ground war in Ukraine? How does information-sharing at the cutting-edge of modern warfare inform the service’s ongoing transformation effort? To what extent is success in the face of unique Indo-Pacific circumstances dependent on things outside your control, like logistics and transportation provided by other services or commands?
    “I will be curious for each of your observations. I would just suggest that any honest accounting of the task at hand will have to reckon with the deficiencies of the defense topline. If our objective is to build a force capable of projecting power globally to deter, fight, and prevail against Chinese aggression, possibly while engaged in conflict in other theatres, I don’t see how this budget request gets us there. So we’ll look forward to your testimony in just a moment.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China to Strengthen Ties with Islamic Countries and OIC – Chinese Foreign Ministry

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — China will continue to work with Islamic countries and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to promote the continuous development of relations with them, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday.

    Guo Jiakun made the remarks at a regular press briefing in response to a question about the 51st session of the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers, which was held from June 21 to 22 in Istanbul, Turkey.

    The official representative recalled that the participants of the event recognized China’s efforts to protect Muslim communities, highly appreciated the comprehensive development of relations between China and Islamic countries, and expressed hope for further strengthening of cooperation between the OIC and China.

    “This is the sixth time that the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers’ resolution has included language that is friendly to China. The Chinese side welcomes this,” Guo Jiakun said.

    Calling the OIC a symbol of unity and independence of Islamic countries and a bridge for developing their ties with China, Guo Jiakun noted that in recent years, China, Islamic countries and the OIC have continuously deepened mutual trust, expanded cooperation in various fields and strengthened inter-civilizational exchanges, which has yielded significant results.

    The Chinese diplomat also pointed out that representatives of the OIC and its member states have visited China on numerous occasions, including to Xinjiang. According to Guo Jiakun, this has allowed them to better understand China’s ethnic and religious policies and the development situation in Xinjiang, and to give a positive assessment of what they have seen. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Mariam Kvrivishvili appointed Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Tbilisi, June 24 (Xinhua) — Mariam Kvrivishvili has been appointed Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. This was announced by Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze at a briefing at the government administration.

    The appointment follows the resignation of Levan Davitashvili, who previously held the post.

    Since May 2021, M. Kvrivishvili has held the position of Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development and oversaw key areas, including the development of tourism and aviation.

    In 2019-2020, she headed the Georgian National Tourism Administration.

    M. Kvrivishvili is also a member of the political council of the ruling Georgian Dream party.

    L. Davitashvili has been appointed to a new position — Chief Advisor to the Prime Minister on Economic Issues, as well as Secretary of the Economic Council. He has headed the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development since February 2022, while simultaneously serving as Deputy Prime Minister and then First Deputy Prime Minister of Georgia. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China Opposes Resolving Disputes Through Force — Chinese Foreign Minister

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, June 24 (Xinhua) — China opposes the use of force to resolve disputes and always stands for peace, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Tuesday.

    Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks during a telephone conversation with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

    As the Chinese diplomat noted, Israel and the United States used force against Iran, citing “potential future threats,” thereby seriously violating international law and encroaching on the sovereignty of the Iranian state.

    Dialogue and negotiations are the only way out of the situation, Wang Yi said, stressing that all parties should resume dialogue on an equal basis and promote the return of the Iranian nuclear issue to the path of political settlement.

    The head of the Chinese Foreign Ministry also drew attention to the fact that the Palestinian issue remains the core of the Middle East problems and in this regard it is necessary to facilitate the implementation of the two-state solution.

    H. Fidan, for his part, said that if Israel wants to protect its security, it should agree to a two-state solution and stop the humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip.

    He added that Türkiye expects to strengthen communication and coordination with China in order to jointly achieve peace and stability in the Middle East region. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –