NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: USNS Kanawha awarded Navy Unit Commendation for efforts while deployed to U.S. Central Command

    Source: United States Navy

    The crew earned the NUC for their efforts during the ship’s recent deployment to the U.S. Central Command’s area of responsibility.

    “Despite being caught off guard by the sudden deployment, the crew of USNS Kanawha rose to the challenge as Military Sealift Command has done for the past 75 years, answering the call of duty with professionalism and dedication,” said First Officer Anthony Canseco, USNS Kanawha’s Officer-in-Charge. “Operating in a contested environment, we quickly adapted to heightened threats, ensuring vital fuel deliveries to U.S. and allied forces in the region.”

    “The crew’s resilience and commitment underscored MSC’s longstanding tradition of supporting global naval operations, even in the most demanding circumstances,” he added.

    The NUC is awarded to any ship, aircraft or other unit of the Navy or Marine Corps that has distinguished itself by outstanding heroism in action against enemy forces and is the second highest unit award in the U.S. Navy; behind the Presidential Unit Citation.

    Portions of the NUC citation Kanawha’s crew earned read as follows:

    “The Secretary of the Navy takes great pleasure in presenting the Navy Unit Commendation to U.S. Central Command set forth in the following: for outstanding performance in action against terrorist forces from October 19, 2023 to May 30, 2024. The personnel of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and its operational forces combatted highly kinetic and asymmetric threats regional stability,” the citation reads.

    “They protected vital global commerce through two strategic maritime chokepoints, defended key allies and partners, deterred aggression, and forged partnerships founded in trust and unity of effort against violations of international law,” it continued. “They provided a crucial naval presence in the region at a pivotal moment in history.”

    While deployed Kanawha safely executed, without incident, 111 at-sea replenishments, delivering more than 30 million gallons of marine diesel fuel and aviation fuel, along with 4,696,274 gallons of marine grade oil, transferred 3,389 critical cargo pallets, and transported five personnel while supporting 14 U.S. Navy ships and 12 allied ships from six countries.

    “For the crew of USNS Kanawha, receiving the Navy Unit Commendation is a profound honor that recognizes their hard work, dedication, and the sacrifices they have made,” according to Canseco. “Spending months away from family, friends, and loved ones, they have endured long hours and challenging conditions to ensure mission success in a contested environment. This award is not just a symbol of their excellence in service, but also a tribute to the personal sacrifices they have made to support the fleet and protect vital maritime routes.”

    USNS Kanawha was forward deployed for 264 days and traveled 55,539 nautical miles.
    “While the time away is never easy, this recognition reinforces their commitment to duty and the proud legacy of Military Sealift Command in answering the nation’s call,” Canseco stated.

    In addition to the NUC, specific crewmembers received individual awards for outstanding performance during the deployment.

    The following Kanawha CIVMARs were awarded the Navy Civilian Service Commendation Medal, which is an award presented to civilian government employees who go above and beyond in their work: First Officer Anthony J. Canseco, Operations Chief Nicholas Petrone, Chief Engineer Able C. Reyes, 1st Engineer Alexander Bacalso, Cargo Engineer Hesham Mohamed and Deck Machinist Gerardo B. Gonzales.

    “The crew is excited to be recognized today and the morale of the crew is really high too,” said Third Mate Alexander Robinson, one of the Kanawha CIVMARs recognized during the ceremony. “We were deployed on a short notice to for a difficult deployment and it was nice to have USNS Kanawha credited just as USNS Supply recently was.”

    In addition, multiple Kanawha CIVMARs were presented the Navy Civilian Service Achievement Medal for outstanding performance during the deployment.

    Ship Bosun Theo Niang, Cargo Bosun Heberito Santos, Able Seaman Previn R. Byrd Jr, Able Seaman William R. Stephens, Third Officer Alexander Robinson, Bosun David Generette, Able Seaman Atiya Wooden, Chief Electrician Randy A. Rosero and Engine Utilityman Ardrian T. Lincoln were awarded Navy Civilian Achievement Medals.

    The Navy Civilian Service Achievement Medal is awarded to Department of the Navy and U.S. Marine Corps civilians who, while serving in a capacity within the Navy or Marine Corps, are to be recognized for sustained performance or specific achievement of a superlative nature at the equivalent level of the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal awarded to military personnel.

    Canseco offered some advice for CIVMARs who will be sailing in a contested environment.

    “For CIVMARs deployed to a contested environment, preparation and adaptability are key,” Canseco said. “Stay informed on the latest threat assessments and operational procedures and always follow security protocols to ensure both personal safety and mission success.”

    “Trust in your training, your shipmates, and the expertise of the Navy and MSC leadership to navigate challenges effectively. Mental resilience is just as important as physical readiness—remain focused, stay vigilant, and lean on the camaraderie of your crew. Above all, remember that your role is critical to sustaining naval operations,” he added.

    Kanawha is part of MSC’s Combat Logistics Force (CLF) who are the supply lines to U.S. Navy ships at-sea. These ships provide virtually everything that Navy ships require to remain on station at sea including fuel, food, fleet ordnance, dry cargo, spare parts, mail and other supplies. CLF ships enable the Navy fleet to remain at sea and combat ready for extended periods.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: King Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation To Protect Kids from the Harmful Impacts of Social Media

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Maine Angus King

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) is cosponsoring bipartisan legislation to help protect youth from the harmful impacts of social media. The Kids Off Social Media Act would enforce minimum age limits to use social media platforms and prevent social media companies from feeding algorithmically-targeted content to users under the age of 17.

    Studies have shown a strong relationship between social media use and poor mental health, especially among children. From 2019 to 2021, overall screen use among teens and tweens (ages 8 to 12) increased by 17 percent, with tweens using screens for five hours and 33 minutes per day and teens using screens for eight hours and 39 minutes. Based on the clear and growing evidence, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory in 2023, calling for new policies to set and enforce age minimums and highlighting the importance of limiting the use of features, like algorithms, that attempt to maximize time, attention, and engagement.

    “Children in Maine and across the country deserve protection from the potential harm posed by social media — especially during their most vulnerable years,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Kids Off Social Media Act would limit the harmful impacts of social media by establishing reasonable guardrails such as age minimums for new accounts and restrictions on targeting content to children under the age of 17. Our children deserve to grow up in a safe and supportive environment — and that doesn’t define the harsh online tone proliferating on online platforms — so this bipartisan legislation will ensure this protection for generations to come.”

    No age demographic is more affected by the ongoing mental health crisis in the United States than kids, especially young girls. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Youth Risk Behavior Survey found that 57 percent of high school girls and 29 percent of high school boys felt persistently sad or hopeless in 2021, with 22 percent of all high school students — and nearly a third of high school girls — reporting they had seriously considered attempting suicide in the preceding year.

    Specifically, the Kids Off Social Media Act would:

    1. Prohibit social media platforms from allowing children under the age of 13 to create or maintain social media accounts;
    2. Prohibit social media companies from pushing targeted content using algorithms to users under the age of 17;
    3. Provide the FTC and state attorneys general authority to enforce the provisions of the bill; and
    4. Follow existing CIPA framework, with changes, to require schools to work in good faith to limit social media on their federally-funded networks, which many schools already do.

      
    Studies have shown a strong relationship between social media use and poor mental health, especially among children. From 2019 to 2021, overall screen use among teens and tweens (ages 8 to 12) increased by 17 percent, with tweens using screens for five hours and 33 minutes per day and teens using screens for eight hours and 39 minutes. Based on the clear and growing evidence, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory in 2023, calling for new policies to set and enforce age minimums and highlighting the importance of limiting the use of features, like algorithms, that attempt to maximize time, attention, and engagement.

    In addition to King, the bipartisan legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Katie Britt (R-AL), Peter Welch (D-VT), Ted Budd (R-NC), John Fetterman (D-PA), and Mark Warner (D-VA).

    Senator King has been a longstanding advocate of protecting children online. He previously cosponsored the Kids Online Safety Act and the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act — two pieces of legislation that set safeguards, require transparency reports, and protect children from the non-consensual collection of personal data that could be used to exploit or manipulate them.

    For more information on the Kids Off Social Media Act, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Children’s library reopens with exciting half-term activities 11 February 2025 Children’s library at Lord Louis reopens with exciting half-term activities

    Source: Aisle of Wight

    Lord Louis Library’s newly refurbished children’s and teen library is now open, just in time for the February half-term.

    The vibrant makeover offers an enhanced experience for young readers and their families, with a series of engaging activities lined up for the holiday period and the reintroduction of cherished regular programmes.

    The children’s library has undergone a remarkable transformation over recent months, featuring new carpets, fresh paint, and captivating window vinyls that bring a forest-themed environment to life.

    Mandy Champken, the dedicated children’s librarian, said: “The children’s library looks better than ever. We’re eager for children to come in and experience the new forest-theme for themselves.”

    Among the regular offerings at Lord Louis Library are:

    • Rhyme Time: Delightful sessions for babies and toddlers every Friday at 10am and 11am.
    • Lego Club: Creative and interactive sessions held on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 3.30pm to 4.30pm.
    • Teddy Bear Story Time and Duplo Session: Engaging storytelling and playtime on Tuesdays at 10am, with an additional Toddler Story Time on Thursdays at 2.15pm.

    For the February half-term, the library has scheduled an array of special events:

    • Make a Fluttering Butterfly: A hands-on crafting session for all ages on Saturday, 15 February from 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Pre-booking is essential.
    • Decorate a Fairy Door: Creative fun for children aged 4 and above on Friday, 21 February from 2.30pm to 3.30pm. Pre-booking is essential.

    Meanwhile, on Saturday, 22 February, Mandy Champken will host a delightful Teddy Bear’s Picnic at the Quay Arts Centre for the Isle of Wight Story Festival, featuring stories and rhymes for younger children.

    Additionally, activities for children will be available across most council libraries during the half-term holidays.

    Councillor Julie Jones Evans, Cabinet member responsible for libraries, said: “We are excited to see families enjoying the newly refurbished space and participating in the wonderful activities we have planned.

    “Reading is an essential skill that nurtures imagination, creativity, and lifelong learning. Providing children with a welcoming and engaging library environment is crucial for fostering a love for reading and supporting their educational development.

    “The joy of reading for pleasure cannot be overstated — it opens doors to new worlds and perspectives, enriching lives beyond measure. The new children’s library at Lord Louis will play a significant role in enhancing the experiences of young readers and their families.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes the 2024 Article IV Consultation with Qatar

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    February 11, 2025

    Washington, DC: On January 27, 2025, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV consultation[1] with Qatar.

    Growth normalization after the 2022 FIFA World Cup continued, with signs of strengthening activities more recently. Real GDP growth is projected to improve gradually to 2 percent in 2024–25 supported by public investment, spillovers from the ongoing LNG expansion project, and strong tourism. Medium-term growth is expected to accelerate to 4¾ percent on average, boosted by the significant LNG production expansion and initial gains from implementing reforms guided by the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3). Headline inflation will likely ease to 1 percent in 2024 and converge to around 2 percent over the medium term.

    With lower hydrocarbon prices, both the current account and fiscal surpluses narrowed in 2023, to 17 percent of GDP and 5½ percent of GDP, respectively. The twin surpluses moderated further in 2024. Over the medium, as Qatar’s LNG production expands massively, both the current and fiscal accounts will likely remain in surpluses, albeit declining as a share of GDP, as hydrocarbon prices are projected to fall.

    Banks are well-capitalized, liquid, and profitable, with the capital adequacy ratio of close to 20 percent and return on equity of 14½ percent, respectively, in the third quarter of 2024. Since the implementation of QCB measures to reduce banks’ net short-term foreign liabilities, banks’ non-resident deposits declined significantly, and banks have lengthened the average maturity and diversified further the sources of foreign funding. The sector-wide NPL ratio remained broadly unchanged at slightly below 4 percent and the provisioning coverage ratio is relatively high at above 80 percent.   

    Qatar has started to implement the ambitious Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) to build a more diversified, knowledge-based and private sector-driven economy. Guided by NDS3, reform momentum has strengthened significantly, including to attract and retain high-skilled expatriate workers, foster innovation, promote public-private partnerships, and further improve the business efficiency. Qatar is well positioned to leverage digitalization and AI for productivity gains, and the nation’s climate agenda is advancing.

    Risks to the outlook are broadly balanced. Main downside risks stem from the global headwinds, including a sharper-than-expected global growth slowdown, increased volatility in global financial conditions and commodity prices, and further worsening of geopolitical tensions. The regional conflict has had limited impact on Qatar but adds further to the downside risks through lower tourism and capital inflows, and more volatile hydrocarbon prices. Domestic downside risk stems mainly from further weaknesses in the real estate sector, although strong tourism and policy measures introduced in 2023 could mitigate the risk. Over the medium and long term, supply in the global natural gas market is expected to expand significantly, potentially putting downward pressure on prices. On the upside, sustained high hydrocarbon prices and accelerated NDS3 reforms would strengthen the outlook. However, if ambitious NDS3 initiatives lead to resource misallocation, both the public finance and growth prospect would be affected.

    Executive Board Assessment[2]

    Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They welcomed Qatar’s continued resilience to external shocks and its favorable medium-term outlook, driven by significant increases in LNG production and the reforms under the Third National Development Strategy. Directors agreed that maintaining prudent macroeconomic policies and accelerating reform efforts would further solidify macroeconomic stability and resilience to shocks while boosting prosperity.

    Directors commended the authorities’ commitment to continued fiscal prudence and called for accelerating fiscal reforms. They recommended adopting a medium-term fiscal anchor to help ensure intergenerational equity, and reiterated the need to accelerate revenue diversification, particularly by introducing the value-added tax. Directors highlighted the importance of improving spending efficiency and composition, particularly by enhancing public investment management. They welcomed the ongoing efforts to strengthen fiscal institutions and adopt a full-fledged medium-term fiscal framework with enhanced fiscal risk management.

    Directors supported the authorities’ efforts to maintain financial stability and deepen domestic financial markets, while encouraging them to consider undertaking a Financial Sector Assessment Program update. They welcomed the newly introduced risk-based supervision and recommended formalizing the financial safety net and continuing to adjust macroprudential policies to mitigate potential macro-financial risks. Directors encouraged the authorities to sustain their progress in fighting financial crimes.

    Directors agreed that the exchange rate peg continues to serve Qatar well. They concurred that, as conditions allow, strengthening the operational framework would further enhance monetary policy transmission.

    Directors supported the authorities’ strategy to build a more diversified, private sector-led, and knowledge-based economy. They recommended fostering innovation and business efficiency and enhancing human capital by attracting and retaining more high-skilled expatriate workers, improving Qatari nationals’ employment in the private sector, and further increasing female labor force participation. Directors agreed that aligning domestic energy prices with export prices would benefit public finances and support climate goals. They also encouraged the authorities to close remaining data gaps, with the help of IMF capacity development.

    It is expected that the next Article IV consultation with Qatar will be held on the standard 12-month cycle.

    Qatar: Selected Macroeconomic Indicators, 2021-25
    (Quota: 735.1 million SDRs, November 2024)
    (Per capita income: U.S.$69,541, 2023)
    (Life expectancy at birth: 81.6 years, 2022)
    (Population: 3.1 million, 2023)
    Projections
    2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
    Production and prices (percent change)
    Real GDP (2018 prices) 1.6 4.2 1.2 1.7 2.4
    Hydrocarbon 1/ -0.3 1.7 1.4 1.4 3.0
    Nonhydrocarbon 2.8 5.7 1.1 1.9 2.1
    CPI inflation (average) 2.3 5.0 3.0 1.0 1.4
    Public finances (percent of GDP)
    Revenue 29.6 34.7 32.8 26.2 28.7
    Expenditure 29.4 24.3 27.3 25.9 26.2
    Current 18.3 15.6 17.5 17.2 17.5
    Capital 11.1 8.8 9.7 8.7 8.7
    Central government fiscal balance 0.2 10.4 5.6 0.3 2.5
    Money (percent change)
    Broad money 1.4 17.4 1.1 4.1 5.6
    Credit to private sector 9.5 7.4 4.9 5.5 6.1
    External sector (percent of GDP unless otherwise noted)
    Exports 58.7 68.6 60.4 58.7 60.1
    Imports 34.1 31.6 33.9 33.4 35.1
    Current account balance 14.6 26.8 17.1 16.6 15.5
    in billions of U.S. dollars 26.3 63.1 36.5 37.0 35.2
    External debt 161.4 115.5 123.2 118.1 116.8
    Central Bank’s reserves 23.5 20.1 24.2 24.5 25.4
    in months of next year’s imports 6.6 7.7 8.1 8.0 7.9
    Exchange rate (per U.S. dollar) 2/ 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6
    Real effective exchange rate (percent change) 3/ -2.6 6.5 0.2 -0.5 …
    Sources: Qatari authorities; and IMF staff estimates and projections.
    1/ Includes crude oil, natural gas, propane, butane, and condensates.
    2/ January 6, 2025
    3/ November 2024.

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chair of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summing up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Angham Al Shami

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/02/11/pr25034-qatar-imf-executive-board-concludes-the-2024-article-iv-consultation

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Know Your Status’, Take a Quick and Easy HIV Test

    Source: City of Liverpool

    Liverpool City Council and its partners are calling on people across the city to take an HIV test and ‘know your status.’ This National HIV Testing Week (10th–16th February) is the perfect time to get checked.  

    The completely confidential process is quick, free, and has never been easier with multiple access points across the city with and discreet online self-tests also available. 

    Early diagnosis and treatment are key to reducing transmissions, as many people can live with the virus for years without symptoms.

    Liverpool is making huge strides as a Fast-Track City, a global initiative committed to ending HIV and AIDS. Since 2021, the number of undiagnosed cases in Liverpool has fallen from 115 to an estimated 50. 

    But to reach zero new transmissions, regular testing is essential. If you test negative, you can take steps to stay that way, such as using PrEP or condoms. If you test positive, early detection means you can access treatment and live a long, healthy life.

    People on effective HIV treatment cannot pass the virus on to their partners, a breakthrough known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable). 

    Services and partners across the city are co-ordinating testing events and offering prevention advice. 

    Axess Sexual Health Testing: 

    • Axess website for information on clinic sites, and online testing: 

    https://www.axess.clinic

    • See Axess social media channels, including X, Facebook and Instagram for information throughout the week (Axess X)
    • Condom distribution scheme available all over the city (online ordering) – and with QR code on ‘testing week adverts’ 

    Liverpool PaSH Drop In Testing: 

    • Condom scheme available to at risk groups via website https://www.lpash.org.uk/ 
    • 11th Feb – Central Library (2pm-4pm, William Brown Street) L3 8EW 
    • 12th Feb – Kuumba Imani (11am-2pm), 4 Princes Road, L8 
    • 14th Feb – Yemi’s Barber Shop (4pm-6pm), 40 Smithdown Road, L7 4JG 

    Sahir 

    Information stalls, events and engaging in other related engagement activity at the following locations (with advice around how to test): 

    • The Brink – 15-21 Parr St, Liverpool L1 4JN

          Tuesday 11th February 2025, 11.30am – 2.00pm 

    • RISE YMCA – 15 Leeds St, Liverpool L3 6HU

           Friday 14th February 2025 1.00pm – 2.00pm 

    Councillor Harry Doyle, Cabinet Member for Culture, Health and Wellbeing said: “HIV testing week provides a vital opportunity to get tested. In Liverpool we are making testing easier to access than ever before, either through Axess clinics, community outreach, or online approaches.  

    We also have fantastic HIV treatment and care services and know that with effective treatment, with a positive diagnosis you can lead a long and healthy life. Our HIV support services provided by George House Trust and Sahir House are also there to help with advice and information if you need it”. 

    Director of Public Health Professor Matthew Ashton said: “We are proud of the progress we have made in relation to HIV testing and treatment in recent years. Having redesigned our services to make contraception, and STI and HIV testing more accessible, we saw a record number of residents test for STIs and HIV last year. 

    “We want more people to do the same. Please ensure you test and know your status and help us achieve our goal of ending all new HIV transmissions by 2030”. 

    Axess Sexual Health Clinical Outreach lead, Chris Higgins, said “We will be delivering a range of outreach testing during the week, and our mobile bus. Testing is the only way to know if you have HIV and worth doing because people can live with HIV for a long time without any symptoms. 

    “We encourage you to access our services across the city to get tested, access PrEP and use condoms as a vital approach to HIV prevention”. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Investment in City Economic Development

    Source: Scotland – City of Dundee

    Investment designed to drive forward economic development in Dundee is set to be discussed by councillors. 

    Funding from external sources would be used to support ongoing initiatives like employment programmes, while it could also assist commercial companies spinning out from biomedical research. 

    A report to be considered on Monday (Feb 17) shows that £2.44 million of funding has been awarded to Dundee City Council from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) for 2025-26. 

    Councillors will hear that over the last three years, the council has used UKSPF to support the delivery of key economic development interventions. 

    These include Discover Work, the Dundee Partnership’s employability programme, and local business support through Business Gateway.   

    To ensure that these services can continue to deliver to clients without interruption, and that staff are retained, it is necessary to confirm the ongoing funding for these projects at the earliest opportunity.   

    Delivery models including Challenge Funds, partnership approaches, procured services and regionally focused initiatives would remain the same as previous years. 

    Meanwhile, a separate report recommends the use of legacy funding from the  Business Loans Scotland scheme to bolster the city’s life sciences sector. 

    Opening of the Dundee Life Sciences Innovation Hub in 2025 creates an imperative to maximise the pipeline of spinout companies and to remove barriers to translating innovative research into commercial opportunity and job creation. 

    Councillors are being asked to give the go-ahead to the reinvestment of the £137,000 legacy funding into a Proof of Concept (POC) Fund Programme in partnership with University of Dundee, with the aim of catalysing life science and healthcare sector spinout companies. 

    They will hear that the pilot phase of the POC scheme has been funded in 2024/2025 by £100,000 from Dundee’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation matched in kind by Dundee University. 

    Both reports will be considered by the Fair Work, Economic Growth and Infrastructure Commitee at its next meeting. 

    Committee convener Councillor Steven Rome said: “We are determined to improve the economy of Dundee through a range of measures with our partners and these two reports show the efforts we are making. 

    “UKSPF has enabled us to deliver key employability programmes, and city partners are focusing on key issues such as increasing the number of our young people in positive destinations. 

    “This is a crucial initiative for the future of our city. 

    “We also want to see academic innovation translated into commercial success, and the Proof of Concept programme will help fledgling companies to find their way.” 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICE HSI San Antonio and our law enforcement partners arrest a Tren de Aragua gang member during enforcement action

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    SAN ANTONIO – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, in partnership with our law enforcement partners, arrested a Tren de Aragua gang member, Feb 5.

    The 27-year-old male citizen and national of Venezuela was arrested for assault with a deadly weapon and is the suspected shooter in an attempted murder investigation in San Antonio. The illegally present is currently in state custody.

    “The successful arrest of a member of the Tren de Aragua gang in San Antonio was made possible through the resolute efforts of HSI and our dedicated local law enforcement partners,” said HSI San Antonio Special Agent in Charge Craig Larrabee. “This arrest highlights our steadfast dedication to the safety of our communities and the relentless pursuit of justice.”

    The Tren de Aragua gang is known for engaging in various criminal activities, including drug trafficking and violent crimes, which pose a significant threat to our communities. HSI and our partners are dedicated to dismantling these criminal organizations through strategic operations, intelligence-driven investigations, and close cooperation with international, federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. By leveraging our collective resources and expertise, we aim to disrupt the operations of these dangerous gangs and bring their members to justice.

    Individuals can report suspicious criminal activity to the ICE Tip Line 24 hours a day, seven days a week, call 866-DHS-2-ICE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hoskins Warns Missourians About Romance Scams

    Source: US State of Missouri

     

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

               

    Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, CPA, Warns Missourians About Romance Scams

    JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Missouri Secretary of State Denny Hoskins, CPA, is urging Missourians to be vigilant against romance scams, a growing threat that preys on individuals seeking companionship online. As Valentine’s Day approaches, fraudsters are ramping up efforts to manipulate victims into sending money or divulging personal information.

    “Romance scams are among the most devastating types of fraud, not only financially but emotionally,” said Secretary Hoskins. “These scammers build trust over time, often posing as loving and devoted partners, only to exploit their victims for financial gain. Missourians should remain cautious when engaging in online relationships.”

    According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), romance scams result in millions of dollars in losses each year, with victims often targeted through dating websites, social media platforms, and messaging apps. Scammers typically craft elaborate backstories, claiming to be deployed military personnel, international businesspeople, or professionals working overseas. They create a sense of urgency, asking for money under the guise of emergencies, medical expenses, or travel costs to meet in person—requests that never materialize into a real encounter.

    To help Missourians protect themselves, Secretary Hoskins offers the following tips:

    • Be skeptical of individuals who profess love quickly or avoid in-person meetings.
    • Never send money, gift cards, or personal financial information to someone you haven’t met.
    • Conduct reverse image searches on profile pictures to check for stolen identities.
    • Discuss new online relationships with trusted friends or family members.
    • Report suspected romance scams to the Missouri Secretary of State’s Office, the FTC, or the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3).

    “Missourians deserve to form relationships built on trust, not deceit,” Secretary Hoskins emphasized. “By staying informed and vigilant, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from these heartless schemes.”

    For more information or to report suspected fraud, visit Missouri Secretary of State’s website or contact the Securities Division at 573-751-4136.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ending Procurement and Forced Use of Paper Straws

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, it is hereby ordered:
         Section 1.  Policy.  An irrational campaign against plastic straws has resulted in major cities, States, and businesses banning the use or automatic inclusion of plastic straws with beverages.  Plastic straws are often replaced by paper straws, which are nonfunctional, use chemicals that may carry risks to human health, are more expensive to produce than plastic straws, and often force users to use multiple straws.  Additionally, paper straws sometimes come individually wrapped in plastic, undermining the environmental argument for their use.It is therefore the policy of the United States to end the use of paper straws. 
         Sec. 2.  Purchases of Paper Straws by the Federal Government.  (a)  The heads of executive departments and agencies (agencies) shall take all appropriate action to eliminate the procurement of paper straws and otherwise ensure that paper straws are no longer provided within agency buildings.(b)  Agencies shall take appropriate action to eliminate policies designed to disfavor plastic straws issued to further Executive Order 14057 of December 8, 2021 (Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through Federal Sustainability), which I revoked on January 20, 2025.(c)  Within 45 days of the date of this order, the Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy, in coordination with relevant agencies, shall issue a National Strategy to End the Use of Paper Straws.  This strategy shall address:(i)    The elimination of all policies within the executive branch designed to disfavor plastic straws;(ii)   Contract policies and terms with entities, including States, that ban or penalize plastic straw purchase or use; and(iii)  All other available tools to achieve the policy of this order nationwide.
         Sec. 3. General Provisions.  (a)  Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect:  (i)   the authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof; or (ii)  the functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals.  (b)  This order shall be implemented consistent with applicable law and subject to the availability of appropriations.  (c)  This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.       THE WHITE HOUSE,    February 10, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Intellectual Property: SafeGlam

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Case study

    Intellectual Property: SafeGlam

    From personal experience to SafeGlam: Why business graduate Giorgia Flora Aloi chose to launch a platform to educate consumers about counterfeit goods.

    Giorgia Flora Aloi is a business graduate, who recently completed her Master’s in Applied Imagination at Central Saint Martin’s. During this time, she investigated the growing issue of counterfeit beauty products sold on social media platforms. For her final project, Giorgia developed SafeGlam – an online learning platform which educates consumers on the dangers of counterfeit cosmetics and how to identify them.

    Giorgia’s inspiration came from a personal experience. She and her sister both unknowingly purchased a foundation from Kiko Milano from a social media marketplace. Upon opening the product, Giorgia immediately recognised it was fake due to the product being overly oily and carrying a strong smell. Following this, Giorgia’s mother suffered an allergic reaction after applying to her skin. This experience sparked her interest in counterfeit cosmetics, particularly the harmful and unregulated ingredients often found in these products.

    Finding support for SafeGlam

    Determined to move forward with SafeGlam, Giorgia realised she needed credible insights to:

    1. Understand the broader impact of counterfeit beauty products.
    2. Ensure the platform’s content was accurate, reliable, and impactful.

    During her research, Giorgia discovered the Intellectual Property Office’s (IPO) ‘Choose Safe, Not Fake’ campaign, which focused on counterfeit beauty and hygiene products. After reaching out to the IPO’s Enforcement team, Giorgia was guided to valuable research and resources that strengthened the evidence behind her project. Credible information from trusted sources, such as government departments, gave her platform the authority and reliability needed to connect with users effectively.

    The impact of SafeGlam

    With the support of verified insights, Giorgia created a clear, engaging and impactful platform that raises awareness of counterfeit beauty products. SafeGlam contributes to a fundamental objective of the IPO Counter-Infringement Strategy. This is to educate consumers about the risks of fakes and how to spot them, to prevent the spread of dangerous counterfeit goods.

    The IPO recognises that supporting initiatives like SafeGlam helps strengthen critical messages to reach new audiences. Giorgia’s peer-to-peer approach effectively connects with younger consumers, making education on counterfeit products more relatable and effective.

    What’s next for Giorgia and SafeGlam?

    “SafeGlam is stepping into the future with a clear mission: educate, empower and protect beauty enthusiasts around the world. Through podcasts, educational videos and partnerships we’re building a stronger, more informed community. This paves the way for a safer, smarter and more transparent beauty world”- Giorgia Flora Aloi

    Take Action

    Visit SafeGlam today to learn about the dangers of counterfeit beauty products and explore the IPO website for information on the effect of counterfeit goods.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Increase in HIV testing in community settings

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Community testing in 2023, including nightclubs and festivals, rose by 7% compared to 2022.

    A new report published by the UK Health Security Agency shows HIV testing in community settings continues to be a vital tool to diagnose HIV in those who might not visit traditional testing outlets such as sexual health clinics.

    In 2023, testing in community settings such as nightclubs, festivals and voluntary sector premises, increased by 7% compared to 2022.

    The HIV testing in community settings in England report also found nearly a quarter of all tests were reported among individuals being tested for HIV for the first time. It also highlights the impact of National HIV Testing Week, noting that there was a 22% increase in the number of tests carried out in this time compared to 2022.

    Dr Tamara Duretić, Head of HIV Section at the UK Health Security Agency, said:

    HIV can affect anyone, no matter your gender or sexual orientation. It’s good to see HIV Testing Week once again highlighting the hugely important role regular testing plays in helping to prevent new infections, alongside condom use.

    Testing allows people to have access to free prevention interventions such as PrEP (HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis) and, should you test positive, ensures timely access to treatment that saves lives and prevents the virus being passed on.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: How are we tackling crime in your local area?

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    We are delivering 13,000 police officers, special constables and PCSOs across the country, including a named, contactable officer in your area.

    Our mission to keep your streets safe

    We’re putting police officers back on the beat to prevent crime and help communities. 

    Our milestone for safer streets is to deliver 13,000 additional police officers, PCSOs and special constables into neighbourhood policing roles. 

    This means a named, contactable officer in every community to respond to local issues. You can also have your say on the police’s priorities for your area.

    Visible policing is one of the best ways to prevent crime and make your streets safer.

    If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police

    How you can report non-emergencies

    Report crimes online or by calling 101 if they are not an emergency.

    You can also call 101 to give information to the police or make an enquiry.

    If you live in Scotland you can search by postcode to find and contact your local policing team.

    If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service on 18001 101.

    Asking us for an update or need to update a report?

    You can contact some police forces online to get an update or add something to a report: find out if you can do it online.

    Crimestoppers

    If a crime has been committed, you can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers.

    If you’re not sure who to contact

    Use the Act Now! Guide to help you decide who you should report the problem to.

    How to deal with anti-social behaviour

    Anti-social behaviour could include:

    • vandalism
    • graffiti
    • dumped rubbish
    • rowdy neighbours
    • abandoned cars
    • persistent dog barking
    • alcohol related nuisance

    You can report anti-social behaviour through:

    Police

    Call 101 to report a non-emergency incident to the police. You can also report anti-social behaviour on the Police.UK website.

    Report anti-social behaviour at Police.UK.

    Local council

    Check your local council’s website to find out what types of anti-social behaviour you can report. 

    Find your local council.

    Your housing provider – council or housing association tenants

    If you or your neighbours are having problems in your building, report it to your council or housing association.

    Your housing provider should have told you how to report anti-social behaviour. If not, call them and ask to speak to their anti-social behaviour team.

    Your housing provider – private tenants

    If the anti-social behaviour is caused by someone with whom you are sharing a house in a private tenancy, report this to your landlord.

    Request an anti-social behaviour case review

    If you are a victim of persistent anti-social behaviour, you can request an anti-social behaviour case review. This was formerly known as a community trigger.

    The review allows agencies, including the police, local authorities and housing providers, to:

    • share information about the case
    • review what action has been taken
    • decide whether there are more actions that can be taken

    Find out how to apply for an anti-social behaviour case review in your area from your local police force or local council website.

    Find your local police force.

    Find your local council.

    Get support and advice

    These organisations can give advice on anti-social behaviour in England and Wales:

    ASB Help

    Victim Support

    Victim Support in Wales

    Our Watch

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Foreign students of the State University of Management opened a “Window to Africa”

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On February 9, 2025, the African Culture Festival “Window to Africa” was held at the Moscow House of Nationalities with the support of the Department of National Policy and Interregional Relations of the City of Moscow. It was dedicated to the traditions and art of African countries, as well as cultural exchange between countries. Foreign students of the State University of Management took part in the Festival.

    Cultural cooperation has acquired special significance after the Russia-Africa summit in 2023 and the intensification of bilateral ties. The opening of the Festival was attended by the director of the Moscow House of Nationalities Sergey Anufrienko, the president of the Cameroonian diaspora in Russia “DIASPOCAM” Louis Gouend. The event brought together more than 400 people, including representatives of the State Duma of the Russian Federation, diplomatic missions, other official structures and African diasporas.

    At the Festival, the State University of Management was represented by foreign students from Africa, China, Vietnam, and Syria. SUM students took an active part in the events. They attended national music and dance performances, lectures by Kassae Nygusie Wolde Mikael, professor of the Department of Theory and History of International Relations at the Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba, and learned a lot of new information about the history and geography of African countries. SUM foreign students also took part in various master classes on traditional African dances, mastered the skills of braiding African braids with Kanekalons, played African drums, learned the art of wearing an African scarf with a child on the back in a traditional style, and tried the delights of African cuisine. The Festival featured an exhibition of national African clothing, which could be tried on for bright photos.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 02/11/2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Vladimir Stroyev took part in the discussion of the Strategy of Russian Education at the State Duma meeting

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    On February 11, 2025, the State Duma of the Russian Federation held a “government hour” on the development of the Strategy for Russian Education, in which the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev took part.

    The speakers of the discussion were the Minister of Science and Higher Education Valery Falkov, the Minister of Education Sergey Kravtsov, the head of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs Grigory Gurov, the Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Science and Higher Education Sergey Kabyshev and also the leaders of political factions. In addition, the meeting was attended in person and via videoconference by representatives of the rector’s and scientific communities, experts in the field of education from 89 regions of Russia.

    The strategy for the development of the education system in the Russian Federation for the period up to 2036 with a perspective up to 2040 is being developed on the instructions of the President of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin.

    The head of the Ministry of Education and Science, Valery Falkov, told those gathered about the development of a new list of specialties that corresponds to the changing technological order and modern requirements of the labor market.

    “The world is changing rapidly, and there is a growing demand for fundamentally new specialists. We will respond to this demand with new specialties. Such as, for example, “Design and operation of unmanned mobile systems”, “Additive technologies”, “Design and operation of high-speed traffic systems”, – said Valery Falkov.

    State educational standards will be adapted to the new model of higher education and the list of specialties. The Strategy also implies the convergence of secondary vocational and higher education. The share of practical training will be increased, and the best graduates of secondary vocational education will be given the opportunity to enroll in shortened higher education programs, but only in full-time form. Accordingly, the involvement of employers in higher education will also be increased, for which purpose a bill on educational and methodological associations has been submitted to the State Duma, in whose activities representatives of employers will directly participate.

    The Minister of Science and Higher Education also reported that the most important priority of the new Strategy will be university teachers: “We will focus on social support measures, a system of material incentives, advanced training and, of course, reducing various types of workload.”

    Valery Falkov emphasized that the right to receive educational loans at a rate of 3% will be granted first of all to those applying for specialties that are a priority for solving state problems: future engineers, doctors, teachers and specialists in natural sciences. This initiative has already been supported by Vladimir Putin.

    Education Minister Sergei Kravtsov informed deputies that from September 1, 2026, Russian schools will switch to new state textbooks on subjects such as history, social studies, and the foundations of spiritual and moral culture of Russia.

    The head of the Ministry of Education also drew attention to the need to increase the authority and status of teachers. The new Strategy for Russian Education will reflect the tasks of increasing teachers’ salaries and reducing their workload.

    The head of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs, associate professor of the Department of State and Municipal Administration of the State University of Management Grigory Gurov noted that the environment that surrounds children and young people is becoming an important component of educational work.

    “Of course, great attention should be paid to the digital environment, in which young people are now spending more and more time. And of course, the structure of information consumption is inevitably changing. Unreliable information, more frequent cases of bullying in the online space and aggressive behavior require coordinated decisions and joint actions from us,” said Grigory Gurov.

    Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Science and Higher Education Sergei Kabyshev pointed out that the development of the Education Development Strategy is one of the key elements in the implementation of national goals and a special instrument of strategic state planning.

    Subscribe to the TG channel “Our GUU” Date of publication: 02/11/2025

    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 United Nations: Innovative insurance model directs millions in cash assistance to people affected by hurricane Beryl

    Source: World Food Programme

    GRENADA – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has supported Caribbean nations to ensure that climate insurance payouts triggered by category-5 Hurricane Beryl in July last year are used for social subsidies to get the most vulnerable back on their feet. The Governments of Grenada, Jamaica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will use a US$ 5.5 million portion of the payout to assist people affected by the tropical storm.

    In Grenada alone, 34,000 people (30 percent of the population) required emergency assistance after Hurricane Beryl. Now, it is the first country to provide subsidies to people who lost income, under the Beryl Relief Income Support Programme (BRISP).

    WFP and CCRIF SPC (formerly the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility) work together to link tropical cyclone and excess rainfall insurance policies with national social protection systems. Through an innovative model, financial support allows countries to top-up their sovereign insurance coverage on the condition that a fixed percentage of the payout is allocated for social assistance if and when policies are triggered. 

    “Recognising the limited fiscal space of Caribbean governments, we know that it is crucial to strengthen national systems to ensure that support reaches the people who need it most, when disaster strikes,” said Brian Bogart, Representative of the WFP Caribbean Multi-Country Office. “Hurricane Beryl’s impact was significant, and many people are still struggling to recover. WFP is committed to supporting strategies that assist people as they recover, without increasing the long-term debt burden of small island nations and derailing progress on national development goals.”

    WFP first introduced insurance policy top-up agreements in Dominica in 2021. Since then, WFP has helped expand the model to Belize, Dominica and Saint Lucia, with support from the European Union, the Government of Canada and the Global Shield Financing Facility. The Canada-CARICOM Climate Adaptation has recently provided funding to include Antigua and Barbuda, Grenada, Jamaica and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. 

    “In the face of increasing climate-related challenges, it is imperative that we strengthen our collaborative efforts to build resilience within our Caribbean communities,” said Isaac Solomon, Acting President of the Caribbean Development Bank. ” Innovative insurance models supported by CCRIF SPC and WFP are an effective method to get relief those most affected in a timely manner.”

    “Canada was keen to build on the work that started in 2021,” said Abebech Assefa, Head of Cooperation for the Eastern Caribbean at Canada’s International Trade – Global Affairs Canada. “The idea to connect a portion of CCRIF SPC payouts to social protection systems helps ensure that these funds reach the most vulnerable people. The recent experience with Hurricane Beryl has provided an opportunity to put the concept to the test.” 

    Caribbean small island developing states (SIDS) are on the frontline of climate change. The WFP Caribbean Multi-Country Office was established in 2018 and has since supported governments in scaling-up climate solutions, including early warning systems, anticipatory action and insurance to protect food-insecure communities.

    #                 #                   #

    About WFP

    The United Nations World Food Programme is the world’s largest humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change.

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @wfp_media; @wfp_Caribbean

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: New Radiation Therapy Program Brings Gold Standard of Cancer Care Closer to Home

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on February 11, 2025

    Cervical cancer patients in Saskatchewan now have access to a new treatment option.

    The Saskatchewan Cancer Agency (SCA) is proud to announce the launch of the Interstitial High-Dose-Rate (HDR) Gynecological Brachytherapy program. This safe, specialized, targeted form of radiation therapy is the gold standard of care. The program eliminates the need for patients with cervical cancer to travel out of province, with this treatment now available in Saskatchewan. 

    “Providing Saskatchewan cancer patients with world-class care and cutting-edge treatment options close to home remains a top priority for our government,” Health Minister Jeremy Cockrill said. “We are dedicated to driving healthcare innovation that enhances patient outcomes and improves quality of life for all residents.”

    In January 2025, the program treated its first patient with this innovative treatment, which combines standard applicators with strategically placed interstitial needles. The technique provides a precise, high-dose radiation treatment that treats irregular-sized tumours while reducing radiation exposure to surrounding healthy tissues and minimizing side effects.

    Currently, around 65 per cent of patients with cervical cancer in Saskatchewan could benefit from this program, which eliminates the need for out-of-province travel and provides a locally accessible, high-quality treatment option.

    The program is expected to benefit more than 20 cervical cancer patients annually. Typically, a patient receives four treatments, totalling around 80 procedures per year in Saskatchewan.

    “We’re excited to expand our treatment options and provide this safe, innovative and highly effective treatment for cervical cancer patients right here, where they’re close to their support networks,” Radiation Oncologist for SCA Dr. Jocelyn Moore said.

    The program will be rolled out in three phases during the coming years. Phase 1 focuses on the introduction of hybrid therapy, which combines the standard applicator with additional interstitial needles for optimal precision and effectiveness. Future phases will involve the introduction of different applicators to expand treatment options to treat vaginal cancers, vaginally recurrent uterine cancers, and locally advanced cervical cancers.

    This procedure is initially available in Saskatoon for all Saskatchewan patients, with plans to expand to Regina in the future. Collaboration between medical teams at the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency and the Saskatchewan Health Authority is at the heart of this initiative, which focuses on seamless patient care and the best possible outcomes for those undergoing treatment.

    Media availability: Dr. Jocelyn Moore will be available to describe the procedure and explain its impact on Saskatchewan residents during a virtual information session on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 11 a.m. 

    To attend the virtual information session, RSVP to SCA.Communications@SaskCancer.ca.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Four Future Eye Doctors Meet Their Match

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Four fourth-year UConn medical school students have matched early into their residency training programs in ophthalmology.

    “This is our largest ophthalmology match yet,” shared Dr. Marilyn Katz, assistant dean for Student Affairs, as UConn School of Medicine had three students in 2019 and three in 2020 choose to enter the ophthalmology field.

    Christopher Edwards, 30, of Glastonbury has excitedly early matched to his ophthalmology residency training program at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.

    “It’s a great relief to know where I’m heading for the next four years. I’m incredibly happy to have matched at Dartmouth,” says Edwards who was inspired to pursue ophthalmology after seeing the profound impact of vision loss on patients’ lives.

    “I was particularly moved by how therapeutic treatments and surgical procedures could restore sight and significantly improve quality of life,” Edwards shares. “I’m looking forward to working alongside the amazing faculty and residents at Dartmouth and continuing to care for the people of New England as an ophthalmologist.”

    Fellow future ophthalmologist Michael Li, 26, of West Hartford is excited and relived to learn of his residency match to Brown University early.

    “I loved my time at UConn and will always be a Husky at heart but I’m excited for my next chapter!” says Li. “It’s definitely a big relief to know early, and I’m excited to see where all of my classmates will be in a month!”

    The rest of the Class of 2025 will learn their residency program destinies together on National Match Day on Friday, March 21 when they rip open their white envelopes for the big reveal in the Academic Rotunda at UConn Health.

    Soon-to-be UConn made doctors and future ophthalmologists: Christopher Edwards, Sarishka Desai, Michael Li, and Margaret Boudreau (February 10 2025/Tina Encarnacion/UConn Health Photo).

    “I always knew that I wanted to pursue a surgical field, but what I love about ophthalmology is being able to follow patients long-term and form relationships as well as having the ability to intervene with precise action when necessary,” Li says who is also excited about taking some well-deserved time off to travel before the start of his residency.

    “Both of my grandmas have been in China waiting to see me for the past 9 years and a reunion is long overdue,” he heartwarmingly concludes.

    Sarishka Desai, 25, of Darien is thrilled to have matched to Tufts/New England Eye Center.

    “I’m incredibly excited to have matched into a fantastic program!” says Desai who was drawn to ophthalmology because of the unique balance between clinical care and surgery, as well as the opportunity to build long-term relationships with her patients.

    “Vision is such an important sense and I’m honored to enter this field. I’ve been fortunate to learn from some of the best mentors, who have not only guided me but also pushed me to become the best medical student and future resident I could be,” says Desai.

    She concludes, “Now, I can’t wait to celebrate with my classmates and cheer them on as they find out where they’re headed next.”

    Maggie Boudreau, 27, of Wilton matched to the University of Virginia, and is also looking forward to celebrating with her classmates as they find out their match results in March on Match Day.

    She’s been inspired to enter ophthalmology thanks to her Clinical Longitudinal Immersion in the Community (CLIC) program experience. This cornerstone of the curriculum gives UConn medical students the unique opportunity to work side by side with physician preceptors across the state in the clinic for three years.

    “I was inspired by my CLIC preceptor. He knew I enjoyed doing procedures and had watched me grow in the clinic, and recommended ophthalmology to me,” says Boudreau. “I am looking forward to meeting my first patients.”

    Boudreau concludes, “I have really enjoyed the past four years. The faculty’s dedication to our learning and success stands out to me every day.”

    Edwards also couldn’t agree more.

    “My experience at UConn School of Medicine has been incredibly educational, thanks to the exceptional faculty members throughout the preclinical and clinical years. I’m very grateful for their guidance and mentorship, which has been invaluable in preparing me for my future medical career,” Edwards said.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Andesite Raises Additional $23 Million and Announces General Availability of the Bionic SOC

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MCLEAN, Va., Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Andesite AI (Andesite) today announced the General Availability of the bionic Security Operations Center (SOC), its human-AI collaboration product empowering cyber defense teams. Additionally, Andesite revealed that it secured an additional $23 million in capital as a second tranche of seed funding from General Catalyst and Red Cell Partners. The investment brings Andesite’s total funding to $38.25 million and is the result of the company’s ahead-of-schedule achievement of technology, customer acquisition, and revenue milestones.

    Despite ballooning cybersecurity spending, security teams are overwhelmed. Analysts are drowning in alerts, struggling to interpret, prioritize, and act on neverending indicators while bouncing between fragmented tools and portals. SOC leaders face mounting pressure to prove ROI on ever-growing spending, while the rise of AI-powered threats leaves CISOs wondering if their teams will be able to meet the challenge.

    Andesite’s bionic SOC is a breakthrough in human-AI collaboration for cybersecurity that elevates human insights and enables SOC teams to shift from reactively triaging alerts to proactively hunting threats in their networks. By connecting data silos, platforms, and tools across a SOC’s ecosystem, Andesite delivers analysts the context and visibility they need to make informed decisions, in an actionable output. This accelerates investigations and transforms security outcomes by empowering those who protect others to more effectively safeguard their organizations’ assets, people, and customers.

    “At Andesite, we recognize that an organization’s competitive advantage lies in unleashing the full potential of its people,” said Andesite Co-Founder and CEO Brian Carbaugh, former Director of the CIA’s Special Activities Center. “Security analysts are irreplaceable: their intuitive pattern recognition, creative thinking, and ability to turn insights into action are crucial. Our promise to them is clear: Your expertise will be amplified. You will be focused on what matters. Your potential will be unleashed.”

    Key product features include:

    • Context-aware AI unifies scattered data across organizational silos, delivering actionable insights to analysts
    • Evidentiary AI ensures complete visibility and auditability of machine-assisted decisions – no black boxes
    • Adaptive automation streamlines workflows from threat intelligence to automated response, optimizing security operations
    • Safe AI architecture gives teams confidence that sensitive data stays within predefined boundaries and isn’t used to train external AI models
    • Built-in enterprise-ready compliance, aligned with SOC 2 Type 1, NIST 800-53 (High), and NIST CSF requirements, enables smooth deployment in regulated environments

    “Andesite’s technology frees up analysts from toggling between tools and learning countless query languages, so they can focus on hunting down threat actors,” said Chief Product Officer William MacMillan, former CIA CISO and former Senior Vice President of Infosec at Salesforce. “Our vision for the SOC is a symbiotic relationship between human and AI that elevates analysts of every skill level. For CISOs, this means not just better outcomes faster, but the ability to buy down more risk with the team they already have.”

    “The convergence of human expertise and AI in cybersecurity operations represents a critical evolution in how enterprises approach threat defense,” said Andrew Braunberg, Principal Analyst at Omdia. “Solutions that decrease the time, complexity, and cost of integrating with existing security infrastructure, and avoid lengthy implementation projects, are key to realizing better ROI and transformative security outcomes, ultimately achieving the promise of AI.”

    Andesite’s innovative approach has gained traction with partners across the national security, financial services, and healthcare sectors. Andesite will use the new funding to accelerate product development and scale its go-to-market initiatives.

    “Analysts have expressed frustration that existing SOC tools don’t actually make their job easier,” added Alex Thaman, Chief Technology Officer. “We bring insights, scattered across data islands and buried in unstructured PDFs and wikis, to the edge of action. Andesite keeps the human in control, but upgraded – delivering the right data they need, when they need it, in a human-actionable format.”

    To learn more about Andesite and schedule a demo, visit andesite.ai.

    About Andesite: Andesite is delivering sustained advantage to cyber defense teams through technology and community. We spent decades defending our nation against sophisticated adversaries and founded Andesite to build products that empower those who protect others. Visit us at andesite.ai and follow us on LinkedIn.

    Contact:
    press@andesite.ai

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IMF Executive Board Concludes the 2024 Article IV Consultation with Qatar

    Source: International Monetary Fund

    February 11, 2025

    Washington, DC: On January 27, 2025, the Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Article IV consultation[1] with Qatar.

    Growth normalization after the 2022 FIFA World Cup continued, with signs of strengthening activities more recently. Real GDP growth is projected to improve gradually to 2 percent in 2024–25 supported by public investment, spillovers from the ongoing LNG expansion project, and strong tourism. Medium-term growth is expected to accelerate to 4¾ percent on average, boosted by the significant LNG production expansion and initial gains from implementing reforms guided by the Third National Development Strategy (NDS3). Headline inflation will likely ease to 1 percent in 2024 and converge to around 2 percent over the medium term.

    With lower hydrocarbon prices, both the current account and fiscal surpluses narrowed in 2023, to 17 percent of GDP and 5½ percent of GDP, respectively. The twin surpluses moderated further in 2024. Over the medium, as Qatar’s LNG production expands massively, both the current and fiscal accounts will likely remain in surpluses, albeit declining as a share of GDP, as hydrocarbon prices are projected to fall.

    Banks are well-capitalized, liquid, and profitable, with the capital adequacy ratio of close to 20 percent and return on equity of 14½ percent, respectively, in the third quarter of 2024. Since the implementation of QCB measures to reduce banks’ net short-term foreign liabilities, banks’ non-resident deposits declined significantly, and banks have lengthened the average maturity and diversified further the sources of foreign funding. The sector-wide NPL ratio remained broadly unchanged at slightly below 4 percent and the provisioning coverage ratio is relatively high at above 80 percent.   

    Qatar has started to implement the ambitious Third National Development Strategy (NDS3) to build a more diversified, knowledge-based and private sector-driven economy. Guided by NDS3, reform momentum has strengthened significantly, including to attract and retain high-skilled expatriate workers, foster innovation, promote public-private partnerships, and further improve the business efficiency. Qatar is well positioned to leverage digitalization and AI for productivity gains, and the nation’s climate agenda is advancing.

    Risks to the outlook are broadly balanced. Main downside risks stem from the global headwinds, including a sharper-than-expected global growth slowdown, increased volatility in global financial conditions and commodity prices, and further worsening of geopolitical tensions. The regional conflict has had limited impact on Qatar but adds further to the downside risks through lower tourism and capital inflows, and more volatile hydrocarbon prices. Domestic downside risk stems mainly from further weaknesses in the real estate sector, although strong tourism and policy measures introduced in 2023 could mitigate the risk. Over the medium and long term, supply in the global natural gas market is expected to expand significantly, potentially putting downward pressure on prices. On the upside, sustained high hydrocarbon prices and accelerated NDS3 reforms would strengthen the outlook. However, if ambitious NDS3 initiatives lead to resource misallocation, both the public finance and growth prospect would be affected.

    Executive Board Assessment[2]

    Executive Directors agreed with the thrust of the staff appraisal. They welcomed Qatar’s continued resilience to external shocks and its favorable medium-term outlook, driven by significant increases in LNG production and the reforms under the Third National Development Strategy. Directors agreed that maintaining prudent macroeconomic policies and accelerating reform efforts would further solidify macroeconomic stability and resilience to shocks while boosting prosperity.

    Directors commended the authorities’ commitment to continued fiscal prudence and called for accelerating fiscal reforms. They recommended adopting a medium-term fiscal anchor to help ensure intergenerational equity, and reiterated the need to accelerate revenue diversification, particularly by introducing the value-added tax. Directors highlighted the importance of improving spending efficiency and composition, particularly by enhancing public investment management. They welcomed the ongoing efforts to strengthen fiscal institutions and adopt a full-fledged medium-term fiscal framework with enhanced fiscal risk management.

    Directors supported the authorities’ efforts to maintain financial stability and deepen domestic financial markets, while encouraging them to consider undertaking a Financial Sector Assessment Program update. They welcomed the newly introduced risk-based supervision and recommended formalizing the financial safety net and continuing to adjust macroprudential policies to mitigate potential macro-financial risks. Directors encouraged the authorities to sustain their progress in fighting financial crimes.

    Directors agreed that the exchange rate peg continues to serve Qatar well. They concurred that, as conditions allow, strengthening the operational framework would further enhance monetary policy transmission.

    Directors supported the authorities’ strategy to build a more diversified, private sector-led, and knowledge-based economy. They recommended fostering innovation and business efficiency and enhancing human capital by attracting and retaining more high-skilled expatriate workers, improving Qatari nationals’ employment in the private sector, and further increasing female labor force participation. Directors agreed that aligning domestic energy prices with export prices would benefit public finances and support climate goals. They also encouraged the authorities to close remaining data gaps, with the help of IMF capacity development.

    It is expected that the next Article IV consultation with Qatar will be held on the standard 12-month cycle.

    Qatar: Selected Macroeconomic Indicators, 2021-25
    (Quota: 735.1 million SDRs, November 2024)
    (Per capita income: U.S.$69,541, 2023)
    (Life expectancy at birth: 81.6 years, 2022)
    (Population: 3.1 million, 2023)
    Projections
    2021 2022 2023 2024 2025
    Production and prices (percent change)
    Real GDP (2018 prices) 1.6 4.2 1.2 1.7 2.4
    Hydrocarbon 1/ -0.3 1.7 1.4 1.4 3.0
    Nonhydrocarbon 2.8 5.7 1.1 1.9 2.1
    CPI inflation (average) 2.3 5.0 3.0 1.0 1.4
    Public finances (percent of GDP)
    Revenue 29.6 34.7 32.8 26.2 28.7
    Expenditure 29.4 24.3 27.3 25.9 26.2
    Current 18.3 15.6 17.5 17.2 17.5
    Capital 11.1 8.8 9.7 8.7 8.7
    Central government fiscal balance 0.2 10.4 5.6 0.3 2.5
    Money (percent change)
    Broad money 1.4 17.4 1.1 4.1 5.6
    Credit to private sector 9.5 7.4 4.9 5.5 6.1
    External sector (percent of GDP unless otherwise noted)
    Exports 58.7 68.6 60.4 58.7 60.1
    Imports 34.1 31.6 33.9 33.4 35.1
    Current account balance 14.6 26.8 17.1 16.6 15.5
    in billions of U.S. dollars 26.3 63.1 36.5 37.0 35.2
    External debt 161.4 115.5 123.2 118.1 116.8
    Central Bank’s reserves 23.5 20.1 24.2 24.5 25.4
    in months of next year’s imports 6.6 7.7 8.1 8.0 7.9
    Exchange rate (per U.S. dollar) 2/ 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6
    Real effective exchange rate (percent change) 3/ -2.6 6.5 0.2 -0.5 …
    Sources: Qatari authorities; and IMF staff estimates and projections.
    1/ Includes crude oil, natural gas, propane, butane, and condensates.
    2/ January 6, 2025
    3/ November 2024.

    [1] Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds bilateral discussions with members, usually every year. A staff team visits the country, collects economic and financial information, and discusses with officials the country’s economic developments and policies. On return to headquarters, the staff prepares a report, which forms the basis for discussion by the Executive Board.

    [2] At the conclusion of the discussion, the Managing Director, as Chair of the Board, summarizes the views of Executive Directors, and this summary is transmitted to the country’s authorities. An explanation of any qualifiers used in summing up can be found here: http://www.IMF.org/external/np/sec/misc/qualifiers.htm.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Angham Al Shami

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

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: CMF’s Combined Task Force 150 Carries Out First Drug Interdiction with New Zealand In Command

    Source: United States Navy

    The interdiction by the Sentinel-class fast-response cutter USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC-1145) represents CTF 150’s first drug seizure since New Zealand assumed command Jan. 15.

    The cutter’s boarding team discovered and seized 2,357kg of hashish from the vessel. After weighing and documenting the haul, the crew properly disposed of the narcotics.

    Commodore Rodger Ward, commander of CTF 150, said he’s proud of the team effort that went into making this interdiction a reality after only a few weeks in command.

    “Our command is a small cog in a system focused on interdicting illicit trafficking on the high seas,” Ward said. “This is a team effort and this bust would not have been possible without the support of the 46 nations who make up the Combined Maritime Forces.”

    Ward noted that every bust we make reduces the flow of finances to terrorist organizations. “This is why we’re here, to contribute to maritime security and protect the rules-based international order,” he said.

    Emlen Tunnell is forward deployed to Bahrain. The fast response cutter is part of a contingent of U.S. Coast Guard ships operating in the region under Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA). PATFORSWA deploys Coast Guard personnel and ships alongside U.S. and regional naval forces throughout the Middle East.

    CTF 150 is one of five task forces under Combined Maritime Forces, the world’s largest international naval partnership. CTF 150’s mission is to deter and disrupt the ability of non-state actors to move weapons, drugs and other illicit substances in the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman.

    Combined Maritime Forces is a 46-nation naval partnership upholding the international rules-based order by promoting security and stability across 3.2 million square miles of water encompassing some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement from the 11th Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens chaired the eleventh Tata Steel/Port Talbot Transition Board in February 2025.

    The Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board met on 6 February 2025.

    The Secretary of State for Wales and Chair of the Transition Board, Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP, sought endorsement from the Board to announce £8.2 million for the South Wales Industrial Transition from Carbon Hub (SWITCH). This project will support more than 100 jobs and generate more than £87 million for the South Wales economy, supporting the Government’s Plan for Change and economic growth mission.

    This is the first project to receive funding as part of the growth and regeneration projects in Port Talbot. A collaboration between Swansea University, Cardiff University and the University of South Wales, with industry and public sector partners. The Transition Board funding is in addition to the £20 million from the Swansea Bay City Deal. SWITCH will deliver research to support and join up the decarbonisation transition. The announcement of further growth and regeneration projects are due to follow.

    Today’s release of money is the fourth announcement from the UK Government’s £80m Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board fund which, since last July, has announced £51 million to support individual steelworkers and businesses in Tata Steel’s supply chain to protect jobs and grow the local economy.

    The Board also discussed mental health support, and further information on the interventions being developed to support mental health in the community will be announced at the next Transition Board meeting on 27th of March, following a mental health pilot at the Neath Port Talbot Council Support Hub in Aberafan Shopping Centre.

    The Board also received updates on:

    • Tata Steel UK’s decarbonisation programme;
    • The Department of Business and Trade’s plans for a steel strategy;
    • The Community Union Support Hub for affected workers; and
    • The Transition Board funds that have already been announced, including applications received for the Supply Chain fund, and support being provided from the Employment and Skills fund.

    Those in attendance included: Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP, Secretary of State for Wales; Rebecca Evans MS, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning in the Welsh Government; Sarah Jones MP, Minister of State in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department; Cllr Steve K Hunt, Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council; Frances O’Brien, CEO of Neath Port Talbot Council; Rajesh Nair, CEO of Tata Steel UK; Stephen Kinnock, MP for Aberafan Maesteg; David Rees, MS for Aberavon; Tom Giffard, MS for the region of South Wales West; Luke Fletcher MS for the region of South Wales West; Sarah Williams-Gardener; Anne Jessopp CBE; Katherine Bennett CBE independent members of the Board; Alun Davies, National Officer for Steel & Metals, Community Union and Jason Bartlett, Regional Officer for Unite the Union.

    ENDS

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Communications and Public Relations Apprenticeship: Sarah’s journey

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Sarah is a Communications and Public Relations Apprentice in the Government Legal Department

    My name is Sarah and I am working as a Communications Assistant in the Government Legal Department’s (GLD) Communications Team, whilst simultaneously carrying out my Level 4 Public Relations and Communications qualification. I have been in this role now for just over a year and have alternated between the Press Office and internal communications, carrying out exciting campaigns such as National Apprenticeship Week and more recently the All Staff Conference held in the QEII Centre.

    GLD offers a number of apprenticeships that give young people the opportunity to immerse themselves into the world of work straight after school and work towards a qualification. What attracted me to an apprenticeship, rather than a degree, was the prospect of kickstarting my career whilst earning a salary and still gaining a qualification at the end. The work and learning balances out to be 4 days a week in the workplace and one designated day to carry out my assignments and studying.

    Throughout my role as a Communications Assistant, I have been able to improve my confidence, teamwork, and organisational skills by working on different projects with colleagues across GLD and the Communications Team. I have pitched articles to legal outlets, scheduled social media posts, planned events and written articles.

    I enjoy working with my team who are all very supportive and will assist with anything I need help with. I also volunteer as a GLD Culture and Behaviour Champion, and work to promote an inclusive culture and a working environment that is free from all forms of bullying, harassment or negative behaviour.

    I am currently in the end point assessment period of my apprenticeship, meaning I am leading on a communications project for the department. The project that I have chosen to lead on is the Pupil Barrister recruitment campaign, which has allowed me to carry out a wide scope of communications activities around including press releases, articles, videos, and social media posts. Both my employer and apprenticeship provider have been very supportive throughout this, ensuring that I achieve the best outcome.

    I have really enjoyed my time so far as a Communications and Public Relations apprentice, in particular rediscovering my love for writing, and am looking forward to future career paths and opportunities that this may lead to.

    Updates to this page

    Published 11 February 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “Factories on the Map of Moscow” at the Museum of Moscow

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    The Museum of Moscow will host a lecture from the series “New Industry of Moscow”. The talk will be about the history of the city’s enterprises and the development of the industry in the 19th-21st centuries.

    Guests will learn about pre-revolutionary urban development, the industrialization period, post-war industry and modern capital facilities. Lecturer Inna Krylova will tell how progress and new logistics schemes influenced the development of production, where in the capital old analogues of modern clusters with workers’ towns and developed infrastructure have been preserved and how modern production is reflected in urban toponymy and cartography.

    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.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/afisha/event/330588257/

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Detroit Local 141 Spreads IAM Generosity to Community

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM Local 141, which represents airline members in the Detroit area with members at United, Southwest and American, has a passion for helping people in need. The local, which has a membership of around 400, regularly donates and volunteers at regional non-profit organizations.

    “I’m proud of our members at Local 141 who are helping and spending their valuable time by serving and giving,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “They embody the core values of the IAM, and labor in general. They’re focused on lifting people up and building bridges.”

    Area non-profits aided by IAM Local 141 include homeless shelters, drug recovery centers, a domestic violence shelter, the Detroit Rescue Mission and the American House Senior Living facility.

    “It’s very rewarding and I mean that from my heart. I come from a family that’s always been involved in community service,” said Stephanie Dianna Walker, IAM Local 141 Community Service Chair. “I really care about my community. It truly feels good to be able to live up to the IAM’s motto of service to the community.”

    Since December, members of Local 141 have served refreshments at shelters, listened and encouraged patients who are recovering from addiction, donated hundreds of blankets to a senior center and cooked meals for victims of domestic violence.

    “We want the community to know we are there for them,” said Andrea Myers, an IAM Air Transport Special Representative, who is active with Local 141. “What we are trying to do is let the community know there’s people out there who have their best interest, and care.”

    In the coming months, IAM Local 141 members plan to continue serving local shelters. They’re also organizing a movie night for at-risk and underserved members of the community and are planning a day of pampering for poor and at-risk women.

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: CMF’s Combined Task Force 150 Carries Out First Drug Interdiction with New Zealand In Command

    Source: United States Naval Central Command

    MANAMA, Bahrain —

    A U.S. Coast Guard fast-response cutter, working in direct support of New Zealand-led Combined Task Force (CTF) 150 of Combined Maritime Forces, seized nearly 2,400 kilograms of illegal drugs from a vessel in the Arabian Sea, Feb. 7.

    The interdiction by the Sentinel-class fast-response cutter USCGC Emlen Tunnell (WPC-1145) represents CTF 150’s first drug seizure since New Zealand assumed command Jan. 15.

    The cutter’s boarding team discovered and seized 2,357kg of hashish from the vessel. After weighing and documenting the haul, the crew properly disposed of the narcotics.

    Commodore Rodger Ward, commander of CTF 150, said he’s proud of the team effort that went into making this interdiction a reality after only a few weeks in command.

    “Our command is a small cog in a system focused on interdicting illicit trafficking on the high seas,” Ward said. “This is a team effort and this bust would not have been possible without the support of the 46 nations who make up the Combined Maritime Forces.”

    Ward noted that every bust we make reduces the flow of finances to terrorist organizations. “This is why we’re here, to contribute to maritime security and protect the rules-based international order,” he said.

    Emlen Tunnell is forward deployed to Bahrain. The fast response cutter is part of a contingent of U.S. Coast Guard ships operating in the region under Patrol Forces Southwest Asia (PATFORSWA). PATFORSWA deploys Coast Guard personnel and ships alongside U.S. and regional naval forces throughout the Middle East.

    CTF 150 is one of five task forces under Combined Maritime Forces, the world’s largest international naval partnership. CTF 150’s mission is to deter and disrupt the ability of non-state actors to move weapons, drugs and other illicit substances in the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman.

    Combined Maritime Forces is a 46-nation naval partnership upholding the international rules-based order by promoting security and stability across 3.2 million square miles of water encompassing some of the world’s most important shipping lanes.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: A small consultancy firm in Puerto Rico adopts AI — helping other businesses thrive

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: A small consultancy firm in Puerto Rico adopts AI — helping other businesses thrive

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why are migrants dying trying to cross into the US? These are the 3 main risks they face

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Marni LaFleur, Assistant Professor of Anthropology, University of San Diego

    An altar set at the U.S.-Mexico border wall in Baja, Calif., in November 2024 honors migrants who died trying to reach the U.S. Guillermo Arias/AFP via Getty Images

    President Donald Trump closed much of the activity at the U.S.-Mexico border in January 2025, making it impossible for migrants who arrive at a U.S. port of entry to apply for asylum. Trump’s border policies are likely to make it far more difficult and dangerous for migrants trying to reach the U.S. – but won’t deter all people who want to cross the U.S.-Mexico border without legal authorization.

    The number of migrants crossing from Mexico into the U.S. without legal authorization dropped dramatically in 2024. But for a long time, crossing the U.S.-Mexico border by land has been the world’s deadliest migration route.

    U.S. Customs and Border Protection recovered the remains of 10,784 migrants from 1988 through 2024.

    This figure is an estimate of the total number of migrants who have died trying to cross from Mexico into the U.S. – there is no centralized system or organization that tracks migrant deaths, or any federal laws guiding authorities on how to manage the remains of migrants.

    Many other dead migrants are also never found.

    I am a professor of anthropology and have spent the past several years trying to understand how and why migrants die trying to enter the U.S.

    Stranded migrants who are now staying in Mexican border towns and others with plans to still try to illegally cross into the U.S. might pursue increasingly dangerous ways to enter the country.

    Research shows that there are three main reasons why migrants die trying to reach the U.S. from Mexico. First, migrants are often exposed to extreme weather conditions. Second, they drown in rivers or other bodies of water. Third, they could also experience blunt force trauma because of falls or motor vehicle accidents.

    A body of a man is found by the Rio Grande in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, on March 28, 2024.
    David Peinado/Anadolu via Getty Images

    Environmental exposure is common and dangerous

    Migrants coming from Central and South America often travel to the U.S. in groups, typically with the help of a guide, called a coyote, they pay to help them.

    They may spend days or weeks walking through remote areas without access to shelter or fresh food and clean water. They might sleep outdoors in very cold weather and walk during extreme heat. This can cause hypothermia or hyperthermia.

    One of those remote areas is the Sonoran Desert, which spans the southwest U.S. into northwest Mexico. It is divided by the U.S.-Mexico border and is one of the hottest places on Earth. Ambient temperatures can soar to or above 118 degrees Fahrenheit, or 48 degrees Celsius.

    As part of the strategy to stop migrants from coming to the U.S., Customs and Border Protection does not place many officers in the depths of the desert along the border. The government’s 1994 migration “prevention through deterrence” strategy explains that because the desert itself poses mortal danger to individuals, it is unnecessary to guard the land.

    With border barriers, video surveillance, bright lights and many patrol agents closer to more populated areas along the U.S.-Mexico border, migrants can view the desert as a viable alternative for entering the U.S. Deterrent practices have been found to not stop migrants from trying to enter the U.S., but they do increase the number of migrants who die trying to do so.

    Even migrants who are near help or are rescued from the desert may not recover from exposure to extreme temperatures. In 2023, for example, a 9-year-old migrant boy died from organ failure after authorities found him along the Arizona border.

    Drowning poses another risk

    Drowning is another leading cause of death for migrants trying to reach the U.S.

    In California, for example, the 82-mile-long All-American Canal runs parallel to the U.S.-Mexico border. Although the canal doesn’t look particularly dangerous, it is deep, cold, fast-moving and has steep concrete edges that are difficult to scale. Migrants might not be able to swim, or others, particularly women and children, are not strong enough to withstand the force of the currents.

    Areas of the Rio Grande, a river that divides the U.S. and Mexico in some areas of Texas, have become hot spots for migrant drownings. Approximately 1,107 migrants died trying to cross this river between 2017 to 2023. The river is fast and deep and is filled with rocks and heavy vegetation that make crossing difficult.

    Additionally, in an effort to further deter migrant crossing at Eagle Pass, an area of the Rio Grande, the Texas National Guard installed more than 100 miles of razor wire along the river’s banks in 2024. They set up a large string of oversized orange buoys in the water, creating what the federal government called a navigation obstruction for migrants.

    These tactics have sparked larger debates on how to handle migration, and which government agency is responsible for preventing people from crossing into the country, or apprehending them when they do so.

    In 2024, a Mexican woman and her two children tried to cross the Rio Grande but struggled to do so. As Customs and Border Protection agents prepared to rescue the distressed and drowning individuals, the Texas National Guard prevented rescue attempts. The family died from drowning, and their bodies were later recovered.

    Blunt force trauma

    Another leading cause of death of migrants is falling from heights or experiencing car accidents.

    At the California border region alone, approximately 20% of migrant deaths were due to blunt force trauma between 2018 through 2023. This rate rose after the 2020 expansion of the border wall, which now spans 741 miles of the U.S.-Mexico border. In total, the border is nearly 2,000 miles.

    In one incident in Texas in 2020, a pregnant 19-year-old Guatemalan woman died after falling from the border wall, which ranges from 18 to 30 feet. Medical authorities were unable to save the fetus.

    In Texas, between 2021 and 2023, high-speed chases by immigration officials led to the deaths of 74 people. Some individuals were ejected from moving vehicles, while others were hit by fast-moving vehicles. Another particularly deadly accident occurred in 2021 in Holtville, California, when an SUV transporting 25 migrants collided with a semitruck. Thirteen migrants were killed.

    Migrants from Colombia sleep outside in Jacumba, Calif., after crossing into the U.S. in May 2023.
    Gregory Bull/Associated Press

    ‘Prevention through deterrence’

    For more than 30 years, the U.S. government has tried to prevent migrants from reaching the U.S. through different strategies, like deploying Border Patrol agents or building walls.

    There are many practical and policy-based interventions that would make it safer for migrants to cross through the U.S. and Mexico deserts. For example, water stations along known migration routes of the desert save lives.

    Regardless of how the Trump administration tries to stop migrants from reaching the U.S., people will likely still try to come and embark on unsafe journeys to do so – and I will continue to track their experiences and deaths.

    Marni LaFleur received funding from the National Science Foundation. I am the founder and director of a California registered 501 (c)(3) called Lemur Love (EIN 48-1174852).

    – ref. Why are migrants dying trying to cross into the US? These are the 3 main risks they face – https://theconversation.com/why-are-migrants-dying-trying-to-cross-into-the-us-these-are-the-3-main-risks-they-face-246108

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Felon Involved in Elizabeth City Shooting Sentenced to More than Nine Years

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A felon involved in an Elizabeth City shooting was sentenced to 115 months in prison for possession of ammunition by a felon.  On November 22, 2024, Jermel Trevon Williams, age 30, pled guilty to the charge.

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, on August 7, 2023, officers from the Elizabeth City Police Department (ECPD) responded to a shooting outside a downtown bar in Elizabeth City. Review of surveillance footage in the area showed an individual, later identified as Williams, and a second person, discharging firearms. Officers recovered five 9mm shell casings from the area and two .45 caliber shell casings. On October 29, 2023, officers with the Raleigh Police Department (RPD) conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a window tint violation. Williams was a passenger in the car. After spotting two marijuana roaches in plain view, officers conducted a search of the vehicle. The search resulted in the recovery of a digital scale located in the center console, and a stolen 9mm handgun and two baggies of marijuana under the front passenger seat where Williams was previously seated. Williams subsequently admitted to ownership of the contents of the vehicle. Williams is a previously convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing ammunition.

    The conviction is a result of the ongoing Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) initiative which is a collaborative effort with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, working with the community, to identify and address the most significant drivers of violent crime. VCAP involves focused and strategic enforcement, and interagency coordination and intelligence-led policing.

    Daniel Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, ECPD and RPD investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Newby  prosecuted the case.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-00012-D-BM.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Armed Drug Dealer Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A Rocky Mount man was sentenced to 240 months in prison for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense and bribery of a public official. On October 8, 2024, Quatavious Arnez Hunter, age 32, pled guilty to the charges.

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, on September 16, 2021, officers of the Rocky Mount Police Department (RMPD) conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Hunter was a passenger. Hunter was wearing a ski mask covering his entire face. Searches of Hunter’s person revealed a loaded, 9mm handgun on his hip, over $1,500 in cash, 45 bindles of heroin, one plastic bag containing approximately 5.7 grams of crack cocaine and two bags weighing a total of approximately 7.6 grams of powder cocaine.

    In March 2023, while Hunter’s case was pending in federal court, he was held in the Bladen County Jail (BCJ). During this time, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) began investigating claims that Hunter and another inmate were orchestrating payments to a BCJ detention officer in exchange for drugs smuggled into the jail in resealed potato chip bags. Hunter’s cell was searched and was found to contain contraband, including synthetic marijuana and a lighter. The investigation further revealed that Hunter’s girlfriend made Cash App payments to a BCJ detention officer. Upon the officer’s arrest, he admitted to making multiple deliveries of contraband to Hunter in exchange for payments via Cash App.

    Daniel P. Bubar, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Rocky Mount Police Department and Nash County Sheriff’s Office investigated the drug and gun offenses and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Bladen County Sheriff’s Office investigated the contraband smuggling case. Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah E. Nokes and Ashley H. Foxx prosecuted the cases.

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 5:21-CR-407-1D and 7:23-CR-101-4D.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Hackers Ramp Up Efficiency, Speed, and Scale in 2024, Targeting Business of All Sizes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COLUMBIA, Md., Feb. 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hackers are getting faster, craftier, and harder to spot. Today, Huntress, the cybersecurity company purpose-built to protect businesses of all sizes, exposes their playbook with the Huntress 2025 Cyber Threat Report, an extensive analysis of hacker activity that draws insights from over three million endpoints across thousands of organizations. The report reveals how threat actors adapted their tradecraft throughout 2024, using sophisticated tools and techniques across industries to maximize efficiency and profits.

    In 2024, the gap between attack sophistication on large and smaller businesses nearly disappeared. Hackers took the methods and strategies tested on larger companies and applied them to organizations of every size. Advanced evasion techniques—once exclusive to advanced persistent threats—became the new normal, including endpoint detection and response (EDR) tampering, bring your own vulnerable driver (BYOVD) privilege escalations, and User Account Control (UAC) bypasses.

    The takedown of major ransomware groups like LockBit and Dharma didn’t slow down attacks either—it opened the door for smaller, more agile groups and rebranded operations. Among them, Lynx—which shares many similarities with and is widely believed to be a rebranding of INC ransomware—RansomHub, a sub-group of LockBit, and Akira all ramped up their activity significantly compared to 2023.

    Over the past year, Huntress tracked ransomware incidents from Lynx, Akira, and RansomHub, with incidents from these groups increasing by 7.9%, 11.6%, and 15.3%, respectively. By giving affiliates higher percentage payouts, often reaching 80–90% of the ransom, and pursuing a quantity-over-quality approach, the three collectively accounted for 54% of all ransomware incidents observed by Huntress in 2024. These groups used ‘smash-and-grab’ tactics, quickly deploying ransomware, demanding payment, and hitting their goals with swift and efficient network infiltration to minimize dwell time and evade detection. While the average time-to-ransom (TTR)—the time from initial access to ransomware deployment—was shy of 17 hours, Akira and RansomHub’s came in around six hours, with Lynx not far behind at seven hours.

    “Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) groups like Lynx, Akira, and RansomHub have industrialized cybercrime, adopting a ‘quantity over quality’ approach to maximize profits. By providing affiliates with streamlined playbooks and toolkits, they’ve made launching attacks deceptively simple and incredibly lucrative,” said Greg Linares, Principal Threat Intelligence Analyst. “The rise of RaaS groups such as these has led to increased attacks on businesses of all sizes with sophisticated techniques, once reserved for attacks on large enterprises, now becoming commonplace.”

    Key trends in the Huntress 2025 Cyber Threat Report include:

    • Education, healthcare, and technology industries were top targets: Education was the most targeted industry by hackers in 2024, making up 21% of all attacks, followed by healthcare (17%) and technology (12%). Hackers used tactics like credential theft, abuse of remote monitoring and management (RMM) tools, and malicious updates disguised as legitimate software to infiltrate educational institutions. Education is often seen as an easy target due to a reliance on shared networks, outdated systems, and lower security budgets, combined with the wealth of sensitive data, like student records and research, that makes these institutions top targets. Beyond that, the potential to disrupt learning processes and administrative functions also puts schools and universities under intense pressure to resolve attacks quickly, often forcing them into ransom payments.
    • Infostealers drove initial access and ransomware attacks: Infostealers accounted for nearly a quarter (24%) of all observed incidents, highlighting their role in harvesting credentials, financial data, and sensitive information. Even adware and other unwanted programs, once seen as harmless infections, now have infostealing features that take sensitive data, contributing to a rise in infostealer incidents. Threat actors like Initial Access Brokers (IABs) regularly use infostealers to sell access to businesses, grouping them based on what gets stolen and increasing prices based on the freshness of the data, type of data (like session tokens), and target. Some IABs cherry-pick high-value data to sell to ransomware groups, earning percentages of ransom payments as a finder’s fee.
    • Hackers maximized efficiency with automation: The majority (87%) of attacks in 2024 were automated or helped by automated tools, with hackers using malware, scripts, and other automated methods to conduct widespread, low-effort campaigns efficiently. Once attackers got access, they moved to more focused hands-on-keyboard (HOK) activity, representing 13% of activity, where manual actions like lateral movement or domain enumeration were executed. HOK activity spiked in February, June, July, and November 2024, with activity most common between 12:00 UTC and 20:00 UTC—aligning with US East Coast business hours. This timing suggests attackers exploit normal business activity as a cover or need active devices and personnel for social engineering tactics.
    • Phishing attacks grew more sophisticated: Phishing is still a key tool for initial access and reconnaissance, with attackers moving towards more sophisticated tactics like QR code phishing and Living Off Trusted Sites (LoTS). QR code phishing—where users are sent an email with a QR embedded that directs to a malicious site—accounted for 8.1% of phishing emails, while 7% involved LoTS, a tactic that abuses legitimate platforms to share malicious documents. These advanced techniques mark a shift toward more targeted and deceptive strategies designed to exploit trust and evade traditional email filters.

    “Hacker tradecraft is evolving fast, with ransomware groups growing bolder, attacks becoming harder to detect, and phishing scams reaching new levels of sophistication,” added Jamie Levy, Director, Adversary Tactics. “To stay ahead, organizations need a well-rehearsed incident response plan, ongoing vulnerability assessments, timely patching, and security awareness training that actually sticks. Key controls like endpoint detection and response, network segmentation, and identity and access management are also critical to minimizing risk. With ransomware deployed within hours of initial access, taking proactive steps now is essential to minimizing the impact of a breach.”

    Additional resources:

    • Get your copy of the Huntress 2025 Cyber Threat Report for insights on ransomware strategies, hacker activity, common tools and techniques, and more.
    • Register for the webinar, “Breaking Down The Huntress 2025 Threat Report” on March 3, 2025, for insights from our experts on the latest cyber trends, shady tactics, and tradecraft we exposed in the Huntress 2025 Cyber Threat Report.
    • Learn how Huntress protects endpoints, identities, and more with managed detection, investigation, and response.
    • Read the Huntress Blog to stay updated on the latest tradecraft and tips to protect your business.

    About Huntress
    Huntress is the enterprise-grade, people-powered cybersecurity solution for all businesses, not just the 1%. With fully owned technology developed by and for its industry-defining team of security analysts, engineers, and researchers, Huntress elevates underresourced tech teams whether they work within outsourced environments (OIS) or in-house IT and security teams (IIS).

    The 24/7 industry-leading Huntress Security Operations Center (SOC) covers cyber threats for OIS and IIS through remediation with a false-positive rate of less than 1%. With a mission to break down barriers to enterprise-level security and always give back more than it takes, Huntress is often the first to respond to major hacks and threats while protecting its partners, and shares tradecraft analysis and threat advisories with the community as they happen.

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    Huntress Contact:
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    press@huntresslabs.com

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