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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump targets NPR and PBS as public and nonprofit media account for a growing share of local news coverage

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Matthew Powers, Professor of Communication, University of Washington

    The Seattle Times currently funds 30 reporter positions through philanthropy and government aid. AP Photo/Ted S. Warren

    Republicans in Washington have their sights – once again – on defunding public media.

    On May 1, 2025, President Donald Trump issued an executive order calling for the termination of taxpayer support for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the nonprofit that helps fund American public media stations of all sizes, from NPR and PBS, to smaller outlets like WBHM in Birmingham, Alabama, and KGOU in Norman, Oklahoma.

    Many Republicans have denounced public media programming as biased, outdated or simply unnecessary.

    Beneath those familiar talking points lies a long-standing assumption: that the market already provides “abundant, diverse and innovative news options,” as the president’s executive order put it.

    That assumption is wrong. And the story of media in Washington state reveals why.

    Public media’s expanding footprint

    As a communication scholar at the University of Washington, I’ve studied journalism in Seattle and across Washington state for the past decade.

    During that time, I’ve watched for-profit journalism struggle to meet the needs of the region. For this reason, local news outlets have increasingly turned to other sources of revenue.

    The shift has been striking. Just 10 years ago, about 10% of all full-time journalists in Seattle worked for local, nonprofit affiliates of NPR and PBS. Today, that figure is closer to 30%.

    That growing share reflects investments by NPR affiliates like KUOW and KNKX and public television station Cascade PBS, which have expanded their coverage of critical topics like homelessness and immigration. Federal support plays a small but significant role, making up between 5% and 10% of their budgets. The rest of their funding comes from a combination of donations, sponsorship and philanthropic grants.

    However, public media’s expanding footprint is also a symptom of collapse elsewhere: corporate cutbacks at commercial broadcast media networks and stations, the shuttering of community newspapers and the disappearance of alt-weeklies, which sometimes challenged mainstream political or cultural narratives.

    To be sure, public media has not and cannot replace everything that has been lost. But it has helped fill the void left after once-iconic outlets like the Seattle Post-Intelligencer underwent huge layoffs.

    Donors, tax dollars plug holes

    Public media outlets are only one prong of an increasingly noncommercial local news system. In the past, local media were dominated by commercial players that garnered the lion’s share of their revenues through advertising.

    Now, more and more journalism jobs in the state of Washington, including those at commercial outlets, are sustained by philanthropy and government spending. The Seattle Times – which is still, by far, the largest newsroom in the city – pays 30 of its reporters through philanthropic funding. That’s roughly 20% of its entire newsroom. The national nonprofit Report for America has, since its inception in 2018, placed 13 reporters in towns and cities across Washington to cover underserved topics like rural health and veterans issues.

    Meanwhile, the Murrow News Fellowship, launched in 2023 and funded by Washington’s state Legislature, has enabled 16 full-time journalists to be hired for two-year stints in commercial, nonprofit and public media newsrooms around the state.

    Universities are also playing a role. Long a pipeline into the profession, undergraduate and graduate journalism programs have increasingly become a piece of the local news infrastructure. Roughly 10% of all state Legislature coverage in Washington, for example, is now produced by undergraduate student journalists. Many report for newsrooms that no longer have a dedicated journalist in Olympia, the state’s capital.

    Then-state Sen. Pramila Jayapal speaks to reporters in Olympia, Wash., about a proposal to make community and technical college free for state residents without a bachelor’s degree.
    AP Photo/Ted S. Warren

    News isn’t always profitable

    All of these examples – public media, philanthropic support for nonprofit outlets and jobs at for-profit media enterprises, and student journalism – meet needs that for-profit journalism can no longer address on its own.

    Of course, no funding model is perfect. Last year, KUOW laid off three newsroom staffers due to a budget shortfall. Cascade PBS journalists are threatening to strike over low pay. Some critics worry that philanthropic funding can subtly shape news organizations’ coverage priorities.

    But to pretend the market can fix these problems is to ignore that it played a key part in creating them. When a newsroom job disappears, it’s not because watchdog journalism has lost its civic value. It’s because it became hard to monetize.

    Professional reporting takes time and doesn’t inherently deliver high traffic or quick profits. But it does inform citizens, promote government accountability and strengthen communities.

    The push to defund NPR and PBS stems in large part from long-standing Republican antipathy toward public media. But it also rests on a belief that journalism should only survive if it can compete in the marketplace.

    In Washington state, we’ve already seen what happens when we rely on markets alone: fewer reporters, less oversight and a growing amount of AI-generated news that provides no original reporting.

    If these defunding efforts succeed, they will likely do real harm to local news. KNKX has warned that it would lead to “difficult decisions and sacrifices at the expense of access to local journalism.” KUOW has signaled that it would “immediately need to raise 1 million dollars” to offset the loss in federal funding.

    Translation: It could lead to fewer reporters and less reporting at a time when more of both is needed.

    Matthew Powers 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. Trump targets NPR and PBS as public and nonprofit media account for a growing share of local news coverage – https://theconversation.com/trump-targets-npr-and-pbs-as-public-and-nonprofit-media-account-for-a-growing-share-of-local-news-coverage-255740

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Being honest about using AI at work makes people trust you less, research finds

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Oliver Schilke, Director of the Center for Trust Studies, Professor of Management and Organizations, University of Arizona

    Whether you’re using AI to write cover letters, grade papers or draft ad campaigns, you might want to think twice about telling others. That simple act of disclosure can make people trust you less, our new peer-reviewed article found.

    As researchers who study trust, we see this as a paradox. After all, being honest and transparent usually makes people trust you more. But across 13 experiments involving more than 5,000 participants, we found a consistent pattern: Revealing that you relied on AI undermines how trustworthy you seem.

    Participants in our study included students, legal analysts, hiring managers and investors, among others. Interestingly, we found that even evaluators who were tech-savvy were less trusting of people who said they used AI. While having a positive view of technology reduced the effect slightly, it didn’t erase it.

    Why would being open and transparent about using AI make people trust you less? One reason is that people still expect human effort in writing, thinking and innovating. When AI steps into that role and you highlight it, your work looks less legitimate.

    But there’s a caveat: If you’re using AI on the job, the cover-up may be worse than the crime. We found that quietly using AI can trigger the steepest decline in trust if others uncover it later. So being upfront may ultimately be a better policy.

    Being caught using AI by a third party has consequences, as one New York attorney can attest.

    Why it matters

    A global survey of 13,000 people found that about half had used AI at work, often for tasks such as writing emails or analyzing data. People typically assume that being open about using these tools is the right choice.

    Yet our research suggests doing so may backfire. This creates a dilemma for those who value honesty but also need to rely on trust to maintain strong relationships with clients and colleagues. In fields where credibility is essential – such as finance, health care and higher education – even a small loss of trust can damage a career or brand.

    The consequences go beyond individual reputations. Trust is often called the social “glue” that holds society together. It drives collaboration, boosts morale and keeps customers loyal. When that trust is shaken, entire organizations can feel the effects through lower productivity, reduced motivation and weakened team cohesion.

    If disclosing AI use sparks suspicion, users face a difficult choice: embrace transparency and risk a backlash, or stay silent and risk being exposed later – an outcome our findings suggest erodes trust even more.

    That’s why understanding the AI transparency dilemma is so important. Whether you’re a manager rolling out new technology or an artist deciding whether to credit AI in your portfolio, the stakes are rising.

    What still isn’t known

    It’s unclear whether this transparency penalty will fade over time. As AI becomes more widespread – and potentially more reliable – disclosing its use may eventually seem less suspect.

    There’s also no consensus on how organizations should handle AI disclosure. One option is to make transparency completely voluntary, which leaves the decision to disclose to the individual. Another is a mandatory disclosure policy across the board. Our research suggests that the threat of being exposed by a third party can motivate compliance if the policy is stringently enforced through tools such as AI detectors.

    A third approach is cultural: building a workplace where AI use is seen as normal, accepted and legitimate. We think this kind of environment could soften the trust penalty and support both transparency and credibility.

    The Research Brief is a short take on interesting academic work.

    Oliver Schilke received funding from the National Science Foundation (Award #1943688).

    Martin Reimann receives funding from the National Endowment for the Arts research grant (#1925643–38-24) and a National Security Systems (TRIF NSS) research grant.

    – ref. Being honest about using AI at work makes people trust you less, research finds – https://theconversation.com/being-honest-about-using-ai-at-work-makes-people-trust-you-less-research-finds-253590

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How the US can mine its own critical minerals − without digging new holes

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Yuanzhi Tang, Professor of Biogeochemistry, Georgia Institute of Technology

    Piles of rare earth oxides praseodymium, cerium, lanthanum, neodymium, samarium and gadolinium. Peggy Greb/USDA-ARS

    Every time you use your phone, open your computer or listen to your favorite music on AirPods, you are relying on critical minerals.

    These materials are the tiny building blocks powering modern life. From lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite in batteries to gallium in telecommunication systems that enable constant connectivity, critical minerals act as the essential vitamins of modern technology: small in volume but vital to function.

    Yet the U.S. depends heavily on imports for most critical materials. In 2024 the U.S. imported 80% of rare earth elements it used, 100% of gallium and natural graphite, and 48% to 76% of lithium, nickel and cobalt, to name a few.

    Rising global demand, high import dependency and growing geopolitical tensions have made critical mineral supply an increasing national security concern − and one of the most urgent supply chain challenges of our time.

    That raises a question: Could the U.S. mine and process more critical minerals at home?

    As a geochemist who leads Georgia Tech’s Center for Critical Mineral Solutions and an engineer focused on energy innovation, we have been exploring the options and barriers for U.S. critical mineral production.

    What’s stopping critical minerals from being produced domestically?

    Let’s take a look at rare earth elements.

    These elements are essential to modern technology, electric vehicles, energy systems and military applications. For example, neodymium is critical for making the strong magnets used in computer hard discs, lasers and wind turbines. Gadolinium is vital for MRI machines, while samarium and cerium play key roles in nuclear reactors and energy systems such as solar and wind power.

    Despite their name, rare earth elements are actually not rare. Their concentrations in the Earth’s crust are comparable to more commonly mined metals such as zinc and copper.

    However, rare earth elements do not often occur in easily accessible, economically viable mineral forms or high-grade deposits. As a result, identifying resources with sufficiently high concentration and large volume is crucial for enabling their economic production.

    MP Materials’ Mountain Pass Rare Earth Mine and Processing Facility is in California near the Nevada border.
    Tmy350/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA

    The U.S. currently has only two domestic rare earth mining locations: Georgia and California.

    In southeast Georgia, rare earths are being produced as a byproduct of heavy mineral sand mining, but the produced rare earth concentrates are shipped out of state and then abroad for refining into the materials used in renewable energy technologies and permanent magnets.

    The other location is in Mountain Pass, California, where hard rock mining extracts a rare earth carbonate mineral called bastnaesite. Yet again, much of the material is sent abroad for refining. As a result, the entire supply chain − from mining to final use in products − stretches across continents.


    U.S. Geological Survey

    Meeting the U.S. demand for rare earth elements and other critical minerals from operations within the United States will require more than just opening new mines. It will require developing and scaling up new technologies, as well as building processing operations.

    Historically, processing has largely taken place overseas because of the environmental impacts, energy demand and regulatory constraints.

    The potential, but long road, to new mines

    Investment in exploration activity for critical minerals is rapidly increasing across the U.S.

    In 2017 the U.S. Geological Survey launched the Earth Mapping Resources Initiative − known as Earth MRI − to identify potential sources of critical minerals within the country.

    Some areas that appear promising for rare earth elements have lots of chemical weathering, in which rocks containing rare earth elements are broken down by reacting with water and air. Exploration is underway at several of these sites, including in locations in Wyoming and Montana.

    A map shows focus areas for 23 mineral systems that could have critical mineral resources.
    USGS

    Identifying a resource, however, is not the same as producing it.

    Traditional mining can take a decade or two from exploration to production and up to 29 years in the U.S., the second-longest timeline in the world. Although this timeline could be changing under the current administration, companies might still face major uncertainties related to permitting, infrastructure development and, in some places, community opposition. Managing environmental impacts, such as air and water pollution and high water consumption and energy use, can further increase cost and extend project timelines.

    Given that the exploration projects mentioned above are still in early stage, the U.S. needs additional, parallel efforts that can bring resources to the market at an accelerated pace.

    Mining the materials we have already mined

    One of the fastest ways to increase U.S. rare earth production may not require digging new holes in the ground − but rather returning to old ones.

    The Atlantic coast region stands out on the Earth MRI map as a particularly promising area. What’s even better is that this region has already established extensive mining activities and mature infrastructure, which allows for much faster speed to market.

    Georgia has mineral sand deposits that are rich in titanium, zirconium, and rare earth elements. Titanium and zirconium − both used in aerospace, energy and medical applications − are already mined in Florida and Georgia. In southeast Georgia, rare earth elements found with these heavy mineral sands are already being recovered as rare earth concentrates.

    Kaolin mining near Macon, Ga.

    Kaolin, a white clay used in paper, paint and porcelain, has been mined in Georgia for over a century, and it can also contain rare earth elements. Georgia generates more than 8 million tons of kaolin annually, making it the leading U.S. producer and a large exporter. This also comes with millions of tons of mining and processing residues, or what’s known as tailings.

    Recent research studies suggest that there is significant potential for extracting rare earth elements in the tailings.

    The tailings are already mined and sitting on the surface. There is no need to drill or blast. That means existing infrastructure, faster timelines and lower costs and than new mining operations.

    Technological innovations, such as bioleaching, ligand-based extraction and separation and electrochemical separation, are now making mining these legacy wastes possible. New processing facilities could be built near existing kaolin or heavy mineral sand operations or former mine sites, bringing materials to market in a few years rather than decades.

    The future of waste mining

    This approach is part of a broader strategy known as “waste mining,” “urban mining” or “mining the anthropogenic cycle.”

    It involves the recovery of critical minerals from existing waste streams such as mine tailings, coal ash and industrial byproducts. It is also part of building a circular economy, where materials are reused and recycled rather than discarded.

    The U.S. has the potential to catalyze new domestic supply chains for materials essential to national security and technology. Waste mining and recycling are critical pieces to ensure the long-term sustainability of these supply chains.

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

    – ref. How the US can mine its own critical minerals − without digging new holes – https://theconversation.com/how-the-us-can-mine-its-own-critical-minerals-without-digging-new-holes-252609

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. LaMalfa Applauds Passage of Legislation to Repeal California’s Extreme Vehicle Emissions Mandates

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Doug LaMalfa 1st District of California

    Washington, D.C.—This week, the House passed three Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolutions to overturn the Biden Administration’s approval of California’s vehicle emissions mandates, including the Advanced Clean Cars II regulation, the Advance Clean Trucks regulation, and the Omnibus Low-NOx Emissions rule. Previously approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), these rules allow California to impose aggressive regulations on cars and trucks that drive up costs and restrict consumer choice in California and nationwide.

    The three CRAs, co-led by Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Richvale), and introduced by Representatives John Joyce (R-PA), John James (R-MI), and Jay Obernolte (R-CA) repeal these unrealistic mandates, preventing California from being able to force these costly policies onto the rest of the country.

    “Today’s vote is a big win for drivers, businesses, and consumers across the country. California’s extreme emissions mandates would have made cars and trucks more expensive and less available for everyone, not just in our state but nationwide,” said Rep. LaMalfa. “Consumers would see massive increases in costs if they chose a non-electric vehicle, and availability of some models has already been severely restricted in California. By passing these resolutions, the House made it clear that we won’t let one state’s radical agenda dictate what Americans can drive. People deserve the freedom to choose the vehicles that work best for them—not to be forced into unaffordable electric vehicles that may not work for them. I was pleased to see the House stand up for commonsense to protect hardworking families from even higher costs. By passing this Congressional Review Act, California will not be allowed to make this type of rule without a complete change in federal law.”

    Background

    Under the Clean Air Act, states are generally prohibited from setting their own tailpipe emission standards for cars and trucks. However, California has a unique exemption under Section 209, which allows the state to establish its own emissions regulations if it submits a waiver to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and receives approval. Once granted, these California standards can also be adopted by other states under Section 177 of the Clean Air Act. Currently, about a dozen states follow California’s emissions policies, effectively turning the state’s regulations into a nationwide mandate.

    The Biden administration approved several controversial waivers requested by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), allowing the state to impose extreme emissions rules that impact car and truck costs and availability across the country. These include:

    • Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC2) – Approved in December 2024, this regulation mandates that 35% of new car sales be zero-emission by 2026, increasing to 100% by 2035. At least 12 states have already adopted ACC2. Failure to meet this goal means a maximum penalty of $25,000 per non-compliant vehicle sold to consumers.
    • Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) – Approved in March 2023, this regulation forces truck manufacturers and retailers to meet strict zero-emission quotas by 2035, including 55% of Class 2B-3 truck sales, 75% of Class 4-8 straight truck sales, and 40% of truck tractor sales. At least 11 states have adopted ACT.
    • Omnibus Low-NOx Emissions Rule – Approved in December 2024, this regulation imposes aggressive emissions reductions on medium- and heavy-duty truck and other engines, requiring NOx emissions to be cut by 75% below current standards for Model Year 2024-2026 compared to 2010 levels and particulate matter emissions to be cut by 50%.

    Congressman Doug LaMalfa is Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and a lifelong farmer representing California’s First Congressional District, including Butte, Colusa, Glenn, Lassen, Modoc, Shasta, Siskiyou, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba Counties.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Further appeal in case of woman missing from Barking since 2017

    Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

    Detectives are appealing for the public’s help to find Stefana Otilia Malinici, 45 who is missing from Barking.

    Stefana (who is known as Otilia) has not been seen by her friends or family since she left her home on Beccles Drive in Barking on Wednesday, 6 September 2017.

    Otilia, who was 37-years-old at the time of her disappearance, is classed as vulnerable and in the intervening years, has not made contact with her husband or children.

    The last sighting of her was on CCTV and showed her making a brief visit to a shop on Green Lane in Ilford on Monday, 9 September 2017.

    Officers also believe she may have boarded the number 5 bus at 22:14hrs from Wood Lane, Dagenham on Tuesday, 10 September 2017.

    Since then, police have not been able to trace her.

    Officers looking after her case are appealing again for Otilia to make contact, and ask anyone who has information about where she may be, to call the team.

    Otilia was last seen wearing a black top with a large light coloured motif, dark tight jeans or leggings tucked into flat dark, mid-calf length boots, and a dark coloured three-quarter length fitted jacket. She had reddish hair in a bob style at the time.

    She is Romanian and at the time of her disappearance was working as a cleaner in London.

    Detective Chief Inspector Kam Sodhi, from the Met’s East Area Public Protection unit, said: “It is now more than seven years since Otilia was reported missing and we are continuing our work to find out where she is. While there is no evidence to suggest that Otilia has come to physical harm, we cannot rule this out.

    “Her family here in the UK and in Romania are still carrying on their daily lives without knowing where their loved one is. Her daughters have grown up without their mother, so we urge anyone who may know Otilia, or where she is, to come forward without further delay.

    “We ask anyone who has provided shelter or support to Otilia to also please contact police. Even if this was not recently, we want to hear from you.”

    In a statement, Otilia’s daughters, said: “It has now been more than seven years without our mother. We have grown up without her and miss her every day. She always brings support and love for anyone who needs it, even strangers and she always tries to cheer people up.

    “We appeal to the public for anyone to come forward if they know anything about her or her whereabouts. We also appeal to her directly, please return home to us.

    Officers would urge anyone with information on her whereabouts to call police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting 01/1106106/24.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [GLOBALDATA PLC – 02 05 2025] – (CGWL)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY WEALTH LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 GLOBALDATA PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 02 MAY 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 0.01p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 11,090,820 1.3751    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 11,090,820 1.3751    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    0.01p ORDINARY SALE 7,500 195p
    0.01p ORDINARY PURCHASE 5,115 194.84p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 06 MAY 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel Light Beer Expands into Florida with North Florida Sales Distribution Agreement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nashville, TN, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) (“American Rebel” or the “Company”), creator of American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) and a designer, manufacturer, and marketer of branded safes, personal security and self-defense products and apparel (americanrebel.com), is proud to announce its newest distribution agreement with North Florida Sales (nfsinfo.com), a premier beverage distributor serving the Northeast Florida market. This collaboration and expansion into Florida is another bold step in American Rebel’s mission to bring high-quality, American-made beer to hardworking, freedom-loving patriots across the Sunshine State.

    “We believe in the American dream – hard work, perseverance, and celebrating the freedoms that make this country great,” said Todd Porter, President of American Rebel Beverage. “Partnering with North Florida Sales allows us to share that spirit with more people in Florida. Their commitment to excellence, combined with their deep-rooted relationships in the market, makes them the perfect ally in our mission to expand American Rebel’s presence nationwide.”

    Gentry Pelham, President and Owner of North Florida Sales, echoed that enthusiasm, stating: “North Florida Sales is extremely excited for the opportunity to partner up with American Rebel. We can’t wait to introduce this amazing product to the Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Lake City markets.”

    North Florida Sales has long been recognized for its dedication to delivering quality beverages while building lasting partnerships with retailers and consumers. With an extensive network and a passion for serving their communities, they will help bring American Rebel Light Beer to even more bars, restaurants, and stores across Florida.

    “We’re very excited to be expanding into Florda,” said American Rebel CEO Andy Ross. “American Rebel Beer sponsored the Scag Pro Superstar Shootout this past February at the Bradenton Motorsports Park and I’ve done television interviews in Tampa, West Palm Beach and Miami and performed in Florida several times. Look out Florida, America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer is coming. Florida is going to be a strong state for us and I couldn’t be more proud to get to work with the great team at North Florida Sales.”

    As American Rebel Beverage continues its rapid growth, the brand remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting patriotic values and celebrating the American spirit. Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has earned loyal consumers across Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Indiana, Mississippi and now Florida – proving that there’s nothing more American than great beer and a good time.

    American Rebel Light is a proudly American-made premium domestic light lager, delivering a crisp, clean, and bold taste with a lighter feel. Crafted with all-natural ingredients and NO added sweeteners like corn or rice, it offers a refreshing balance of flavor with 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% ABV per 12 oz serving. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, a tailgate, or a weekend at the racetrack, American Rebel Light is brewed for the bold, the free, and the proud.

    For more information about American Rebel Light and its new distribution agremeent with North Florida Sales, follow us on social media @AmericanRebelBeer or on the web at americanrebelbeer.com.

    About American Rebel Light

    American Rebel Light isn’t just a beer – it’s a statement. A toast to freedom, a salute to hard-working Americans, and a bold declaration of our patriotic values. As America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer, Produced in partnership with AlcSource, American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com) is a premium domestic light lager celebrated for its exceptional quality and patriotic values. It stands out as America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer.

    American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers. For more information follow American Rebel Beer on all social media platforms (@americanrebelbeer).

    About North Florida Sales

    North Florida Sales (NFS) is a locally owned and operated company and covers all or part of 11 counties in Florida. These counties include Duval, Nassau, St. John’s, Putnam, Clay, Bradford, Union, Baker, Columbia, Hamilton and Suwannee. Started in 1995, NFS strives to be a leader in sales and service in the beverage industry in Jacksonville and Lake City, FL. NFS’s mission is to provide the highest quality customer service on a consistent basis, while ensuring the availability of the freshest and cleanest product possible. For more information on North Florida Sales, go to nfsinfo.com.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebel.com and americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit americanrebelbeer.com/investor-relations.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    info@americanrebel.com
     ir@americanrebel.com

    Media Contact:
    Matt Sheldon
    Matt@PrecisionPR.co

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of our strategic planning, marketing outreach efforts, actual placement timing and availability of American Rebel Beer, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [GLOBALDATA PLC – 02 05 2025] – (CGAML)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 GLOBALDATA PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 02 MAY 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 0.01p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 11,148,000 1.3822    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 11,148,000 1.3822    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    0.01p ORDINARY PURCHASE 100,000 196p

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 06 MAY 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – [ALPHA GROUP INTERNATIONAL PLC – Opening Disclosure – 02 05 2025] – (CGAML)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)   Full name of discloser: CANACCORD GENUITY ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED (for Discretionary clients)
    (b)   Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		 N/A
    (c)   Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 ALPHA GROUP INTERNATIONAL PLC
    (d)   If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree: N/A
    (e)   Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 02 MAY 2025
    (f)   In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 N/A

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)      Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: 0.2p ORDINARY
      Interests Short positions
    Number % Number %
    (1)   Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 1,507,500 3.5578    
    (2)   Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)   Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        
    TOTAL: 1,507,500 3.5578    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)      Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    None      

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
    NONE        

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
    NONE              

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
    NONE      

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)   the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)   the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”

    NONE

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 06 MAY 2025
    Contact name: MARK ELLIOTT
    Telephone number: 01253 376539

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Free Psychic Reading Online by Chat [2025] Best Free Psychics for Accurate Readings!

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN FRANCISCO, CA, May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In today’s fast-paced world, more people are turning to spiritual tools to gain clarity and direction. Whether you’re dealing with a relationship dilemma, career confusion, or life transitions, a free psychic reading online can offer valuable insight, all from the comfort of your home. Best of all, you can now connect instantly through free psychic chat with certified advisors and get accurate answers in real time.

    The-Psychic-Experts.com, a leading platform in reviewing free psychic services, has officially announced its 2025 rankings for the best free psychic reading platforms that are available online. 

    Discover your future with an accurate free psychic reading online and unlock answers through free psychic chat with gifted intuitive advisors!

    ⇒ Connect with the best free psychics for love, career, and more!

    What Is a Free Psychic Reading Online?

    A free psychic reading online allows you to connect with a psychic advisor over the internet—usually via chat, video, or email—without any upfront cost. Many reputable psychic platforms offer introductory sessions so that new users can experience the service without financial commitment.

    These sessions typically last 3 to 10 minutes and are ideal for asking simple questions or getting a feel for the psychic’s energy and accuracy.

    ⇒ Discover what’s ahead by connecting with the best free psychics online!

    What Is Free Psychic Chat?

    Free psychic chat is a live text-based communication feature that lets you speak directly with a psychic in real time. Unlike phone or video readings, chat is discreet, fast, and easy to use—perfect for users who prefer privacy or quick answers.

    Psychic chat platforms often include features such as:

    • Real-time typing and responses
    • Saved chat history for future reference
    • Ratings and reviews of each advisor
    • Topic filters (e.g., love, career, spiritual guidance)

    Enjoy a free psychic reading online and use free psychic chat to gain clarity, peace of mind, and guidance from experienced psychic experts.

    ⇒ Start s free psychic chat and find answers to your deepest questions!

    Main Benefits of Using Free Psychic Reading and Chat Services

    1. Convenience
     Access guidance 24/7 from anywhere in the world—no appointments needed.

    2. Privacy
     Chat-based readings allow you to stay anonymous while discussing personal matters.

    3. Clarity Before You Pay
     With a free psychic chat, you can evaluate the reader’s accuracy before committing to a paid session.

    4. Wide Range of Experts
     Choose from advisors specializing in tarot, astrology, mediumship, numerology, and more.

    ⇒ Chat with the best free psychics online and explore your future!

    How to Choose a Trustworthy Free Psychic Online

    Not all psychic platforms are equal. Here’s what to look for:

    • Verified Reviews: Read ratings and feedback from real users.
    • Free Intro Offers: Look for platforms that offer several free minutes.
    • Transparency: Check the advisor’s bio, specialties, and tools used.
    • Customer Support: Reliable platforms offer 24/7 assistance in case of technical issues.

    Top-rated psychic sites often include filters to help you choose a psychic by category (love, career, etc.), reading style (compassionate, direct), and tool (tarot, clairvoyance, etc.).

    ⇒ Ask a psychic your most urgent question free of charge!

    Best Times to Use Free Psychic Chat

    • When facing an urgent decision and needing fast clarity
    • After a breakup or during a relationship crisis
    • When changing jobs or considering a move
    • During emotional stress or uncertainty
    • For ongoing spiritual growth or guidance

    ⇒ Discover your future with a free psychic reading and real insight

    Psychic Experts: Your Go-To Resource for Free Psychic Readings in 2025

    Digital access is growing the demand for online services, and the same is true for psychic services. The psychic experts recognize that online users often get nervous when trying to choose between different psychic services, since all of them claim accuracy and authenticity. 

    This year’s “Best Free Psychic Reading Online for 2025” list was meticulously curated for this very reason. It is based on verified user feedback, psychic credentials, and ease of access. And it also particularly focuses on free psychic chat and ask a free psychic question services.

    So if you are looking for free psychic love readings, or simply want to know about your future via free psychic reading by date of birth and time, the-psychic-experts.com will help its users find authentic guidance in the world of psychics in an affordable way.

    ⇒ Receive a free psychic reading from experienced, trusted advisors!

    Why Free Psychic Readings Are on the Rise

    Free psychic readings have always been popular among those who know its worth. These are considered a spiritual outlet for people who have questions about the unknown or are in search of clarity. However, the online psychic popularity has made it easier than ever to ask a free psychic question online, from the comfort of your home. 

    So whether you are into clairvoyance, tarot, astrology, or mediumship, you can be guaranteed that these services are now available online. Most platforms now offer:

    • Free trial readings online
    • Online psychic chat sessions
    • Free psychic chat sessions online
    • One free psychic question before you pay for the full session
    • Free psychic reading by date of birth and time
    • Free psychic readings online with no credit card.

    This freedom for the user, that they are allowed to test out a service before paying in full, makes a free psychic reading the first step that introduces them to the mystical world.

    ⇒  Find peace and clarity through a free psychic reading with gifted advisors!

    Who Are These Readings For?

    Free psychic readings are for everyone. Anyone can benefit from the spiritual guidance, whether they are dealing with personal issues or professional performances.

    The beauty of free psychic readings online is how they cater to absolutely everyone, including;

    • Singles who are looking for love
    • Couples who are in a relationship struggle
    • Professionals who need guidance when stuck at career crossroads
    • Students who want to explore purpose in life and career direction
    • Grieving individuals who want to seek comfort and connection with passed away loved ones.

    Psychic readings can change the minds of anyone. Even skeptics admit that they walked away feeling much lighter, mind clearer, and more confident.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question and receive spiritual guidance on love, career, or life direction.

    Benefits of Free Online Psychic Readings

    Free online psychic readings have many benefits. Because they are; a) free, and b) available online. 

    Unlike traditional in-person visits, the online psychic readings do not cost hundreds per hour. The online services offer access, affordability, and privacy. 

    Other key benefits include:

    Convenience

    Online psychic readings are convenient. The psychic expert steps in to offer its users complete convenience and authenticity. You can get a free psychic reading via online chat, and no credit card is required no matter if you accessing the online service from anywhere in the world.

    Variety of Readers

    Psychic reading isn’t just restricted to palm or tarot readings. With the psychic expert’s recommendations, you can access multiple psychic readers, from empaths and mediums to energy readers and clairvoyants.

    ⇒ Explore the best free psychic reading services trusted by thousands around the world!

    No Pressure

    The psychic experts ensure that their users feel completely at ease when availing any of the online services. You can first test the waters with a free psychic question, and then, if you feel a connection with the reader, you can continue at your own pace.

    How Free Psychic Reading Works

    Many free psychic services, such as the ones rated and reviewed by the psychic experts, follow a similar process:

    1. The user chooses their reader (based on profile, ratings, or specialization).
    2. Then, ask a free psychic question via chat or phone.
    3. Then receive a brief but insightful reading, which is enough to decide if they would like to go further.
    4. Then the reader offers an option to continue for a fee or end the session after the free portion.

    ⇒  Chat with the best free psychics today for answers, healing, and spiritual guidance!

    What Makes a Great Free Psychic Reading Site in 2025?

    The psychic experts don’t claim to be a great psychic reading website for no reason. There are many standards that it follows to ensure that the users are 100% satisfied with the services.

    The psychic experts vet their psychics via multi-step background and skill evaluations. The higher they score, the higher they are rated. Genuine reviews also help them identify the psychics who truly deliver versus those who just talk. Specializations, such as love psychics, energy healers, astrologers, and tarot experts, are all represented individually. And lastly, no credit card is required for the first reading. Users can simply get a free psychic reading online chat with no credit card, which reduces inconvenience and friction and increases trust in the psychic experts.

    Here are some of the most common psychic reading services at the-psychic-experts.com.

    Love Life On The Rocks? Try a Free Psychic Love Reading

    Many people arrive at the psychic experts, unsure about the idea whether their partner is “the one,” or sometimes they are dealing with a breakup, or wondering about future compatibility. Free psychic love readings offer a non-judgmental insight in these matters. 

    ⇒  Unlock love insights with a free psychic love reading from trusted advisors!

    Get Answers with Just a Name or Birth Date

    Some platforms on the psychic experts even offer free psychic readings by date of birth and time, or just your name and one question. These readings heavily lean on astrology or numerology, and they are also perfect for long-term clarity. However, it doesn’t always result in immediate answers.

    Free psychic readings by date of birth and time are best for:

    • Major life decisions
    • Birth chart readings
    • Career mapping
    • Family patterns
    • Generational healing.

    Many users come to the psychic experts with questions like:

    • “Will I find love this year?”
    • “Is my ex thinking about me?”
    • “Should I change careers now or should I wait?”
    • “What is blocking my happiness?”
    • “What’s my purpose in life?”

    … and so many other questions like these.

    ⇒ Start a free psychic chat and connect instantly with gifted advisors online!

    Common Questions Regarding Free Psychic Reading Online Chats

    Users of the psychic experts are as curious about the free psychic reading services as they are about their future. Here is a breakdown of some of the most commonly asked questions about free psychic reading online chats.

    1. What Happens During a Free Psychic Reading Online Chat?

    During free psychic readings via chat, readers offer complete discretion and instant access, which means that you can enter a live chat session with a psychic with your questions in mind, and enjoy a few free minutes to explore their commitment and connection before paying for their services.

    During a free psychic chat session:

    • You’ll be asked to provide your name and birth details (possibly).
    • The psychic will then begin tuning into your energy.
    • You can type your question in the chat box.
    • Responses come in real-time
    • However, you can always request clarification as needed.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question and get quick, honest answers!

    2. Can You Trust a Free Psychic?

    Many people are skeptical about psychic readings. However, the skepticism stems from a lack of knowledge or misunderstanding. It is important to understand that not all psychic platforms operate with integrity. This is precisely why the psychic experts exist. They test, compare, and rank psychic services so that you don’t have to risk your time or emotions to fraudulent psychic readers.

    The readers at The-Psychic-Experts.com are;

    • Transparent: Clear about what is free and what isn’t.
    • Verified: Authentic user feedback verifies genuine profiles.
    • Screened: Vetted for experience and accuracy.
    • Guaranteed: Offer money-back or satisfaction guarantees.

    3. Can I Get a Free Psychic Love Reading?

    Yes, you can get a free psychic love reading.

    One of the most in-demand categories of online psychic reading services is free psychic love reading. Psychics in this field of specialization can offer:

    • Insights about your current relationship
    • Whether you should stay or move on
    • Energy readings and knowledge about your romantic compatibility
    • Predictions about any future romantic encounters

    Many users begin with a fun and free psychic love reading. Which then goes on to become regular clients due to the commitment, value, and exceptional knowledge they receive.

    ⇒ Start a free psychic love reading and understand your emotional journey!

    What to Expect During Your First Free Psychic Reading

    Your first free psychic reading (or online psychic reading) can be overwhelming, curious, and exciting. 

    People have claimed that during their first free psychic reading session, they had a million thoughts running through their minds. 

    Here’s something we need to tell you: A psychic reading goes extremely well when you’re well-prepared. It can feel like a thoughtful, soul-searching, heart-to-heart conversation. And it will surely leave you feeling much lighter, more self-aware, and in control of your life.

    To reduce your nervousness, here are all the things that you can expect from your first free psychic reading, no matter if it is in-person or online.

    ⇒ Free psychic chat available now with accurate, real-time responses!

    The Atmosphere and Energy

    Whether it’s in person, over the phone, or via chat, the ambiance matters. 

    Psychics usually begin by helping you feel comfortable. They will ask for your name and birthdate, and then begin with a short grounding ritual. 

    Some will also explain how this whole process works, whether it’s through tarot, clairvoyance, mediumship, or energy reading.

    Don’t worry. You’re not expected to say much at the beginning. Just be present for the reading and receptive to its knowledge. A cold reading is where the psychic has no prior info about you, and it can be especially powerful in validating the psychic’s skills. 

    You might even come to know things that seem oddly specific or feel extremely personal.

    What You Want to Hear

    A psychic will never tell you what you want to hear. Rather, they will tell you what is true and specific. Their role is not to hide the truth from you or to sugarcoat, but rather to convey messages or insights that they receive from the physical realm, even if those truths are difficult. 

    No, that doesn’t mean they’ll predict doom for you. Reputable psychics mostly focus on the good things, such as healing. They may gently guide you toward an uncomfortable realization or a hard truth, but they will also provide guidance and strength to face it.

    Psychics can also confirm things you’ve felt but couldn’t articulate. This spiritual validation can be life-changing and is one of the reasons why people go to psychics for readings.

    ⇒ Chat live with the best free psychics and ask anything you want!

    Different Types of Free Psychic Readings: Which One Is Right for You?

    There are different styles of psychic readings, and no two of them work the same way. Choosing the right type of reading depends on what you’re seeking.

    1. Tarot Card Reading

    Tarot is one of the most common reading tools that psychics use. Here is what happens in this reading; the deck is filled with symbolic cards that look into your subconscious and spiritual energy. Then, a tarot reader will use spreads like the Celtic Cross or Three-Card Spread to gain even more insight into questions like love, finances, or your life’s purpose.

    Tarot reading is less about “fortune-telling” and more about identifying patterns and paths towards which your life is headed.

    2. Love Readings

    Love readings focus on love, and specifically on matters of the heart. These could be romantic relationships, soul mates, and breakups, etc. During love readings, users sometimes want to know if their current partner is “the one,” or whether their ex still have feelings for them, or what hurdles are preventing them from finding love.

    A love psychic will look into the energy between two people and read patterns even if one of them isn’t physically present. You can also avail of love reading services online for free at the-psychic-experts.com.

    ⇒ Get a love-focused free psychic reading and make better choices

    3. Mediumship

    Mediumship is another type of psychic reading in which mediums connect with spirits. 

    For example, if a person or an online user has lost a loved one and is looking for closure or a sign from the other side, a medium will help them bridge that gap. They can convey messages from the other side and thus bring peace, closure, or comfort to their client.

    Not all psychics are mediums. And many of them claim to be mediums but are actually not. So make sure that you are choosing someone with this specific gift if that’s your goal.

    4. Past Life Readings

    Many people feel a strong connection to a place, era, or person. This is where past life readings come into play. A past life psychic reading delves into the idea that our souls may have lived multiple times before and that past experiences resurface to influence us today.

    These psychic readings can be insightful for the curious mind. Especially if a person is struggling with repetitive patterns, or unexplainable fears, or deep soul connections.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question now and explore new possibilities

    5. Dream Interpretation

    Dream interpretation is also an important psychic reading, as dreams and nightmares often plague the sleep of people. Psychics believe that dreams are the soul’s way of processing information from both this world and beyond it. 

    These psychics can decode the symbolic language of dreams and thus reveal hidden messages, suppressed emotions, or spiritual messages.

    What NOT to Do During a Free Psychic Reading

    Free psychic readings are meant to be emotional and even life-changing. But it has rules, and there are things that you should not do. If you don’t show up with the right mindset, the readings will not go well. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a skeptic or a believer; your energy and behavior matter a lot during a reading.

    So, before you hop on a call, book a one-on-one session, or choose a free online psychic reading via chat, here are a few common mistakes that you should avoid if you don’t want to disturb your psychic reading session.

    ⇒ Try a free psychic reading and see what’s coming next in life!

    1. Forgetting To Skip the Recording

    If you think that you’ll remember everything a psychic tells you, then you are wrong. Especially if it’s an emotional session. Psychic readings can often involve many insights, revelations, and moments that can leave you stunned or distracted. 

    This is why it’s not only smart but also very important to record your session. Whether you are taking a psychic reading on your phone, a chat, or during a physical session, keep a voice recorder or even handwritten notes to record everything.

    Most professional psychics allow recording (in fact, many encourage it). Recordings will give you the chance to revisit the reading with a fresh mindset. You might catch details that you didn’t fully accept the first time, or connect dots, or a message with something you later discover to be true. 

    However, always ask for permission from your psychic before recording. It’s respectful and sets up mutual trust between both parties.

    ⇒ Get Clarity Now – Ask a Free Psychic Question Instantly!

    2. Don’t Try to “Trick” the Psychic

    People who come to psychics with a skeptical mindset try to test the psychic by feeding them false information, or they also try to withhold details just to “see what they say.” 

    While it’s natural to be on guard and feel cautious, especially when the reading is free, at least don’t try to outsmart or mislead a psychic for the following reasons.

    First, you’re not giving an authentic energy to begin with. They cannot read that. Most psychics work in collaboration with your energy field, and not just guess facts about your life. So, if you block that energy, the session will become confusing for both of you. 

    Second, some mediums work with spiritual guides or spirits. And they will definitely call you out. Which will lead to disagreement between the reader and the client. 

    And lastly, it’s just a waste of time. If you’re going to lie during a reading, then don’t go. Only honesty leads to clarity in this case.

    ⇒  Start your free psychic reading today and receive instant clarity!

    3. Don’t Show Up Under the Influence

    It doesn’t matter if you’re feeling nervous or just got back from a happy hour; showing up intoxicated to a psychic reading is not the right way to do this. 

    Alcohol or drugs will alter your emotional and energetic state, and thus, make it extremely hard for a psychic to read your energies and spiritual connections easily. But that’s not all. It will also affect your ability to focus, you will have difficulty remembering details, and won’t be able to respond to the information that is being shared by the reader.

    Plus, some psychics will even outright refuse to read a person who seems to be inebriated. Which makes sense, because it’s unprofessional and it can derail the whole experience of psychic reading.

    4. Don’t Dictate the Session

    If you’ve booked a free psychic reading to figure out your love life or professional career, then you will have questions and intentions. However, always keep in mind that you should never micromanage the psychic reader or their session, or refuse to accept or shut down anything that doesn’t fit your opinions and beliefs.

    Psychics receive messages or impressions all the time, and they go beyond the specific issue that you walked in with. Sometimes, these are the very unexpected messages that can prove to be more relevant or urgent than the task at hand. So if you try to dictate the reading into one topic, you will definitely miss out on important guidance that your intuition, a spiritual source, or the reader is trying to deliver.

    ⇒ Ask a free psychic question and receive support from real, compassionate advisors!

    5. Don’t Do a Group Reading If You Want It to Be All About You

    Group readings are the perfect way to destroy your personal reading. 

    Yes, bringing a friend along for moral support is good, but not during a psychic reading. It is something you must do alone. Group readings shift the focus away from you, because someone else’s energy or spirit connection can be stronger in the moment or interfere with yours. Psychics can’t control, most of the time, which messages come through the loudest. Which is why your friend might get all the answers, while yours go unnoticed.

    If your goal is to get personal clarity or closure with a psychic reader, book a solo reading. In this way, the psychic will concentrate fully on your energy and concerns rather than someone else’s. 

    ⇒  Get the answers you seek through free psychic chat and real insights!

    6. Don’t Be Rude, Late, or Distracted

    All of these things are against professionalism. Basic manners apply in the psychic world too, because a reading is a professional service, even if it’s free. It should be approached with the same level of respect that you’d give to any other personal appointment. Which is why;

    • Show up on time 
    • Give a heads-up if you’re running late
    • Silence your phone
    • Only record with permission 
    • Don’t argue about prices, even if you are just there for a free intro session
    • Treat the psychic with respect.

    When you show respect and gratitude, you will receive it too, as well as have a mutually positive experience. 

    ⇒ Find the best free psychics here and choose from top-rated advisors!

    7. Don’t Expect Exact Timelines or Life-Altering Predictions

    One major misconception about psychic readings is that they will change your life dramatically, or work like a crystal-clear map. In reality, readings are fluid, symbolic, and most often, open to interpretation. 

    The predictions that psychics will make might also be metaphorical. Other predications may play out over months or even years. All this is to tell you that psychic insights are not guaranteed; they’re more like nudges.

    This is why you should not demand guaranteed answers from psychics. They cannot tell you the exact date you will get married or win the lottery. That’s not how it works. Instead, stay open to the signs that emerge and reflect throughout your journey.

    8. Don’t Get Hung Up on One Thing You Don’t Like

    If the psychic says something that you don’t like or feel uncomfortable with, it’s fine to question it. However, what you must not do is dismiss the entire session based on one detail you hung up on and didn’t like. Sometimes, the messages that these psychic readers will tell you will take time to make sense. And in some cases, uncomfortable truths will also be revealed, because they are exactly what you need to hear.

    A good psychic will never hide things from you, but they also won’t send you into misery and disappointment. If you find yourself resisting one specific point, think about it, take a deep breath, and reflect later. 

    ⇒ Ask a psychic question for free and receive guidance instantly!

    9. Don’t Be Scared Or Nervous 

    The key to getting maximum clarity with psychics is to ask with confidence. 

    Psychics will perform readings that reflect innate human need, as they seek clarity without commitment, especially when it comes to deeply personal matters. 

    So, whether you’re asking about love, finances, health, or career, craft your question well, and you will see how it shapes the clarity and accuracy of the answer you receive.

    Be specific but open, and instead of asking “Will I be happy?” try asking, “What should I focus on to achieve happiness?” Similarly, avoid Yes/No questions, because open-ended questions will lead to even more comprehensive insights.

    Many psychics offer a free psychic reading by date of birth and time, which provides deeper astrological accuracy, but whatever you have in mind, have realistic expectations, because psychics only guide, and not dictate, your destiny.

    ⇒ Start a real-time free psychic live chat and gain valuable perspective!

    10. How to Choose the Right Psychic for You

    Finding the right psychic reader is very easy, thanks to resourceful content present on the psychic experts, such as;

    • Star Ratings and Reviews: You must look for 4.5+ stars and feedback.
    • Specialty Tags: For example, love psychic, medium, or tarot expert. Their specialty must match your needs.
    • Intro Videos: A short video can help you “meet” your psychic before booking.
    • Trust Your Gut: if a psychic’s tone or wording doesn’t match your vibe, move on.
    • Use the Free Minutes Wisely: Your trial time is precious. Don’t waste it with small talk. Move straight to your main question.

    11. How to Spot a Fake Psychic

    Unfortunately, not everyone in the psychic world is genuinely ethical. Many psychic readers aren’t even psychics – they take advantage of vulnerable people by making fake promises or forcing them to buy expensive add-ons (like curse removals). 

    Here are some red flags present in all fake psychics:

    • They guarantee 100% accuracy
    • They ask leading/fishing questions
    • They claim you’re cursed and ask for money to remove it
    • They pressure you into buying more sessions

    If you spot such a psychic, don’t believe a word they say. Instead, stick to reputable platforms, such as the psychic experts, with verified reviews and satisfied users.

    ⇒  Get started with a free psychic reading and explore your destiny today!

    Final Thoughts

    A free psychic reading can help you with matters of this world or the next, whether it is love life, career choices, or grief resolution. Platforms like the psychic experts allow users to safely explore spiritual wisdom without any risks, as there are trusted psychics, verified reviews, and no pressure to pay until you’re 100% satisfied.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are free psychic readings really free?

    Yes, many top-rated platforms, such as the-psychic-experts.com, may offer a few minutes free for your online psychic readings on chat or call. These minutes are enough to help you decide if the psychic is right for you.

    What is the best way to ask a psychic a question?

    Ask open-ended questions and be receptive to their guidance on love, career, and personal growth. The more detailed your question is, the better the reader will provide an answer.

    Can I get a free psychic reading by date of birth and time?

    Of course! Many psychic readers use date of birth and time as well as astrology as a tool to offer you insights about your life. Always provide correct birth information for accurate answers.

    Are free psychic readings online really accurate?

    Yes, they can be. The accuracy depends on the psychic’s skill and your openness. Free minutes are a great way to test an advisor’s style and abilities. The accuracy of free online psychic readings depends on the psychic’s ability and your willingness to cooperate and coordinate with them. Top-rated platforms like the-psychic-experts.com tend to feature the most genuine and insightful psychic readers for accurate readings.

    How long do free psychic chat sessions usually last?

    Most platforms offer between 3 and 10 free minutes. This is often enough to ask one or two questions and get a feel for the reader.

    Do I need a credit card for a free psychic chat?

    Some platforms do not require a credit card for the free portion, while others may request it for verification. Always read the terms before signing up.

    Can I ask anything during a free psychic reading online?

    Yes. You can ask about love, career, family, health, or spiritual paths. Just be mindful that time is limited during the free session.

    Is free psychic chat safe and confidential?

    Reputable platforms use secure technology and keep chats private. Be sure to choose a trusted site with good reviews and a clear privacy policy.

    Is a free psychic reading better via phone or chat?

    Honestly, it depends on your preference. If you want a psychic reading via chat, it will offer discretion, but on the other hand, phone readings offer verbal clarity and a better energy connection.

    Media Contact

    Company: The Psychic Experts

    Contact Person: Anthony C. Bedoya

    Email: support@the-psychic-experts.com

    Address: 1 Fremont St, Las Vegas, NV 89101, USA

    URL: https://the-psychic-experts.com/

    Phone: +1 414-203-2598

    Content Accuracy Disclaimer
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    It is the responsibility of the reader to verify product information directly through the official website or manufacturer prior to making a purchasing decision. Any reliance placed on the information in this article is done strictly at your own risk.
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    All product reviews and descriptions reflect the author’s honest opinion based on available public data, user feedback, and scientific references at the time of writing. The inclusion of affiliate links does not influence the objectivity or integrity of the content. However, readers are encouraged to independently verify product information and consult with healthcare professionals prior to purchase or use.
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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Department of State Press Briefing – May 6, 2025 – 2:00 PM

    Source: United States of America – Department of State (video statements)

    Spokesperson Tammy Bruce leads the Department Press Briefing, at the Department of State, on May 6, 2025.

    ———-
    Under the leadership of the President and Secretary of State, the U.S. Department of State leads America’s foreign policy through diplomacy, advocacy, and assistance by advancing the interests of the American people, their safety and economic prosperity. On behalf of the American people we promote and demonstrate democratic values and advance a free, peaceful, and prosperous world.

    The Secretary of State, appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate, is the President’s chief foreign affairs adviser. The Secretary carries out the President’s foreign policies through the State Department, which includes the Foreign Service, Civil Service and U.S. Agency for International Development.

    Get updates from the U.S. Department of State at www.state.gov and on social media!
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/statedept
    X: https://x.com/StateDept
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statedept
    Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/statephotos/

    Subscribe to the State Department Blog: https://www.state.gov/blogs
    Watch on-demand State Department videos: https://video.state.gov/
    Subscribe to The Week at State e-newsletter: https://www.state.gov/department-email-updates/

    State Department website: https://www.state.gov/
    Careers website: https://careers.state.gov/
    White House website: https://www.whitehouse.gov/
    Terms of Use: https://state.gov/tou

    #StateDepartment #DepartmentofState #Diplomacy

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=odVtaAVe2FE

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Cambridge Growth Company have appointed Buro Happold, Prior + Partners and other technical experts to develop a growth strategy for Greater Cambridge

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    The Cambridge Growth Company have appointed Buro Happold, Prior + Partners and other technical experts to develop a growth strategy for Greater Cambridge

    The Cambridge Growth Company (CGC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Buro Happold, Prior + Partners and others to prepare a vision, supported by a robust evidence base that will underpin a long-term growth strategy for Greater Cambridge.

    Published on behalf of the Cambridge Growth Company

    CGC will work collaboratively with locally elected leaders and the Mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. It will also access support from a number of government departments where required, to pursue infrastructure-led growth.

    This appointment marks a significant step towards shaping a sustainable and strategic future for the Greater Cambridge region working in parallel with but extending over a longer period than the emerging Local Plan. The Local Plan is being developed by the Greater Cambridge Shared Planning Service representing Cambridge City Council and South Cambridgeshire District Council.

    The development of the evidence base has commenced as a first step in defining a vision for the future of Greater Cambridge that is sustainable, inclusive and innovative. By drawing on insights into the knowledge economy, infrastructure, housing, employment, transport, and the natural environment, the evidence base will act as a foundation for identifying challenges and opportunities, policy development and a future spatial strategy. Key areas of focus will be overcoming transport congestion and water scarcity.

    CGC is based in the city and has already commenced recruitment for a number of additional executive roles within the company to build its capacity and expertise over the coming months. These roles will be advertised locally in coming weeks.

    Buro Happold – Integrated consulting engineers and advisors is a globally recognised consultancy specialising in strategic planning, economics, infrastructure, design, engineering, environment and sustainability and strategic advisory services. With a strong track record in delivering large-scale city strategies, new communities and urban transformation projects.

    Buro Happold leads the team to shape the evidence base, strategy and implementation plan. Their contributions will ensure that the evidence base is grounded in data-driven insights, technical analysis and best practices for sustainable growth.

    Roger Savage, Project Director said:

    We look forward to working with local partners on addressing the challenges of the area. In developing the evidence base for the Growth Company we will consider ways which planning for growth can deliver a quality of life dividend for existing and future communities through investment in the environment and infrastructure.

    Prior + Partners is an acclaimed urban planning, masterplanning and economic consultancy known for its role in shaping major urban regeneration and expansion projects. Their experience in spatial planning, placemaking, data analytics and policy advisory will be instrumental in aligning the evidence base with Greater Cambridge’s unique needs, ensuring that growth is managed effectively and equitably.

    They will be supported by a multidisciplinary team with technical expertise and local knowledge, including BNP Paribas Real Estate, CBA, LUC, Peter Studdert, Turner and Townsend and Womble, and Bond Dickinson.

    By partnering with these leading experts in urban strategy and infrastructure planning, the Cambridge Growth Company is laying the groundwork to help Greater Cambridge realise its full potential.

    For further information please refer to CGC’s new website – www.thecgc.org.uk.

    Note to editors

    Cambridge Growth Company

    The Minister of State for Housing and Planning, Matthew Pennycook MP appointed Peter Freeman to chair the Cambridge Growth Company in October 2024. The government then committed £10 million to the CGC at the 2024 Autumn Statement.

    The CGC’s mission is to support Greater Cambridge in the creation of a delivery programme to bring forward an ambitious vision for long term growth. This vision will maximise the potential for the benefit of the city and the UK through enabling further growth of Cambridge’s knowledge and innovation industries.

    The CGC, which is supported by an Advisory Council consisting of elected local leaders and a range of local experts, will work with local government to establish the best long-term business model to fund infrastructural improvements — water supplies, the transport network, education, health, and the natural environment, ensuring that as much as possible is delivered from the increase in the land value of the sites to be developed.

    The intention is that the CGC in its current form transitions into a growth and delivery vehicle that has the capacity and capability to take a long-term approach to delivery.

    Updates to this page

    Published 6 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Meeting on the development of airfield and airport infrastructure

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The airfield is equipped with one of the best runways in Russia, which was put into operation in July 2011.

    The airport complex consists of two passenger terminals: for domestic and international flights, and separate terminals for domestic and international flights.

    Passenger traffic in 2024 amounted to more than 5 million passengers. The airport is developing dynamically, paying great attention to the modernization of the airport infrastructure. The capacity of the airport of JSC Mineralnye Vody International Airport today is 240 flights per day, on domestic flights – 1,650 people per hour, on international flights – 240 people per hour.

    The geography of flights from Mineralnye Vody includes about 70 destinations, of which more than 20 are foreign.

    The construction, reconstruction and technical re-equipment of the Mineralnye Vody International Airport have been ongoing since 2019. The deadlines are 2019–2028, and the work is carried out in three stages (Stage I – 2019, Stage II – 2023–2025, Stage III – 2026–2028).

    In 2019, the Mineralnye Vody International Airport underwent reconstruction of the airport complex, including the expansion of the arrival pavilions for domestic and international airlines with a built-in pavilion for those meeting them, including the technical re-equipment of the air checkpoint across the state border of Russia.

    As part of the reconstruction, two two-story buildings of the arrival pavilions for domestic and international airlines were combined; their total area was 8,577.7 sq. m. Two elevators for passengers with limited mobility, high-tech baggage systems, and two additional border passport control booths were installed.

    During the second stage in 2023–2025, a new domestic terminal with an area of 28,506 sq. m. will be built. The new terminal will increase the capacity to 3,120 passengers per hour (currently 1,050 passengers per hour), and the total annual volume will be over 5.2 million passengers (international and domestic airlines). The terminal will be equipped with modern high-tech passenger and baggage handling systems, including 28 check-in counters, 6 passport control points, 11 boarding gates, including 5 air bridges. It is planned to expand the station square with a parking lot, the first access line to the terminal and landscaping.

    At the moment, work on the installation of the roof, facade, engineering systems, and external engineering networks is in the final stages.

    Work is being carried out on finishing the premises, installing engineering and technological equipment, and improving the adjacent territory.

    Earthworks, work on the installation of reinforced concrete and metal structures, vertical transport, and external engineering infrastructure structures have been fully completed.

    Mikhail Mishustin held a meeting on the development of airfield and airport infrastructure

    From the transcript:

    M. Mishustin: Good afternoon, dear colleagues!

    The President set the task of modernizing the infrastructure of at least 75 airports across Russia by 2030. Today, as we open this terminal, we will discuss in detail how this task is being accomplished.

    Well-equipped, convenient air harbors are necessary to strengthen the connectivity of the territories of our large country, increase the availability of flights for citizens and, of course, develop the economy of the subjects of the Federation. Last year, the reconstruction of runways in Kemerovo and Tomsk was completed, seven airport complexes were opened, and since the beginning of this year, three new terminals have been put into operation in Novokuznetsk, Tyumen, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky.

    The government pays special attention to such issues. During previous working trips, I personally saw how the construction of the airport in Magadan was proceeding, and I familiarized myself with the plans in Khabarovsk, Novosibirsk, and Gorno-Altaisk.

    We have just inspected the new terminal of the international airport here in Mineralnye Vody. It will soon begin to welcome guests and will provide a modern level of comfort for both residents and guests of the region, which is very important given that in recent years the passenger flow of this air harbor has almost tripled. After all, domestic tourism is growing, people are increasingly choosing the North Caucasus for vacation. Both Mineralnye Vody and nearby cities such as Pyatigorsk, Yessentuki, Kislovodsk have historically been very popular destinations. And we need to make trips to such centers of attraction more convenient for tourists.

    Work is also continuing in other Russian regions, primarily within the framework of the new national project “Efficient Transport System”. It includes a separate federal project – “Development of the Support Network of Airfields”…

    To be continued…

    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 USA: U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, March 2025

    Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis

    The U.S. Census Bureau and the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis announced today that the goods and services deficit was $140.5 billion in March, up $17.3 billion from $123.2 billion in February, revised.

    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services Deficit
    Deficit: $140.5 Billion +14.0%°
    Exports: $278.5 Billion +0.2%°
    Imports: $419.0 Billion +4.4%°

    Next release: Thursday, June 5, 2025

    (°) Statistical significance is not applicable or not measurable. Data adjusted for seasonality but not price changes

    Source: U.S. Census Bureau, U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis; U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, May 6, 2025

    Exports, Imports, and Balance (exhibit 1)

    March exports were $278.5 billion, $0.5 billion more than February exports. March imports were $419.0 billion, $17.8 billion more than February imports.

    The March increase in the goods and services deficit reflected an increase in the goods deficit of $16.5 billion to $163.5 billion and a decrease in the services surplus of $0.8 billion to $23.0 billion.

    Year-to-date, the goods and services deficit increased $189.6 billion, or 92.6 percent, from the same period in 2024. Exports increased $41.1 billion or 5.2 percent. Imports increased $230.7 billion or 23.3 percent.

    Three-Month Moving Averages (exhibit 2)

    The average goods and services deficit increased $14.1 billion to $131.4 billion for the three months ending in March.

    • Average exports increased $4.0 billion to $275.7 billion in March.
    • Average imports increased $18.1 billion to $407.1 billion in March.

    Year-over-year, the average goods and services deficit increased $63.2 billion from the three months ending in March 2024.

    • Average exports increased $13.7 billion from March 2024.
    • Average imports increased $76.9 billion from March 2024.

    Exports (exhibits 3, 6, and 7)

    Exports of goods increased $1.3 billion to $183.2 billion in March.

      Exports of goods on a Census basis increased $2.5 billion.

    • Industrial supplies and materials increased $2.2 billion.
      • Natural gas increased $0.8 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold increased $0.7 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $1.2 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $0.9 billion.
    • Capital goods decreased $1.5 billion.
      • Civilian aircraft decreased $1.8 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $0.7 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased $1.2 billion.

    Exports of services decreased $0.9 billion to $95.2 billion in March.

    • Travel decreased $1.3 billion.
    • Transport increased $0.3 billion.
    • Financial services increased $0.2 billion.

    Imports (exhibits 4, 6, and 8)

    Imports of goods increased $17.8 billion to $346.8 billion in March.

      Imports of goods on a Census basis increased $17.8 billion.

    • Consumer goods increased $22.5 billion.
      • Pharmaceutical preparations increased $20.9 billion.
    • Capital goods increased $3.7 billion.
      • Computer accessories increased $2.0 billion.
    • Automotive vehicles, parts, and engines increased $2.6 billion.
      • Passenger cars increased $2.1 billion.
    • Industrial supplies and materials decreased $10.7 billion.
      • Finished metal shapes decreased $10.3 billion.
      • Nonmonetary gold decreased $1.8 billion.
      • Crude oil decreased $1.2 billion.

      Net balance of payments adjustments decreased less than $0.1 billion.

    Imports of services decreased $0.1 billion to $72.2 billion in March.

    • Travel decreased $0.4 billion.
    • Transport increased $0.2 billion.

    Real Goods in 2017 Dollars – Census Basis (exhibit 11)

    The real goods deficit increased $14.0 billion, or 10.2 percent, to $150.9 billion in March, compared to a 10.3 percent increase in the nominal deficit.

    • Real exports of goods increased $2.4 billion, or 1.6 percent, to $149.7 billion, compared to a 1.4 percent increase in nominal exports.
    • Real imports of goods increased $16.4 billion, or 5.8 percent, to $300.6 billion, compared to a 5.5 percent increase in nominal imports.

    Revisions

    Revisions to February exports

    • Exports of goods were revised down less than $0.1 billion.
    • Exports of services were revised down $0.4 billion.

    Revisions to February imports

    • Imports of goods were revised up less than $0.1 billion.
    • Imports of services were revised up $0.1 billion.

    Goods by Selected Countries and Areas: Monthly – Census Basis (exhibit 19)

    The March figures show surpluses, in billions of dollars, with Netherlands ($4.5), South and Central America ($3.2), Hong Kong ($1.9), United Kingdom ($1.2), Singapore ($0.5), Brazil ($0.5), and Saudi Arabia ($0.2). Deficits were recorded, in billions of dollars, with European Union ($48.3), Ireland ($29.3), China ($24.8), Mexico ($16.8), Switzerland ($14.7), Vietnam ($14.1), Taiwan ($8.7), India ($7.7), Germany ($7.5), South Korea ($6.8), Japan ($5.8), Canada ($4.9), Italy ($4.4), France ($3.9), Malaysia ($3.2), Australia ($1.0), Israel ($1.0), and Belgium ($0.1).

    • The deficit with Ireland increased $15.3 billion to $29.3 billion in March. Exports increased $0.1 billion to $1.4 billion and imports increased $15.5 billion to $30.7 billion.
    • The deficit with France increased $2.4 billion to $3.9 billion in March. Exports increased $0.1 billion to $4.0 billion and imports increased $2.6 billion to $7.9 billion.
    • The deficit with Switzerland decreased $4.1 billion to $14.7 billion in March. Exports increased $1.1 billion to $3.5 billion and imports decreased $3.0 billion to $18.3 billion.

    All statistics referenced are seasonally adjusted; statistics are on a balance of payments basis unless otherwise specified. Additional statistics, including not seasonally adjusted statistics and details for goods on a Census basis, are available in exhibits 1-20b of this release. For information on data sources, definitions, and revision procedures, see the explanatory notes in this release. The full release can be found at www.census.gov/foreign-trade/Press-Release/current_press_release/index.html or www.bea.gov/data/intl-trade-investment/international-trade-goods-and-services. The full schedule is available in the Census Bureau’s Economic Briefing Room at www.census.gov/economic-indicators/ or on BEA’s website at www.bea.gov/news/schedule.

    Next release: June 5, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. EDT
    U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, April 2025

    Notice

    Country Name Changes

    With this release of the “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services” report, references to “Congo (Brazzaville)” and “Congo (Kinshasa)” are replaced with “Congo” and “Democratic Republic of the Congo,” respectively, to reflect the countries’ recent name changes. These changes also align with the names recognized by the U.S. Department of State and the International Organization for Standardization.

    Impact of Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) Release of CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM)

    The CBSA introduced a new accounting system (CARM) on October 21, 2024. As a result, importers in Canada have experienced delays in filing shipment information. These delays affected the compilation of statistics on U.S. exports of goods to Canada for September 2024 through February 2025, which are derived from data compiled by Canada through the United States – Canada Data Exchange. A dollar estimate of the filing backlog is included in estimates for late receipts and, following the U.S. Census Bureau’s customary practice for late receipt estimates, is included in the export end-use category “Other goods” as well as in exports to Canada. This estimate will be replaced with the actual transactions reported by the Harmonized System classification in June 2025 with the release of “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services, Annual Revision.” Until then, please refer to the supplemental spreadsheet “CARM Exports to Canada Corrections,” which provides a breakdown of the late receipts by 1-digit end-use category for statistics through 2024. This spreadsheet will be updated as late export transactions are received to reflect reassignments from the initial “Other goods” category to the appropriate 1-digit end-use category. Any 2025 impacts will be revised in June 2026.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the Census Bureau, Economic Indicators Division, International Trade Macro Analysis Branch, on 800-549-0595, option 4, or at eid.international.trade.data@census.gov.

    Upcoming Updates to Goods and Services

    With the releases of the “U.S. International Trade in Goods and Services” report (FT-900) and the FT-900 Annual Revision on June 5, 2025, statistics on trade in goods, on both a Census basis and a balance of payments (BOP) basis, will be revised beginning with 2020 and statistics on trade in services will be revised beginning with 2018. The revised statistics for goods on a BOP basis and for services will also be included in the “U.S. International Transactions, 1st Quarter 2025 and Annual Update” report and in the international transactions interactive database, both to be released by BEA on June 24, 2025.

    Revised statistics on trade in goods will reflect:

    • Corrections and adjustments to previously published not seasonally adjusted statistics for goods on a Census basis.
    • End-use reclassifications of several commodities.
    • Recalculated seasonal and trading-day adjustments.
    • Newly available and revised source data on BOP adjustments, which are adjustments that BEA applies to goods on a Census basis to convert them to a BOP basis. See the “Goods (balance of payments basis)” section in the explanatory notes for more information.

    Revised statistics on trade in services will reflect:

    • Newly available and revised source data, primarily from BEA surveys of international services.
    • Corrections and adjustments to previously published not seasonally adjusted statistics.
    • Recalculated seasonal adjustments.
    • Revised temporal distributions of quarterly source data to monthly statistics. See the “Services” section in the explanatory notes for more information.

    For more information, see “Preview of the 2025 Annual Update of the International Economic Accounts” in the Survey of Current Business.

    If you have questions or need additional information, please contact the Census Bureau, Economic Indicators Division, International Trade Macro Analysis Branch, on (800) 549-0595, option 4, or at eid.international.trade.data@census.gov or BEA, Balance of Payments Division, at InternationalAccounts@bea.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: 3D Systems’ NextDent® Material Portfolio Addressing Broadest Set of Patient-specific Indications

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • 3D Systems’ NextDent branded dental materials have set the benchmark for quality and aesthetics, addressing the broadest set of patient-specific dental solutions in the world
    • NextDent materials form the foundation for 3D Systems’ dental ‘repair’ offerings with regulatory approvals across the US, Europe and Asia
    • Industry’s largest portfolio of dental 3D printing materials seamlessly integrates with leading dental 3D printers across the industry, enabling improved production efficiency and aesthetics, reduced labor costs, and expanded service offerings
    • 3D Systems’ solutions for the ‘repair’ market are integral to its dental strategy, as the market is expected to be worth approximately $150 million by 2029
    • 3D Systems’ Digital Dentistry Solutions are catalyzing the adoption of 3D printing — serving more than one million patients

    ROCK HILL, S.C., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 3D Systems’ (NYSE: DDD) Digital Dentistry Solutions are helping dental laboratories and clinics efficiently deliver patient-specific devices to straighten, protect, repair, and replace teeth with high precision. 3D printing combined with advanced dental materials can now provide individually customized patient solutions faster, better and at a lower cost than conventional technologies. The Company has cemented its leadership in Digital Dentistry by providing the most extensive portfolio of integrated solutions. At the core of 3D Systems’ strategy is a portfolio of NextDent® materials that are engineered to address the most comprehensive range of patient-specific indications. The Company’s deep experience and expertise — which includes nearly a century of pioneering dental material development — enables the production of custom prosthetics for the repair of teeth such as crowns and bridges that provide a precise fit, enhanced durability, and cost-effective results.

    3D Systems’ portfolio of clinically validated NextDent 3D printing resins now address more than 30 applications, including those focused on repairing teeth. This includes materials such as NextDent C&B MFH (Micro Filled Hybrid). This material has been developed for crowns and bridges, and engineered to efficiently produce strong, durable patient-specific devices. 3D Systems has also added a third-party material which shares the Company’s commitment to the highest quality standards to its portfolio to support an ever-increasing range of solutions for the ‘repair’ of teeth. In 2022, 3D Systems announced a partnership with Saremco Dental AG, and in so doing, made Saremco’s CROWNTEC™ material available for its NextDent 3D printers to produce patient-specific permanent crowns.

    3D Systems’ NextDent materials are compatible with the Company’s 3D printing technologies — NextDent 5100 and NextDent LCD1 — and are also validated to integrate with a variety of industry-leading dental 3D printers. Opening its materials portfolio to use with other renowned dental 3D printers helps lower the barrier to adoption by enabling more print solutions to capitalize on the rich legacy and expertise of the NextDent portfolio. NextDent materials for medical devices are fully biocompatible and carry all of the required regulatory clearances in many jurisdictions around the world.

    “3D Systems has been recognized for decades as an industry-leader in Digital Dentistry innovation,” said Dr. Jeffrey Graves, president & CEO, 3D Systems. “With the broadest range of technology in our industry and our strategic focus on dentistry, we are perfectly positioned to drive widespread adoption across all dental applications. Our mission is to be the leader in all aspects of dentistry, providing the highest-quality solutions to straighten, protect, repair and replace teeth for patients around the world. Our efforts in the ‘repair’ space are foundational to our business, which is deeply rooted in the rich history of the NextDent brand. Our validated 3D printing workflows featuring our industry-leading materials and empower dental labs and clinics to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and expand their service offerings, ensuring scalability and a competitive edge. Ultimately, our advanced solutions deliver better-fitting, longer-lasting, and aesthetically superior dental prosthetics, enhancing patients’ confidence and quality of life. Our continued focus on R&D enables the development of ever-improving solutions designed to rapidly meet the diverse patient needs.”

    According to internal market estimates, applications for the ‘repair’ pillar of 3D Systems’ dental strategy in the United States alone represent an approximately $150 million addressable market by 2029. The U.S. market is estimated to be roughly one-third of the total available global market. When combined with the markets for ‘straighten’ (approximately $125 million), ‘protect’ (approximately $150 million) and ‘replace’ (approximately $600 million), the U.S. Dental market represents a nearly $1 billion opportunity for the integration of 3D printing technology.

    3D Systems’ Digital Dentistry Solutions are integral to catalyzing the adoption of 3D printing — serving more than one million patients. The Company’s solutions for ‘repair’ applications include 3D printing materials, 3D printing technology (i.e., NextDent 5100, NextDent LCD1, DMP Flex 200), additive manufacturing software (i.e., 3D Sprint, 3DXpert) and deep applications expertise. For more information, please visit the Company’s website.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements made in this release that are not statements of historical or current facts are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company to be materially different from historical results or from any future results or projections expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In many cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terms such as “believes,” “belief,” “expects,” “may,” “will,” “estimates,” “intends,” “anticipates” or “plans” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Forward-looking statements are based upon management’s beliefs, assumptions, and current expectations and may include comments as to the company’s beliefs and expectations as to future events and trends affecting its business and are necessarily subject to uncertainties, many of which are outside the control of the company. The factors described under the headings “Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors” in the company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, as well as other factors, could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected or predicted in forward-looking statements. Although management believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, forward-looking statements are not, and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of future performance or results, nor will they necessarily prove to be accurate indications of the times at which such performance or results will be achieved. The forward-looking statements included are made only as of the date of the statement. 3D Systems undertakes no obligation to update or review any forward-looking statements made by management or on its behalf, whether as a result of future developments, subsequent events or circumstances or otherwise, except as required by law.

    About 3D Systems
    More than 35 years ago, Chuck Hull’s curiosity and desire to improve the way products were designed and manufactured gave birth to 3D printing, 3D Systems, and the additive manufacturing industry. Since then, that same spark continues to ignite the 3D Systems team as we work side-by-side with our customers to change the way industries innovate. As a full-service solutions partner, we deliver industry-leading 3D printing technologies, materials and software to high-value markets such as medical and dental; aerospace, space and defense; transportation and motorsports; AI infrastructure; and durable goods. Each application-specific solution is powered by the expertise and passion of our employees who endeavor to achieve our shared goal of Transforming Manufacturing for a Better Future. More information on the company is available at www.3dsystems.com.

    Investor Contact:   investor.relations@3dsystems.com
    Media Contact:      press@3dsystems.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Smackover Lithium Submits Royalty Application to Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission for South West Arkansas Project

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEWISVILLE, Ark., May 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Smackover Lithium, a Joint Venture (“JV”) between Standard Lithium Ltd. (“Standard Lithium” or the “Company”) (TSXV:SLI) (NYSE:A:SLI) and Equinor, announced that SWA Lithium LLC has submitted an application to the Arkansas Oil and Gas Commission (“AOGC”) to establish a fair and equitable lithium royalty for the Reynolds Unit for Phase I of its South West Arkansas (“SWA”) Project in Lafayette and Columbia Counties, Arkansas. The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, May 28th, 2025, at 9:00 am CDT and is to be held at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center Grand Hall at South Arkansas University (100 East University) in Magnolia, Arkansas.

    The application proposes a quarterly gross royalty of 2.5% that will be based on the total amount of lithium produced and the average FastMarkets North American Index Price for technical grade lithium carbonate, which is higher than comparable projects globally on a lithium carbonate equivalent (“LCE”) basis. The lithium royalty will be paid to brine owners in addition to the brine fee, also referred to as the “in lieu bromine royalty,” of $65.05 per acre per year, making the total proposed royalty compensation approximately 3% based on current lithium prices.

    “Working with landowners and the AOGC to establish a fair and equitable royalty is key to the SWA Project’s success,” said Standard Lithium’s CEO, David Park, “The proposed royalty generously compensates brine owners, is fair for industry, and encourages development of the Smackover resource. The royalty is only the beginning of the economic impact this project will have for South Arkansas and the rest of the state.”

    “Establishing a royalty for the SWA Project allows us to continue the path towards a final investment decision,” said Allison Kennedy Thurmond, VP for US Lithium at Equinor. “The proposed royalty rate enables capital investment, infrastructure improvements, jobs, tax revenue and brings tremendous benefits to the Smackover region.”

    For more information about the SWA Project and Smackover Lithium, please visit www.smackoverlithium.com

    About Standard Lithium Ltd.

    Standard Lithium is a leading near-commercial lithium development company focused on the sustainable development of a portfolio of large, high-grade lithium-brine properties in the United States. The Company prioritizes projects characterized by high-grade resources, robust infrastructure, skilled labor, and streamlined permitting. Standard Lithium aims to achieve sustainable, commercial-scale lithium production via the application of a scalable and fully integrated Direct Lithium Extraction (“DLE”) and purification process. The Company’s flagship projects are located in the Smackover Formation, a world-class lithium brine asset, focused in Arkansas and Texas. In partnership with global energy leader Equinor, Standard Lithium is advancing the South West Arkansas project, a greenfield project located in southern Arkansas, and actively exploring promising lithium brine prospects in East Texas. Standard Lithium also holds an interest in certain mineral leases in the Mojave Desert in San Bernardino County, California.

    Standard Lithium trades on both the TSX Venture Exchange and the NYSE American under the symbol “SLI”. Please visit the Company’s website at www.standardlithium.com.

    About Equinor

    Equinor is an international energy company committed to long-term value creation in a low-carbon future. Equinor’s portfolio of projects encompasses oil and gas, renewables and low-carbon solutions, with an ambition of becoming a net-zero energy company by 2050. Headquartered in Norway, Equinor is the leading operator on the Norwegian continental shelf and is present in around 30 countries worldwide. Equinor’s partnership with Standard Lithium to mature DLE projects builds on its broad US energy portfolio of oil and gas, offshore wind, low carbon solutions and battery storage projects.

    For more information on Equinor in the US, please visit: Equinor in the US – Equinor

    Investor and Media Inquiries

    Chris Lang
    Standard Lithium Ltd.
    +1 604 409 8154
    investors@standardlithium.com

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When used in this news release, the words “anticipate”, “believe”, “estimate”, “expect”, “target”, “plan”, “forecast”, “may”, “schedule” and other similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. These forward-looking statements or information may relate to intended development timelines, future prices of commodities, accuracy of mineral or resource exploration activity, reserves or resources, regulatory or government requirements or approvals, including approval of the royalty application submitted to the AOGC, the reliability of third party information, continued access to mineral properties or infrastructure, fluctuations in the market for lithium and its derivatives, changes in exploration costs and government regulation in Canada and the United States, and other factors or information. Such forward-looking statements represent the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Mark Carney in Washington: His visit with Trump kicks off high-wire politics in Canada

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Thomas Klassen, Professor, School of Public Policy and Administration, York University, Canada

    Prime Minister Mark Carney is headed to Washington, D.C., for a high-stakes meeting with Donald Trump as the American president continues his trade war and annexation threats against Canada.

    “We are meeting as heads of our government,” Carney said at a news conference late last week. “I am not pretending those discussions will be easy.”

    The White House visit comes just a week after Carney led the Liberals to their fourth consecutive election victory.

    It was a result that, at first blush, allowed each party to claim that it won, or at least that it did not totally lose. That sets up a Parliamentary session that will feature several interesting dynamics.

    The Conservatives under Pierre Poilievre won several more seats than in 2021 and their highest share of the national vote in decades, though Poilievre himself lost his seat.



    Read more:
    Canada’s Conservatives, with an assist from Donald Trump, are down — but they’re far from out

    The NDP under an outgoing Jagmeet Singh managed to hold onto the balance of power in the upcoming minority Parliament for a third consecutive time. Elizabeth May continues to represent the Green Party in the House of Commons. Yves-François Blanchet kept the Bloc Québécois relevant for voters in Québec.

    Even Justin Trudeau, no longer in politics, won — his legacy is not in the gutter due to a predicted Conservative majority win that never materialized once Carney replaced him.

    But in the coming weeks and months, the leaders and their parties face difficult circumstances that could turn them into losers — most importantly, how Carney manages the relationship with Trump.

    The role of Trump

    Carney and the Liberals capitalized on exceptional
    circumstances     driven by Donald Trump’s trade war and threats to make Canada the 51st state. Winning four consecutive elections is a rare feat for any political party in Canada.
    But Carney cannot count on fortune continuing to smile upon him. He must now manage a party within which he has little history and few favours to call in — a party that he has dragged from centre-left under Trudeau to centre-right.

    The new prime minister will have to rely on aides and advisers to a much greater extent than all former office-holders who had years or decades of experience in the political area, including the House of Commons. At the same time, he will have to demonstrate to Canadians that he is in charge and makes the final decisions.

    Invariably, there will be Liberal missteps in the weeks ahead: ethical lapses for some MPs, ministerial appointments that go awry and disappointment among those not appointed to cabinet. Because Carney has been prime minister for less than two months, the upcoming Speech from the Throne on May 27 — to be delivered by King Charles — that sets the government’s goals is shrouded in mystery.

    Beyond Ottawa, premiers from several different political parties — each with their own agenda — await Carney. South of the border, the unpredictable Trump, with his infuriating rhetoric and disruptive actions, is in office for another three-and-half-years.

    As a newcomer to politics elected on his first attempt to the country’s highest political office, Carney could have at least have one topic of conversation in common with Trump when they meet on Tuesday. Trump too was a political outsider who catapulted into office on his first attempt. The two may find some bond in their shared experience.

    The greatest danger for Carney is not from Trump’s rhetoric but from broader economic conditions. He ran for office on the promise of being able to manage economic turmoil. But politicians of any stripe have little control in a global economic slump or an all-out tariff war. If unemployment, inflation or the cost-of-living tick upward, Carney will quickly lose his lustre among many Canadians.

    The new Parliament

    For the Conservatives, Poilievre’s leadership will continue to weigh on the party in the weeks and months ahead. Losing his Ottawa seat weakens his claim to stay on as leader. He now needs to win a byelection in Alberta triggered by the resignation of Conservative MP Damien Kurek.

    The worst outcome for the party is years of infighting between those who support giving Poilievre one more chance and those who believe that 2025 is the best the party can do under his leadership.

    The best outcome is for Poilievre to become a bridge-builder within the party and to Conservatives across Canada, and to rebrand himself to be more palatable to Canadian voters. This will not be easy and he hasn’t shown much inclination to do so.

    The NDP’s Singh has already announced his resignation and accepted responsibility for the party electing only seven MPs. A period of soul-searching leading to a leadership contest has already started. The loss of seats, and returning to Ottawa with an interim leader, lessens the voice of the party in political discourse. If a new leader is elected who is not an MP, the party will be further hampered.

    The Greens remain in the House of Commons, but as a party of one. The jury continues is out on whether the party can exist without its leader, Elizabeth May, who has said she wouldn’t rule out joining Carney’s cabinet.

    Blanchet returns to Ottawa with fewer Bloc MPs and a murky mission. He had hoped that the Bloc would hold the balance of power once the votes were counted, but was foiled by the NDP. He has already faced criticism from his own supporters when he promised to collaborate with other parties in Ottawa to secure Canada’s economic future.

    Beginning with Carney’s handling of Trump this week, how skilfully each party, and leader, performs its distinct high-wire act in the next few months will determine the ultimate winners and losers. The show is about to begin.

    Thomas Klassen 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. Mark Carney in Washington: His visit with Trump kicks off high-wire politics in Canada – https://theconversation.com/mark-carney-in-washington-his-visit-with-trump-kicks-off-high-wire-politics-in-canada-255675

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The timeless appeal of We’ll Meet Again underscores people’s need for sentimentality

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Clare V. Church, Fellow of the Institute of Historical Research, School of Advanced Study, University of London

    It begins with just a few gentle flourishes from the orchestra before the honey-voiced singer launches into the chorus. Her words are instantly familiar to listeners, who sing along without having to search for the lyrics on their smartphones or strain their voices to remain in key. The song’s simplicity is its boon and its enduring message of softness and sentimentality its raison d’être.

    More than 85 years after its release, We’ll Meet Again – made famous by singer Vera Lynn – continues to resonate with listeners, whether they experienced the second world war or not. In fact, as we head into the 80th anniversary of the war’s end, it is one song that is sure to be at the top of all British commemorative playlists.

    While embarking on this next year of remembrance, it is important to question why this song echoes so resoundingly across time and space. Why is it that, after all these years, we continue to meet We’ll Meet Again again, and again and again?

    Looking for something good? Cut through the noise with a carefully curated selection of the latest releases, live events and exhibitions, straight to your inbox every fortnight, on Fridays. Sign up here.

    Written by Ross Parker and Hughie Charles, We’ll Meet Again was first recoded by Lynn in 1939. Its chorus is as follows:

    We’ll meet again, don’t know where, don’t know when, but I’ll know we’ll meet again some sunny day.

    Keep smiling through, just like you, always do, ‘til the blue skies chase those dark clouds far away.

    In the early war, Lynn performed the song – as well as other wistful tunes – at palladiums across the country and over the radio. She gained a reputation as a “sweet singer of sweet songs” and was soon after bestowed the moniker “the Forces’ sweetheart”.

    By 1941, Lynn hosted her own BBC radio show named Sincerely Yours, described by Radio Times as a “letter in words and music” to fighting men. After reading messages from munitions girls to their husbands and congratulations to new fathers in the military, Lynn signed off the show crooning We’ll Meet Again, authenticating the song as her signature.

    Throughout the remainder of the war, she performed the song over the radio and in film (including in the fittingly titled We’ll Meet Again in 1943) as well as in concerts as far afield as Myanmar.

    Vera Lynn performing We’ll Meet Again in 1943.

    However, the song was not met with universal acceptance. Some, including parliamentarian Earl Winterton, believed that Lynn’s song harmed soldier morale, arguing that its emotional message deflated appetite for the war. Diarists for Mass Observation – a social research project launched in 1937 that collected journal entries from volunteer citizens – repeated this idea. One diarist claimed that Lynn’s songs were “too intimate for broadcasting” and another called her catalogue “carefully written sob stuff”.

    But just as some criticised, others came to her defence. Gunner A. E. Buckeridge, for example, scorned Winterton in Union Jack magazine for taking it “upon himself to decide what the men should like”. Frank Owen of the South East Asia Command similarly wrote that Lynn’s crooning “really hits the heart” and thanked her for ameliorating “the abiding home sickness” of soldiers.

    The debate did not centre on whether We’ll Meet Again was sentimental. Rather, it questioned if such sentimentality helped or hindered fighting men.

    By 1945, many listeners sat in the former camp, contending that We’ll Meet Again eased war’s hardships by reminding listeners of their home and humanity. In fact, it would be the song’s ability to do this that would propel its popularity to new heights in the following decades.

    Post-war resonance

    Following the end of hostilities, the ballad proliferated across media, genres and audiences. It was referenced in a wide range of films and television series, including Dr Strangelove (1964), Muppets Go to the Movies (1981) and even Stranger Things (2016).

    Other musicians covered the song too, including Frank Sinatra and Johnny Cash. Pink Floyd’s song Vera (1979) even contained the lyrics: “Does anybody here remember Vera Lynn? / Remember how she said that we would meet again some sunny day?”

    The song was also used in war-related commemorative events and political addresses. This includes Queen Elizabeth II’s April 2020 broadcast that discussed the burgeoning COVID crisis and asserted: “We will be with our friends again; we will be with our families again; we will meet again.”

    So, what is it about this song that has maintained such longevity in the national consciousness?

    In many post-war recollections, veterans especially praised the song’s emotionality. In a 1996 oral history interview, for instance, veteran George William Ledger remembered how grown men were brought to tears after listening to Lynn. He recalled that “when Vera Lynn got up and sang on that stage … it was quiet, you could hear a pin drop”. He added that her songs were especially powerful because they “dwelt on the emotions of people”.

    In select accounts within the BBC’s WW2 People’s War Project, this theme was reiterated. One contributor wrote that Lynn was so popular because she “entertained us … with her very emotional songs”. Another writer claimed that We’ll Meet Again raised the morale of the troops “who knew how near was a terrifying death”.

    Even comments made on the song’s YouTube page reference its emotional resonance, with one user writing: “Played this song for my dad over skype (81) years old with Alzheimer’s. He knew word for word with tears streaming. Bless him.”

    These recollections serve as a poignant reminder of the power of sentimentality and giving people the permission to emote during times of struggle. The song – both during the war and after – provided safely contained moments to embrace softness.

    Typically, when you think of a “war song”, you might be tempted to think of a military march, full of brazen boasts of strength and stoicism – both of which are characteristics commonly tied to narratives of war and heroism.

    But the enduring resonance of We’ll Meet Again underlines the timeless testament of another set of heroic virtues: softness and sentimentality. The song demonstrates that in times of incredible hardship and trauma, all people require spaces to ache, mourn and feel.

    Clare V. Church 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. The timeless appeal of We’ll Meet Again underscores people’s need for sentimentality – https://theconversation.com/the-timeless-appeal-of-well-meet-again-underscores-peoples-need-for-sentimentality-253505

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How a community-focused vision for net zero can revive local economies

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Max Lacey-Barnacle, Senior Research Fellow, Science Policy Research Unit, University of Sussex

    Kampan/Shutterstock

    Across the world, the transition to a green economy is under threat. Growing antipathy towards the costs of tackling climate change, stoked especially by right-wing populists, undermines ambitions to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

    In the UK, leader of the opposition Kemi Badenoch recently described achieving net zero by 2050 as “impossible”, stating that it would bankrupt the country. Reform, a major rival to the right of Badenoch’s Conservative party want to scrap the UK’s net zero targets altogether.

    A new vision of net zero is urgently needed. To help fund the UK’s transition to a green economy, the UK government seeks to attract private investment from international corporations that are not based in the UK.

    The Indian company Tata Group is investing £4 billion in eletric vehicles (EVs) and battery production in the UK. Danish company Orsted has invested £15 billion in UK offshore windfarms in the last decade. French company EDF Energy has invested £4.5 billion in net zero technologies and infrastructure in the UK.

    This approach comes with considerable risks. Profits can be extracted out of local economies, which benefits the shareholders of international corporations, not UK businesses.

    Ownership can also change between private entities and move even further afield. Last year, Orsted sold stakes in four UK offshore wind farms to a Canadian investment company.

    UCL climate scientist Mark Maslin explains net zero.

    But there’s an alternative that directly strengthens the resilience of the UK’s economy. Community wealth building is a model of economic development that ensures any profits generated from new green industries is recirculated within the local economy.

    To make this happen, communities need support from so-called “anchor institutions”. These are large organisations that are “anchored” to their local economy and cannot relocate, because their ownership structure is tied to a particular location. Think universities, hospitals or local government institutions.

    Within this approach, anchor institutions procure goods and services from nearby suppliers, so they circulate money locally and strengthen regional supply chains.

    This concept originated over a decade ago in the US. It’s since been applied in Canada, Australia, Ireland and the Netherlands.

    For the past four years, I’ve been exploring how community wealth building is becoming embedded in the UK’s fast-growing green economy.

    UK anchors and the green economy

    In north-west England, Preston city council retained the procurement spend of anchor institutions located in Preston city to the tune of £112.3 million in 2020 – £74 million more than in 2012/13.

    In Oldham in northern England, the council supported the development of community-led energy plans in two neighbourhoods, Sholver and Westwood. The plans outlined what a decarbonised heat, electricity and transport system would look like for each area. The council launched a website to share energy efficiency advice. The council also helped to set up two local community energy projects.

    Oldham Community Power installed solar panels on five primary schools and a community building to reduce their energy bills. Saddleworth Community Hydro have used excess profits from the sale of renewable electricity in 2023 to fund £58,000 worth of local sustainability projects.

    Some local councils in the UK are adopting a community wealth building approach.
    witsarut sakorn/Shutterstock

    The council in Lewes in southern England have committed to using community wealth building to transition towards net zero. Hundreds of houses have been retrofitted to increase their energy efficiency, with retrofit contracts arranged with local companies. EVs are being used to collect food waste. New sustainable housing is being built by local tradespeople using locally sourced materials wherever possible.

    The Lewes Climate Hub hosts community events and green business workshops in a council-owned property. Procurement spend by local anchor institutions has also doubled from £5m in 2020 to £10m in 2024.

    In North Ayrshire, Scotland, two municipally owned solar PV farms on council-owned land have generated a £13 million budget surplus. This has been redirected towards addressing fuel poverty by making low-income homes more energy efficient. The council’s new green jobs fund has supported over £1.14 million of investment into 65 businesses to enable a range of sustainability related measures.

    Encouragingly, more plans to bring together community wealth building and net zero continue to emerge. In London, partnerships between anchor institutions and community energy organisations could be integral to developing 1,000 community energy projects across the capital by 2030.

    Successful scale-up of community wealth building will require strong leadership, political commitments and supporting strategies that align with the green economy. Already, some initiatives are beginning to generate wealth through the green economy and keeping it in local communities, rather than ownership and profits going to distant corporations.

    To counter a rising opposition to net zero in the UK, prioritising community-focused visions that revive local economies will be vital.

    Don’t have time to read about climate change as much as you’d like?

    Get a weekly roundup in your inbox instead. Every Wednesday, The Conversation’s environment editor writes Imagine, a short email that goes a little deeper into just one climate issue. Join the 45,000+ readers who’ve subscribed so far.

    Max Lacey-Barnacle receives funding from The British Academy.

    – ref. How a community-focused vision for net zero can revive local economies – https://theconversation.com/how-a-community-focused-vision-for-net-zero-can-revive-local-economies-252955

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Russia and Turkey are wielding religion as soft power – but one patriarch is standing in their way

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Katie Kelaidis, Research Fellow Institute of Orthodox Christian Studies, University of Cambridge

    Turkish nationalists are calling on the government of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to revoke the passport of Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, the highest ranking Greek Orthodox cleric in the US.

    As a Turkish citizen, the archbishop is one of the few clerics eligible to become the next Patriarch of Constantinople. The holder of this position is often called the “spiritual leader” of Eastern Orthodox Christians, though this status is contested.

    Critics of Elpidophoros believe he should be stripped of his Turkish citizenship for repeatedly referring to the Patriarch of Constantinople as “ecumenical”. This, which means the position represents a number of different Christian Churches, is a nod to the potential global authority of the office. Turkey does not recognise the patriarch’s ecumenical status.

    They also criticise Elpidophoros for using the name Constantinople instead of Istanbul (most recently during a Greek Independence Day celebration at the White House). This was the name of the city when it was the capital of the Ottoman empire.

    The situation might seem somewhere between petty and parochial – the concerns of a small and relatively unimportant corner of the world, or a momentary flare-up in the Greek-Turkish conflict. But this could not be further from the truth.

    The Patriarchate of Constantinople is a critical player in two volatile regions: the Middle East and eastern Europe. Both Turkey and Russia, regional powers in these unstable areas, have made religion a central component of their propaganda.

    They have each sought to present themselves as the guardian of their respective religious tradition, despite having spent much of the 20th century in various forms of state-sponsored hostility to religion. For Russia and Turkey, the Patriarchate of Constantinople stands as an obstacle to their preferred narratives.

    Religious politics

    Russia under Vladimir Putin and Turkey under Erdoğan have become deeply invested in promoting themselves as the guardians of traditional Christianity and Islam, respectively. By leveraging this position, they have garnered sympathy and support among people who were once indifferent or even hostile to them.

    Influential conservative commentators in the US such as Tucker Carlson and Rod Dreher have praised Putin’s “anti-woke” rhetoric. And some ultraconservative American men are reportedly converting to Russian Orthodoxy.

    Turkey, for its part, began establishing mosques and training imams abroad, including in western Europe, as early as the 1970s. But in the past 23 years, under the rule of the Justice and Development party (AKP), it has significantly expanded these efforts.

    The enemies Russia and Turkey claim to combat are both internal and external. Putin, Erdoğan and their aligned clerics, have been vocal in their denunciation of western “decadence”. This is usually represented by the liberal sexual and gender politics of western nations.

    Yet they have been just as adamant in opposing those within their own traditions. In Russia’s case, this has meant perceived liberalisers largely situated in the Hellenic world – not just the Patriarchate of Constantinople, but also the Patriarchate of Alexandria, as well as the Churches of Greece and Cyprus.

    For Turkey, this internal enemy has primarily taken the form of Saudi-backed Wahhabism, a strict, ultraconservative form of Sunni Islam.

    The international religious influence of Russia and Turkey depends on a specific national narrative. Russia must be not only a historically Orthodox nation, but the leading Orthodox nation – the rightful inheritor of the eastern Roman world.

    Likewise, Turkey must present itself as an explicitly and entirely Muslim nation, the heir to an Ottoman empire reimagined as far more homogeneous than it ever truly was.

    This requires both countries reject much of their 20th-century history. Neither Soviet communism nor the strict secularity of Turkey’s founder, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, fits the current plot. It also demands the rewriting of medieval and early modern histories.

    And for both, the Patriarch of Constantinople poses a significant problem. This is especially true if he is seen as anything more than a local ethnic leader, hence the objection to the use of “ecumenical” in his title.

    If the Patriarch of Constantinople is a global religious leader, then Moscow is not the undisputed head of the Orthodox world, nor is Turkey a homogeneously Muslim nation with a homogeneously Muslim past.

    Why the next patriarch matters

    Patriarch Bartholomew, the current Patriarch of Constantinople, ascended to the throne in 1991. He has been a moderate and modernising force in the Orthodox world and beyond. Bartholomew has championed issues such as environmentalism, inter-religious dialogue and human rights, while also opposing Russian aggression in Ukraine.

    Now Bartholomew is 85 years old, the conversation has turned to the question of his successor. The options are limited, as the next patriarch must be a Turkish citizen.

    If the patriarchate is to continue serving as a kind of opposition to Russian and Turkish expansionism, the next leader must also be a moderate. Should a more reactionary figure take the office, there is a real danger this counterbalance will be lost.

    For those who hope to resist Russian and Turkish aggression and to promote values such as human rights in the Orthodox world and Middle East, there is simply no better choice than Archbishop Elpidophoros.

    He has challenged Russian expansionism in Ukraine, defended democracy and pluralism and has taken a pastoral approach to the inclusion of LGBTQ+ people and women in the Church.

    Though the patriarch is a relatively obscure position in global terms, it is precisely because of the current global situation that there may be no more important religious leader than one who can exert influence across eastern Europe and the Middle East.

    The fact that allies of Putin and Erdoğan have joined in attacking Elpidophoros suggests not only that they do not want him to become the next Patriarch of Constantinople. It also suggests that western democracies should take a deep interest in who does.

    The patriarchate is a rejection of the historical lies upon which both Russian and Turkish soft power rest. Thus, the man who occupies the office must be up to the task.

    Katie Kelaidis 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. Russia and Turkey are wielding religion as soft power – but one patriarch is standing in their way – https://theconversation.com/russia-and-turkey-are-wielding-religion-as-soft-power-but-one-patriarch-is-standing-in-their-way-254247

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump likes to know where his suits come from. His tariffs could now upend the world’s fashion supply chains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arooj Rashid, Senior Lecturer in Marketing, Nottingham Trent University

    Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock

    US president Donald Trump has a particular look. Sharp navy suits, overly long ties and crisp white shirts, always structured to command attention. It’s a power uniform rooted in a very traditional idea of masculine elegance. Trump wants it to look expensive, meticulously crafted, consistent, and entirely his own.

    Behind the populist slogans and “Buy American” rhetoric, this president has long embraced symbols of global luxury. While he’s worn American tailoring from Brooklyn’s Martin Greenfield – a craftsman who has dressed everyone from Barack Obama to Colin Powell – he has also been a longstanding customer of Brioni, an exclusive Italian brand of tailored clothing.

    So, while campaigning for American-made goods Trump has for years enjoyed the prestige of the “Made in Italy” tag, and the luxurious connotations it brings to menswear.

    But his trade policies have done the opposite for the global fashion industry. By threatening massive trade tariffs on countries like China, Vietnam, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, he has potentially created chaos for both the industry and consumers.

    Traditionally, what’s known as “country of origin” has been represented by the “made in” label, a key branding tool that can shape consumer perceptions of product quality and other attributes. However, as globalisation has led to the outsourcing of design, materials and production, the definition has become increasingly complex.

    “Designed in” and “country of brand origin” have come to define prestigious product qualities, while country image is used to reflect perceptions of a nation and its products. For example, “designed in Italy” often evokes craftsmanship and luxury in fashion goods. Similarly, Germany has a historical reputation for excellence in producing cars. And “Japanese brand origin” is associated with cutting-edge technology and reliability, particularly in electronics and vehicles.

    Two decades ago, as production costs in the US and Europe mounted, clothing production moved to Asia. While China has remained an important supplier, trade tensions saw production move to countries including Vietnam, India and Bangladesh in the early mid-2010s. But with the threat of new tariffs on these countries, brands are scrambling again.

    This time they have far fewer alternatives. And for companies that rely on the storytelling behind where a garment is made, this isn’t just a supply chain headache. It’s an identity crisis.

    ‘Made in Italy’ – like Trump’s Brioni suits – conveys more than just the country of manufacture.
    Northfoto/Shutterstock

    In fashion, a garment’s origin is not merely a logistical detail – it’s part of its identity. Labels like “made in Italy”, “made in India” or “made in Bangladesh” carry different connotations. These could be luxury and craftsmanship – embroidery skills, for example – or affordability at scale.

    Over time, brands have cultivated these country associations as part of their marketing strategies, shaping consumer perception and trust. The result is a strategic decision for fashion companies, which must now consider cost and efficiency and how changing suppliers might affect their brand’s perceived values and identity.

    For example, brands like H&M and Levi Strauss & Co. have promoted their ethical sourcing in India or partnerships in Pakistan due to their expertise. But now they risk being taxed extensively. So what is the solution?

    The impact on consumers

    The growing risk of new trade rules and tariffs is making it harder for countries that supply fashion goods to stay competitive.

    First, brands must re-assess globalisation of the fashion industry and develop alternative supply chains. While a quick shift may be possible for simpler fashion products, relocating production for more complex or premium goods is usually a long-term investment. As a result, brands will be investigating country images that are perceived to be trusted and trustworthy as trading partners.

    But one unexpected outcome of these policies may be the return of European production and the emergence of “safe” sourcing locations in countries less exposed to trading restrictions. This could be Portugal and Romania for mid-market clothing, and Italy for high-end fashion goods. These would be more predictable and offer a globally recognised brand image.

    Heritage clothing brand Barbour still manufactures some of its lines in the UK.
    Robert Way/Shutterstock

    For some companies, shifting production to Italy will allow them to maintain product prestige while avoiding some of the eye-watering tariffs threatened for some Asian countries. Meanwhile others may look to move back to the UK because of its association with younger, niche markets.

    This won’t necessarily make clothing cheaper for consumers. It does though offer a level of reassurance, especially for higher-end or mid-market labels looking to preserve their image amid instability.

    Trump’s own affinity for Brioni reflects this implicit value. Though his public rhetoric prioritised American manufacturing, his choice of a luxury Italian tailor speaks to a broader truth: country image matters. And in fashion, it can be everything.

    The consequences of these trade policies are now visible across the fashion ecosystem. For example, American brands like Everlane and Pact are built around affordability and transparency. They rely on production in south or south-east Asia, and now face the challenge of rising costs.

    Larger companies will be rethinking pricing strategies, renegotiating contracts or halting expansion in regions hardest hit by tariffs.

    For consumers, this could mean higher prices and reduced variety. The label inside a garment now tells a more complex story – not only of where it was made but also of the political and economic forces shaping global trade.

    Even if these tariffs are eventually reduced or reversed, the disruption they have caused has already left a mark. They have redefined the meaning and importance of country-of-origin labels, exposed the fragility of global supply chains, and placed new pressure on brands to balance ethics, economics and image in a volatile environment. In fashion, where identity is crafted through fabric and narrative, the story behind the label has never mattered more.

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

    – ref. Trump likes to know where his suits come from. His tariffs could now upend the world’s fashion supply chains – https://theconversation.com/trump-likes-to-know-where-his-suits-come-from-his-tariffs-could-now-upend-the-worlds-fashion-supply-chains-255337

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Intermittent fasting: is it the calories or carbs that count?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Adam Collins, Associate Professor of Nutrition, University of Surrey

    Eating low-carb twice a week could have similar benefits as intermittent fasting. Kmpzzz/ Shutterstock

    Intermittent fasting is not only a useful tool for weight loss, it’s also shown to have many benefits for metabolic health – independent of weight loss. Yet many people may find intermittent fasting to be a challenge, especially if following the 5:2 version of the diet where calories are severely restricted two days a week.

    But my latest study shows that you don’t need to severely restrict your calories to get the metabolic benefits of intermittent fasting. Even just restricting the number of carbs you eat twice a week may be enough to improve your metabolic health.

    Intermittent fasting appears to be so beneficial for health because of the way it alters our metabolism.

    After a meal, our body enters the postprandial state. While in this state, our metabolism pushes our cells to use carbohydrates for immediate energy, while storing some of these carbs as well as fat for later use. But after several hours without food, in the postabsorptive “fasted” state, our metabolism switches to using some of our fat stores for energy.

    In this regard, intermittent fasting ensures a better balance between the sources it uses for energy. This leads to improved metabolic flexibility, which is linked with better cardiometabolic health. In other words, this means lower risk of cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

    My colleagues and I previously ran a study to demonstrate the effects of a fast on the body. We observed that following a day of both total fasting or severe calorie restriction (eating around only 25% of each person’s daily calorie requirements), the body was better at clearing and burning the fat of a full English breakfast the next day. Fasting shifted the body from using carbs to using fat. This effect carried on both during the fast and the next day.

    Our research has also compared the effects of intermittent fasting to a calorie-matched or?, calorie-restricted diet. Both groups followed the diet until they lost 5% of their body weight.

    Despite both groups losing the same 5% of body weight, and at the same rate, the intermittent fasting group had greater improvements in their metabolic handling, similar to what we saw in the previous trial.

    Other researchers who have compared the effects of the 5:2 variant of the intermittent fasting diet to a calorie-matched, calorie-restricted diet have also found fasting is beneficial for metabolic health.

    Metabolic health benefits

    But why exactly is intermittent fasting so beneficial for metabolic health? This is a question I sought to answer in my latest study.

    In our study, restricting carbs had the same favourable metabolic effects as fasting.
    Dulin/ Shutterstock

    For people who follow the 5:2 intermittent fasting diet, typical fasting days are, by their nature, very low in calories – equating to only a few hundred calories per day. Because people are consuming so few calories on fasting days, it also means they’re consuming very few carbohydrates. Given the postprandial state is governed by carbohydrate availability, this begged the question as to whether it’s the calorie restriction or the carbohydrate restriction that’s creating the metabolic effect when intermittent fasting.

    We recruited 12 overweight and obese participants. Participants were first given a very low-carb diet one day. Another day, they were given a severely calorie-restricted diet (around 75% fewer calories than they’d normally eat). After each fasting day, we gave them a high-fat, high-sugar meal (similar to an English breakfast) to see how easily their bodies burned fat.

    What we found was that the shift to fat burning and improved fat handling of the high-calorie meal were near identical following both the traditional calorie-restricted “fast” day and the low-carb day. In other words, restricting carbs can elicit the same favourable metabolic effects as fasting.

    It will be important now for more studies to be conducted using a larger cohort of participants to confirm these findings.

    Such findings may help us address some of the practical problems we face with intermittent fasting and traditional low-carb diets.

    For intermittent fasting diets, severe calorie restriction on fasting days can increase the risk of nutritional deficiencies if not careful. It can similarly be a trigger for disordered eating.

    Strict carb restriction can also be challenging to adhere to long-term, and may lead to an unhealthy fear of carbs.

    The other limitation of both intermittent fasting and continuous carb restriction is that weight loss is a likely outcome. Hence these approaches are not universally beneficial for those who need to improve their health without losing weight or those looking to maintain their weight.

    We are now testing the feasibility of an intermittent carb restriction diet, or a low-carb 5:2. So instead of restricting calories two days a week, you would restrict the number of carbs you consume twice a week. If this is proven to be beneficial, it would offer the benefits of fasting without restricting calories on “fast” days.

    Adam Collins receives funding from BBSRC Food Biosystems Doctoral Training Programme. He also serves as Head of Nutrition for Form NutritionTM.

    – ref. Intermittent fasting: is it the calories or carbs that count? – https://theconversation.com/intermittent-fasting-is-it-the-calories-or-carbs-that-count-254752

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The growing threat to U.S. democracy will literally cost lives

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Andrew C. Patterson, Assistant Professor of Sociology, MacEwan University

    According to a recent survey, most political scientists agree that President Donald Trump is turning the United States government into an autocracy, all too quickly.

    As political scholars Steven Levitsky and Lucan Way explain, a competitive-authoritarian country is one where elections are held and election results carry, but incumbents alter the game so as to tilt the odds of winning heavily in their favour. This effectively makes it an autocratic regime, with one person holding the lion’s share of power.

    Politicians tilt these odds by doing exactly the sorts of things Trump is doing. He is replacing civil servants with loyalists, and then repurposing the long-standing institutions they serve. This is so he can use those institutions for political gain — to punish dissenters and reward allies. All to support his staying in power.

    As just one recent example, Levistky and Way predicted in February that the Internal Revenue Service would become one of the many departments that Trump would weaponize. On April 15, Trump called for the IRS to revoke Harvard University’s tax-exempt status in response to the university’s refusal to acquiesce. Trump had previously withheld billions of dollars in grant funding.



    Read more:
    Harvard is suing the White House: here’s what Trump hopes to achieve by targeting universities

    Is there any case in which Trump has still acted in the service of the American public? Arguably, no, not by a long shot. Even the Jeff Bezos-owned Washington Post describes his first 100 days as a remarkable failure across multiple fronts.

    The headlines have been blistering, calling those first 100 days “horrifying” and “inept.” Nor is the American public impressed: most give his performance a grade of D or F, according to a recent poll.

    The biggest threat of all may be permanent damage to government institutions.

    Democracy and population health

    As research shows, these trends cannot possibly be good for the lives and livelihoods of American citizens. We have known for over a decade that the recruitment of civil servants based on their political affiliations or loyalties, rather than credentials, is a recipe for political corruption. Corruption, in turn, harms population health.

    My own recent study affirms these findings. It also concludes that the impact of civil service hiring on population health is surprisingly direct. All of this suggests more corruption and worse health as Trump tightens his control over the civil service.

    Democracy, too, matters for population health. In another study, we found that democracies have as much as 11 years of added life expectancy, and 75 per cent lower rates of infant mortality, compared to autocratic countries. For someone focused on cross-national differences in health, these were huge differences.

    Economic impacts

    Trump’s actions will soon affect American wallets as well if they haven’t already, as research on both civil service hiring and democratization would suggest.

    It’s not difficult to demonstrate the threat, which continues to evolve in real time. Tourism in the U.S. has taken a serious hit in recent weeks, with airline bookings from Canada down 70 per cent.



    Read more:
    Does cancelling a trip to the U.S. really send a political message, or is it just hurting local tourism?

    People from other countries first started boycotting American goods and services in response to Trump’s tariff campaign. In the meantime, Congress has done little to curtail the detainment of migrants without just cause, or their deportation to a Salvadorean mega-prison without due process. And now tourists are afraid to travel to the U.S.

    It is fair to say that both economic prosperity and population health require investment in the same government infrastructures that the Trump administration is now downsizing.

    Yet the damage does not stop at the border. Trump’s decisions will have ripple effects on global health. Programs focused on containing infectious disease in the developing world are bearing the brunt of huge cuts to USAID.

    Speed and volume

    Trump’s approach is not informed by any kind of economic expertise. He is shooting the American economy in both feet by waging a tariff war against other countries as he simultaneously decimates tourism and upends a low-cost workforce with his immigration policy.

    Americans who voted for him will not get the price control they were hoping for, with supply-chain disruptions coming quickly down the pipeline.

    Nor can Americans count on the court system to preserve democracy. This is for two reasons.

    First, Trump’s executive actions are happening far too quickly. He has had a record number of executive orders since taking office only three months ago. It may take months if not years for challenges to these decisions to work their way through courts.

    Second, courts will not necessarily rule on the side of democracy, as in the Supreme Court’s decision to assure legal immunity for Trump.

    None of this bodes well. According to one watchdog based in Sweden, the U.S. could lose its status as a democratic nation in just a few months — well before the midterm elections.

    CNN reports on President Trump’s statement that he doesn’t know if he needs to uphold the U.S. Constitution.

    Starting a movement

    All of this has one common denominator: Trump’s unhinged executive power. A decidedly meek U.S. Congress needs to wake from its stupor and constrain that power.

    But at the time of this writing, the House judiciary committee plans to slip provisions into a budget megabill that will grant Trump ever more sweeping power over regulations.

    One solution may be what we sociologists refer to as a social movement. This is where as many people as possible choose to act. Small interactions — like sharing an article with friends and family — can make a big difference, according to one prominent perspective in sociology.

    Other means are more direct, like joining a protest or writing to members of Congress. And then there are decisions about what not to do. Universities and law firms are encouraged not to participate in the fraying of American democracy by making a “deal” with the Trump administration.

    The take-home message is that the threat to American democracy is real and it is imminent. The impact on human health and well-being will be global. If the collapse of American democracy affects all of us, inside and outside of U.S. borders, then we can all agree to do something about it.

    Andrew C. Patterson 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. The growing threat to U.S. democracy will literally cost lives – https://theconversation.com/the-growing-threat-to-u-s-democracy-will-literally-cost-lives-254170

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Even a capped, time-limited youth visa scheme would be of value to young people in the UK and EU

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Johanna L. Waters, Professor of Human Geography, UCL

    EF Stock/Shutterstock

    More than 60 Labour MPs have signed a letter calling on the government to support a youth mobility agreement with the EU.

    The letter called for a visa scheme that would be time limited and capped. This would be in line with other youth mobility agreements that the UK has with a number of countries and territories, including Australia and South Korea.

    Mobility would be for a defined period (such as three years), and the number of visas issued would be limited. The scheme would be aimed at young people in the UK and EU under 30 years old. This follows Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s promise to “reset” relations with the EU following his election in July 2024.

    At the upcoming EU-UK summit to be held in London on May 19 2025, opportunities for young people to travel between the UK and the EU will be a key part of negotiations between politicians.

    The European Commission have made no secret of their desire for such a scheme. They initially proposed a version of this in April 2024. Some EU countries, such as Germany, have spoken out in favour. Brexit has limited the ability of young people to spend time in the UK, with all the cultural, linguistic and other benefits potentially gained from this.

    The UK government’s enthusiasm has, in contrast, been more muted. They have a number of concerns, including immigration. Returning to any sort of free movement with the EU has been roundly rejected by politicians.

    Concerns over immigration

    Consecutive UK governments have been concerned with reducing net immigration, and international student visas contribute to these figures. Consequently, reducing numbers of incoming international students has been seen as a way of controlling immigration – to the dismay of bodies representing the UK’s higher education sector.

    But other countries, such as the US, exclude international students from immigration figures. Debates concerning removing international students from immigration numbers in the UK are ongoing. A poll commissioned by Universities UK found that only around a third of the British public viewed international students as migrants.

    As it stands, however, there are no plans to change the way international students are counted. Any new youth mobility agreement would presumably affect migration figures, but the direction is as yet unknown. And existing youth mobility schemes have had a relatively small impact on immigration numbers.

    Opportunities for young people

    As discussed in my forthcoming book (co-authored with Rachel Brooks) on student mobility after Brexit, young people in Britain have been particularly affected by changes in UK-EU relations.

    These have included their ability to study in Europe, as a consequence of the UK’s withdrawal from the Erasmus+ Programme – the EU’s initiative to support learning, work, sport and training in another EU country. The Republic of Ireland has allocated funding to allow students at universities in Northern Ireland to remain part of Erasmus+.

    At the moment, young Britons are treated no differently from any other potential immigrants to Europe, requiring a visa to study there for more than three months.

    UK citizens travelling to the EU now need a visa for stays of more than 90 days.
    Prostock-studio/Shutterstock

    The new Turing scheme has replaced Erasmus+ to fund study abroad for UK students. But it is far from a like-for-like replacement, is not reciprocal, and students and university staff have reported problems with securing visas in time.

    An agreement with the EU, enabling relatively stress-free travel for young people – albeit for a limited period of time – would be a significant benefit given the current situation.

    Young people from the EU now face similar regulations and restrictions when coming to the UK. A visa and “health surcharge” are now required for any stay over six months. International tuition fees must also be paid by EU citizens on UK degree courses. In addition, postgraduate students are no longer able to bring dependents.

    Consequently, fewer young people from Europe now choose the UK as a study destination. Recent figures show a significant drop in EU students coming to the UK – from 147,950 in 2019-20 to 75,490 in 2023-24. A resurgence in the number of EU students would probably be beneficial to UK universities, and the UK would, at the very least, appear more welcoming to young people from the EU.

    The re-election of Donald Trump as president of the US has ushered in new geopolitical realities. Relations between the US, UK and EU are shifting and uncertain, making a UK-EU deal in areas such as trade, security and education more important. The mobility of young people, as both learners and workers, is an important component of any negotiations on such a deal.

    Johanna L. Waters 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. Even a capped, time-limited youth visa scheme would be of value to young people in the UK and EU – https://theconversation.com/even-a-capped-time-limited-youth-visa-scheme-would-be-of-value-to-young-people-in-the-uk-and-eu-255267

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Indonesian postcard image ‘dangerous’ but Fiji a rising star in RSF press freedom index

    Pacific Media Watch

    To mark the release of the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) partnered with the agency The Good Company to launch a new awareness campaign that puts an ironic twist on the glossy advertising of the tourism industry.

    Three out of six countries featured in the exposé are from the Asia Pacific region — but none from the Pacific Islands.

    The campaign shines a stark light on the press freedom violations in countries that seem perfect on postcards but are highly dangerous for journalists, says RSF.

    It is a striking campaign raising awareness about repression.

    Fiji (44th out of 180 ranked nations) is lucky perhaps as three years ago when its draconian media law was still in place, it might have bracketed up there with the featured “chilling” tourism countries such as Indonesia (127) — which is rapped over its treatment of West Papua resistance and journalists.

    Disguised as attractive travel guides, the campaign’s visuals use a cynical, impactful rhetoric to highlight the harsh realities journalists face in destinations renowned for their tourist appeal.

    Along with Indonesia, Greece (89th), Cambodia (115), Egypt (170), Mexico (124) and the Philippines (116) are all visited by millions of tourists, yet they rank poorly in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index, reports RSF.

    ‘Chilling narrative’
    “The attention-grabbing visuals juxtapose polished, enticing aesthetics with a chilling narrative of intimidation, censorship, violence, and even death.

    “This deliberately unsettling approach by RSF aims to shift the viewer’s perspective, showing what the dreamlike imagery conceals: journalists imprisoned, attacked, or murdered behind idyllic landscapes.”


    The RSF Index 2025 teaser.     Video: RSF

    Indonesia is in the Pacific spotlight because of its Melanesian Papuan provinces bordering Pacific Islands Forum member country Papua New Guinea.

    Despite outgoing President Joko Widodo’s 10 years in office and a reformist programme, his era has been marked by a series of broken promises, reports RSF.

    “The media oligarchy linked to political interests has grown stronger, leading to increased control over critical media and manipulation of information through online trolls, paid influencers, and partisan outlets,” says the Index report.

    “This climate has intensified self-censorship within media organisations and among journalists.

    “Since October 2024, Indonesia has been led by a new president, former general Prabowo Subianto — implicated in several human rights violation allegations — and by Joko Widodo’s eldest son, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, as vice-president.

    “Under this new administration, whose track record on press freedom offers little reassurance, concerns are mounting over the future of independent journalism.”

    Fiji leads in Pacific
    In the Pacific, Fiji has led the pack among island states by rising four places to 40th overall, making it the leading country in Oceania in 2025 in terms of press freedom.

    A quick summary of Oceania rankings in the 2025 RSF World Press Freedom Index. Image: RSF/PMW

    Both Timor-Leste, which dropped 19 places to 39th after heading the region last year, and Samoa, which plunged 22 places to 44th, lost their impressive track record.

    Of the only other two countries in Oceania surveyed by RSF, Tonga rose one place to 46th and Papua New Guinea jumped 13 places to 78th, a surprising result given the controversy over its plans to regulate the media.

    RSF reports that the Fiji Media Association (FMA), which was often critical of the harassment of the media by the previous FijiFirst government, has since the repeal of the Media Act in 2023 “worked hard to restore independent journalism and public trust in the media”.

    In March 2024, research published in Journalism Practice journal found that sexual harassment of women journalists was widespread and needed to be addressed to protect media freedom and quality journalism.

    In Timor-Leste, “politicians regard the media with some mistrust, which has been evidenced in several proposed laws hostile to press freedom, including one in 2020 under which defaming representatives of the state or Catholic Church would have been punishable by up to three years in prison.

    “Journalists’ associations and the Press Council often criticise politicisation of the public broadcaster and news agency.”

    On the night of September 4, 2024, Timorese police arrested Antonieta Kartono Martins, a reporter for the news site Diligente Online, while covering a police operation to remove street vendors from a market in Dili, the capital. She was detained for several hours before being released.

    Samoan harassment
    Previously enjoying a good media freedom reputation, journalists and their families in Samoa were the target of online death threats, prompting the Samoan Alliance of Media Professionals for Development (SAMPOD) to condemn the harassment as “attacks on the fourth estate and democracy”.

    In Tonga, RSF reports that journalists are not worried about being in any physical danger when on the job, and they are relatively unaffected by the possibility of prosecution.

    “Nevertheless, self-censorship continues beneath the surface in a tight national community.”

    In Papua New Guinea, RSF reports journalists are faced with intimidation, direct threats, censorship, lawsuits and bribery attempts, “making it a dangerous profession”.

    “And direct interference often threatens the editorial freedom at leading media outlets. This was seen yet again at EMTV in February 2022, when the entire newsroom was fired after walking out” in protest over a management staffing decison.

    “There has been ongoing controversy since February 2023 concerning a draft law on media development backed by Communications Minister Timothy Masiu. In January 2024, a 14-day state of emergency was declared in the capital, Port Moresby, following unprecedented protests by police forces and prison wardens.”

    This impacted on government and media relations.

    Australia and New Zealand
    In Australia (29), the media market’s heavy concentration limits the diversity of voices represented in the news, while independent outlets struggle to find a sustainable economic model.

    While New Zealand (16) leads in the Asia Pacific region, it is also facing a similar situation to Australia with a narrowing of media plurality, closure or merging of many newspaper titles, and a major retrenchment of journalists in the country raising concerns about democracy.

    Pacific Media Watch collaborates with Reporters Without Borders.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Pile Fuel Cladding Silo

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Case study

    The Pile Fuel Cladding Silo

    The Pile Fuel Cladding Silo is one of our oldest waste stores and one of the highest hazard facilities on the Sellafield site, dating to the early 1950’s

    Based on the simple design of a grain silo, the concrete structure is 29 metres long 10 metres wide and 18 metres high and is divided into 6 tall compartments.

    The challenge

    One of our biggest challenges at Sellafield is the need to take waste out of our legacy ponds and silos.

    These buildings are our most hazardous nuclear facilities and weren’t designed with decommissioning in mind.

    The Pile Fuel Cladding Silo was built more than 70 years ago when the site’s purpose was to produce material for nuclear weapons.

    The Pile Fuel Cladding Silo under construction in 1951

    The silo was built to store cladding from nuclear fuel used by the Windscale Piles – the first reactors to be built at Sellafield – and now contains a large variety of hazardous material.

    The cladding is Intermediate-Level Waste (ILW) and is dry stored.

    Based on the simple design of a grain silo, the concrete structure is 29 metres long 10 metres wide and 18 metres high and is divided into 6 tall compartments.

    As the UK’s civil nuclear power industry grew, the silo also received and stored cladding from used Magnox fuel from power stations around the country.

    By the early 1960s, routine waste tipping ceased, with sporadic tips up to 1972. With the silo now full, the building was placed into care and maintenance.

    In the 1980s, 90s and 00s, the silo underwent several upgrades to ensure the concrete structure could continue to provide safe containment and shielding for the waste.

    The Pile Fuel Cladding Silo was constructed with no means of retrieving the wastes inside, making it a ‘locked vault’ that has stored over 3200 cubic metres of ILW for 70 years.

    It’s also situated in a highly congested part of the Sellafield site and surrounded by a maze of pipelines and other sensitive buildings that make decommissioning the building extremely challenging.

    The solution

    The solution is to carefully retrieve the waste from the Pile Fuel Cladding Silo and place it into safe, secure, modern storage.

    The retrieval of wastes from the silo is a key priority for Sellafield Ltd and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) and involves several steps:

    • gaining access to the waste
    • removing the waste
    • placing the waste into modern containers
    • storing the waste in a modern waste store, pending final disposal in an underground repository

    The approach is to attach large shield doors to the side of the silo, cut holes in the top of each compartment and use telescopic grabs to reach into the silo and lift out the waste.

    The large shield doors attached to the side of the silo

    The retrieved waste can then be loaded into specially designed metal boxes, sealed inside a shielded flask and transported to a brand new, fit-for-purpose store elsewhere on the Sellafield site.

    Next steps

    The retrieved waste is placed into a specially designed 3m3 stainless steel box and loaded into a shielded transport flask.

    The boxes of waste will then be sent to the Box Encapsulation Plant Product Store – Direct Import Facility (BEPPS-DIF), a new above-ground store that has been specially constructed on the Sellafield site.

    BEPPS-DIF will store the waste safely and securely until it’s ready for immobilisation prior to permanent disposal underground in a Geological Disposal Facility.

    Benefits: To reduce risk and hazard and safely store the waste
    Status: Currently being decommissioned
    Collaboration: The decommissioning programme is being delivered by Sellafield Ltd in collaboration with Bechtel Cavendish Nuclear Solutions, a US-UK joint venture.

    Progress so far

    The first step towards retrievals was the construction of an enormous concrete superstructure next the silo to house the retrievals equipment.

    The silo superstructure

    We then installed giant, 12-tonne steel doors on each compartment to provide a safe barrier between the waste and the outside world when the compartments are cut into.

    All 6 silo doors in situ on the side of the silo

    In 2017 we successfully cut holes in the top of the silo’s 6 compartments, allowing access to the waste for the first time in 65 years.

    Working in collaboration with Bechtel Cavendish Nuclear solutions, we’ve designed, manufactured, tested and installed 9 huge modules containing the machinery needed to empty the silo.

    In August 2023 we successfully retrieved the first waste from the Pile Fuel Cladding Silo using a crane to reach into the silo, lower a grabber into the compartment and lift out and repackage the waste.

    The first retrievals represent a significant milestone in the decommissioning story at Sellafield and a step closer to reducing the UK’s nuclear hazard.

    In May 2025, we met our retrievals target for 2024/25 by retrieving enough waste to fill 18 3-metre cubed storage boxes.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China sees 7.9% rise in interregional travel during May Day holiday

    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 6 (Xinhua) — During the May Day holiday from May 1 to 5, China’s interregional passenger travel volume totaled nearly 1.47 billion, up 7.9 percent from the same period in 2024, according to the Ministry of Transport.

    Broken down by transport mode, passenger traffic on rail transport reached 101.7 million person-times (an increase of 10.8 percent), while passenger traffic volumes by air, water and road transport amounted to 11.15 million, 8.61 million and 1.34 billion person-times with an annual increase of 11.8 percent, 23.8 percent and 7.6 percent, respectively.

    In China, the May Day holiday is traditionally one of the busiest tourist seasons of the year. The holiday period also boosts tourism and retail revenues. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Pakistan tanker blast death toll rises to 20

    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

    ISLAMABAD, May 6 (Xinhua) — The death toll in a tanker blast in southwestern Pakistan’s Noshki district last week has risen to 20 after several people died from burns, local police said on Tuesday.

    Police said 17 of the seriously injured had died in the past four days while undergoing treatment at Liaquat National Hospital in Karachi, a southern port city.

    The blast occurred on April 28 in Noshki, a district of Balochistan province in southwestern Pakistan, after a petrol tanker caught fire during welding work.

    According to initial reports, the explosion killed the driver of the tanker truck and injured more than 60 people, many of whom suffered serious burns.

    Due to a shortage of medical facilities in the area, the provincial government airlifted 24 critically injured patients to Karachi for specialized treatment.

    In an attempt to prevent a major tragedy, the driver drove the tanker away from the cargo terminal. However, shortly before it exploded, a crowd gathered around the vehicle. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI China: CICG leads delegation to Foire de Paris 2025

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

    At the 119th Foire de Paris that kicked off on April 30, China International Communications Group (CICG) organized the 2025 “Souffle d’Orient” Chinese culture theme exhibition and a series of cultural exchange activities to showcase everything new and trendy in Chinese society and culture and foster people-to-people and cultural exchange.

    The Chinese culture theme exhibition is inaugurated at the 119th Foire de Paris on April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Yu Tao, vice president of CICG; Irina Bokova, former director-general of UNESCO; Yang Xinyu, ambassador and permanent delegate of the People’s Republic of China to UNESCO; Carine Préterre, executive vice director of the Comexposium Group; Liang Ke, deputy secretary of the CPC Working Committee of the Administration of the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone; Catherine Ruggeeri, chief supervisor of Cultural Industries, French Ministry of Culture; and Vincent Montagne, president of the Paris Book Festival, attended the opening ceremony and delivered speeches. Over 100 representatives from the cultural, art, publishing, and business communities of China and France participated in the event.

    Yu Tao, vice president of China International Communications Group (CICG), delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Yu said that exchange and mutual learning between the Chinese and European civilizations will not only solidify the public foundation for bilateral relations, but also serve as a global model, injecting stability into a turbulent world. Looking ahead, he emphasized the importance of promoting exchanges in education, science and technology, and culture, so that the seeds of peace can take root in people’s hearts around the world, enabling them to work together toward a brighter future for a community with a shared future for mankind, Yu said.

    Irina Bokova, former director-general of UNESCO, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Bokova said that both Chinese and European cultures are significant global forces with profound historical legacies. She said China’s participation in the Foire de Paris exemplifies that national rejuvenation begins with its cultural revival and awakening. Today, China places great emphasis on culture, which has become the bedrock and source of social harmony and innovative development in Chinese society. Dialogue between Chinese and French civilizations can bring positive energy to the progress of human civilization, Bokova said.

    Yang Xinyu, ambassador and permanent delegate of the People’s Republic of China to UNESCO, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Yang stated that culture is the soul of people and a bridge for interpersonal connections. UNESCO’s mission is to promote cultural diversity, and China has always attached great importance to cultural openness and inclusivity, Yang said. China’s participation in the Foire de Paris enables people to share their respective cultures and provides an excellent opportunity to promote mutual learning among different civilizations. This exhibition is not only a window showcasing China’s global cultural outreach but also an open invitation from China to people from across the world, Yang said.

    Carine Préterre, executive vice director of the Comexposium Group, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Préterre said that the Foire de Paris is the largest fair in France and across Europe. Since its inception in 1904, it has been dedicated to introducing cultures and innovations from around the world to the French public. She said her organization’s fruitful cooperation with CICG at the Foire de Paris embodies the friendship between China and France. She said she looks forward to the Chinese Culture Theme Exhibition introducing the charm of Chinese culture to French visitors.

    Liang Ke, deputy secretary of the CPC Working Committee of the Administration of the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Liang said that Shenzhen, positioned at the forefront of China’s reform and opening-up, stands as a vibrant, innovative, and captivating international metropolis. She said that, at the Foire de Paris, the city is delighted to promote two cultural tourism projects: the Shenzhen Qianhai Huafa Snow World, the world’s largest indoor ski resort, and the Bay Area Store of Shenzhen Book City, China’s largest cultural complex dedicated to books. Qianhai, with its openness and innovation, is reaching out to the world. She said that friends from all sectors are cordially invited to experience Qianhai’s appeal and seize the opportunities for shared development.

    Catherine Ruggeeri, chief supervisor of Cultural Industries, French Ministry of Culture, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    Ruggeeri said that this year marks the 50th anniversary of EU-China diplomatic relations. Amidst a volatile and ever-changing international landscape, cultural dialogue is of paramount importance in nurturing EU-China relations. Both sides should remain committed to strengthening people-to-people exchanges and the development of cultural and creative industries through pragmatic cooperation platforms like the Foire de Paris, so as to inject new cultural vitality into the friendship between China and France, Ruggeeri said.

    Vincent Montagne, president of the Paris Book Festival, delivers a speech. [Photo/CICG]

    Montagne said that while the internet and modern technology have posed significant challenges to books, the number of new books published over the past two decades has surpassed the entire volume of publications before that period, with a historic number of manuscripts submitted by young authors. “Light still resides within books,” he said. Montagne said he looks forward to in-depth collaboration with Chinese publishing houses to jointly drive the prosperity and development of the book market.

    The exhibition features seven themed zones: Themed Books, Cultural and Creative Products from the National Museum of China, Panda Culture, Hehe Culture, Central Plains Culture, Sanjin Culture, and Science and Technology Innovation Culture. Approximately 2,000 exhibits are on display, spanning five categories: books, cultural and creative products, artworks, porcelain and ceramics, and sci-tech innovations. 

    Notable exhibits include the multilingual series of “Keywords to Understand China,” “Xingbao the Giant Panda,” “Nezha Conquers the Dragon King,” and “Hanshan’s Poems” among the books; panda-themed merchandise, Taizhou Embroidery apparel from Zhejiang province, mulberry silk embroidery, Jinqing straw-woven products, Shanxi iron teapots, Yigenteng table screens, and the intangible cultural heritage Ni Gugu (clay sculpture) among cultural and creative products; Linhai paper-cuttings, mortise and tenon structural components, crystal-carved plates featuring the “Two Hehe Sages,” glass artworks of “Hanshan and Shide,” and traditional costumes from the “Blue Rhythm and Brocade Memories” collection among artworks; and AI translation devices and AI photo frames among sci-tech innovations.

    Cultural performance is staged at the Chinese culture theme exhibition in Paris, France, April 30, 2025. [Photo/CICG]

    During the exhibition, various themed promotional events were hosted, such as the Shenzhen Theme Day and the Henan Theme Day, featuring intangible cultural heritage performances and cultural shows. These events attracted nearly 10,000 visitors and garnered enthusiastic responses.

    On the opening day, Steven Abajoli, chairman of the Organizing Committee of the Foire de Paris, presented the Honorary Contribution Award to CICG. He commended CICG for meticulously crafting an exquisite exhibition pavilion, presenting a diverse array of cultural products, and organizing creative cultural performances, all of which brought the distinctive appeal of Chinese culture to the Foire de Paris and the French public. This marked the third consecutive year that CICG has received this accolade.

    China Pavilion. [Photo/CICG]

    Founded in 1904, the Foire de Paris is one of the world’s oldest, largest, and most prestigious comprehensive exhibitions. After three years of dedicated efforts, the “Souffle d’Orient” Chinese culture theme exhibition, organized and curated by CICG, has emerged as a highlight at the Foire de Paris, garnering positive public acclaim.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Further reforms needed in Kazakhstan to strengthen fair trial rights: ODIHR monitoring report

    Source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe – OSCE

    Headline: Further reforms needed in Kazakhstan to strengthen fair trial rights: ODIHR monitoring report

    WARSAW, 6 May 2025 – In a report summarising its year-long monitoring of more than 400 court hearings related to the January 2022 protests in Kazakhstan, the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) documented court practices that fall short of international fair trial standards, while recognizing the challenges faced by the Kazakh authorities to complete a large number of criminal investigations and court cases.
    “The right to a fair trial is a cornerstone of democracy. With thanks to the Kazakh authorities for their openness and cooperation throughout the monitoring process and while acknowledging ongoing reforms and some positive trends, our findings underline the need for Kazakhstan to take effective measures that ensure the rights of the accused are fully protected and the principles of a fair trial are upheld,” said ODIHR Director Maria Telalian. “ODIHR is ready to assist Kazakhstan in implementing our tailored recommendations and introducing legal reforms in the country to strengthen the independence of the judiciary and addrssing the shortcomings identified.” 
    Following an invitation by the Kazakh authorities and in cooperation with the Supreme Court, ODIHR monitored 35 criminal cases related to the January 2022 protests in Kazakhstan between November 2022 and December 2023, as well as cases involving 139 defendants and more than 400 court hearings. The trial monitoring took place in courts in Almaty, Kyzylorda, Semey, Taldykorgan and Taraz. The cases were primarily against state officials as well as political and civil society activists, including organizers of the protests, and involved charges of torture and other serious human rights violations, as well as the use of evidence obtained through torture. 
    The monitoring was carried out in line with the ODIHR’s trial monitoring methodology, following well-established principles of impartiality and objectivity. ODIHR did not assess the merits of the cases, but focused on court procedures and their compliance with international democratic standards and evaluated the extent to which the right to a fair trial is respected.
    Today’s report includes the findings from the monitoring, as well as a set of recommendations to assist the Kazakh authorities in ensuring compliance with international standards. ODIHR has also developed a number of tools aimed at supporting justice sector reforms. All 57 participating states of the OSCE have committed to abide by the rule of law and to ensure the right to a fair and public trial by a competent, independent and impartial tribunal established by law.

    MIL OSI Europe News –