NewzIntel.com

Category: Russian Federation

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Russian President V. Putin noted the strategic nature of relations between Russia and China

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, May 4 /Xinhua/ — Russian President Vladimir Putin called the relations between Russia and China strategic. He told a journalist about this on Sunday in the documentary film “Russia. Kremlin. Putin. 25 years.”

    According to the President, Russia and China should build good relations so that this becomes a good factor for development for both countries.

    “And so gradually, brick by brick, we did not build a new Chinese wall, but we built such a common foundation for our relations,” said V. Putin. He emphasized that in today’s conditions, the partnership with China works especially effectively.

    The Russian leader also noted that the very existence of such relations between the Russian Federation and China ensures stability in the world. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Leopard Day celebrated in Russian Vladivostok

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Vladivostok, May 4 (Xinhua) — The Leopard Day festival was held in Vladivostok, the capital of Russia’s Primorsky Krai, on Saturday. It was timed to coincide with International Leopard Day and was held as part of the Far Eastern Leopard Week campaign.

    The festival started at noon on the embankment of the Sports Harbor of Vladivostok. The program included the “Leopard Run”, a creative competition of Far Eastern leopard costumes “LeoDevitsa and LeoMolodets”, master classes, an exhibition of drawings, a fair, quizzes and a concert with the participation of creative groups from Primorye. All these events attracted a large number of local residents and tourists.

    More than 100 people took part in the traditional costumed “Leopard Run”. They had to run a distance of 1.5 km with a mandatory condition – the presence of leopard attributes or a costume. Before the race, the participants were offered to do face painting.

    Other festival-goers bought souvenirs from local artisans, took part in a lottery, and watched performances by creative groups. Children drew leopards with crayons and answered quiz questions.

    The festival was organized by the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Land of the Leopard” – the directorate of reserves and the national park of the same name, on the territory of which the main part of the world population of the Far Eastern leopard lives. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Breaking: Israel begins mass call-up of reservists to expand Gaza offensive – IDF Chief of Staff

    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

    Xinhua | 05. 05. 2025

    Keywords: offensive expansion,reservists call-up,chief of general staff,idf,urgent,begins,israel,gaza,offensive expansion,reservists call-up notices,eyal zamir,gaza strip,tens of thousands,chief,of israel,declared

    JERUSALEM, May 4 (Xinhua) — Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of General Staff Eyal Zamir said Sunday that “tens of thousands” of draft notices have been issued to reservists to expand the offensive in the Gaza Strip. –0–

    Source: Xinhua

    Breaking: Israel begins mass call-up of reservists to expand Gaza offensive – IDF Chief of Staff Breaking: Israel begins mass call-up of reservists to expand Gaza offensive – IDF Chief of Staff

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israeli army calls up tens of thousands of reservists to expand Gaza offensive

    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

    JERUSALEM, May 4 (Xinhua) — Israel’s military has begun issuing “tens of thousands” of draft notices to reservists to expand its offensive in the Gaza Strip, Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir said Sunday during a visit to a naval base, vowing to step up pressure on the Palestinian Hamas movement to free hostages.

    “This week we are issuing tens of thousands of draft notices to our reservists to strengthen and expand operations in Gaza,” said E. Zamir. “We are increasing the pressure to bring our hostages home and defeat Hamas.”

    He added that as part of the expanded offensive, the army would operate in “additional territories” of the enclave and destroy “all military infrastructure.”

    E. Zamir said that reservists will also be sent to other areas, including the northern border with Lebanon and Syria, as well as the occupied West Bank.

    Earlier over the weekend, Israeli forces struck more than 100 targets in the Gaza Strip, including militant cells, underground infrastructure and military camps, the IDF said.

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his coalition partners have vowed to continue the war until Hamas is completely defeated, despite growing pressure from the Israeli public for a ceasefire to free the 59 hostages Israel says are still being held in the Gaza Strip.

    In March, Israel ended a two-month truce with Hamas and resumed air and ground fighting. More than 52,000 Palestinians have been killed since the Israeli offensive began in October 2023, according to Gaza health authorities. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Explosion and fire in residential building in Moscow, two dead

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Moscow, May 4 (Xinhua) — An explosion followed by a fire rocked a residential building in southwestern Moscow on Sunday evening, killing two people and injuring several others, the Russian Emergencies Ministry reported.

    Earlier, the Main Directorate of the Ministry of Emergency Situations for the city of Moscow announced that a fire had started on the ninth floor of a residential building. Two apartments caught fire, and the floors between the eighth and ninth floors collapsed.

    Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported on Telegram that the causes of the explosion are being established. “Fire and rescue units, city services, and doctors are working quickly at the scene,” he wrote. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s gold output up 1.49% in Q1 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 3 (Xinhua) — The country’s gold production totaled 87.24 tons in the first quarter of 2025, up 1.49 percent from the same period last year, according to the China Society of Gold Miners (CSGM).

    In the first three months, China’s gold consumption volume was 290.49 tons, down 5.96 percent from a year earlier.

    In particular, consumption of gold jewelry in the Chinese market fell by 26.85 percent year-on-year to 134.53 tons, while consumption of gold bars and coins increased by 29.81 percent year-on-year to 138.02 tons.

    China’s gold consumption in industrial production and other sectors fell 3.84 percent year-on-year to 17.94 tons from January to March this year.

    Due to high gold prices, consumer demand for gold jewellery remained weak in the first quarter. The complex, unpredictable geopolitical situation and economic uncertainty have increased gold’s role as a hedge and store of value against inflation, leading to increased demand for gold bars and coins as investment assets, the KOZ said in a statement.

    In addition, during the reporting period, gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) in the Chinese market demonstrated strong growth rates, the KOZ added. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Increased 47.6% by End of March 2025

    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, May 3 (Xinhua) — The number of charging infrastructure facilities in China increased 47.6 percent year-on-year by the end of March 2025, as the country continued to expand its new energy vehicle (NEV) charging network, according to the National Energy Administration (NEA).

    At a recent press conference, Zhang Xing, a spokesman for the aforementioned department, said that the total number of charging infrastructure facilities across the country had reached nearly 13.75 million units by the end of March.

    He noted that this figure includes 3.9 million public NEV chargers and 9.85 million private chargers.

    At present, 38,000 charging devices have been installed in 98 percent of expressway service areas nationwide. All townships in the country’s 13 provincial-level regions have been covered by charging devices, raising the coverage rate of townships and townships to 76.91 percent.

    To strengthen the integration of NEVs with power grids, the SUE has jointly launched vehicle-to-grid (V2G) pilot programs in nine cities including Shanghai in eastern China and selected 30 bidirectional charging projects to test the pilot programs, Zhang Xing added. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: US Media: China Taught US a Lesson in Trade War

    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

    On April 25, the website of the American publication The Hill published an op-ed article stating that the US trade strategy of bullying China into submission with high tariffs is failing at an alarming rate. China has taught Trump a harsh lesson on trade issues. Far from shaking China, the trade war has awakened a new sense of national duty.

    Screenshot of an article from the American The Hill

    The author of the article suggests that the United States’ ignorance of China’s history, culture and economic advantages, and even its underestimation of the fragility of the US economy itself, are forcing the US to pay a high price.

    After Trump re-assumed office, he reclaimed his iconic “tariff weapon” and announced tariff increases of up to 145% on imports from China in an attempt to force China to make concessions in trade talks.

    Anyone with even a passing knowledge of Chinese history, however, can foresee the US’s failure. The First Opium War in 1840 marked the beginning of China’s “hundred years of humiliation,” caused by the so-called “balance of trade deficit” dispute. At the time, Britain forced China to trade in opium to solve its trade deficit with China.

    The article also said that one of the reasons for the United States’ failure is that China is better able to withstand a trade war than the United States itself. The reason is quite simple: due to the constant economic pain caused by the trade war, the Chinese economy has become quite resilient and is ready to withstand challenges. China holds more than $750 billion in U.S. Treasury bonds, enough to provide financial support to battered export manufacturing companies.

    The United States, by contrast, faces a more intractable supply chain problem than a shortage of funds. Once China’s exports to the United States are significantly reduced, the shelves of American Wal-Mart supermarkets will quickly become empty. American consumers will find that tens of thousands of items – from electronics to Christmas decorations – are either out of stock or have seen their prices skyrocket.

    What is even more ironic is that U.S. tariff policy has, in contrast, provided China with a strategic opportunity. China has long sought to reduce its dependence on exports and reduce demand for Western technology. The trade war provides China with a golden opportunity to accelerate its transformation.

    Moreover, Trump clearly underestimated China’s strategic patience.

    Faced with pressure from domestic retailers and consumers, Trump seems to have lost his head. He first abandoned his plan to impose a 145% tariff on Chinese electronics within 48 hours, then said tariffs on China would be significantly reduced, even claiming that “the two sides are negotiating every day.” In fact, there are no negotiations at all.

    The US economy relies heavily on Chinese-made goods. The complexity of the supply chain – from everyday items to industrial components – is not always compensated for by money. Especially as the Christmas shopping season approaches, retailers typically confirm bulk orders in early June. If the threat of 145% tariffs persists, retailers will be afraid to place orders, and shortages of Christmas lights, toys and other goods will become inevitable. American media have begun predicting that “Trump Stole Christmas” will make headlines.

    The article concludes that the U.S. trade war is driven by historical ignorance and economic shortsightedness, and that the U.S. is paying a high price for it. Critics say the Trump administration is “learning from mistakes in real time,” but the cost of this class will be shared by American consumers and manufacturing companies. And it will be a costly lesson.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Jiabang Rice Terraces: A Display of Farming Culture and Ethnic Costumes

    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

    On April 26, 2025, the “Opening the Gate to Rice Planting” ceremony and the first fashion show using the terraced fields as a runway were held in the Jiabang Rice Terraces in Congjiang County, Guizhou Province. Through the “Opening the Gate to Rice Planting” spring plowing ceremony, traditional farming culture demonstration, rice terrace fashion show and other activities, the agricultural heritage of the region and the national colors expressed in local costumes were presented.

    Photo by Xinhua News Agency correspondent Yang Wenbin

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s SAIC Motor signs deal for joint electric vehicle brand with Huawei

    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

    SHANGHAI, May 4 (Xinhua) — Shanghai-based Chinese automaker SAIC Motor on Thursday signed an agreement to set up a plant to produce vehicles and auxiliary battery units for its new electric vehicle (EV) brand, developed jointly with telecom giant Huawei, in the Lingang New Area of China’s Shanghai Pilot Free Trade Zone (FTZ).

    According to SAIC Motor, the plant’s production capacity at the initial stage of the project will be about 250,000 vehicles per year.

    The move follows a partnership formed earlier this year between SAIC Motor and Huawei. In February this year, the two companies signed an in-depth cooperation agreement to jointly launch the SAIC Shangjie brand.

    Tech giant Huawei is already collaborating with four other EV brands, namely AITO, Luxeed, Stelato and Maextro, under its Harmony Intelligent Mobility Alliance (HIMA). Tech support from Huawei, such as adaptive driver assistance and AI cockpit solutions, has given new impetus to partner automakers.

    SAIC Shangjie brand products will be equipped with Huawei’s intelligent mobility solutions, said Zhu Yong, head of SAIC ShangJie, adding that the intelligent electric vehicles will target the mid- to high-end market, with customers mainly including household consumers and young office workers.

    The first model under this brand is a mainstream SUV priced at around 200,000 /around $27,800/, which is expected to hit the market this fall. The SUV will be available in two versions: a pure electric version and an extended range version. The pure electric model will have a range of over 600 km on a full charge.

    By joining the HIMA family, SAIC Shangjie brand will help further lower the price range of cars co-developed with Huawei to 200,000 yuan to better tap the vast market, Zhu Yong said.

    SAIC Shangjie’s project is expected to increase the scale of the already leading new energy vehicle (NEV) industry in Lingang New Area, home to Tesla’s Shanghai Gigafactory, to 300 billion yuan, said Li Xiangcun, an official with the Lingang New Area Administrative Committee.

    Currently, there are more than 200 automobile-related companies in the Lingang New Area, forming an ecosystem covering automobile production, research, development and testing. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Australia can no longer take a ‘business as usual’ approach to the US. On security, it’s time for courage and confidence

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joanne Wallis, Professor of International Security, University of Adelaide

    The re-election of the Albanese Labor government by such a wide margin should not mean “business as usual” for Australia’s security policy.

    The global uncertainty instigated by US President Donald Trump means Australia’s security landscape is very different today from when Labor was first elected in 2022, or even when its Defence Strategic Review was released in 2023.

    As we argue in our recent book, the Albanese government faces increasingly difficult questions.

    How can we maintain our critical security alliance with the US while deepening partnerships with other countries that have reservations about US policy?

    And, given Trump’s recent actions, how much can we continue to rely on the United States and what are the potential costs of the alliance?

    With a massive parliamentary majority, the new government has an opportunity for bold thinking on national security. This is not the time for Australia to keep its head down – we need to face the rapidly changing world with our heads held high.



    Read more:
    Blaming Donald Trump for conservative losses in both Canada and Australia is being too kind to Peter Dutton

    Trump 2.0 is not the same as 1.0

    We do not advocate Australia step away from the US alliance. We are also realistic that decades of defence procurement mean Australia is heavily reliant on US defence materiel (and its subsequent sustainment) for our security.

    The deep interoperability between the Australian Defence Force and the US military is something alliance sceptics too readily gloss over: much Australian military capability cannot function without ongoing American support.

    At the same time, many alliance advocates underestimate the impact of the new challenges we face. Some assumed a continuity between the first and second Trump administrations. However, we are not convinced the lessons learned from Trump 1.0 are still valid.

    A key difference between Trump 1.0 and 2.0 is the effect of his move away from respecting international law.

    For example, the US has voted with Russia against UN Security Council resolutions condemning the Ukraine war, withdrawn from the Paris Climate Agreement and World Health Organization, and damaged relations with NATO allies, among many other actions.

    As a middle power, Australia has long relied on the “rules-based order” to advance its foreign and strategic policy interests.

    Even if “normal transmission” resumes under a new US president in 2029, we are concerned the Trump administration’s structural changes to the international order will not easily be wound back. American soft power has been decimated by cuts to the US State Department, USAID and international broadcasting services. This will also not be rebuilt quickly.

    A second difference is there are few “adults left in the room” in the Trump administration.

    The advisers who kept Trump in check during his first administration have been replaced by loyalists less likely to push back against his ideas and impulses. This includes his long-held grievance that allies have been exploiting the US.

    The Albanese government needs to think more deeply about how to hedge against dependence on the US. This means investing in relations with other partners, especially in Asia and the Pacific, and working with them to promote the laws, rules and norms that maintain stability and predictability in global affairs.

    An idealistic vision for the future

    We are also concerned that many in the national security community base their policy recommendations on the assumption that war between the US and China is inevitable, and such a conflict could draw in Australia as America’s ally.

    Rather, the Trump administration’s preference for “deals” opens the possibility the US and China might come to an arrangement that will affect US presence and leadership in our region.

    Australia may not be prepared for this. The new government must engage in more open discussion about how we would maintain our security if the US does pull back from the region or makes decisions Australians don’t support.

    As a start, we need to consider how Australia can better pursue self-reliance within the alliance structure. We need a range of strategic options in the future that don’t rely on an outdated image of the US as a reliable partner.

    This debate should be guided by what we call “pragmatic idealism”.

    Rather than accepting the way things are, the government and members of the national security community need to re-imagine how things can be.

    We argue the Albanese government should draw confidence from its thumping electoral win to articulate a politics of hope, opportunity and possibility for our future security. This needs to drown out the cynicism, passive acceptance and learned helplessness that often characterises Australian national security debates.

    We are conscious that being “idealistic” is often dismissed as impractical, naïve “wishful thinking”. But the new government needs to demonstrate to Australians it has the courage to face the diverse, interlinked and complex security challenges we face – potentially on our own. These extend to issues such as cyber attacks, transnational crime and climate change.

    Practical steps

    As a first step, the Albanese government urgently needs to commission an integrated National Security Strategy that considers all the tools of statecraft Australia can use to respond to these challenges.

    This means engaging more with partners in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. In particular, Australia should consider investing more heavily in information programs and public diplomacy as the US withdraws from this arena.

    The government must also engage better with the public and be more transparent about its security options and decisions.

    On AUKUS, for instance, the government must build its “social licence” from the public to sustain such a massive deal across generations. Australians need to be better informed about – and consulted on – the decisions they will ultimately pay for.

    This also includes being upfront with Australians about the need for greater defence spending in a tumultuous world.

    It is understandably tempting for the new Albanese government to continue a “small target” when it comes to the US. This has meant minimising domestic debate about the alliance that could undermine support for AUKUS and avoid risking the ire of a thin-skinned Trump.

    But the government needs the courage to ask difficult questions and imagine different futures.

    Joanne Wallis receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the Australian Department of Defence, and the government of South Australia. She is a Senior Nonresident Fellow of the Brookings Institution in Washington, D.C.

    Rebecca Strating receives funding from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    – ref. Australia can no longer take a ‘business as usual’ approach to the US. On security, it’s time for courage and confidence – https://theconversation.com/australia-can-no-longer-take-a-business-as-usual-approach-to-the-us-on-security-its-time-for-courage-and-confidence-255598

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Farm of the Future”: Possibilities of Genetic Engineering in Agriculture

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    As part of the 63rd International Scientific Student Conference, which was held at NSU in the second half of April, candidate of biological sciences, head of the laboratory of developmental genetics of the Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ICG SB RAS), associate professor of the Department of Cytology and Genetics Faculty of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University Nariman Battulin gave a popular science lecture, “Farm of the Future: How Genetic Technologies Change Animals.” The scientist told conference participants in an accessible form about how geneticists can influence the genome of farm animals.

    How to read a genome?

    A geneticist reads genetic texts (genomes) the same way we all read books or posts on the Internet. There are only 4 letters in DNA – A, T, G, C, but one line of the human genome contains 3 billion letters. These texts describe all the characteristics and features of living organisms, right down to eye color and perception of cold. Geneticists study these texts with great interest and try to decipher them.

    — The control section of DNA switches on and off certain genes in the right organ at the right time and at the right stage of development. If we learn to understand the “genetic texts”, we will be able to control the properties of organisms. Replacing just one letter can lead to dramatic changes. For example, “turning” brown eyes into blue. Naturally, this excites the imagination of scientists, because it opens up huge opportunities for them. Knowing the DNA “texts”, it is possible to solve many problems in various fields. The simplest is forensics: if the perpetrator left his DNA at the crime scene, it can be read and certain properties of his body and even some details of his appearance can be restored. A more difficult task is genetic modification. If we learn to modify DNA, we will be able to artificially set the properties of the organism we need. To do this, we need to solve a big interesting problem — learn to find those sections of DNA that are responsible for the formation of a certain feature, — explained Nariman Battulin.

    The scientist said that geneticists learn which letters in the DNA “text” are responsible for certain properties of the body using genome-wide association studies (GWAS), which helps scientists identify genes associated with a certain disease (or other trait). This method studies the entire DNA set (genome) of a large group of people, identifying small variations called single nucleotide polymorphisms or SNPs. It is based on a statistical procedure that determines the significance of the difference of a particular SNP between groups of people with and without a trait. In this way, it is possible to identify areas of the genome responsible for eye color or hair structure, cognitive abilities and mental characteristics. Up to the genes responsible for a person’s sense of musical rhythm or sense of humor, as well as the grades they receive in class or the level of income they will be able to achieve. Thanks to such studies, geneticists, if a person detects any pathology or body trait, can determine in which area of the genome the gene “breakdown” occurred.

    More muscles!

    In animal husbandry, similar studies are aimed at identifying genes responsible for economically valuable traits in animals, such as muscle mass in cattle, pigs and sheep, or egg production in birds. Geneticists have learned to identify regions of the genome that enable cows to produce record milk yields, which has revolutionized agriculture, because since this approach was first used to identify the best milk or meat producing animals, there has been a significant increase in agricultural productivity. This approach is no more than 10 years old, but the results achieved during this time allow us to look to the future with optimism and confidently predict further growth in productivity in the livestock industry.

    There is another approach: geneticists look for genome sections responsible for any pathological features of an organism by studying the genomes of animals with deformities. “Breakdowns” of genes can lead to the strangest changes in the phenotype of organisms. These changes are an excellent source of information for searching for DNA sections responsible for their development.

    Nariman Battulin mentioned the Belgian Blue cow breed as an example. Its characteristic feature is hypertrophied, sculpted muscles. It seems that this is how a product of genetic engineering should look, but no. The reason for this was not the experiments of geneticists, but a random mutation in one gene, which increased muscle growth. It happened quite a long time ago, but was fixed by breeders by selecting individuals with increased muscle mass as an economically valuable trait. Then it turned out that the initial mutation occurred as a result of a “breakdown” of just one gene – myostatin, which prevents the formation of an excessive number of muscle cells. If this gene is knocked out, nothing prevents muscle growth and their volume increases twice as much as normal. And scientists quickly learned to use this.

    There is another effective way to interfere with the genome of living organisms. Since they are all distant relatives and have a common ancestor, they also have common genes. If a “broken” myostatin gene is found in cows, this may indicate that a similar gene is present in other animals, and most likely, in their organisms it is responsible for the same trait or property.

    There is only one example in the scientific literature of a “breakdown” in a gene that prevents excessive muscle growth in humans—the same one that affects Belgian Blue cows. This is a boy born with a knockout of the myostatin gene. The baby had twice as much muscle tissue as his peers.

    — It would seem that here it is, an alternative to grueling workouts in gyms: it is enough to block myostatin, and relief muscles are provided from birth and without any effort. But this medal has a reverse side. All muscles increase twofold, and even those whose increase directly affects the quality of life and health. For example, the tongue, which is also a muscle.

    The complexity of such modifications is that each gene affects many traits at once. On the one hand, myostatin knockout increases muscle growth, on the other hand, it creates problems with nutrition due to the tongue being twice as large, and on the third hand, such massive animals with such a large muscle volume cannot be born naturally. For example, the same breed of cows, the Belgian Blue. Almost always, calves of this breed are born by cesarean section. Therefore, before creating such animals using genetic technologies, one should think: will it be economically justified and is it worth settling them on the farm of the future? Yes, they will give much more meat, but how many veterinarians will be needed if the production of meat from such cows is put on stream? After all, the birth of each calf will be accompanied by a surgical operation, – said Nariman Battulin.

    As a result, it turns out that the economic effect of one mutation is not really that impressive due to the additional costs of changing the technology of keeping animals with a knocked-out gene. Genetic engineers should always think through such situations. “Improving” one trait can lead to problems with another. And finding a balance so that the desired genetic variants are productive and economically effective is very difficult. In addition, as practice shows, there are very few of them.

    “Genetic scissors”

    — From the point of view of fundamental biology, if we want to learn how genes work, we need to study this mechanism in animals in which the mutation occurred by chance. But to better understand this mechanism, we need to reproduce it ourselves, transferring this genetic variant to another organism, and see what happens. Geneticists have several tools for this task. The most popular is the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing tool. It is based on an element of the bacterial defense system that biologists have adapted to make changes to the DNA of plants, animals and humans. It consists of using short RNA that directs CRISPR/Cas9 to the desired site in the genome. After attaching to the target DNA, CRISPR/Cas9 cuts two DNA strands, allowing scientists to either deactivate the gene or insert a new DNA segment in place of the cut. Just one break is enough to “break” the gene and make changes to the DNA. In essence, this genomic editing tool is a biological molecule that can find the right place in the genome to “hit”. This is very important because the human genome, like the genome of a cow and other mammals, consists of 3 billion nucleotides, and finding the right one is not so easy. Genomic editing tools allow us to do this, – explained Nariman Battulin.

    With these tools, the most popular genetic variants can be transferred from one animal species to another. For example, the genome of the same Belgian Blue cows contains a knockout of the myostatin gene, while cows of other breeds do not. It is possible to introduce this genetic change by crossing, but it will take too much time. But with the help of genomic editing tools, it is quite possible to introduce the desired genetic variant directly into the DNA of meat breeds. And such calves have already been obtained.

    One of the scientific articles on this topic, “Efficient introduction of mutations into the piglet genome using CRISPR/Cas9,” which was published in the scientific journal Scientific Reports, says that the authors obtained 8 piglets with a knockout of the myostatin gene. And indeed, their muscles were twice as big as those of normal piglets. However, all the modified animals died within a week. But why did genome editing, which is successfully carried out on cows, fail on pigs?

    — The thing is that each gene affects not just one function, but several at once. For example, the genomes of Belgian Blue cows contain other genetic variants that compensate for the negative impact of myostatin knockout on the body, while pigs do not have such variants. Therefore, it is important for geneticists to remember that the results of transferring one genetic variant to another genetic background can be unpredictable and undesirable, which is what happened in the case of piglets, in whose genome the myostatin gene was knocked out. But sometimes the results are positive. Lambs successfully tolerated the knockout of the myostatin gene — their muscle mass increased, but, unlike piglets, they were viable. This gene was successfully blocked in fish. In Japan, sea bream was subjected to this manipulation, after which the muscle mass of this species increased by 17%. Experiments on “building up” muscles in these fish continue, attempts are being made to bring genetically improved sea bream to market. But genetically modified salmon has already entered the American market. True, it took the enterprise implementing such a bold project 30 years of work and 100 million dollars in investments. If a regular salmon at the age of 18 months reaches 33 cm in length and weighs 1.3 kg, then its transgenic relative is twice as long and reaches a weight of 3 kg, – said Nariman Battulin.

    By the way, the farm of the future will have a place for aquaculture, which is currently becoming an important element of agriculture. Most of the fish that comes to our table are not caught in the wild, but grown in fish farms.

    Beneficial mutations

    With the help of genetic engineering, scientists can make various useful changes to the genome of animals. For example, depriving cattle of horns, which will avoid many problems, namely, injury to other animals or farm workers.

    — There are genetic variants of natural mutations obtained in hornless cows. By identifying the genes responsible for such a beneficial mutation, it is possible to artificially edit the genome of cows of other breeds, and calves will be born that fully correspond to their breed with only one exception — they will not grow horns. At the same time, other features and advantages of the breed remain unchanged. Such calves have already been obtained. Normally, animals of their breed are characterized by long horns, but genetically modified cows of this breed do not have them, — Nariman Battulin specified.

    By means of genome editing, it is possible to “adapt” cows to climate change. For example, to global warming. There are genetic variants that allow increasing their temperature adaptation, i.e. resistance to heat stress. For example, if you introduce a corresponding mutation into the genome of Angus cows, “breaking” just one gene, the skin of the genetically modified animal becomes slightly thinner, and the wool becomes thinner, which reduces body temperature by 0.3-0.5 degrees under heat stress. Therefore, despite the fact that the absolute figures are small, from the point of view of the biological system, this is a very significant change.

    Cold-resistant animals can be created in a similar way. In this task, geneticists are looking for inspiration in the Yakut breeds of cattle, which can withstand even the harshest frosts. They can winter in open areas, so there is no need to build warm barns. And the reason for such resistance to the cold lies, of course, in their genome. Scientists have identified the very genetic variant that affects the cold resistance of Yakut breeds of cattle. This same genetic variant is found in deep-diving animals, as well as in mammals that can hibernate or significantly change their own body temperature.

    — Before actually reproducing these genetic variants in other breeds, it is very important to try to understand the mechanism by which these processes are realized. Therefore, at the Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, we created modified mice in which we reproduced the genetic variant of Yakut cows. Now we are trying to understand how these mice feel in low temperatures. We are observing changes in the heart rate of mouse embryos depending on the decrease in the ambient temperature. And there is hope that very soon we will understand how this mechanism works and will be able to create cold-resistant mice. But it is desirable that they do not exist on the farm of the future, — the scientist said.

    According to Nariman Battulin, the most impressive thing that could be on a farm of the future is pigs that will become organ donors for humans. Unfortunately, humanity does not have the ability to provide donor organs to everyone in need. Genetically modified animals, whose organs can be transplanted to humans, could become an alternative to regular donors. By many parameters, the only species that can be used for these purposes is the pig. In recent years, significant progress has been made in this area. There are known cases of successful xenotransplantation of a kidney from a transgenic pig to a human in the world. However, after this, the few patients lived very short lives. The record holder was a man who underwent surgery in the United States in January of this year. He has been living with such a kidney for four months now.

    — The most complex genetic changes that were made on animals were made on pigs for the purpose of subsequent xenotransplantation. In this case, it is necessary to introduce dozens of modifications into the genome, to “break” the genes that produce proteins that our immune system perceives as foreign. In addition, it is necessary to combine the immune systems and blood coagulation systems of humans and pigs. And many such modifications need to be made — the more, the more successful the xenotransplantation procedure will be. Geneticists from all over the world, including scientists from the Novosibirsk Akademgorodok, are working on solving this problem, — the lecturer noted.

    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 China: Xi Jinping: A visionary architect of world peace and development

    Source: China State Council Information Office

    Chinese President Xi Jinping watches the military parade during the commemoration activities to mark the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 3, 2015. (Xinhua/Lan Hongguang)

    In the stately Conference Building at the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, a 65-inch-tall resplendent bronze vessel gleams under soft light, its cloisonne enamel blazing in vibrant Chinese red.

    The “Zun of Peace,” presented by Chinese President Xi Jinping in September 2015 as a special gift for the United Nations’ 70th anniversary, is not merely a delicate artifact. It embodies the aspiration and conviction of the Chinese people to seek peace, development, cooperation and win-win outcomes, Xi said at its unveiling.

    A decade later, as the top Chinese leader travels to Moscow to celebrate the 80th anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War, his presence both carries the weight of history and reaffirms a vision of the future.

    Leading a nation always aspiring for peace and harmony in its long history and further strengthened by its battles against militarism, imperialism and fascism in its recent past, Xi commands a unique insight into the value of peace, and has steadfastly championed the building of a peaceful world, a cause of great urgency given the tensions and conflicts on the global landscape today.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) attends a presentation ceremony on which the Chinese government gives the “Zun of Peace” to the United Nations as a gift in New York, the United States, Sept. 27, 2015. (Xinhua/Li Tao)

    ASPIRATION FOR PEACE

    Xi sees history as a mirror from which humanity should draw lessons to avoid repeating past calamities.

    This year marks the 80th anniversary of victory in what is commonly known in China as the World Anti-Fascist War or, more globally, as World War II. Almost every part of the world was involved, and more than 100 million were killed or wounded in what was described as the most destructive conflict in human history.

    The bravery and tremendous sacrifice of the Chinese people played a decisive role in defeating Fascist Japan and offered strategic support to the Allies on the European and Pacific battlefields.

    “History has told us to stay on high alert against war, which, like a demon and nightmare, would bring disaster and pain to the people,” Xi once said. “History has also told us to preserve peace with great care, as peace, like air and sunshine, is hardly noticed when people are benefiting from it, but none of us can live without it.”

    This historical observation features prominently in Xi’s unrelenting pursuit of peace. He has repeatedly reiterated China’s commitment to peaceful development, pledging that China will never seek hegemony, expansion or any sphere of influence, no matter how strong it may grow.

    During a 2014 visit to France, Xi reshaped Napoleon’s metaphor of China as a “sleeping lion” that would shake the world upon awakening. “Now China the lion has awakened. But it is a peaceful, amicable and civilized lion,” Xi said when illustrating the peaceful dimension of the Chinese Dream.

    Xi’s philosophy stems from the millennia-old Chinese culture. An avid reader of traditional Chinese classics, he once expounded how ancient Chinese wisdom views war and peace by quoting “The Art of War,” a Chinese classic written more than 2,000 years ago.

    The book’s key message “is that every effort should be made to prevent a war and great caution must be exercised when it comes to fighting a war,” Xi said when delivering a keynote speech in the UN Office at Geneva in 2017.

    Xi’s view on prudence in warfare is also reflected in his exchanges with foreign leaders and officials.

    “It has long been known that the real experts on military affairs do not want to employ military means to solve issues,” he quoted a Chinese aphorism when meeting with then U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis in Beijing in 2018.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping straightens the ribbon on a flower basket during a ceremony to present flower baskets to fallen heroes at Tian’anmen Square in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 30, 2024. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

    A clear manifestation of Xi’s reflection is to cherish history and honor heroes. “A nation of hope cannot be without heroes,” Xi once said. Every year since 2014, Xi has paid tribute to China’s fallen heroes on Martyrs’ Day, which falls on Sept. 30, a day ahead of the country’s National Day.

    In 2015, when China celebrated the 70th anniversary of its victory in World War II, Xi presented medals to Chinese veterans and representatives from Russia and other countries who assisted Chinese soldiers on the battlefields.

    Nikolai Chuikov, the grandson of Soviet General Marshal Vasily Chuikov, was among those who received a peace medal from Xi. “Of all the honors I have won, I hold the highest regard for the peace medal,” he said.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping (R, front) shakes hands with a Russian veteran in Moscow, Russia, on May 8, 2015. (Xinhua/Zhang Duo) 

    TORCH OF MULTILATERALISM

    Under Xi’s leadership, China has adhered to an independent foreign policy of peace, played an active role in UN peacekeeping missions, and solidified its friendships and partnerships with countries worldwide.

    As hegemonism and protectionism once again rear their ugly heads, the world is gripped by an increasingly intricate array of challenges and uncertainties. In Xi’s eyes, the only way out is to practice true multilateralism. He once compared multilateralism to a torch that can light up humanity’s way forward.

    The Chinese president has consistently urged the international community to safeguard the UN-centered international system forged in the aftermath of World War II and anchored by international law.

    “We must promote multilateralism, the core essence of which is that international affairs should be decided through consultation among all countries, rather than by one country or a few countries,” he said.

    This photo taken on Jan. 2, 2025 shows the 46th fleet of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy during a counter-terrorism and anti-piracy exercise.The fleet traveled over 160,000 nautical miles during its 339-day voyage, escorting ships during missions in the Gulf of Aden and the waters off Somalia. (Xinhua/Zhang Dayu)

    Xi, a staunch champion of true multilateralism, has guided China over the years in taking a proactive and constructive role in addressing regional and global hot-button issues.

    To end the Ukraine crisis at an early date, Xi has put forward a four-point proposal, emphasizing that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected; the purposes and principles of the UN Charter observed; the legitimate security concerns of all countries given due regard; and all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis supported.

    Under Xi’s leadership, China has conducted shuttle diplomacy and mediation efforts to promote peace talks and initiated the “Friends of Peace” group with Brazil and other Global South countries on the Ukraine crisis at the United Nations.

    Regarding the Middle East, the Chinese president has promoted peace and stability in the volatile region. With China’s mediation, Saudi Arabia and Iran agreed in March 2023 to restore diplomatic relations after a seven-year hiatus. In the lead-up to the negotiations, Xi talked separately with the leaders of both countries.

    During a phone call with Xi soon after the breakthrough was achieved, Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud applauded China’s increasingly important and constructive role in regional and international affairs.

    In face of the gathering gloom of conflict on the horizon, Xi has championed a transformative approach to collective security. In May 2014, he articulated a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security for Asia. Eight years later, he presented the Global Security Initiative to the world.

    “We, as humanity, are living in an indivisible security community,” he said, advocating dialogue over confrontation, partnership over alliance, and win-win outcomes over zero-sum approaches.

    “GOLDEN KEY” OF DEVELOPMENT

    Lasting world peace remains one of humanity’s greatest aspirations. For Xi, peace and development are inseparable. He once observed that the tree of peace does not grow on barren land, and the fruit of development is not produced amid flames of war.

    In view of the interlocked relations, Xi insists that the “golden key” to a secure and stable future is to advance sustainable development.

    Since assuming China’s presidency, Xi has positioned development as a pillar of his vision of building a better future for humankind. The initiatives he has proposed in this regard, notably the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative, serve as bridges to foster common development through broader collaboration.

    China has provided development aid to over 160 countries, and Belt and Road cooperation has involved more than 150 countries. Under the Global Development Initiative, China has mobilized nearly 20 billion U.S. dollars of development funds and launched more than 1,100 projects, fueling growth and modernization drives in many countries, particularly developing ones.

    An aerial drone photo taken on March 4, 2024 shows trains running on the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line in Lagos, Nigeria. Undertaken by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation in July 2010 and completed in Dec. 2022, the first phase of the Lagos Rail Mass Transit Blue Line corridor spans 13 km and covers five stations. (Xinhua/Han Xu)

    “China is sharing its development experience with other countries through its development initiatives, which have helped to promote common development,” said Straton Habyarimana, a Rwandan economic analyst.

    “Since these initiatives are people-centered, they address key challenges such as food insecurity and poverty” and have helped ease tensions among countries, he added.

    UPDATE OF WORLD ORDER

    Nestled by the Huangpu River in Shanghai, the New Development Bank was founded by five BRICS countries in 2014 to provide financing support for member countries to bolster transport infrastructure, clean energy and digital infrastructure.

    When Xi visited the bank a few days ago, he saw more than a mere financial institution. He described it as a “pioneering initiative for the unity and self-improvement of the Global South,” underscoring an enduring commitment to building a more just and equitable international order.

    This aerial photo taken on June 17, 2022 shows the headquarters building of the New Development Bank in east China’s Shanghai. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

    BRICS countries stand at the forefront of the Global South. Xi has personally pushed for the BRICS’ historic expansion in 2023 to create stronger unity among the Global South. The expansion, he said, would further strengthen the forces for world peace and development.

    Developing countries remain underrepresented in the global governance system, which the West has long dominated. China maintains that only when the rise of emerging markets and developing countries is reflected in the global governance system will global development be more balanced and global peace more firmly based.

    During the 2022 Group of 20 Summit in Bali, Indonesia, Xi vocally supported the African Union in joining the leading multilateral mechanism, making China the earliest and most vocal champion for amplifying Africa’s voice in global governance.

    Chinese President Xi Jinping walks to the venue of the 17th summit of the Group of 20 in Bali, Indonesia, Nov. 15, 2022. (Xinhua/Ju Peng)

    In recent years, Xi has proposed the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative as key global public goods to create a more just and equitable global governance system.

    Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who received the “Zun of Peace” from the Chinese president on behalf of the United Nations 10 years ago, said China’s initiatives to promote global peace and development are inseparable from Xi’s foresight.

    “China is playing an increasingly important role on the world stage, and Xi has demonstrated proactive and crucial leadership,” Ban said. “He always believes that China can only do well when the world is doing well, and when China does well, the world will get even better.”

    In Xi’s own words, “every increase of China’s strength is an increase of the prospects of world peace.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A digital assistant for housing and communal services in the science city of Koltsovo is being created at NSU

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University – Novosibirsk State University –

    Employees of the Center for Artificial Intelligence of Novosibirsk State University have begun to create a digital twin of the infrastructure management systems of the science city of Koltsovo. The first project, the prototype of which should be presented this summer, will be a digital assistant for preparing the public utilities of the science city for the heating season. This was reported by Igor Boldyrev, Deputy Director of the NSU Center for Artificial Intelligence.

    — Our cooperation is developing within the framework of the agreement between Koltsovo and NSU, the leadership of the science city set us a number of tasks, in the solution of which artificial intelligence technologies could help. And to date, we have advanced the furthest in cooperation with the enterprises of the city housing and communal services, namely in the area of preparing the municipality for the beginning of the heating season, — he explained.

    At present, following a series of working meetings, a technical assignment has been formed for the team of developers of the NSU Center for Information Technologies, which determines what tasks their digital assistant should solve.

    First of all, preparation for the heating season involves following certain protocols, including collecting information and preparing relevant documentation, all within strictly specified timeframes.

    “This work fits completely into our concept of a digital twin of the SIGMA control system, which is one of the central developments of the NSU Artificial Intelligence Center,” Igor Boldyrev emphasized.

    In addition, NSU Center for Information Technologies and Communications specialists propose using their competencies in the field of creating systems for monitoring the state of the heating system and forecasting possible accidents and heat leaks, also integrating its work with a digital assistant. This will further increase the efficiency of both preparation for the heating season and its implementation.

    The university notes that virtually all municipalities in our country face similar challenges, and after testing on the Koltsovo infrastructure, the solutions created can be offered for widespread implementation in other populated areas.

    — Now the Center is entering a stage where we are moving from theoretical work to creating specific digital products and services based on this research, which involve the use of artificial intelligence in urban management and the construction industry. Let me remind you that the practical application of our developments was one of the key conditions for opening the center. And the science city of Koltsovo was immediately considered as one of the main sites for the implementation of pilot projects, — noted Alexander Lyulko, Director of the NSU Center for Innovative Research.

    The prototype of the digital assistant should be ready by the end of June, so that during the summer municipal enterprises of Koltsovo can test its operation and give appropriate assessments.

    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 China: Xi to pay state visit to Russia, attend Great Patriotic War Victory celebrations on May 7-10 2025-05-04 17:29:39 Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to Russia from May 7 to 10 and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War in Moscow, at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Sunday.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – Ministry of National Defense

    BEIJING, May 4 (Xinhua) — Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to Russia from May 7 to 10 and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War in Moscow, at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Sunday.

    With a historic vision and from a strategic height, President Xi and President Putin have guided China-Russia relations in the new era to always forge ahead despite a complex external environment and demonstrate the relations’ defining features of everlasting good-neighborliness and friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination and mutual benefit, cooperation and win-win, the spokesperson said.

    The spokesperson introduced that during the upcoming state visit, President Xi will have strategic communication with President Putin on China-Russia relations under new circumstances and on a series of major international and regional issues.

    “We believe the important common understandings between the two presidents will further deepen political mutual trust between the two countries, add new substance to strategic coordination, promote practical cooperation in various fields, bring more benefits to the two peoples, and contribute more stability and positive energy to the international community,” the spokesperson said.

    Noting this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Great Patriotic War and the World Anti-Fascist War, the spokesperson said that as the two main theaters of Asia and Europe in World War II, China and Russia made immense sacrifice and major, historic contributions to secure the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War, save their respective nations from demise, and also save the future of mankind.

    President Xi and President Putin previously agreed that the two sides will jointly remember history, honor the martyrs, foster a right view of the World War II history, defend the outcomes of the victory in the war and the post-war international order, and uphold international fairness and justice, the spokesperson said.

    At this special historic juncture, President Xi’s attendance at the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War in Moscow upon invitation is an important part of his visit, the spokesperson said, adding that it is also reflective of support by China and Russia to each other’s commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War.

    This year also marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the UN, the spokesperson said, noting that China and Russia, as founding members of the UN and permanent members of the UN Security Council, shoulder special and important responsibility in safeguarding the international system with the UN at its core.

    “The two countries will further strengthen their close coordination in the UN, SCO, BRICS and other multilateral platforms, rally the Global South, shape global governance in the right direction, unequivocally oppose acts of unilateralism and bullying, and jointly promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization,” the spokesperson said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: Traffic has been launched on four-lane sections of the M-9 “Baltia” highway from Moscow to the Rzhev Memorial

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The section of the highway from Moscow to the Rzhev Memorial to the Soviet Soldier has been expanded

    May 3, 2025

    The section of the highway from Moscow to the Rzhev Memorial to the Soviet Soldier has been expanded

    May 3, 2025

    Previous news Next news

    The section of the highway from Moscow to the Rzhev Memorial to the Soviet Soldier has been expanded

    In anticipation of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, federal road workers launched traffic on sections of the federal highway M-9 “Baltia” in the Tver and Moscow regions that were widened as a result of major repairs. Now the entire route from Moscow to the Rzhev Memorial to the Soviet Soldier has four or more traffic lanes. This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin.

    “The Rzhev Memorial is the most important symbol of the Great Victory of our country, the dedication and bravery of the soldiers of the Soviet Army. Today, this memorial is a place of universal attraction. Since 2020, it has already attracted about 5 million visitors. Of course, the route to the memorial should be as convenient, safe and comfortable as possible. To this end, we are actively working to expand the federal highway “Baltia” on the section from Moscow to the Rzhev Memorial. The total length of this route is about 212 km within the boundaries of the Tver and Moscow regions. For 101 km, this highway already had four or more traffic lanes, and the main emphasis in the major repairs was on the remaining 111 km. It is very important that on the eve of Victory Day, we are launching traffic on the entire expanded route, and on the memorial day, it will be more convenient for citizens to get to the military-patriotic complex,” said Marat Khusnullin.

    The bulk of the work was concentrated in the Tver Region, where the Rzhev Memorial is located – at the 229th km of the M-9 “Baltia” highway. The capital repair project and the program for further comprehensive development of automobile approaches to this historical complex were implemented, among other things, on the initiative of the Governor of the Tver Region Igor Rudenya, which was supported by the President of Russia Vladimir Putin.

    It is important to note that the comprehensive modernization of the M-9 “Baltia” highway will contribute to the further development of the tourism potential of both the Tver and Moscow regions.

    “The expansion of sections of the M-9 Baltiya highway is not only an important step towards increasing the transport accessibility of iconic historical sites in these regions, but also a key factor in the development of the entire Central Federal District. The Baltiya highway provides a connection between Moscow and the northwestern part of our country. Increasing the capacity of this transport artery will give impetus to many sectors of the economy, especially tourism,” emphasized Transport Minister Roman Starovoit.

    In the Tver region, the work on the major repairs of the Baltiya was carried out in the Zubtsovsky and Rzhevsky municipal districts. And in the Moscow region – within the boundaries of the Volokolamsky and Shakhovskaya urban districts.

    “Large-scale capital repair work was mainly concentrated on the section from the 118th to the 229th km, in parallel on several sections at once. Much attention was paid to the issue of increasing road safety, including by separating traffic flows. Today we are launching work traffic, and the entire range of capital repair work on the M-9 “Baltia” highway in the Moscow and Tver regions will be completed in November of this year,” said the head of the Federal Road Agency Roman Novikov.

    In the Tver Region, the main front of work fell on the section from km 158 to km 229. In particular, on the section from km 214 to km 220, the roadway was fully expanded to four traffic lanes. Culverts were installed, treatment facilities were installed, road markings were applied, and a dividing parapet fence was installed. At the moment, specialists are installing road signs. Similar work was carried out on the section from km 194 to km 204, where new markings are still being applied.

    The adjacent section, from the 180th to the 194th km, where another iconic monument symbolizing the victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War is located, was also expanded to four lanes. It is a monument to the legendary BM-13 combat vehicle, the Katyusha (187th km of the M-9 highway). It is installed in a significant place – here, on August 4, 1942, soldiers of the 118th Rifle Division, together with other units of the Soviet Army, broke through the defense of the Nazi troops. At the moment, the installation of local treatment facilities and noise protection screens, as well as the planning and strengthening of the slopes of the culverts are being completed on this section.

    On sections from 158 to 180 km and from 220 to 229 km, specialists also carried out work to increase the number of traffic lanes. At the same time, work on the construction of the roadbed, lower and upper layers of the base and layers of asphalt concrete pavement is currently being completed.

    In the Moscow Region, the road infrastructure on the Baltiya highway is also being actively modernized. During the major repairs, a section of about 40 km (from the 118th to the 158th km) was expanded from two to four lanes. Currently, road workers are completing the installation of road surfaces and applying markings. To improve safety, a metal barrier fence will be installed, which will prevent cars from driving into the oncoming lane. In addition, it is planned to install local lighting near pedestrian crossings, at junctions and intersections with local roads.

    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 Video: Ukraine: call for protection of civilians – OCHA briefing at the Security Council | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    For her part, senior OCHA official Joyce Msuya said that as the war continues, millions of lives are impacted daily, essential services are disrupted and humanitarian needs deepened.

    She highlighted, “Attacks on healthcare services and health facilities are crippling access to maternal care,” highlighting that pregnant women are now giving birth amid blackouts, medicine shortages and under attack, with a 12 per cent rise in birth complications reported by health workers.

    “For many expectant mothers, basic, life-saving care is simply no longer available,” Msuya said.

    The Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator emphasized once again, “Under international humanitarian law, civilians and civilian objects must be protected.”

    “This means that indiscriminate attacks are strictly prohibited. It also means that parties must take all feasible precautions to avoid civilian harm, whether they are launching attacks or defending against them,” Msuya stressed.

    The Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator also noted that underfunding is forcing critical programmes to scale down, even as the operational environment becomes more complex and dangerous.

    “Additional resources are needed now to save lives and sustain assistance,” she concluded.

    For his part, US Acting Alternate Representative John Kelley said, “Right now, Russia has a great opportunity to achieve adorable peace,” adding that “the burden for ending the war rests with Russia and with Ukraine.”

    He said, “It is up to the leaders of both these countries to decide whether peace is possible. If both sides are ready to end the war, the United States will fully support their path to a lasting peace.”

    The US Representative highlighted, “The benefits for Ukraine and Russia accepting the US proposal are immense. Their economies can begin to grow, their cities to rebuild, and their peoples to heal.”

    Conversely, Kelley said, “the risks that accompany more war are immeasurable. The harm would disproportionately fall on ordinary Ukrainians and Russian families, who overwhelmingly desire peace.”

    The US Representative urged both Ukraine and Russia to “accept peace, “we ask our fellow council members and all UN member states to support the path to peace,” he said.

    Russian Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia criticized that today’s meeting was “requested by a number of the most stubborn European sponsors of the Kyiv regime.”

    “This is a reflection of their fear of being sidelined in the context of the new US administration as it seeks to arrive at a long-term solution to the Ukrainian crisis. Hence the desire to thwart this process and to restore for Ukraine Zelensky’s image of a victim, which has been tarnished in recent months, in the light of the new facts that have surfaced,” the Russian Ambassador added.

    Ambassador Nebenzia also said that the Russian and US dialog is ongoing, “there will be discussions of a number of nuances for the future contours of the peace plan from the very start of the conflict,” he said.

    “We announced that we preferred diplomatic methods for the attainment of the goals of our special military operation. And this is why Russia remains focused on achieving a sustained, long-term solution that would eradicate the root causes of the conflict and to prevent that from occurring,” the Russian Ambassador emphasized.

    For her part, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Betsa Mariana reiterated, “Russia cannot be allowed to cherry pick the political convenient dates to announce a short lived ceasefire simply for PR purposes, or gain additional tactical advantages.”

    She said, “Ukraine is ready to support a just, comprehensive and lasting peace. And this is what we are constantly proposing for at least 30 days. And we reconfirm this proposal.”

    Foreign Minister Mariana stressed her country’s position on peace negotiations is “clear and consistent.”

    She said, “Ukraine wants peace like no one else. However, we cannot accept peace at any cost. We cannot accept peace at any price. Any future arrangement has to respect Ukraine’s redlines.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yAD_Xa4R130

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES 2025: A People’s Movement that Empowers Every Creator to be a Star

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES 2025: A People’s Movement that Empowers Every Creator to be a Star

    WAVES Bazaar a resounding success; records business transactions worth more than Rs. 1328 crores with 3000+ B2B Meetings in 3 days; Govt of Maharashtra signs MoUs worth Rs 8000 crores in M&E Sector

    Member Nations adopt WAVES Declaration at Global Media Dialogue

    Investment worth Rs 50 crores in pipeline as part of WAVEX Startup Accelerator

    Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT) poised to be a milestone in capacity building for Creative Economy

    Create in India Challenge promises to foster Creative Economy in India

    Knowledge Reports unveiled at WAVES project India’s giant leaps in Creative Economy

    Posted On: 04 MAY 2025 7:48PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 4 May 2025

     

    The premier edition of World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025) concluded on a high note today in Mumbai, registering an overwhelming response from exhibitors, industry leaders, startups, policymakers, academia, and the general public. The summit emerged as a key convergence point for the media and entertainment ecosystem, drawing participation from every segment of the industry — from celebrated artists and influential content creators to tech innovators and corporate leaders. With a vibrant mix of exhibitions, panel discussions, and B2B collaborations, the event witnessed a remarkable turnout and reaffirmed India’s position as a rising global Powerhouse of media and entertainment.

    The celebration of creativity, technology, and storytelling began with the inauguration of its maiden edition by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in a star-studded event held in Jio World Convention Centre. In his inaugural address, Prime Minister Modi remarked that WAVES is not just an acronym, it is a wave of culture, creativity and universal connectivity. The Prime Minister said that India is emerging as a global hub for film production, digital content, gaming, fashion, music and live concerts. He called upon the creators of the world to dream big and tell their stories; to the investors to invest not just in platforms, but in people; and to the Indian youth – to tell their one billion untold stories to the world. Declaring WAVES as the dawn of India’s Orange Economy, he urged the youth to lead this creative surge and make India a global creative hub.

    High-impact Knowledge Sessions

    Taking forward the vision of the Prime Minister, WAVES 2025, over the last four days, acted as a platform for high-level exchange of ideas, skills, and sectoral insights. The Conference Track of WAVES 2025 served as a vital forum for dialogue and collaboration, bringing together thought leaders, industry pioneers, policymakers, and professionals from across the globe. Through a carefully curated series of plenary sessions, breakout discussions, and master classes, the summit explored the latest innovations and emerging strategies shaping the future of the Media & Entertainment industry. The sessions enabled meaningful exchange of ideas, cutting across domains and specialisations.

    The maiden edition of WAVES will be known for the high impact knowledge sessions and the discourse covering a broad spectrum of topics, including Broadcasting and Infotainment, AVGC-XR, Digital Media, and Films. With more than 140 sessions featuring more than 100 international speakers, spread across three main halls (each accommodating over 1,000 participants) and five additional halls with capacities ranging from 75 to 150, the Summit maintained overwhelming attendance levels — with many sessions recording full occupancy.

    The plenary Sessions featured over 50 keynote addresses by eminent personalities such as Mukesh Ambani, Ted Sarandos, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Neal Mohan, Shantanu Narayen, Mark Read, Adam Mosseri, and Nita Ambani. Their insights offered compelling perspectives on the evolving entertainment industry, advertising landscape, and digital transformation. Film icons including Chiranjeevi, Mohanlal, Hema Malini, Akshay Kumar, Nagarjuna, Shah Rukh Khan, Deepika Padukone, Allu Arjun, and Shekhar Kapur, many of whom were also members of the WAVES Advisory Board, engaged in thought-provoking conversations on the future of cinema and content creation in the age of virtual production and artificial intelligence.

    The 40 masterclasses at WAVES 2025 were designed to offer practical learning and creative exploration. Participants gained direct exposure to industry techniques through sessions such as The Art of Acting by Aamir Khan, Craft of Direction by Farhan Akhtar, and Insights into Filmmaking by Michael Lehmann. Other sessions explored behind-the-scenes narratives like the making of Panchayat by Amazon Prime, designing AR lenses, creating AI avatars, and developing games using generative AI. These sessions provided professionals and aspiring creators with actionable knowledge and tools to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving creative economy.

    WAVES also featured 55 breakout sessions, which provided a platform for in-depth discussions on specialised themes such as broadcasting, digital media, OTT, AI, Music, News, Live events, Animation, Gaming, Virtual production, Comics, and Filmmaking. These interactive sessions brought together senior professionals from leading companies including Meta, Google, Amazon, X, Snap, Spotify, DNEG, Netflix, and NVIDIA, along with representatives from industry bodies such as FICCI, CII, and IMI. Designed to encourage sector-specific insights and collaboration, the discussions addressed critical challenges and charted new directions for growth and innovation.

    WAVES Bazaar garners Rs 1328 crores in Business Deals; Govt of Maharashtra signs MoUs worth Rs 8000 crores in M&E Sector

    The inaugural edition of WAVES Bazaar, organized under the umbrella of WAVES, was a resounding success as it has established itself as a premier platform for international business collaboration in the creative industries. The marketplace recorded business deals or transactions worth Rs. 1328 crores across the film, music, radio, VFX, and animation sectors. Out of the total estimated outcome, Rs. 971 cr has been from B2B meetings alone. A key highlight of the Bazaar was the Buyer-Seller Market which witnessed over 3,000 B2B meetings. In a major achievement under international collaboration, Film India Screen Collective and Screen Canterbury NZ from New Zealand announced a collaborative proposal to launch the first-ever Indian Film Festival in New Zealand. Only Much Louder CEO Tushar Kumar and Alexander Zharov, CEO of Russian firm Gazprom Media CEO announcing early talks on a MoU to collaborate on cross-cultural festivals and co-produce comedy and music shows in Russia and India was another achievement. The announcement of the Prime Video & CJ ENM Multi-Year Collaboration was another highlight of the Bazaar as the strategic partnership was unveiled to distribute premium Korean content globally. The other milestones include the announcement of the film ‘Devi Chowdhurani,’ which became the India’s first official Indo-UK co-production, and the film ‘Violated’ which will be a co-production of Fusion Flicks from the UK and JVD Films.

    The Maharashtra government has also added business value to the summit by signing MoUs worth ₹8,000 crore at the WAVES. While MoUs worth ₹1,500 crore were signed each with the University of York and the University of Western Australia, the state’s Industries Department signed MoUs worth ₹3,000 cr and ₹2,000 cr with Prime Focus and Godrej respectively.

    Member Nations adopt ‘WAVES Declaration’ at the Global Media Dialogue 2025

    The Global Media Dialogue 2025, held during the World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES 2025) in Mumbai, was a landmark event with participation from 77 nations, underscoring India’s pivotal role in the global media and entertainment arena. The dialogue highlighted the power of international collaborations in fostering creativity while respecting cultural sensitivities. The member nations collectively adopted the ‘WAVES Declaration’, emphasizing the urgency of bridging the digital divide and leveraging media to promote global peace and harmony. The discussions underscored the profound role of films in uniting diverse cultures and the growing significance of individual stories in the creator economy, amplified by technological advancements.

    Dr. S. Jaishankar, Union External Affairs Minister, stressed the need for a synergy between technology and tradition, advocating for the empowerment of youth through skill development and innovation. Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, highlighted the transformative impact of technology on content creation and the critical importance of fostering local content, co-production agreements, and joint funding initiatives. India’s “Create in India” challenges, which successfully identified over 700 global creators, were showcased, with plans to expand them to 25 languages in the next edition. This summit laid a robust foundation for future global cooperation in media and entertainment, emphasizing creative excellence and ethical content production.

    WAVEX: An Accelerator for Aspiring Start-ups in M&E Sector

    WAVES Start-Up Accelerator selected 30 M&E Start-Ups to pitch their unique ideas directly to a battery of heavy-weight investors like Lumikai, Jio, CABIL, WarmUp Ventures – among the 45 key angel investors on board. With over 1000 registrations, the initiative germinated investment discussions worth Rs. 50 crore that are in pipeline. Apart from this, over 100 Start-Ups exhibited their ideas and products to potential investors in the dedicated Start-Up pavilion. WAVEX as an initiative aims to create a palpable investment ecosystem for start-ups to thrive and grow by forming an angel investor network specifically focussed on the Media and Entertainment sector. Start-Ups from Tier 1 and Tier 2 shined at WAVEX and their founders took centre-stage. To facilitate such creators better, WAVEX will set up a network of incubators with dedicated mentors for handholding and investors for seed investment. WAVEX is unique as it facilitates ideas that do not have a tangible product yet, but have a solid potential.

    Key Knowledge Reports Released at WAVES 2025

    Dr. L. Murugan, Union Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, unveiled five pivotal reports at the WAVES Summit 2025 in Mumbai. These reports provide a comprehensive overview of India’s thriving media and entertainment ecosystem, covering key aspects like content production, policy frameworks, and live events.

    • Statistical Handbook on Media & Entertainment 2024-25:The Statistical Handbook, prepared by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, offers valuable data-driven insights into India’s media landscape. It highlights growth trends in broadcasting, digital media, film certifications, and public media services, providing essential information for future policymaking and industry strategies based on empirical evidence.
    • ‘From Content to Commerce’ by BCG:  Boston Consulting Group’s Report highlights the explosive growth of India’s creator economy, estimating 2 to 2.5 million active digital creators. These creators influence over $350 billion in annual spending, with projections to surpass $1 trillion by 2030. It emphasizes building long-term, authentic partnerships over transactional engagements with creators.
    • ‘A Studio Called India’ by Ernst & Young: Ernst & Young’s Report envisions India as a global content hub, leveraging its linguistic diversity, rich culture, and technological expertise. It highlights India’s 40%-60% cost advantage in animation and VFX services and growing international demand for Indian OTT content, strengthening India’s role in global cultural diplomacy.
    • Legal Currents and Live Events Industry Reports: Khaitan & Co.’s Legal Handbook covers vital issues such as influencer marketing and compliance norms, helping media stakeholders navigate India’s regulatory landscape. Additionally, the White paper on India’s live events industry outlines the sector’s 15% growth rate, advocating for upgraded infrastructure and streamlined licensing processes to support the booming sector.

    Indian Institute of Creative Technology: A National Centre of Excellence

    Indian Institute of Creative Technology (IICT)— a National Centre of Excellence being set up in Mumbai is poised to be a milestone in capacity building for Creative Economy. Dedicated exclusively to the AVGC-XR sector, the establishment of the Institute was formalized on Day-3 of WAVES 2025. WAVES also witnessed the signing of strategic MoUs with Industry Associations to transform IICT as a world-class institution in the M&E Sector. Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, who ceremonially flagged off these strategic associations, emphasized India’s potential to become a global leader in media and entertainment, stating that IICT is on track to evolve into a premier institution in its field, much like how IITs and IIMs have become benchmarks in technology and management education. Some companies who have extended their hands for long-term collaborations are JioStar, Adobe, Google & YouTube, Meta, Wacom, Microsoft and NVIDIA.

    Create in India Challenge & CreatoSphere: A Global Celebration of Creative Talent

    One of the standout highlights of WAVES 2025 was the grand culmination of the Create in India Challenge (CIC) Season 1, which drew nearly one lakh registrations from over 60 countries. Launched as a flagship initiative under WAVES, CIC brought together creators across age, geography, and disciplines, spanning animation, XR, gaming, AI, filmmaking, digital music, and more. The initiative has transformed every creator who participated to be a star.

    From 32 imaginative and future-forward challenges emerged 750+ finalists, including 1100+ international participants. These talented individuals showcased their work at Creatosphere, a dedicated innovation zone at WAVES, where they presented their projects, could network with industry leaders for potential associations.

    Beyond just a competition, the Create in India Challenge evolved into a movement celebrating diversity, youth energy, and storytelling rooted in both tradition and technology. With finalists ranging from 12 to 66 years of age, and strong participation from all Indian states and UTs, the initiative embodied inclusivity and aspiration. The Creatosphere was also a launchpad for themes like grassroots innovation, drone storytelling, and future-ready content offering a glimpse into the creative India of tomorrow. As Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw aptly said during the award ceremony of CIC, “The journey has just begun.” And with initiatives like the Indian Institute of Creative Technology on the horizon, the momentum is only growing stronger.

    8th National Community Radio Sammelan and National Awards for CRs

    Organized as part of the WAVES, the 8th National Community Radio Conference in which Union Minister of State Dr. L. Murugan honored 12 outstanding community radio stations with National Community Radio Awards at the event. Dr L. Murugan congratulated the winners and said that the national conference is aimed to strengthen the community media landscape in India through innovation, inclusiveness, and impact. The conference brought together representatives from more than 400 Community Radio (CR) Stations across the country on one platform to provide an opportunity for dialogue and collaboration. At present, there are 531 CR Stations across the country.

    Bharat Pavilion – India’s Journey from Kala to Code

    The Bharat Pavilion, an immersive viewing zone that took visitors through the continuum of India’s storytelling traditions at WAVES 2025, has received an overwhelming reception and response from the public. The Pavilion, under the theme “From Kala to Code”, offered a compelling narrative of India’s evolution in media and entertainment—from oral and visual traditions to cutting-edge digital innovations.

    The Pavillion presented the soul of India, balancing our rich cultural heritage with the new waves of technical advancements that are already underway. On the inaugural day of WAVES 2025, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi visited the Pavilion. Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Shri Devendra Fadnavis, External Affairs Minister Shri S. Jaishankar, Union Minister Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw and many other dignitaries visited the pavilion and appreciated its role in telling the story of Bharat. The pavilion also garnered huge footfall, leaving people in awe and wonder on discovering the many treasures of our nation.

    Celebrating India’s creative journey, the Bharat Pavilion was not just an exhibition of content but a powerful expression of India as a creator. It projected India’s cultural depth, artistic excellence, and emerging dominance in global storytelling.

    WAVES concludes with the promise of bright future for Creative Economy

    WAVES 2025 has set a benchmark as a global platform that seamlessly brought together creativity, commerce, and collaboration. From visionary policy announcements and landmark international agreements to robust business deals and groundbreaking startup investments, the summit underscored India’s growing stature as a global leader in the creative economy. The adoption of the WAVES Declaration by 77 participating nations and the success of the WAVES Bazaar and WAVEX Accelerator collectively signal a future anchored in innovation, inclusivity, and international partnerships. As the curtains fall on this historic first edition, WAVES has not only showcased India’s creative prowess but has also catalysed a sustained global movement — one that will continue to inspire, invest in, and elevate the voices of creators worldwide.

     

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Graves Leads Transportation Committee in Advancing Legislation to Cut Waste, Secure the Border, and Modernize the Air Traffic Control System

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sam Graves (6th District of Missouri)

    WASHINGTON, DC – The Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, led by Chairman Sam Graves (MO-06), approved its budget reconciliation proposal to secure the border, support President Trump’s national security agenda, and modernize America’s air traffic control system. These investments will be more than offset by slashing funding for Green New Deal style programs, requiring electric vehicles (EVs) begin paying for their use of the highway system just like other highway users, and other deficit reduction measures. The T&I Committee will now send its proposal, which reduces the deficit by more than $10 billion, to the House Budget Committee. 

    “The Committee took decisive action in support of the President’s America First agenda,” said Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves (MO-06). “My proposal cuts wasteful Green New Deal spending and ensures that electric vehicles finally start paying for the maintenance of our roads and bridges. We also approved historic investments in the United States Coast Guard to strengthen our national and border security, and we took equally important strides towards finally modernizing the nation’s outdated air traffic control system. ”

    Chairman Graves’ proposal would reduce federal spending and deficits by rescinding unobligated funds and eliminating seven unnecessary Green New Deal style programs created in the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Those programs include the Neighborhood Access and Equity Grants, Environmental Review Implementation Funds, and Low-Carbon Transportation Materials Grants under the Federal Highway Administration, among others. 

    The proposal ensures that electric vehicles pay to fix our roads and bridges like other vehicles. The Highway Trust Fund (HTF) is funded by user-fees. However, since EVs do not use gas, they do not pay the user fee, and this inequity contributes to a growing shortfall in the funds to repair roads and bridges across the country.

    Chairman Graves proposal provides additional investments in the U.S. Coast Guard to protect national security and secure our maritime borders. It gives the Coast Guard the tools it needs to better protect our borders, stopping illegal immigrants and drugs from entering the country, and protectour national and economic security in the Arctic, where competitors such as China and Russia are aggressively expanding their activities.

    It also invests in the improved safety and reliability of America’s air traffic control (ATC) system, replacing outdated ATC technology, modernizing the ATC system, and enhancing the hiring of air traffic controllers following several aviation tragedies in recent months, which are priorities of the President and DOT Secretary Duffy.

    More information from yesterday’s Committee markup of the proposal is available here.

     

     

     

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Pelosi at Reframe Festival on the Future of Democratic Leadership

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    Boston – Yesterday, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi virtually joined PBS News Hour co-anchor and co-managing editor Geoff Bennett at the Reframe Festival in San Francisco to discuss the future of Democratic leadership. The conversation was presented by PBS News in partnership with Bay Area member station KQED.

    Click here to watch the full conversation.

    Read key quotes from the conversation below:

    On President Trump’s proposed Budget:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. The budget that the President put out that we just are reviewing now is one that is really a shame.

    A budget should be a statement of our national values. What is important to us as a nation should be reflected in that budget. It should be a budget of investing in our future for our children and the rest. And if you review the budget that the President put forth, he cuts education. Nothing brings more money to the Treasury than the education of the American people. Early childhood, K-12, higher education, post-grad, lifetime learning for our workers.

    The best dollar you can spend in the federal budget, I do believe, is basic biomedical research. The biblical power to cure, to save lives, to save funds for families who are confronted with illness and the rest. The list goes on and on. And why? Because he says he has to cut so that he can be fiscally sound—at the same time as he’s giving enormous tax cuts to the wealthiest people in our country.

    On Democrats choosing when to fight back:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. You have to prioritize carefully and make the distinction so the American people can see what impact this has on their lives—carefully prioritizing and at the same time show the narrative, again, with some specific issues, show the narrative thematically of what he is doing to our country. Again: disgraceful, shameful, un-American.

    So again, we always have this debate: whether we go for opportunity, security, all of those things or specific pieces of legislation—we do both.

    On Leader Hakeem Jeffries:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Our Leader, Hakeem Jeffries, is a master of this: repetition. Prioritize and repeat. Repetition, repetition, repetition. He’s so eloquent, and he’s so forceful in getting the message across.

    And we know what is going to make things different too—by using different platforms. When I was Leader, we won in ’06, we won in ’18. But now we have different platforms—taking messages to platforms where people receive their information much more instantaneously. And he understands all of that. I’m so proud of his leadership.

    He has the unity of our Caucus, the brilliance, and the strategic thinking of a leader. And again, values that would be reflected in a budget put forth by the Democrats and Leader Jeffries.

    On a new generation of Democratic leadership:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Well, I’m an advocate for it. I was very, very proud to step aside. I wish that we had been in the majority—we will be in about eighteen months. And the point is, when I became the Leader after Dick Gephardt, he very graciously—when I became Leader, he did not interfere. And I don’t interfere. It’s about a new generation of leadership, thinking differently, employing the different tools of communication that exist now, and again, having the unity of the Caucus to support what you’re doing—not only as Leader but the legislation that you would put forth.

    But we have to make sure the public knows what is in their interest—their kitchen table interest—the cost of health care and prescription drugs, the cost of education, the cost of housing, all of it.

    And compare where the Democrats are and where the Republicans are on all of it. And as I say, not only Hakeem, but the rest of the Leadership—Katherine Clark, Massachusetts, her state; Pete Aguilar from California; Ted Lieu from California—so many, all champions on messaging and champions for working families.

    On a Republican cuts to the American safety net:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. As far as Medicare, Social Security—they paid into this. It’s not an entitlement. This is their money. They paid into this for their whole working careers. And now they’re going to say, we’re going to cut this out because we need to save money so we can give tax cuts to the richest people in America?

    No. No, we’re not doing that.

    On repairing the damage President Trump is doing:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. This is what we did in ’18. The President said, he said in the very distinguished way as he’s used to speaking, ‘Obamacare sucks.’

    I hate to even quote him, but I hope my grandchildren aren’t listening. Obamacare doesn’t suck. It cures. It cures.

    We went out there. We had 10,000 events around the country of people telling their stories. They didn’t talk about politics or provisions of the bill. They talked about their stories:

    ‘My baby was born with a heart condition.’

    ‘My wife had breast cancer.’

    ‘My mother — this or that.’

    They told their stories and how that bill made a difference in their lives. Not only did we win the election, we won it with 40 seats—31 of them in Trump districts. People said to me afterward, ‘Aren’t you lucky that the Affordable Care Act—that health care—became such a central issue of the campaign?’

    I said, ‘No, we weren’t lucky. We made our own luck.’

    And that’s what we will do between now and the election.

    We will win the House. Hakeem will be the Speaker. He’ll be historic in his leadership—as well as the other members of the Leadership—and all of it because of the courage of our Members to take the tough votes to get the job done.

    On a potential peace deal in Ukraine:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. I have no idea what it is that Putin has on Trump—politically, personally, financially, whatever it happens to be—that he should be kowtowing to Putin over and over again, saying that the Ukrainians started the war.

    But forget about that. [Russia] came into this country. They raped the women. They did that in front of their children, in front of their parents.

    They kidnapped the children—tens of thousands of them—sent them to Russia, far reaches of Russia. They murdered people in front of their family members. And they’re supposed to get land for that? That’s not where I am.

    But I’m not the President of Ukraine. I respect whatever decision he makes. But for us to say Russia should get land in order to leave—after they’ve committed crimes against humanity? Crimes against humanity.

    I don’t think Putin can go anyplace without getting arrested for his crimes against humanity—at least Europe recognizes that. Others recognize that—even if Donald Trump thinks that’s okay.

    On her proudest accomplishment and legacy:

    Speaker Emerita Pelosi. Of course, the Affordable Care Act. Because this was directly, directly beneficial to America’s working families.

    And it’s about the national health care financial stability as well. But with all legislation, you want to do more. You don’t do more in terms of lowering the cost of prescription drugs.

    We did that in the IRA, but we can’t do it totally. We have to do it in stages, and I would like to do it all at once. But we have to get it passed in the Congress.

    What was the hardest thing? Well, I always knew we had the votes.

    # # #

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Yale scholars’ move to Canada can prompt us to reflect on the rule of law

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Jeffrey B. Meyers, Instructor, Legal Studies and Criminology, Kwantlen Polytechnic University

    In the most non-controversial and basic sense, the rule of law means formal legality. The law binds citizens and governments. When it comes to nation states, law is enacted by democratically elected legislatures; legal statutes are openly available and sufficiently clear to follow. State actions can be judicially reviewed for compliance with a constitution.

    In its more ambitious conceptualization, the rule of law can also be understood to include substantive human rights and equity. In Canada, The Constitution Act of 1982 references the rule of law in its preamble.

    The modern Canadian iteration of the rule of law — which includes substantive ideas about human rights as well as Indigenous treaty rights — is based on liberal ideas shared by many countries, including, historically, the United States. What distinguishes a rule-of-law state from an authoritarian one to a large extent is whether state actions can be judicially reviewed for compliance with a constitution.

    Although rule of law scholars debate the parameters of the concept of the rule of law, few would debate that what is happening during U.S. President Donald Trump’s second term presents anything other than a wholesale attack on the rule of law both domestically in the U.S and internationally.

    I am a rule of law researcher, educator and lawyer. Since Trump was elected to his first term in 2016, I’ve relied on American scholars, from a variety of disciplines, to understand what is happening.

    These include two prominent Yale professors, philosopher Jason Stanley and historian Timothy Snynder, both of whom have recently announced they’re moving to the Munk School of Global Affairs at the University of Toronto.

    Authoritarian impulse

    In their scholarship, Stanley and Snyder have sought to explain the authoritarian impulses of the first Trump administration and how to resist it.

    Stanley’s father, a German Jew who fled Germany for America in 1939, carries the remembrance of fascism.

    Both Stanley and Snyder explore the similarities between what is occurring in Trump’s America, Viktor Orban’s Hungary, Vladimir Putin’s Russia, Xi Jinping’s China and, equally chillingly, between Trump’s America and Adolf Hitler’s Germany. Even prior to the first Trump presidency, Stanley already asked in his 2015 book, How Propoganda Works, whether the U.S., “the world’s oldest liberal democracy,” might already have become a liberal democracy “in name only?”



    Read more:
    Why the radical right has turned to the teachings of an Italian Marxist thinker

    Examination of propaganda, rhetoric

    In his 2018 book, The Road to Unfreedom: Russia, Europe, America, Snyder described Trump as a “sado-populist, whose policies were designed to hurt the most vulnerable people of his own electorate.”

    Stanley’s focus on propaganda and rhetoric were especially useful for framing the politics of Trump.

    Similarly, Snyder’s focus on the similarities between Trump and other authoritarian leaders, through their attachment to extreme illiberal ideologies, helped frame public discourse in the U.S. during the first Trump presidency. “Illiberal” does not imply conservative in opposition to “being liberal” (with the resonance of “leftist”); rather, it denotes a repudiation of liberal democracy, in the words of political scientist Thomas J. Main.

    Both Stanley and Snyder are on the public record explaining their decision to immigrate to Canada, on the basis that they can no longer continue their scholarly activities in an American university, even a premier one like Yale.

    Jason Stanley speaks with Amanpour and Company.

    Improper interference

    This is an admission by important thinkers that civil society, intellectuals and critical scholars, in particular, are under assault.

    It comes as no surprise given other developments. Trump’s executive orders, threats to some university funding and crackdowns on activists and academics — as well as the attempted deportations of those without U.S. citizenship — have used the idea of combatting campus antisemitism as cover for an attack on free expression, academic independence and student activism.

    From my perspective as a Jewish person, a post-secondary teacher and as someone with a legal education, all of these developments have hit hard, especially alongside accounts of some of America’s most prestigious law firms caving to improper interference by the Trump administration.

    What ‘fascism’ means

    In the introduction to his bestselling 2020 book, How Fascism Works, Stanley wrote: “In recent years, multiple countries across the world have been overtaken by a certain kind of far-right nationalism; the list includes Russia, Hungary, Poland, India, Turkey and the United States.”

    He explains the choice of the word “fascism” to speak about each of these countries, despite their differences of degree and context:

    “I have chosen the label ‘fascism’ for ultra nationalism of some variety (ethnic, religious, cultural), with the nation represented in the person of an authoritarian leader who speaks on its behalf. As Donald Trump declared in his Republican National Convention speech in July 2016, ‘I am your voice.’”

    In his similarly bestselling book, On Tyranny, published in 2017, Snyder wrote: “To abandon facts is to abandon freedom. If nothing is true, then no one can criticize power, because there is not basis upon which to do so. If nothing is true, then all is spectacle. The biggest wallet pays for the most blinding lights.”

    Now that Trump is back in office, Stanley and Snyder, as well as Snyder’s Yale colleague and spouse, Marie Shore, the celebrated author of The Ukrainian Night, are leaving Yale for Canada with good reason.

    Author Timothy Snyder speaks about Democracy and the Risk of Tyranny with Public Policy Forum.

    Shared mutual concern

    While the departure of a handful of prominent academics is hardly a trend, it raises questions about whether there will be an accelerated academic “brain drain”, or more American students in Canada.

    As a Canadian, I would like to say America’s loss is our gain, and I wish these scholars well. I am also aware that narratives of flight to Canada as refuge have historically bolstered national myths while obscuring Canadian inequities. My hope is that Canadians will not observe the arrival of U.S. scholars with smugness, but instead with shared concern.

    We should not be blind to this unique moment in which Canada is called to revisit why we care about Canada and keep watch on the rule of law. Yet, we must also recognize our own profound historical blind spots.

    For example, while an overt threat to sovereignty is new for some Canadians, it is nothing new for Canada’s Indigenous Peoples. Today it’s important to understand the distinctively Canadian importance of Indigenous law to any reaffirmation of the rule of law tradition in Canada in the 21st century.



    Read more:
    Wet’suwet’en hereditary chief is ‘prisoner of conscience’ after failure of Delgamuukw ruling 25 years ago

    Too much cynicism might prevent us from acknowledging the importance of these three scholars’ decisions to leave their country and come to ours at this particular time in history. However, my hope is also that we are also inspired by their considerable truth-telling skills to demand Canada also do better.

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

    – ref. Yale scholars’ move to Canada can prompt us to reflect on the rule of law – https://theconversation.com/yale-scholars-move-to-canada-can-prompt-us-to-reflect-on-the-rule-of-law-254434

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi to pay state visit to Russia, attend Great Patriotic War Victory celebrations on May 7-10

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

    Xi to pay state visit to Russia, attend Great Patriotic War Victory celebrations on May 7-10

    BEIJING, May 4 — Chinese President Xi Jinping will pay a state visit to Russia from May 7 to 10 and attend the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War in Moscow, at the invitation of President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Sunday.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES Bazaar: A Groundbreaking Debut in Global Creative Collaboration

    Source: Government of India

    WAVES Bazaar: A Groundbreaking Debut in Global Creative Collaboration

    From India to the World: WAVES Bazaar Sparks Major Global Entertainment Alliances, records business transactions exceeding ₹800 crore

    Posted On: 03 MAY 2025 8:48PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 3 May 2025

     

    The inaugural edition of WAVES Bazaar, held from May 1st to 3rd, 2025, in Mumbai, concluded with resounding success, establishing itself as a premier platform for international business collaboration in the creative industries. Organised under the umbrella of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES), the marketplace recorded business transactions exceeding ₹800 crore across the Film, Music, Radio, VFX, and Animation sectors. With deal-making still underway, the total valuation is projected to surpass ₹1000 crore in a few days.

     

    Key Highlights

    A key highlight of the Bazaar was the Buyer-Seller Market which witnessed over 3,000 B2B meetings, generating revenue upwards of ₹500 crore, with additional deals expected to close in the coming days. Curated screenings of films at the 80-seat venue drew enthusiastic responses and appreciation for the selected films. The Bazaar also helped emerging creators pitch their IPs to a global network of buyers and collaborators, generating significant interest and fostering new partnerships.

    In a major achievement in international collaborations between India and New Zealand, Film India Screen Collective and Screen Canterbury NZ, led by Petrina D’Rozario, announced a collaborative proposal, inspired by WAVES, to launch the first-ever Indian Film Festival in New Zealand, aimed at deepening tourism, cultural exchange and co-production ties between the two countries.

    Paving the wave for an India-Russia collaboration, Only Much Louder (OML) CEO Tushar Kumar and Gazprom Media CEO Alexander Zharov have begun early talks on a potential Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on cross-cultural festivals and co-produce comedy and music shows in Russia and India.

     

    Major Deal Announcements

    The announcement of the Prime Video & CJ ENM Multi-Year Collaboration was a key highlight of the Bazaar as the strategic partnership was unveiled to distribute premium Korean content globally. With its launch expected in June 2025 with Head Over Heels, the deal includes streaming in over 240 countries, featuring 28 subtitle languages and 11 dubbed versions. The initiative highlights Asia’s growing creative presence on global streaming platforms.

    Another initiative that added value to the Bazaar was the announcement of the film Devi Chowdhurani, which became the India’s first official Indo-UK co-production. Backed by the Ministry of I&B, NFDC, FFO, and Invest India, the a pre-teaser of the film was unveiled at the Bazaar. The historical epic, set during the Sanyasi-Fakir rebellion, stars Prosenjit Chatterjee and Srabanti Chatterjee, with music by Pandit Bickram Ghosh.

    The announcement of the launch of the feature film Violated was another initiative that vindicated the purpose of WAVES Bazaar. A bold psychological thriller, Violated marks the directorial debut of Dimple Dugar. Celebrated for its strong female-led narrative, the film is co-produced by Fusion Flicks from the UK and JVD Films, signalling Dugar’s transition from commercial to feature filmmaking.

    With its impactful debut, WAVES Bazaar has not only positioned itself as a global hub for creative collaboration but also set the stage for a new era of cross-border storytelling and industry transformation.

     

    For official updates on realtime, please follow us: 

    On X : 

    https://x.com/WAVESummitIndia

    https://x.com/MIB_India

    https://x.com/PIB_India

    https://x.com/PIBmumbai

    On Instagram: 

    https://www.instagram.com/wavesummitindia

    https://www.instagram.com/mib_india

    https://www.instagram.com/pibindia

     

    * * *

    PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rabee/ Riyas/ Darshana | 168

    (Release ID: 2126611) Visitor Counter : 49

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: WAVES Bazaar 2025 garners over ₹250 Crore in Deals and Unveils Major International Alliances: Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, I&B

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 9:33PM by PIB Mumbai

    Mumbai, 2 May 2025

     

    WAVES Bazaar, the flagship global market initiative of the WAVES Summit, has emerged as a powerful catalyst for international collaboration in the media and entertainment industry. Designed to connect creators with investors, buyers, and collaborators across borders, WAVES Bazaar is poised to transform India into a strategic hub for content commerce. WAVES Bazaar 2025 garners over ₹250 Crore in Deals and Unveils Major International Alliances, informed Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, I&B at WAVES in Mumbai today.

    In its inaugural edition, WAVES Bazaar brought together leading players from over 22 countries—including South Korea, Japan, USA, Germany, Russia, Netherlands, and New Zealand—and featured participation from 95 global buyers and 224 sellers. Key buyers included Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Meta, Disney Star, Zee Entertainment, Banijay Asia, Warner Bros. Discovery, Sony LIV, YRF, Dharma, Jio Studios, Rotterdam Film Festival, and Rushlake Media.

    Viewing Room & Market Screenings:

    115 filmmakers presented completed works to international buyers.15 standout projects were selected as Top Selects from the Viewing Room and showcased live. These filmmakers were felicitated by acclaimed casting director Mukesh Chhabra, with actor Tiger Shroff joining to support one of the selected titles. Market Screenings, showcased 15 notable and appreciated projects from talented filmmakers.

    Pitch Room: From 104 project submissions, 16 curated projects were selected to pitch live, offering early-stage creators a platform to engage directly with industry stakeholders in the over 2 days of Waves Bazaar.

    B2B Buyer-Seller Market: WAVES Bazaar launched India’s first dedicated B2B buyer-seller meetings in association with FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry), held from May 1–3, enabling targeted deal-making and creative business development.

    Early Business Outcomes

    WAVES Bazaar recorded confirmed transactions worth ₹250 crore across film, music, animation, radio, and VFX sectors within the first day and a half of the market. This figure is expected to rise significantly over the next two days and expected to cross more than 400 crores.

    Notable deals and Landmark Announcements on May 2, 2025

    • Khidki Gaon, a Top Selects film, secured a post-production and VFX deal with the Asian Cinema Fund. The Asian Cinema Fund (ACF) is a support program of the Busan International Film Festival that provides funding for Asian films, including both fiction and documentary projects.
    • Indo-European Animation Alliance (€30 Million) 

    Broadvision Perspectives (India) and Fabrique d’Images Group (Europe) announced a €30 million co-production agreement for four animated features. Each title, budgeted at €7–8 million, will be developed under Indo-French and Indo-Belgian treaty frameworks. The alliance was formalized by Mark Mertens (COO, FDI Group) and Sriram Chandrasekaran (Founder & CEO, Broadvision), establishing a new benchmark for international animation collaborations from India.

    • India–UK Co-Production MoU Signed

    Amanda Groom (Founder & CEO, The Bridge, UK) and Munjal Shroff (Co-founder, Graphiti Studios, India) signed an MoU to co-develop a slate of factual series exploring India’s colonial history. The partnership, developed over years of collaboration since Film Bazaar and finalized at Content India, marks a significant step in transnational storytelling.

    • “Shin chan India Year” Initiative Launched by TV Asahi

    TV Asahi announced the “Shin chan India Year” to celebrate the franchise’s immense popularity in India. Highlights include:

    • Theatrical release of Shin chan: Our Dinosaur Diary on May 9
    • A Diwali 2025 release of a second film, The Spicy Kasukabe Dancers in India
    • Fan engagement events at Anime India (August) and Mela Mela JAPAN (September)

    This initiative further establishes India’s rising role in the global anime ecosystem and strengthens Indo-Japanese cultural ties.

     

    * * *

    PIB TEAM WAVES 2025 | Rajith/ Nikita/ LekshmiPriya/ Darshana | 157

    (Release ID: 2126356) Visitor Counter : 95

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Online Casinos Canada: Expert Picks 7Bit as the Top Casino for Canadian Players

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

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    Canadian’s Unique Gambling Landscape

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    Cryptocurrency Support Accepts Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, and more, ensuring fast, secure, and private transactions.
    User-Friendly Interface Intuitive website design with mobile optimization for seamless gaming on smartphones and tablets.
    24/7 Customer Support Dedicated support via email and live chat, with a comprehensive FAQ section for quick answers.
    Licensed and Secure Licensed by Curacao eGaming, with 128-bit SSL encryption to protect player data.
    Responsible Gambling Tools Offers deposit limits, loss limits, wagering limits, and self-exclusion to promote safe gaming.


    Cons

    Disadvantage Description
    Restricted Countries Some countries are restricted, but use VPN instead
    Limited Language Options Available only in English, German, French, and Russian.


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    Payment Method Min. Deposit Withdrawal Time
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    Mastercard C$1 1-3 business days
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    Dogecoin C$10 Instant
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    Best Games At 7Bit Casino

    7Bit Casino’s game library is a major highlight, featuring over 5,000 titles from top providers. Below are some of the best games, along with brief definitions for clarity.

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    Responsible Gambling In Canada

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    Getting Started At 7Bit Casino

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    4. Explore Games: Browse the game library to find slots, table games, or live dealer options that suit your style.
    5. Join Tournaments: Check the promotions page for active tournaments like Titans’ Arena or Weekly Tournaments.
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    Final Takeaway: 7Bit Best Online Casinos in Canada

    7Bit Casino is a premier destination for Canadian players, earning its place among the best online casinos in Canada. Its extensive game library, generous bonuses, fast payouts, and commitment to security make it a top choice for both casual and serious gamblers.

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    Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Online Casinos Canada

    1. Is 7Bit Casino one of the best online casinos Canada has to offer?

    7Bit Casino is widely regarded as one of the best online casinos Canada offers due to its extensive library of over 7,000 games and attractive bonuses up to C$10,800. Its support for cryptocurrencies and traditional payments enhances its appeal to Canadian players.

    2. Does 7Bit Casino operate as a No KYC Casinos Canada option?

    7Bit Casino allows transactions under C$2,000 without KYC verification, appealing to those seeking the best online casinos in Canada. However, withdrawals over C$2,000 require KYC, making it not fully KYC-free.

    3. How does 7Bit Casino support responsible gambling in Canada?

    7Bit Casino supports responsible gambling in Canada with tools like deposit limits, loss limits, and self-exclusion options. These features help players maintain control and align with Canada’s responsible gambling standards.

    4. Does 7Bit Casino support pay ID casino payment methods?

    7Bit Casino does not support pay ID casino payment methods. It offers alternatives like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Visa, and Interac, suitable for Canadian players.

    5. What types of games can I find at 7Bit Casino?

    7Bit Casino boasts over 7,000 games, including slots, table games, live dealer options, and crypto games. Top providers like NetEnt and Microgaming ensure a diverse and high-quality gaming experience.

    6. How can I contact customer support at 7Bit Casino?

    Players can reach 7Bit Casino’s 24/7 support via live chat or email at support@7bit.com. A detailed FAQ section also provides quick answers to common queries.

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    7Bit Casino’s website is fully optimized for mobile devices, offering a seamless gaming experience without a dedicated app. Players can enjoy games on smartphones and tablets effortlessly.

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    7Bit Casino charges a C$10 fee on all withdrawals, regardless of the payment method. This fee may impact players who frequently withdraw funds.

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    7Bit Casino is legal for Canadian players under its Curacao license, ensuring a secure gaming environment.

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    7Bit Casino supports cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, alongside traditional methods such as Visa, Mastercard, and Interac. This variety caters to diverse player preferences.

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    7Bit Casino uses RNG and provably fair algorithms to ensure unbiased game outcomes. Regular audits under its Curacao license maintain transparency and fairness.

    Customer Support

    Support is available 24/7 via:

    • Live Chat: Instant assistance on the website.
    • Email: support@7bit.com for detailed inquiries.

    Email: support@7bit.com

    Disclaimer and Affiliate Disclosure

    Disclaimer: Gambling online comes with financial risks. Make sure you meet the legal age requirement (19+) in your region and follow local laws. Always engage in responsible gambling and check 7Bit’s official site for the latest terms, as promotions and payment methods may be updated.

    General Disclaimer
    This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only, not legal or financial advice. Content is based on research and user reviews as of writing. No warranties are made, and users must verify information before acting.

    Casino and Gambling Disclaimer
    Online gambling carries risks and isn’t for everyone. Confirm you’re of legal gambling age in your jurisdiction. Gambling laws vary, and compliance is your responsibility. We don’t promote gambling; participation is at your risk. 7Bit Casino is a third-party platform, and we’re not liable for losses or disputes.

    Affiliate Disclosure
    This article may include affiliate links, earning us a commission at no cost to you for qualifying actions. These support our content. Our reviews are unbiased, and we recommend only valuable products.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5d1aa3ae-f1d7-42ef-b49f-cdeb1a780895

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What is the biggest gaffe, blooper or blunder that a recent president has made? It may depend on what your definition of ‘is’ is

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Chris Lamb, Professor of Journalism, Indiana University

    Lots of presidents have said things they regret. Or most of them have. Carol Yepes/Getty Images

    President Donald Trump was asked during a press conference on April 30, 2025, about the possible impact of his tariff policies and trade war with China.

    Trump answered that American children should prepare to make sacrifices at Christmas.

    “Maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30 dolls, you know,” he said, “and maybe the two dolls will cost a couple of bucks more than they would normally.”

    The New York Times reported that Trump appeared to be telling kids they would have to manage with fewer toys this year for the sake of his economic agenda.

    Jane Mayer, a reporter with The New Yorker, called it “Trump’s Marie Antoinette moment.”

    This was not the first − or last − time Trump said something that left many Americans with mouths open and heads shaking.

    Hours after his Marie Antoinette moment, Trump, whose first 100 days back in office have been characterized as chaotic and damaging to democracy, was asked during a phone interview at a town-hall broadcast on NewsNation what the biggest mistake he’d made thus far in his second presidency.

    “I don’t really believe I’ve made any mistakes,” Trump replied.

    The audience, representing a cross section of Americans, burst out laughing.

    Trump’s gaffes aren’t just part of his presidency; gaffes are part of the storied tradition of the American presidency. Some of those comments have clung to presidents and even affected history.

    Here are examples from each president over the past 50 years or so of statements that at least some of them were embarrassed by or came to regret. Each was made when the president was serving in the White House. The quotes are organized chronologically.

    Donald Trump auditions for Grinch-who-stole-Christmas role.

    Richard Nixon is a law-abiding guy

    On Nov. 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, in the midst of the Watergate scandal that would end his presidency, defended himself against charges of corruption.

    “People have got to know whether or not their president is a crook,” Nixon said. “Well, I’m not a crook. I’ve earned everything I’ve got.”

    Instead of quelling the scandal, as Nixon hoped, his words produced the opposite reaction. He resigned from the presidency nine months later in August 1974.

    Gerald Ford forgets the Cold War

    Gerald Ford, Nixon’s vice president who became president after Nixon’s resignation, subsequently ran for election in 1976.

    During one of his televised debates against Democratic nominee Jimmy Carter, Ford inexplicably claimed the Soviet Union did not control Eastern Europe.

    “There is no Soviet domination of Eastern Europe,” Ford said, “and there never will be under a Ford administration.”

    To which the moderator, New York Times editor May Frankel, said, “I’m sorry, what?”

    Ford’s remark was so outrageously incorrect that it may have contributed to his defeat in the tight presidential election.

    Gerald Ford says it’s really a Warm, not Cold, War.

    Jimmy Carter gets advice from his teen

    Carter defeated Ford and was elected in 1976. He ran for reelection against Republican nominee Ronald Reagan in 1980. During one of their debates, Carter said he sought the advice of his 13-year-old daughter, Amy, on what was the most important issue facing America.

    “She said she thought it was nuclear weaponry,” Carter said, “and the control of nuclear arms.”

    Carter tried to show that arms control was a subject that had great resonance to even 13-year-olds. Instead, it left viewers puzzled why he had inserted his daughter into the debate. A wire service story at the time summarized the response by saying that reporters covering the debate winced and others groaned.

    Jimmy Carter has a smart 13-year-old daughter.

    Ronald Reagan attacks Russia

    Reagan, a former television and movie actor who defeated Carter in the 1980 presidential election, was known as “the Great Communicator” for his eloquence.

    A well-known anti-Communist, Reagan was not always careful about what he said.

    Before a speech on Aug. 11, 1984, Reagan joked during a sound check, “I’ve signed legislation that will outlaw Russia forever. We begin bombing in five minutes.”

    The joke on the open mic, which was not broadcast live but leaked later, resulted in a Soviet red alert − and temporarily moved the U.S. and Soviet Union toward war.

    George H.W. Bush eats word salad

    Reagan’s successor, his vice president, George H.W. Bush, by comparison was no great communicator. His words came out of his mouth and appeared to go in separate ways.

    “I have opinions of my own, strong opinions,” Bush said, “but I don’t always agree with them.”

    Bill Clinton is or isn’t, maybe

    Democrat Bill Clinton defeated George H.W. Bush in the 1992 presidential election.

    Clinton’s presidency was dogged with accusations of unethical behavior and extramarital affairs. Clinton, in testimony before a grand jury investigating his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky, was asked whether he was lying when he told aides that “there’s nothing going on” between him and Lewinsky.

    “It depends on what the meaning of the word ‘is’ is,” Clinton responded. “If the − if he − if ‘is’ means is and never has been, that is not − that is one thing.”

    Slate magazine said that this response may have been the “defining moment” of his presidency and, in doing so, captured his contribution to semantics. As Time magazine pointed out,
    “Until then, America hadn’t been sure there was more than one definition of ‘is.’”

    George W. Bush’s shame

    George W. Bush, the son of George H.W. Bush, succeeded Clinton in the White House. Americans learned that Bush had more in common with his father than just the same last name.

    “There’s an old saying in Tennessee − I know it’s in Texas,” Bush said, “probably in Tennessee, that says, fool me once, shame on − shame on you. Fool me − you can’t get fooled again.”

    Barack Obama strikes out

    Barack Obama, like Reagan, was known for his sense of humor. And like Reagan, Obama learned that not everything was a joking matter.

    While appearing on “The Tonight Show” with Jay Leno in 2009, Obama said he had improved his bowling by practicing at the White House bowling alley. He told Leno he had bowled a pedestrian score of 129, provoking a sarcastic response from Leno.

    Obama then made the following joke: “It’s like the Special Olympics or something.”

    Obama quickly apologized to the Special Olympics, the athletic competition for people with intellectual disabilities.

    Obama made a bad joke about the Special Olympics during an interview with Jay Leno; he quickly apologized for it.
    Mandel Ngan / AFP/Getty Images

    Joe Biden’s bad day

    Trump was first elected president in 2016 but was defeated by Joe Biden in the 2020 election. Trump and Biden faced each other again in 2024.

    During a television debate on June 27, 2024, CNN anchor Jake Tapper asked Biden why voters should trust him to solve the immigration crisis. Biden said he changed a law that allowed Trump and his administration to separate immigrant families and put children in cages.

    Biden’s train of thought then jumped the tracks.

    “And I’m going to continue to move until we get the total ban on the − the total initiative relative to what we’re going to do with more Border Patrol and more asylum officers,” Biden said.

    “I really don’t know what he said at the end of that sentence,” Trump said, “and I don’t think he did, either.”

    The same could be said for much of what Biden said during the debate.

    Biden withdrew from the presidential race three weeks after his poor debate performance.

    Chris Lamb 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. What is the biggest gaffe, blooper or blunder that a recent president has made? It may depend on what your definition of ‘is’ is – https://theconversation.com/what-is-the-biggest-gaffe-blooper-or-blunder-that-a-recent-president-has-made-it-may-depend-on-what-your-definition-of-is-is-255755

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 3, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 3, 2025.

    ‘Super antibodies’ for snake toxins: how a dangerous DIY experiment helped scientists make a new antivenom
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Christina N. Zdenek, Associate Researcher, The University of Queensland Scientists in the United States have created a new snake antivenom using the blood of a man who deliberately built up immunity to snakebites by injecting himself with many different kinds of venom more than 800 times over

    Human rights group calls for probe into attack on Freedom Flotilla ship
    Asia Pacific Report A human rights agency has called for an investigation into the drone attacks on the Gaza Freedom Flotilla aid ship Conscience with Israel suspected of being responsible. The Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor said in a statement that the deliberate targeting of a civilian aid ship in international waters was a “flagrant violation”

    RSF condemns Israeli targeting of Gaza journalists – then slandering them in death
    Pacific Media Watch After a year and a half of war, nearly 200 Palestinian journalists have been killed by the Israeli army — including at least 43 slain on the job. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has brought multiple complaints before the International Criminal Court (ICC) and continues to tirelessly support Gazan journalists, working to halt

    Final polls give Labor a clear lead before the election
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne With those who haven’t already cast a pre-poll vote ready to hit the polling places tomorrow, a final batch of polls give Labor a firm lead. The

    Culture wars and costings: election special podcast with Michelle Grattan and Amanda Dunn
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra As we roll into the dying hours of the election campaign, the polls are suggesting a Labor win, although it is not yet clear if it will be in minority or majority. Chief Political Correspondent Michelle Grattan and Politics Editor

    Keith Rankin Analysis – The Great World War 1914-1945: Germany, Russia, Ukraine
    Analysis by Keith Rankin. On Anzac Day we remembered World War One and World War Two, or at least the peripheral little bits of those imperial wars that New Zealand was involved in. There was and is little context given to how New Zealand got involved with such far-away wars which need never have become

    What is iNaturalist? The citizen science app playing an unlikely role in Erin Patterson’s mushroom murder trial
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Caitlyn Forster, Associate Lecturer, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney Death cap mushrooms (_Amanita phalloides_) Jolanda Aalbers/Shutterstock The world has been gripped by the case of Australian woman Erin Patterson, who was charged with the murder of three people after allegedly serving them a

    Fake news and the election campaign – how worried should voters be?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Andrea Carson, 2024 Oxford University visiting research fellow RIJS; Professor of Political Communication., La Trobe University shutterstock JRdes/Shutterstock The spread of electoral misinformation and disinformation is undermining democracies around the world. The World Economic Forum has identified the proliferation of false content as the leading short-term global

    The MMR vaccine doesn’t contain ‘aborted fetus debris’, as RFK Jr has claimed. Here’s the science
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hassan Vally, Associate Professor, Epidemiology, Deakin University Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the United States’ top public health official, recently claimed some religious groups avoid the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine because it contains “aborted fetus debris” and “DNA particles”. The US is facing its worst measles

    Scientists surprised to discover mayflies and shrimp making their bodies out of ancient gas
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Paul McInerney, Senior Research Scientist in Ecosystem Ecology, CSIRO The native shrimp _Paratya australiensis_ was among the species found to incorporate carbon from natural gas into their bodies in the Condamine River. Chris Van Wyk/Flickr, CC BY-NC-ND What’s the currency for all life on Earth? Carbon. Every

    Archibald Packing Room Prize goes to Abdul Abdullah for Jason Phu portrait, among broader set of bold and deeply personal works
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Joanna Mendelssohn, Honorary Senior Fellow, School of Culture and Communication. Editor in Chief, Design and Art of Australia Online, The University of Melbourne Winner Packing Room Prize 2025, Abdul Abdullah ‘No mountain high enough’, oil on linen, 162.4 x 136.7cm © the artist, image © Art Gallery

    New Zealand condemned for failing to make ICJ humanitarian case over Gaza genocide
    Asia Pacific Report The advocacy group Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa has condemned the New Zealand government fpr failing to make a humanitarian submission to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) hearings at The Hague this week into Israel blocking vital supplies entering Gaza. The ICJ’s ongoing investigation into Israeli genocide in the besieged enclave is

    The Liberals’ women problem may seem intractable, but here’s what they could learn from the Teals
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Phoebe Hayman, PhD Candidate and Casual Academic in Politics, La Trobe University The impression of the Liberal Party as out of touch with women persists in this year’s election. The party’s “women problem” was brought into sharp focus by the backlash to its now-abandoned policy to stop

    This NZ law aims to give people with criminal convictions a ‘clean slate’. It’s not working
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alexander Plum, Senior Research Fellow, Auckland University of Technology Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock If you own a business, would you be willing to hire a person who has been convicted for a crime? Give them a chance when a background check shows they have a criminal record? The answers matter

    ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for May 2, 2025
    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on May 2, 2025.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What are the biggest gaffes, bloopers and blunders that recent presidents have made? It may depend on what your definition of ‘is’ is

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Chris Lamb, Professor of Journalism, Indiana University

    Lots of presidents have said things they regret. Or most of them have. Carol Yepes/Getty Images

    President Donald Trump was asked during a press conference on April 30, 2025, about the possible impact of his tariff policies and trade war with China.

    Trump answered that American children should prepare to make sacrifices at Christmas.

    “Maybe the children will have two dolls instead of 30 dolls, you know,” he said, “and maybe the two dolls will cost a couple of bucks more than they would normally.”

    The New York Times reported that Trump appeared to be telling kids they would have to manage with fewer toys this year for the sake of his economic agenda.

    Jane Mayer, a reporter with The New Yorker, called it “Trump’s Marie Antoinette moment.”

    This was not the first − or last − time Trump said something that left many Americans with mouths open and heads shaking.

    Hours after his Marie Antoinette moment, Trump, whose first 100 days back in office have been characterized as chaotic and damaging to democracy, was asked during a phone interview at a town-hall broadcast on NewsNation what the biggest mistake he’d made thus far in his second presidency.

    “I don’t really believe I’ve made any mistakes,” Trump replied.

    The audience, representing a cross section of Americans, burst out laughing.

    Trump’s gaffes aren’t just part of his presidency; gaffes are part of the storied tradition of the American presidency. Some of those comments have clung to presidents and even affected history.

    Here are examples from each president over the past 50 years or so of statements that at least some of them were embarrassed by or came to regret. Each was made when the president was serving in the White House. The quotes are organized chronologically.

    Donald Trump auditions for Grinch-who-stole-Christmas role.

    Richard Nixon is a law-abiding guy

    On Nov. 17, 1973, President Richard M. Nixon, in the midst of the Watergate scandal that would end his presidency, defended himself against charges of corruption.

    “People have got to know whether or not their president is a crook,” Nixon said. “Well, I’m not a crook. I’ve earned everything I’ve got.”

    Instead of quelling the scandal, as Nixon hoped, his words produced the opposite reaction. He resigned from the presidency nine months later in August 1974.

    Gerald Ford forgets the Cold War

    Gerald Ford, Nixon’s vice president who became president after Nixon’s resignation, subsequently ran for election in 1976.

    During one of his televised debates against Democratic nominee Jimmy Carter, Ford inexplicably claimed the Soviet Union did not control Eastern Europe.

    “There is no Soviet domination of Eastern Europe,” Ford said, “and there never will be under a Ford administration.”

    To which the moderator, New York Times editor May Frankel, said, “I’m sorry, what?”

    Ford’s remark was so outrageously incorrect that it may have contributed to his defeat in the tight presidential election.

    Gerald Ford says it’s really a Warm, not Cold, War.

    Jimmy Carter gets advice from his teen

    Carter defeated Ford and was elected in 1976. He ran for reelection against Republican nominee Ronald Reagan in 1980. During one of their debates, Carter said he sought the advice of his 13-year-old daughter, Amy, on what was the most important issue facing America.

    “She said she thought it was nuclear weaponry,” Carter said, “and the control of nuclear arms.”

    Carter tried to show that arms control was a subject that had great resonance to even 13-year-olds. Instead, it left viewers puzzled why he had inserted his daughter into the debate. A wire service story at the time summarized the response by saying that reporters covering the debate winced and others groaned.

    Jimmy Carter has a smart 13-year-old daughter.

    Ronald Reagan attacks Russia

    Reagan, a former television and movie actor who defeated Carter in the 1980 presidential election, was known as “the Great Communicator” for his eloquence.

    A well-known anti-Communist, Reagan was not always careful about what he said.

    Before a speech on Aug. 11, 1984, Reagan joked during a sound check, “I’ve signed legislation that will outlaw Russia forever. We begin bombing in five minutes.”

    The joke on the open mic, which was not broadcast live but leaked later, resulted in a Soviet red alert − and temporarily moved the U.S. and Soviet Union toward war.

    George H.W. Bush eats word salad

    Reagan’s successor, his vice president, George H.W. Bush, by comparison was no great communicator. His words came out of his mouth and appeared to go in separate ways.

    “I have opinions of my own, strong opinions,” Bush said, “but I don’t always agree with them.”

    Bill Clinton is or isn’t, maybe

    Democrat Bill Clinton defeated George H.W. Bush in the 1992 presidential election.

    Clinton’s presidency was dogged with accusations of unethical behavior and extramarital affairs. Clinton, in testimony before a grand jury investigating his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky, was asked whether he was lying when he told aides that “there’s nothing going on” between him and Lewinsky.

    “It depends on what the meaning of the word ‘is’ is,” Clinton responded. “If the − if he − if ‘is’ means is and never has been, that is not − that is one thing.”

    Slate magazine said that this response may have been the “defining moment” of his presidency and, in doing so, captured his contribution to semantics. As Time magazine pointed out,
    “Until then, America hadn’t been sure there was more than one definition of ‘is.’”

    George W. Bush’s shame

    George W. Bush, the son of George H.W. Bush, succeeded Clinton in the White House. Americans learned that Bush had more in common with his father than just the same last name.

    “There’s an old saying in Tennessee − I know it’s in Texas,” Bush said, “probably in Tennessee, that says, fool me once, shame on − shame on you. Fool me − you can’t get fooled again.”

    Barack Obama strikes out

    Barack Obama, like Reagan, was known for his sense of humor. And like Reagan, Obama learned that not everything was a joking matter.

    While appearing on “The Tonight Show” with Jay Leno in 2009, Obama said he had improved his bowling by practicing at the White House bowling alley. He told Leno he had bowled a pedestrian score of 129, provoking a sarcastic response from Leno.

    Obama then made the following joke: “It’s like the Special Olympics or something.”

    Obama quickly apologized to the Special Olympics, the athletic competition for people with intellectual disabilities.

    Obama made a bad joke about the Special Olympics during an interview with Jay Leno; he quickly apologized for it.
    Mandel Ngan / AFP/Getty Images

    Joe Biden’s bad day

    Trump was first elected president in 2016 but was defeated by Joe Biden in the 2020 election. Trump and Biden faced each other again in 2024.

    During a television debate on June 27, 2024, CNN anchor Jake Tapper asked Biden why voters should trust him to solve the immigration crisis. Biden said he changed a law that allowed Trump and his administration to separate immigrant families and put children in cages.

    Biden’s train of thought then jumped the tracks.

    “And I’m going to continue to move until we get the total ban on the − the total initiative relative to what we’re going to do with more Border Patrol and more asylum officers,” Biden said.

    “I really don’t know what he said at the end of that sentence,” Trump said, “and I don’t think he did, either.”

    The same could be said for much of what Biden said during the debate.

    Biden withdrew from the presidential race three weeks after his poor debate performance.

    Chris Lamb 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. What are the biggest gaffes, bloopers and blunders that recent presidents have made? It may depend on what your definition of ‘is’ is – https://theconversation.com/what-are-the-biggest-gaffes-bloopers-and-blunders-that-recent-presidents-have-made-it-may-depend-on-what-your-definition-of-is-is-255755

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Coons, Tillis introduce bipartisan resolution supporting Romania and Moldova amid Russian interference

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) introduced a resolution yesterday expressing support for Romania and Moldova as both countries work to combat Russian interference ahead of upcoming elections.
    The resolution commends Romania and Moldova for their steadfast commitment to strengthening democratic values, deepening their European integration, and their commitment to regional security in the face of sustained Russian pressure campaigns.
    “Romania and Moldova are critical U.S. partners that make substantial contributions to security and sovereignty across eastern Europe,” said Senator Coons. “Romania is one of our most important NATO allies and largest alliance contributors, while Moldova is steadfast in its commitment to joining the European Union. When I visited the region earlier this year, I saw clearly how both are facing intense coercion efforts from Russia, including the weaponization of energy flows and systemic election interference campaigns. This resolution makes clear that the United Stares stands against Putin’s attempts to meddle in their elections and upend their democracies while reiterating our support for their sustained partnerships.”
    “Romania and Moldova are key U.S. allies, with Moldova partnered with North Carolina through the State Partnership Program, at a pivotal moment for democracy in Eastern Europe,” said Senator Tillis. “As both nations confront efforts by Russia to erode democratic institutions and exert undue influence, the United States must reaffirm its commitment to their sovereignty and political independence. Strengthening these partnerships is vital to preserving democratic governance and regional stability.”
    Senator Coons recently visited Romania and Moldova as part of a congressional delegation, where he witnessed firsthand Russia’s ongoing interference—including election interference, disinformation campaigns, and the weaponization of energy supplies. Due to blatant election interference by Russia, Romania’s presidential election in November was annulled, and the election will be rerun this weekend. 
    The resolution applauds Romania’s role within NATO and as a member of the European Union, as well as its critical support to Ukraine since Russia’s unprovoked war. It also supports Moldova’s referendum to join the European Union and thanks the country for its ongoing assistance to Ukraine. 
    Specifically, the resolution:
    Calls on the U.S. government to deepen bilateral and multilateral engagements with Romania and Moldova in support of democracy and state sovereignty in eastern Europe
    Applauds the partnership between Romania and Moldova in the energy sector as a model of reducing reliance on Russian energy exports
    Supports Romania’s role in strengthening NATO and Moldova’s aspirations to join the European Union
    Condemns Russia’s coercion campaigns in democratic sovereign states, including Romania and Moldova
    Asks for greater international support ahead of Romania’s presidential election and Moldova’s parliamentary elections in 2025
    Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
    You can read the resolution text here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: WEEK 15 WINS: President Trump’s 100th Day Marked by More Success

    Source: The White House

    This week, President Donald J. Trump celebrated his 100th day in office — and set the course for the next 100 days of growth, prosperity, and success for the American people.

    Here is a non-comprehensive list of wins in week 15:

    • The economy added 177,000 new jobs in April, according to the latest jobs report — smashing expectations for another month as the workforce grows and businesses onshore jobs.
    • President Donald J. Trump’s relentless pursuit of manufacturing dominance spurred onshoring and additional U.S. investment.
      • Mercedes-Benz announced it will move production of another vehicle to its Tuscaloosa, Alabama, manufacturing facility.
      • AstraZeneca announced it will shift production of some medicines from Europe to the U.S.
      • Walmart expanded its support for American-made products.
      • IBM announced a $150 billion investment over the next five years in its U.S.-based growth and manufacturing operations.
      • Pratt Industries announced a $5 billion investment that will result in 5,000 new manufacturing jobs across several key industrial states.
      • Kimberly-Clark announced a $2 billion investment in its U.S. manufacturing sites, which will create 900 new jobs.
      • Corning announced it is expanding its Michigan manufacturing facility investment to $1.5 billion.
      • Merck & Co. announced a $1 billion investment to build a new state-of-the-art biologics manufacturing plant in Delaware, which will create at least 500 new jobs — part of the company’s commitment to invest more than $9 billion over the next four years.
        • “Since the advent of the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, Merck has allocated more than $12 billion to enhance our domestic manufacturing and research capabilities, with additional planned investments of more than $9 billion over the next four years.”
      • Amgen announced a $900 million investment in its Ohio-based manufacturing operation.
        • “Pro-growth policies like the @POTUS @WhiteHouse 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act helped make investments like this possible. Since enactment, Amgen has invested ~$5B in capital expenditures. This amounts to an additional downstream output to the U.S. economy of approximately $12B.”
      • The Bel Group announced a $350 million investment to expand its U.S.-based production, including at its South Dakota, Idaho and Wisconsin facilities — which will create 250 new jobs.
    • President Trump continued to secure our border and rid our communities of illegal immigrant criminals.
      • New York Post: Illegal border crossings remained near historic lows in April after President Trump’s crackdown
      • The Trump Administration directed an operation at an underground nightclub in Colorado “frequented by TdA and MS-13 terrorists” that resulted in 100 illegal immigrant arrests.
      • ICE arrested more than 1,000 illegal immigrants in Florida in just six days as part of Operation Tidal Wave.
      • Uzbekistan agreed to pay for and accept 131 illegal immigrants from Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.
    • President Trump continued to pursue peace through strength around the world.
      • President Trump secured a historic agreement with Ukraine that gives the U.S. an economic stake in securing a free, peaceful, and sovereign future for Ukraine and allows for the long-term reconstruction and modernization of the country after Russia’s invasion.
      • President Trump announced secondary sanctions on any country or person who purchases Iranian oil.
      • President Trump secured the release of a wrongfully detained U.S. citizen in Belarus and a U.S. citizen imprisoned in Kuwait — for a total of 47 detained citizens abroad freed since President Trump took office.
      • The Trump Administration brokered a joint pledge for peace between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
      • The Department of the Treasury cracked down on vessels delivering oil derivatives to Houthi terrorists in Yemen.
      • The Department of the Treasury sanctioned six Iranian and Chinese firms linked to procuring missile propellant ingredients for the Iranian regime.
    • The Trump Administration forged ahead on its unprecedented effort to secure American energy dominance.
      • Woodside Energy Group financially approved a $17.5 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) project.
      • The Environmental Protection Agency granted an emergency waiver that allows Americans to buy cheaper, higher-ethanol gasoline through the summer, which will save Americans money.
    • President Trump took a series of executive actions to improve Americans’ lives.
      • President Trump strengthened the ability of state and local law enforcement to pursue criminals and protect innocent Americans.
      • President Trump signed an executive order to protect Americans in so-called “sanctuary” jurisdictions from dangerous criminal illegal immigrants.
      • President Trump established the Religious Liberty Commission to safeguard and promote America’s founding principle of religious freedom.
      • President Trump incentivized American automobile production.
      • President Trump ordered that commercial truck drivers must be properly qualified and proficient in English.
      • President Trump ended the taxpayer subsidization of NPR and PBS.
    • President Trump unveiled his proposed budget, which would save taxpayers $163 billion in wasteful spending, gut the weaponized deep state, and provide historic increases for defense and border security.
    • President Trump launched the FEMA Review Council to help fix the broken disaster response system and return power to the states.
    • President Trump announced Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan will soon be home to the new F-15EW Eagle II fighter jets.
    • President Trump renamed May 8 as “Victory Day for World War II” and November 11 as “Victory Day for World War I” in recognition of America’s role in winning the two wars.
    • The Department of Health and Human services released a comprehensive review of so-called “gender-affirming care,” finding no strong medical or scientific evidence exists to support the treatment’s irreversible effects.
    • The Trump Administration ended the Biden-era lawfare against South Dakota cattle ranchers who were wrongfully persecuted over a minor land dispute.
    • The Department of State designated Haitian gangs Viv Ansanm and Gran Grif as Foreign Terrorist Organizations.
    • The Department of Education launched a civil rights investigation into the New York Department of Education over its threat to withhold funding from the Massapequa School District if it does not eliminate its Native American mascot.
    • The Department of Education announced its finding that the University of Pennsylvania violated Title IX, notifying the institution that they have ten days to resolve the violations or risk a referral to the Department of Justice for enforcement proceedings.
    • The Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services announced investigations into Harvard University and the Harvard Law Review based on reports of race-based discrimination permeating the operations of the journal.
    • The Department of the Interior announced 42 new proposed hunting opportunities across 87,000 acres within the National Wildlife Refuge System and National Fish Hatchery System, which would more than triple the number of opportunities and quintuple the number of stations opened or expanded compared to the previous administration.
    • The Department of Energy announced it will lift a range of unnecessary regulations on certain indoor and outdoor gas products — expanding choice and lowering costs for consumers.
    • The Department of Transportation unveiled a new package of actions to further supercharge the air traffic controller workforce.
    • Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard added counter narcotics to the National Counter Terrorism Center in order to “focus intelligence and vetting resources against these terrorists who traffic deadly narcotics into the country.”
    • The Department of Justice arrested two individuals on charges of operating an international child exploitation enterprise.
    • The Department of Agriculture secured an agreement with Mexico for an immediate transfer of water from international reservoirs to Texas farmers and ranchers.
    • The White House Council on Environmental Quality established the Permitting Innovation Center to cut red tape and accelerate the environmental review process.
    • The National Institutes of Health announced it will publish studies it funds online for free to empower Americans’ own research and promote maximum transparency.
    • PepsiCo announced it will remove artificial ingredients from some popular food offerings by the end of the year following the Trump Administration’s push to end artificial food dyes.

    MIL OSI USA News –