NewzIntel.com

Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Update 299 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) –

    The IAEA team based at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) has been informed of a drone attack that damaged several vehicles near the site’s cooling pond last week, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    Visiting near one of the areas of Friday’s purported attack, the IAEA team yesterday observed burnt grass and other charred vegetation, which the plant said was caused by a drone that crashed and caused a fire there.

    In the latest such report highlighting constant dangers to nuclear safety during the military conflict, the ZNPP said six drones had been involved in the incident.

    According to the plant’s information provided to the IAEA team, a group of personnel who were cleaning a nearby water reservoir at the time spotted the approaching drones and took cover, with no injuries. However, one of the drones hit the front of a truck and other vehicles were also damaged, the ZNPP said. Approximately one hour later, another drone crashed, causing the fire that burnt the vegetation, it added.

    The incident occurred outside the site perimeter, around 600 metres from the nearest of the ZNPP’s six reactors.

    The IAEA team members were yesterday shown the truck that was reportedly struck, but they could not confirm any damage as they were too far away from the vehicle. They also could not see any drone remains at that distance.

    “If this report is confirmed, it would represent a completely unacceptable attack in the proximity of a major nuclear power plant. Whoever is behind such attacks is playing with fire. It must stop immediately,” Director General Grossi said. 

    It comes just a few weeks after the IAEA team at the ZNPP heard repeated rounds of gunfire that appeared to be aimed at drones reportedly attacking the site’s training centre, also located just outside the site perimeter – on the opposite side to Friday’s reported attack. The training centre has been targeted several times this year, according to the ZNPP.

    In February, a drone severely damaged the New Safe Confinement (NSC) at the Chornobyl plant in northern Ukraine, built to prevent any radioactive release from the reactor unit 4 destroyed in the 1986 accident and to protect it from external hazards.

    Ukraine’s operating nuclear power plants (NPPs) – Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine – also regularly report of drones being detected near the respective sites.

    “There are too many drones flying too close to Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, potentially threatening nuclear safety. As we saw in February, they can cause major damage at these facilities. Once again, I call for maximum military restraint in the vicinity of nuclear facilities,” Director General Grossi said.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Update 299 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)

    The IAEA team based at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) has been informed of a drone attack that damaged several vehicles near the site’s cooling pond last week, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    Visiting near one of the areas of Friday’s purported attack, the IAEA team yesterday observed burnt grass and other charred vegetation, which the plant said was caused by a drone that crashed and caused a fire there.

    In the latest such report highlighting constant dangers to nuclear safety during the military conflict, the ZNPP said six drones had been involved in the incident.

    According to the plant’s information provided to the IAEA team, a group of personnel who were cleaning a nearby water reservoir at the time spotted the approaching drones and took cover, with no injuries. However, one of the drones hit the front of a truck and other vehicles were also damaged, the ZNPP said. Approximately one hour later, another drone crashed, causing the fire that burnt the vegetation, it added.

    The incident occurred outside the site perimeter, around 600 metres from the nearest of the ZNPP’s six reactors.

    The IAEA team members were yesterday shown the truck that was reportedly struck, but they could not confirm any damage as they were too far away from the vehicle. They also could not see any drone remains at that distance.

    “If this report is confirmed, it would represent a completely unacceptable attack in the proximity of a major nuclear power plant. Whoever is behind such attacks is playing with fire. It must stop immediately,” Director General Grossi said. 

    It comes just a few weeks after the IAEA team at the ZNPP heard repeated rounds of gunfire that appeared to be aimed at drones reportedly attacking the site’s training centre, also located just outside the site perimeter – on the opposite side to Friday’s reported attack. The training centre has been targeted several times this year, according to the ZNPP.

    In February, a drone severely damaged the New Safe Confinement (NSC) at the Chornobyl plant in northern Ukraine, built to prevent any radioactive release from the reactor unit 4 destroyed in the 1986 accident and to protect it from external hazards.

    Ukraine’s operating nuclear power plants (NPPs) – Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine – also regularly report of drones being detected near the respective sites.

    “There are too many drones flying too close to Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, potentially threatening nuclear safety. As we saw in February, they can cause major damage at these facilities. Once again, I call for maximum military restraint in the vicinity of nuclear facilities,” Director General Grossi said.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: City and Regional Deals to unlock growth

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has laid out its expectations for City and Regional Deals (CRDs) as long-term partnerships that will increase economic growth, create jobs, and boost productivity for New Zealanders, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Local Government Minister Simon Watts say.

    The Government has also signed the first Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to negotiate deals with Auckland, Otago/Central Lakes and Western Bay of Plenty.

    “City and Regional Deals will be strategic 10-year partnerships between local and central government to progress joint priorities including economic growth, enabling abundant housing, better management and utilisation of local assets, and closing the infrastructure deficit,” Mr Bishop says.

    “The Government has established five objectives for the City and Regional Deals programme:

    1. Better coordination between central government and regions, including how we work together and align our priorities
    2. Unlocking regions’ unique potential and lifting economic growth, including regional employment opportunities
    3. Making room forhousing growth
    4. Ensuring local governments do a better job at managing and utilising their asset base and make significant progress to close their infrastructure deficits – without new funding from Central Government.
    5. Ensuring Local Governments comprehensively adopt Central Government priority reforms such as Local Water Done Well, Resource Management Act reform, and Going for Housing Growth.

    “Today we are outlining what central government will put on the table during negotiations for cities and regions participating in CRDs. These are:

    1. Improved central government coordination (both internally and with the regions), ensuring the right agencies are around the table. This could include agreement to deploy more senior officials to existing Urban Growth Partnerships and other governance arrangements, and improved Government infrastructure investment and asset management.
    2. Early collaboration with councils on system reforms including undertaking joint-spatial planning ahead of RM reform implementation. We will consider improvements to existing regulatory frameworks including: zoning, fees and charges innovation, streamlined planning and land acquisition processes, regional spatial planning.
    3. Providing councils with new funding and financing tools and incentivising them to better utilise existing ones. This could include considering the use of sharing of mining royalties, mobilising existing government funds to support deals, and providing access to government experts that could help councils use more complex tools such as Infrastructure Funding and Financing Act Levies.
    4. Supporting regions to unlock growth sectors (e.g., technology, biotech, advanced transportation, aquaculture, tourism, cleantech, renewable energy). Central government will consider locating “confirmed/funded” innovation facilities/institutes in regions as part of a CRD. 

    Notes to editor: 

    The three regions:

    • The Auckland region comprises Auckland Council.
    • The Otago Central Lakes region comprises Queenstown Lakes District Council, Central Otago District Council and Otago Regional Council.
    • The Western Bay of Plenty region comprises Tauranga City Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

    Regions’ light-touch proposals were assessed by a multi-agency assessment panel against four criteria: 

    • Strategic alignment – Is the proposal aligned with the Government’s priority objectives, does it have economic growth potential, and is there a commitment to housing and development growth?
    • Effective partnerships – How strong and effective are the local and central government partnerships, is there collaboration between councils in the region, is there a history of positive collaboration with central government, and is there a commitment to broader government reforms and work programmes?
    • Deliverability – Is there capacity, capability and readiness to deliver?
    • Economic and financial feasibility – Is the proposal feasible, are projects likely to have a positive cost-benefit ratio, are timelines realistic, and is the risk profile of proposed projects acceptable?

    More information is available at: www.dia.govt.nz/Regional-Deals 

    “The Government expects that local government provides a better framework/structure for regional relationships with central government, and improves asset renewals, maintenance and management including ensuring a pipeline of future infrastructure work.

    “We also expect that councils will go above legal and regulatory minimum requirements to unlock housing growth including around rapid transit corridors and where central government has invested in infrastructure. Further, we want regions to commit to exploring demand management tools like time of use charging.

    “We are eager that regions commit to exploring new and existing tools including (but not limited to): Targeted rates, IFF Act Levies, Development Levies, asset recycling, and become attractive destinations for international investment opportunities.”

    “The Government also expects regions to comprehensively adopt priority Central Government reform including Local Water Done Well, Going for Housing Growth, Resource Management Act and transport governance reform in Auckland,” Mr Watts says.

    “Late last year, councils were invited to submit regional deal proposals to the Government. In total, 18 proposals were submitted. 

    “Following a multi-agency assessment process that included review by independent experts, Cabinet agreed to progress to MOUs with three regions.

    “The Government has now signed MOUs with the Mayors from Auckland, Otago Central Lakes and Western Bay of Plenty.

    “All three regions have existing Urban Growth Partnerships which demonstrate existing collaboration, and all three have economies with significant economic growth potential.

    “These initial regions put together compelling proposals that reflect the Government’s and the regions’ priorities through strong propositions that provide a clear pathway to getting important work done. 

    “The Government will now begin negotiations with the three regions, with a view to agreeing the first Deal by the end of 2025.”

    The MOU signings reflect the National-Act Coalition Agreement to institute long-term city and regional infrastructure deals, allowing PPPs, tolling and value capture rating to fund infrastructure.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Interview – ABC Radio National with David Lipson

    Source: Murray Darling Basin Authority

    DAVID LIPSON: David Lipson with you here on Radio National Breakfast, and a warning that the following story does contain distressing content about child abuse.

    Australia’s approach to child safety is once again in the national spotlight after that case of a Melbourne childcare worker who’s been charged with more than 70 offences, including sexual assault and producing child abuse material.

    In the wake of the allegations levelled against 26-year-old Joshua Dale Brown, around 1,200 children in Victoria have now been urged to undergo health screening. Meanwhile, police have confirmed that the alleged offender had a valid working with children check, it’s sparked calls for greater national oversight and regulation of child care centres.

    Joining me now to discuss all of this is Jason Clare. He’s the Federal Minister for Education. Welcome to Radio National Breakfast.

    JASON CLARE, MINISTER FOR EDUCATION: Good morning, Dave.

    LIPSON: Jason Clare, a lot of parents who would be very nervous about dropping their kids off this morning.  What’s your message to them?

    CLARE: Any Australian who heard the news yesterday would be sickened by what they heard. For parents of the children that are affected by this that got a notification from authorities yesterday, they’d be terrified, and rightly so. But worse than that, angry. I know that because one of the families that got notification yesterday is a friend of mine, and I can’t repeat what she told me because this is morning radio, but they’re furious, and now they’ve got to go through all the crap to make sure that their children are safe.

    What I would say more broadly to the general community is that we do have a good early education and care system. Some of the angriest people this morning are the people turning up for work, working in our child care centres around the country, who overwhelmingly do a great job, who love our kids, care for our kids, educate our kids; they’re furious as well.

    There’s been important steps taken over the last few years to make our centres safe, but not enough. More needs to be done. I was informed about this just over a week ago by the Victorian Government. It’s the reason I put this on the agenda for Education Ministers when we met last Friday.

    LIPSON: Okay. So, it was on the agenda last Friday, and you talked about it then; you say you were informed more than a week ago. Should parents have been told earlier than yesterday?

    CLARE: I’m certain that the Victorian Government took the steps that they needed to take with police and with the relevant authorities to make sure that when they advised parents and did so as soon as they possibly could, they were in a position to provide the necessary advice and support for parents.

    LIPSON: Okay. Well, let’s talk about what can be done to prevent this, because you’ve already banned phones and devices in child care centres, but this man is still accused of producing child abuse material. You have said you’ll bring in legislation to Parliament to cut off funding to child care centres that aren’t up to scratch, but how will these changes help stop sexual offenders?

    CLARE: There’s no one silver bullet here. One of the things that we needed to do was ban phones in centres, the use of personal mobile phones. We did that for a reason. We did that on advice from the national safety regulator after the paedophile was caught and convicted in Queensland.

    LIPSON: Are you concerned, though, that, you know, that it seems that phones and devices at least are allegedly at the centre of this case in Victoria as well?

    CLARE: Yes, I am. Yes, I am, and that’s why we’ve got to get phones out of centres. We’ve made it clear now in law that phones, personal phones or personal devices cannot be used in these centres. The key recommendation from the national safety regulator, and as I said, it comes out of the review that I commissioned after a paedophile was arrested and convicted in Queensland, but it’s only one of the things that we need to do here.  

    One of the real powers that we have as a Commonwealth Government is funding. If a centre’s not up to scratch, if they’re not meeting safety standards and quality standards, there’s got to be consequences. The Federal Government provides something like 70 per cent of the funding that operates centres, and if they’re not meeting standards, if they’re not cutting the mustard, then we’ve got to have the power to cut their funding, to pull funding from centres. That’s what we announced that we would do in March; that’s what the legislation that we’re preparing now is all about.

    LIPSON: And when will that legislation be in place? You’ve said a couple of months. Can it be fast-tracked?

    CLARE: I’ve asked my Department to get the legislation drafted as quickly as we possibly can, but it’s just one of the things that we’re doing, David. The meeting of Education Ministers that happened on Friday looked at the Wheeler Report, you’ll remember Adele Ferguson’s expose on Four Corners from a couple of months ago that revealed some shocking abuse and mistreatment of children in child care centres in New South Wales, that led to an independent report by Chris Wheeler, the former Deputy Ombudsman in New South Wales. His report was handed down last Thursday. The Government in New South Wales is committed to implement those recommendations. Chris briefed us on Friday. Now we’re looking at how we can potentially implement Chris’ recommendations right across the country, as well as the recommendations of the national safety regulator, and Early Education Ministers are going to meet again next month and the month after that as we try to pull together all of the things that we need to do to make our children safe. This is serious, and it requires serious action.

    LIPSON: It certainly does. I mean, you’ve talked about the legislation that should come to Federal Parliament about cutting funding from child care centres that aren’t up to scratch. That presumably would be after the fact. You’ve also talked about standardising police checks, but police checks only show up when the person’s already been convicted of a crime. So, you know, this is really difficult stuff.

    CLARE: That’s right.

    LIPSON: This alleged offender in Victoria we’re told worked at 20 odd sites. Do you think at some point, a person’s employment history could be a red flag or prompt some sort of mandatory check?

    CLARE: Yeah. And that’s one of the things that we’ve got to look at here. You’re right, Working with Children Checks aren’t a silver bullet. This alleged perpetrator had no criminal record; it’s why they had a Working with Children Check. That doesn’t mean, though, that Working with Children Checks can’t be improved right across the country.

    I spoke to the Attorney General about this last week, and she informed me that this will be on the agenda when Attorney Generals meet next month. There’s work underway that needs to be done there to improve information sharing between states as well as near real-time monitoring when there’s changes to people’s criminal history, but there’s other things that need to be done too, where there are potential red flags where people are moving.  

    There’s also work that needs to be done to develop a national register of educators. There’s a register for teachers; there’s not a register for educators in centres. That’s one of the other potential tools here to help keep children safe.

    LIPSON: The nationalised harmonised or national harmonised Working with Children Check system was actually recommended 10 years ago by a Royal Commission into institutional abuse. Why hasn’t it been done?

    CLARE: It’s too slow. I accept that, and this is work that is led by, in most states, Attorneys General, but in other states it might be Community Services Ministers. That’s why it’s on the agenda next month when AGs meet, and they’ll look at a number of things that need to be done to fix that, to improve that.

    But let’s not assume that that is the silver bullet here because there’s other things that need to be done too.

    LIPSON: There are a lot of for profit centres that are now in this sector, and this is something that Adele Ferguson’s work really looked into. Should they be in the sector? Is this a factor, do you think, in these horrific cases?

    CLARE: Whether you’re a for profit centre or a not for profit centre, your number one priority has got to be the safety of the children who you’re looking after and caring for. So, in that sense, I don’t care if it’s for profit or not for profit, what I care about are the children in the centre, and overwhelmingly most of the people who run and work these centres are good, honest, hard working people who dedicate their lives to looking after our children. Whether it’s for profit or not for profit the key is that they’ve got to meet that standard when it comes to safety and quality, and if they don’t, then there’s got to be consequences, and that’s what the legislation’s about.

    Can I double back to one point you made a moment ago made around Working with Children Checks? One of the other things that we’re looking at here is around the right sort of training that early educators get when they’re at TAFE or at university around child safety. This is already part of the qualifications, part of the course, but there’s more potentially that can be done here to help people who work in centres to identify people who are grooming or identify people who are up to no good.

    LIPSON: Thanks for making that point. I guess the question about for profit centres that I wanted to get to is around the enormous subsidies that the Federal Government provides. There’s a lot of money sloshing around in the system, and if you’ve got, you know, companies that are listed on the stock exchange that are, you know, the recipient of a lot of that government money, is that part of the problem here, and especially at a time when the Federal Government is looking at universal child care. Is there a fear or a concern that that could exacerbate the problem by kind of bringing in or encouraging profit-driven cowboys into the system?

    CLARE: This is now fundamentally an essential service for more than a million families across the country. It helps parents return to work, but more than that, this is a service that helps our children get ready for school.

    Ask any principal at a local primary school, and they will tell you they can tell the children that have been in child care and pre school and the ones that haven’t. They help to make sure that young people are ready to start learning when they get to school.

    Now at the moment, there are some kids who miss out altogether, kids from really disadvantaged backgrounds. Building a universal system is fundamentally about helping them. We need to make it affordable; that’s what cutting the cost of child care over the last few years has been about. We’ve got to make it more accessible, that’s why we’re rolling out a 15 per cent pay rise to early educators across the country and a billion-dollar fund to build more, but more important than that, most important of all is making sure that our kids are safe. That’s fundamentally what this has to be all about. And you’re right. There are billions of dollars of taxpayers’ money that are invested in early education centres right across the country, for profit and not for profit, and if they’re not up to scratch, if they’re not meeting the standards to keep our kids safe, then we’ve got to have the power to pull the money.

    LIPSON: If you pull the money, though, doesn’t that just result in those centres closing down, adding more pressure to a system that’s already under strain?

    CLARE: That’s why you’ve got to make sure that these centres meet those standards, and if the threat of money being pulled out means that they lift their standard, then everyone will benefit.

    LIPSON: Do we need a Royal Commission?

    CLARE: We’ve had one. We’ve had a Royal Commission, we’ve had a review into child safety, I commissioned that, as I said, after that paedophile was arrested and convicted in Queensland. We’ve got the recommendations, now we’ve got to implement them.

    In all of the conversations that we’ve been having in the last 24 hours, Dave, it’s not about what do we need to do, it’s how we do it, and that’s what I’ve charged Education Ministers with across the country, to pull all of this together and work on a national plan, a nationwide plan to implement the reforms to help keep our children safe.

    There are things that the states can do on their own, and there are things that we, as a Commonwealth Government, can do, either by implementing legislation like the legislation we’ve talked about today or helping to improve nationwide standards right across the country.

    LIPSON: Jason Clare, thank you so much for your time this morning.

    CLARE: Good on you, thanks mate.  
     

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Gabe Vasquez Works to Remove Republican Tax Bill Provisions Threatening Rural Hospitals

    Source: US Representative Gabe Vasquez’s (NM-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 1, 2025, U.S. Representative Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) led the charge in the House to protect rural hospitals and patients from Republicans’ assault on Medicaid. Rep. Vasquez introduced an amendment to block harmful provisions in the Big Ugly Bill that would slash hospital funding, particularly in rural communities — the top issue raised at a recent Medicaid roundtable he hosted with health care providers and hospital administrators in New Mexico. If the bill passes without Vasquez’s amendment, it will limit state directed payments and ban new provider taxes, gutting the support hospitals rely on to keep their doors open and serve those most in need. 

    “This Republican bill will decimate rural health care to pay for tax breaks for the rich,” said Vasquez. “In a state where the vast majority of our hospitals are operating on the brink, this Republican proposal will devastate New Mexico’s Medicaid system and force rural hospitals to shut their doors – that’s a fact, and that comes directly from the providers I have spoken with in my district. I’m doing everything in my power to strip these destructive Medicaid cuts from the bill because our communities can’t afford to lose access to their health care.”

    In New Mexico, rural hospitals are often the only source for primary care, dental services, labor and delivery, pediatric care, and more. When those hospitals close, entire communities are left with nowhere to turn for the care they need.

    Specifically, Vasquez introduced an amendment to strike sections 71115 and 71116 from the reconciliation bill. 

    • Section 71115 would prohibit states from establishing new provider taxes, critical payments that hospitals and states use to reinvest in health care. Without these funds states will be forced to reduce services and  increase state taxes. 
    • Section 71116 would limit state directed payments (SDPs) to the Medicare payment rate instead of the average private insurance rate, which better reflects the actual cost of care and is used to ensure that quality providers stay in rural areas. 

    Taken together, capping SDPs and ending provider taxes is a death sentence for rural health care. It will force hospitals to cut critical services – like maternity care, mental health care, and emergency rooms – or shut down entirely. 

    “If the reconciliation bill passes as-is, the interconnected network of New Mexico’s hospitals is at great risk. In this huge state, with these few hospitals, we cannot maintain access to care if rural hospitals are forced to cut services or face closure,” said Troy Clark, New Mexico Hospital Association. “When we talk about state directed payments and provider taxes, these aren’t just wonky policy topics — they are a critical part of the Medicaid reimbursement that covers providers’ cost for delivering care to New Mexicans. This has real, tangible impacts on New Mexicans’ health and wellbeing.”

    Vasquez also introduced an amendment to cap insulin costs at $35 per month for people with private insurance. The Congressman elaborated on his concerns about Republicans’ proposed Medicaid cuts in an op-ed published in the Santa Fe New Mexican earlier this week, calling out the danger of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Greene Man Admits Federal Drug and Firearm Charges

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    PORTLAND, Maine: A Greene man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Portland to possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a federal drug trafficking crime. 

    According to court records, in January 2025, Lewiston police officers approached and detained John Labbe, 44, after they observed him operating a vehicle unlawfully. Officers recovered from Labbe a handgun with a laser sight. Inside a backpack he was wearing, officers found quantities of fentanyl and cocaine base. A later search of Labbe’s cell phone revealed communications in which he appeared to be arranging for the distribution of controlled substances.

    Labbe faces at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison, a maximum fine of $5 million, and up to life on federal supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case, with help from the Lewiston Police Department, the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Maine Attorney General’s Office.

    Project Safe Neighborhoods: This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-me/psn.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Update 299 – IAEA Director General Statement on Situation in Ukraine

    Source: International Atomic Energy Agency – IAEA

    The IAEA team based at Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhya Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) has been informed of a drone attack that damaged several vehicles near the site’s cooling pond last week, Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi said today.

    Visiting near one of the areas of Friday’s purported attack, the IAEA team yesterday observed burnt grass and other charred vegetation, which the plant said was caused by a drone that crashed and caused a fire there.

    In the latest such report highlighting constant dangers to nuclear safety during the military conflict, the ZNPP said six drones had been involved in the incident.

    According to the plant’s information provided to the IAEA team, a group of personnel who were cleaning a nearby water reservoir at the time spotted the approaching drones and took cover, with no injuries. However, one of the drones hit the front of a truck and other vehicles were also damaged, the ZNPP said. Approximately one hour later, another drone crashed, causing the fire that burnt the vegetation, it added.

    The incident occurred outside the site perimeter, around 600 metres from the nearest of the ZNPP’s six reactors.

    The IAEA team members were yesterday shown the truck that was reportedly struck, but they could not confirm any damage as they were too far away from the vehicle. They also could not see any drone remains at that distance.

    “If this report is confirmed, it would represent a completely unacceptable attack in the proximity of a major nuclear power plant. Whoever is behind such attacks is playing with fire. It must stop immediately,” Director General Grossi said. 

    It comes just a few weeks after the IAEA team at the ZNPP heard repeated rounds of gunfire that appeared to be aimed at drones reportedly attacking the site’s training centre, also located just outside the site perimeter – on the opposite side to Friday’s reported attack. The training centre has been targeted several times this year, according to the ZNPP.

    In February, a drone severely damaged the New Safe Confinement (NSC) at the Chornobyl plant in northern Ukraine, built to prevent any radioactive release from the reactor unit 4 destroyed in the 1986 accident and to protect it from external hazards.

    Ukraine’s operating nuclear power plants (NPPs) – Khmelnytskyy, Rivne and South Ukraine – also regularly report of drones being detected near the respective sites.

    “There are too many drones flying too close to Ukraine’s nuclear power plants, potentially threatening nuclear safety. As we saw in February, they can cause major damage at these facilities. Once again, I call for maximum military restraint in the vicinity of nuclear facilities,” Director General Grossi said.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Affirms Commitment to Enhancing Partnership for Inclusive Development

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Seville, July 02, 2025

    The State of Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to fostering partnerships and mobilizing financing for inclusive development, expressing pride in hosting the Second Global Summit on Social Development this coming November. 

    The summit aims to enhance global dialogue and action toward inclusive social development and achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    This message was delivered by HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad on financing inclusive and sustainable development. The session was co-organized by the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Spain in cooperation with the International Labour Organization (ILO), as part of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville.

    HE the minister emphasized that achieving the SDGs requires effective international cooperation, especially to support vulnerable populations affected by poverty, conflict, and climate change. Her Excellency stressed the urgent need for strong partnerships and sustained investment in education, healthcare, and social protection. She added that a real commitment is needed to leaving no one behind, with special attention to women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

    Her Excellency underscored that the State of Qatar continues to pursue its Vision 2030 by building a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation, social justice, and inclusion. She highlighted that sustainable development indicators are being integrated into all national policies, with a strong emphasis on the family and expanding access to quality education and healthcare.

    At the international level, HE the minister reiterated the State of Qatar’s commitment to working closely with UN agencies, particularly the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and to investing in development acceleration labs that support local innovation in over 115 countries. She also noted the State of Qatar’s role in supporting education in emergencies, including a new partnership with the World Bank that converts debt relief into social investment.

    Commenting on the broader global agenda, Her Excellency said that the State of Qatar views the Seville Commitment as a vital stepping stone to the upcoming Doha Summit. She called for joint efforts to reform global financing mechanisms and to strengthen collaboration with international financial institutions like the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and development banks. Her Excellency also called for ensuring that human rights remain at the heart of all development efforts, adding that the State of Qatar looks forward to having everyone work together, in a spirit of partnership and innovation, to develop real solutions that reach those most in need. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Scott Applauds Passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released the following statement upon passage of the Senate reconciliation legislation, otherwise known as President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill. This vital and comprehensive reconciliation legislation will produce lasting positive change for the American people through governmental fiscal responsibility, tax cuts, immigration enforcement, and investment in essential sectors of the country’s economy.

    “Results delivered! We’re one step closer to history because Senate Republicans got the job done,” said Senator Scott. “When President Donald J. Trump signs this bill into law, it will be a major success for hardworking American families. We’re delivering tax cuts for families, securing the border, strengthening our national defense, and unleashing American energy dominance. This is a win for Americans chasing opportunity, building prosperity, and fighting for their shot at the American Dream.”

    Senator Scott successfully championed several important provisions in this legislation that will provide economic relief, support small businesses, promote tax fairness, and strengthen various industries. These legislative victories underscore Senator Scott’s unwavering dedication to advancing the interests of the people of South Carolina and the United States.

    Below is a list of key provisions championed by Senator Scott: 

    • The Opportunity Zone Program is now permanent and greatly expanded, paving the way for economic investment and growth in economically distressed areas and maximizing community impact.
    • A permanent school choice tax credit that will benefit millions of middle and low-income children for generations.
    • Coaches and athletic staff can now claim out-of-pocket job-related expenses on their taxes just like classroom teachers.
    • Existing FICA Tax credits have been expanded to cover additional businesses, providing meaningful tax relief for small beauty and grooming establishments.
    • New Market Tax Credit has been permanently extended to attract private capital for projects in underserved urban and rural areas. 
    • The permanent extension of the Excess Business Loss Limitation Section 461(I) to safeguard the tax base and prevent aggressive tax sheltering.
    • The removal of retaliatory tax Section 899 to secure local employment and investment from foreign-owned U.S. businesses.
    • Removal of restrictions allowing employers and employees to contribute towards the fees of direct primary care programs. 

    South Carolina specific provisions can be found below:

    • Extension of critical support for South Carolina Farmers; providing stronger price protections, disaster aid, and new insurance tools. 
    • Extension of the 45X production credit to support the growing EV and lithium sector in the state.
    • Preservation of the tax credits vital for the state’s nuclear industry and eligibility for advanced nuclear technologies, promoting clean energy and economic growth. 
    • Protection of the duty drawback program, supporting small and medium-sized tobacco farmers. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ‘Innovator passports’ set to accelerate cutting-edge NHS care

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    ‘Innovator passports’ set to accelerate cutting-edge NHS care

    New ‘innovator passport’ will slash red tape so cutting-edge tech can be rolled out across the NHS quicker under the 10 Year Health Plan.

    • Digital system will mean companies can innovate faster and patients can get pioneering tech as soon as it’s ready to be rolled out
    • Will provide major boost to the Life Sciences sector, creating an NHS fit for future under the Plan for Change

    NHS patients across the country will get accelerated access to cutting edge technology through a new digital system that will cut red tape and boost life science .

    A new ‘innovator passport’ – to be introduced over next two years – will allow new technology that has been robustly assessed by one NHS organisation to be easily rolled out to others. 

    The move is a key part of the government’s Plan for Change and its 10 Year Health Plan, which will transfer power to patients and transform how healthcare is delivered, creating an NHS fit for future.

    For too long, cutting edge businesses deserted working with the NHS and went elsewhere, weighed down by slow timelines and reams of processes. Now, organisations will be able to join up with the NHS quicker than ever before through the removal of needless bureaucracy. Not only is this better for patients, but also for our NHS and economic growth.

    A ‘one-stop-shop’ thorough check from the NHS will now allow businesses to get to work as quickly as possible and deliver on what matters most to patients across the country. It means NHS patients will get more effective treatments and support quicker, and the NHS will make the most of its finite assessment resource, all while businesses are given a boost through the government’s industrial strategy.

    Treatments including special wound dressings—already reducing surgical site infections by 38% at Barking, Havering & Redbridge University Hospitals—could be adopted more widely, benefiting patients across the country.

    At Barts Health Trust in London, the use of antimicrobial protective coverings for cardiac devices cut infections and saved over £103,000 per year. At University Hospitals Dorset, adopting rapid influenza testing reduced bed days and antibiotic use, freeing up vital resources. MedTech Compass will make these innovations, and the evidence underpinning them, clear to buyers within the NHS.

    The new passport will eliminate multiple compliance assessments, reducing duplication across the health service. It will be delivered through MedTech Compass, a digital platform developed by DHSC to make effective technologies more visible and widely available.

    The initiative builds on the government’s drive to slash waiting lists and ensure people have access to health and care when and where they need it under the Plan for Change.

    Wes Streeting, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, said: 

    For too long, Britain’s leading scientific minds have been held back by needless admin that means suppliers are repeatedly asked for the same data in different formats by different trusts – this is bad for the NHS, patients and bad for business. 

    These innovator passports will save time and reduce duplication, meaning our life sciences sector – a central part of our 10 Year Health Plan – can work hand in hand with the health service and make Britain a powerhouse for medical technology.

    Frustrated patients will no longer have to face a postcode lottery for lifesaving products to be introduced in their area and companies will be able to get their technology used across the NHS more easily, creating a health service fit for future under the Plan for Change.

    Dr Vin Diwakar, Clinical Transformation Director at NHS England, said:

    We’re seeing the impact improvements to technology are having on our everyday lives on everything from smartwatches to fitness trackers – and we want to make sure NHS patients can benefit from the latest medical technology and innovations as well.

    The new innovator passports will speed up the roll-out of new health technology in the NHS which has been proven to be effective, so that patients can benefit from new treatments much sooner.

    It also forms an important element of the industrial strategy through the upcoming Life Sciences Sector Plan, which will turbocharge Britain’s life sciences sector and cement the UK’s position as a global innovation leader.

    MedTech Compass helps speed up decision-making in trusts, allowing technology to scale faster – making it easier for trusts across the country to find, assess, and adopt proven technologies that improve and speed up patient care.

    The passports mean that once a healthcare tool has been assessed by one NHS organisation, further NHS organisations will not be able to insist on repeated assessments, reducing the need for local NHS systems to spend their limited resources on bureaucratic processes that have already been completed elsewhere.
    The digital system will act as a dynamic best buyer’s guide, making it easier for trusts to compare products side-by-side in one place.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Weekend spree sees man in court

    Source: New Zealand Police

    A spree of car break-ins across one North Shore suburb has parked one offender in a court dock.

    Police have so far charged him with 17 offences over one weekend.

    In recent days, Waitematā East Police began investigating a spate of theft reports from vehicles parked in Schnapper Rock.

    Waitematā East Area Investigators Manager, Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Williams says numerous break-ins occurred between 26 and 29 June.

    “Offenders have been targeting sunglasses, wallets, bank cards and other items left in plain view,” he says.

    “A break came in enquiries when offenders were disturbed in the act on Sunday.

    “The victims got a very good description of a vehicle being used in the offending, which was invaluable to us.”

    Frontline staff attended the incident and, through camera operators, managed to obtain a registration.

    “Our Tactical Crime Unit picked up enquiries on Monday, identifying a person of interest which resulted in a visit to his Te Atatū Peninsula property on Tuesday.”

    A search warrant was executed at the property, resulting in the arrest of a 28-year-old man.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Williams says numerous items of interest were found at the West Auckland property.

    “He will face the North Shore District Court today on multiple counts of theft ex-car, and we will be opposing the man’s bail.

    “It’s a pleasing result, and our North Shore staff worked together with urgency to take enforcement action and ultimately prevent our community from being victimised further.”

    Police enquiries are continuing, and further arrests and charges cannot be ruled out at this point.

    Detective Senior Sergeant Williams says Police acknowledge vigilant reporting from the Schnapper Rock community, with timely and helpful information to respond.

    Always call 111 if you see offending or suspicious activity occurring in the community.

    You can also report information to Police online or by calling 105.

    ENDS.

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Knuldoorong Art Exhibition brings culture centre stage to celebrate NAIDOC Week

    Source: New South Wales Ministerial News

    The City of Greater Bendigo is excited to announce the opening of the 2025 Knuldoorong Art Exhibition this Friday July 4, featuring works from First Nations artists and creatives.

    The annual Knuldoorong Art Exhibition is a major highlight of local NAIDOC Week (July 6 to 13) events, anchoring the start of celebrations across Bendigo.

    This year’s exhibition explores the NAIDOC theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy, through the talented cohort of First Nations artists exhibiting their artwork.

    The theme is reflected in the artists themselves, with artists exhibiting at different stages in their careers and life’s journey, from well-established Elders to first-time exhibitors and young First Nations artists. There is also a special showcase from the Bendigo & District Aboriginal Co-operative kindergarten.

    For the past nine years, the Knuldoorong Art Exhibition has been a cornerstone of NAIDOC Week celebrations, taking place in Dudley House.

    Artworks will be available for purchase, although items will remain on display in Dudley House until the exhibition ends.

    The City’s Arts Officer First Nations and exhibition curator Michellie Charvat said this exhibition is a beautiful reflection of multiple generations of artists coming together.

    “This year’s Knuldoorong Art Exhibition showcases an outstanding collection of artworks created by incredibly talented artists, from right across Bendigo and beyond,” Ms Charvat said.

    “It was amazing to curate the exhibition with the intention that the NAIDOC theme is embodied through the artists themselves, offering a subtle theme of The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy.

    “Each artwork reflects the culture and identity of the artist, deepening the connection to NAIDOC, community, and First Nations individuals.

    “It was also a special exhibition for me to curate personally as this is where my career as an artist and curator began years ago, so to support and encourage young artists to exhibit their work for the first time in this exhibition is really special.”

    The Knuldoorong Art Exhibition will be open to the public from Friday July 4 to Sunday July 13.

    The exhibition is free to attend and will be open daily from 11am to 4pm.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Hassan Statement on Senate Republicans Passing Budget Bill to Take Away Health Care from Millions of Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statement after voting against the Republican budget bill that will take health care away from tens of thousands of Granite Staters, make massive cuts to health care, and explode the national debt by trillions of dollars in order to pay for tax giveaways for corporate special interests and billionaires: 
    “Today, Congressional Republicans and President Trump pushed through a budget bill that will hurt Granite Staters for generations to come. This bill takes health care away from tens of thousands of Granite Staters, raises health premiums and other costs on all Americans, and saddles our children and grandchildren with trillions in debt in order to pay for tax giveaways for corporate special interests and billionaires.  
    “From doctors in the North Country to seniors in Nashua, I’ve heard from countless Granite Staters about the devastating impact that this bill will have on our communities. And as this bill now heads to the House, I join the majority of Granite Staters and Americans urging Congressional Republicans to reverse course. 
    “What families need most right now is relief from the high cost of essentials. I’ve joined many of my colleagues in putting forward bipartisan proposals to cut taxes and lower costs for hardworking families and small businesses. But instead of working with us to make life more affordable, the President and Congressional Republicans have doubled down on this bill, which will mean that more people will get sick, our economy will be weakened, and families will be hurt.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Votes Against Republican Bill That Will Take Health Care Away From 16 Million Americans, Raise Health Care Costs, Cut Food Assistance

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

    U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today voted against a Republican tax bill that will kick more than 16 million Americans off of health insurance, raise monthly health care costs across the country, and slash nutritional assistance for those in need – all in order to cut taxes for the ultra-wealthy.

    “If enacted, the Republican tax bill will mean millions of people will lose health care coverage and everyone’s health care costs will go up. It’s worse than you think, but we can still stop it. The fight to kill this thing isn’t over yet. It’s up to all of us to keep doing whatever we can to make sure everyone knows just how terrible this bill really is,” said Senator Schatz. “Congress should be focused on lowering costs and improving people’s lives – this does the opposite.”

    The Republican tax bill will cut coverage through Med-QUEST for more than 40,000 people in Hawai‘i, gut food assistance programs that more than 20,000 Hawai‘i families rely on, and raise the national debt by $3.3 trillion. The bill now goes to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Schatz Votes Against Republican Bill That Will Take Health Care Away From 16 Million Americans, Raise Health Care Costs, Cut Food Assistance

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz

    U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) today voted against a Republican tax bill that will kick more than 16 million Americans off of health insurance, raise monthly health care costs across the country, and slash nutritional assistance for those in need – all in order to cut taxes for the ultra-wealthy.

    “If enacted, the Republican tax bill will mean millions of people will lose health care coverage and everyone’s health care costs will go up. It’s worse than you think, but we can still stop it. The fight to kill this thing isn’t over yet. It’s up to all of us to keep doing whatever we can to make sure everyone knows just how terrible this bill really is,” said Senator Schatz. “Congress should be focused on lowering costs and improving people’s lives – this does the opposite.”

    The Republican tax bill will cut coverage through Med-QUEST for more than 40,000 people in Hawai‘i, gut food assistance programs that more than 20,000 Hawai‘i families rely on, and raise the national debt by $3.3 trillion. The bill now goes to the U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Hundreds of thousands to get secure roof over their heads

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Hundreds of thousands to get secure roof over their heads

    Government sets out ambitions for a social rent revolution through the new £39 billion Social and Affordable Homes Programme.

    • Boost for families as plans are set out to transform housing over the next 10 years, with more social and affordable properties including council homes, building on our Plan for Change
    • Government sets ambition to deliver around 300,000 social and affordable homes through the new £39bn Social and Affordable Homes Programme, with at least 60% for social rent
    • Long-term certainty and stability for the sector delivered through Deputy PM’s five step plan, while standards for millions driven up
    • Major intervention package will drive the government’s Plan for Change mission to build 1.5 million homes and deliver the biggest boost to social and affordable housing in a generation

    Hundreds of thousands of social and affordable homes, including 60 per cent for social rent, will be built and standards will be driven up under plans by the Deputy Prime Minister to usher in a decade of housing renewal across the country.  

    This significant package of renewal will help deliver on our Plan for Change, unlock new jobs and turn the tide of the entrenched housing crisis, which has seen families and over 165,000 children stuck in temporary accommodation without the safe, secure and stable home they deserve.  

    That’s why the government is today setting an ambition to deliver around 300,000 new social and affordable homes, through the unprecedented £39 billion new Social and Affordable Homes Programme announced at the Spending Review. Through this, we are setting an ambitious target that at least 60% of homes will be for social rent which is linked to local incomes – achieving this would mean delivering around 180,000 homes for social rent. That is six times more than the decade up to 2024.  

    Alongside this, a long-term plan – Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing – is being published today (Wednesday) to set out how the government will deliver the biggest boost to social and affordable housing in a generation, alongside driving up the safety and quality of homes.  

    Living standards for millions of social housing tenants will also be driven up under new plans to update and modernise the Decent Homes Standard, which will be extended to privately rented homes for the first time, and Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards will be implemented for the first time in the social housing sector.  

    Further measures set out in the plan includes transformative changes to Right to Buy and other measures to protect vital council housing stock, unlocking investment in new and existing social housing, and increasing overall standards alongside a rallying call for the sector to step up and deliver.  

    This significant package is the latest action the government is taking to deliver on the Plan for Change to build 1.5 million homes and drive-up living standards, which includes reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework, the landmark Planning and Infrastructure Bill and the recent announcement of a new publicly-owned National Housing Bank. This will further help to turn the tide on the housing crisis which has left over 165,000 children in temporary accommodation and locked a generation out of a secure home.

    Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner said:

    “We are seizing this golden opportunity with both hands to transform this country by building the social and affordable homes we need, so we create a brighter future where families aren’t trapped in temporary accommodation and young people are no longer locked out of a secure home.   

    “With investment and reform, this government is delivering the biggest boost to social and affordable housing in a generation, unleashing a social rent revolution, and embarking on a decade of renewal for social and affordable housing in this country.   

    “That’s why I am urging everyone in the social housing sector to step forward with us now to make this vision a reality, to work together to turn the tide on the housing crisis together and deliver the homes and living standards people deserve through our Plan for Change.”

    Since coming into office, the government has listened carefully to social housing providers and tenants. The new plan, published by the government today, reflects this engagement and builds on the investment strategy laid out at the Spending Review. 

    The five steps form the government’s plan to deliver the biggest boost to social and affordable housing in a generation, alongside a lasting change in the safety and quality of homes. 

    Each step builds on work already undertaken to bring stability to the sector, but the Plan also publicly signals to developers, councils, investors and to the public the government’s serious intent and ambition for social and affordable housing. It also gives providers the stability and certainty they need to be able to borrow and invest in both new and existing homes knowing the government has a comprehensive plan for the sector.

    The five steps are to:     

    1. Deliver the biggest boost to grant funding in a generation
    2. Rebuild the sector’s capacity to borrow and invest in new and existing supply
    3. Establish an effective and stable regulatory regime
    4. Reinvigorate council housebuilding
    5. Forge a renewed partnership with the sector to build at scale

    To deliver the housing the country needs, the government confirmed at the Spending Review a new 10-year £39 billion programme to kickstart building at scale.   

    Homes England – the government’s housing and regeneration agency – will be responsible for delivering the majority of the funding, with up to 30% of funding  – up to £11.7bn over the 10 years – being used to support housing delivery from the Greater London Authority in the capital.     

    The long-term nature of the Social and Affordable Homes Programme will also offer more certainty for developers to invest and effectively plan housebuilding for the future, compared to the previous five-year £12.3bn 2021-2026 Affordable Homes Programme.   

    The last five year 2021-26 programme averaged £2.3 billion per year – this means the government will be spending almost double this on affordable housing investment by the end of this Parliament (£4bn in 2029/30).  

    To achieve the ambition of delivering more social and affordable housing, the government is issuing a ‘call to arms’ to everyone with a role in social and affordable housing to prove they can deliver at scale and at pace. And as part of this effort, we will work with the sector in the coming months to agree a joint overall target on how many social and affordable homes can be delivered overall.  

    A new long-term 10-year settlement for social housing rents will be introduced from April 2026 to provide the social housing sector with the certainty they need to reinvest in existing and new housing stock.     

    The government is also publishing a consultation on how to implement a convergence measure, with options for this being capped at £1 or £2 per week– with a final decision to follow at this year’s Autumn Budget.    

    Further views will be sought on a new Decent Homes Standard which will modernise the standard, with proposals that hold tenant safety at their core but remain proportionate and affordable for providers to deliver. Views will also be sought on updating standards to make sure homes are warm and efficient through a Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard for the social rented sector. This is all alongside our work to implement Awaab’s Law – this government is prioritising safety as a first step.    

    The government has also set out a package of wider reforms to the Right to Buy scheme to protect vital housing stock and to enable councils to ramp up delivery of new homes. This follows the reduction in maximum cash discounts that was implemented in November 2024.    

    This package complements work already taking place to get Britain building including through the updated National Planning Policy Framework, the landmark Planning and Infrastructure Bill and a new National Housing Bank to get more spades in the ground.

    Minister for Energy Consumers Miatta Fahnbulleh said:

    “Everyone deserves to live in a warm, secure and affordable home, which is why we are setting out bold plans today to transform housing over the next decade.

    “This includes proposals to introduce an energy efficiency standard for social housing for the first time ever, helping tenants benefit from cheaper energy bills and more efficient homes.”

    Further information

    Using Live Table 1012 in Published MHCLG statistics,(Live_Table_1012.ods) the number of social rent completions funded by Homes England and the GLA between 2014-15 and 2023-24 was 28,634.

    Updates to this page

    Published 2 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Research—Reframing the On-Chain Narrative: What New Story Is Base Telling?

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mahe, Seychelles, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BitMart Research, the research arm of BitMart Exchange, has released a comprehensive analysis on the resurgence of the Base ecosystem, highlighting its explosive growth, evolving narratives, and rising institutional alignment. As daily active addresses, TVL, and transaction volumes reach new highs, Base is rapidly transitioning from a speculative L2 to a foundational layer for compliant, on-chain financial and content infrastructure. With support from Coinbase’s strategic initiatives and breakout projects like Virtual and Kaito redefining launch dynamics and the attention economy, Base is emerging as a pivotal force in bridging traditional finance and Web3 innovation.

    1. Recent Developments in the Base Ecosystem

    Since the end of May 2025, Base has entered a clear period of ecological “explosion.” Key metrics such as daily active addresses, total value locked (TVL), and daily transaction count have surged significantly. The main driver behind this explosive growth is the emergence of multiple trending narratives within the Base ecosystem, each generating waves of market hype and drawing substantial attention.

    From a macro perspective, the recent IPO of Circle has sparked renewed investor optimism around the concept of stablecoins in global equity markets. This optimism, especially amid expectations of a more favorable regulatory environment, has positioned Base as an increasingly attractive option for traditional institutions.

    • User Growth: The number of active addresses has grown exponentially, recently hitting a record high of 3.6 million.
    • TVL Surge: Base’s total value locked climbed from $2.8 billion in early May to a peak of nearly $4 billion, matching its bull market highs in 2024.
    • On-Chain Activity: Since May, daily on-chain transactions have averaged nearly 9 million, reaching the peak levels of the 2024 bull cycle.

    2. Trending Projects in the Base Ecosystem


    Virtual: Pump.fun + Bn Alpha-Style Launch Mechanism Sparks Market Frenzy

    Among the many trending projects in the Base ecosystem, Virtual has undoubtedly become one of the most closely watched by the market. Leveraging an innovative token launch mechanism, it has rapidly attracted a large influx of capital and users, emerging as the flagship project in Base’s ongoing “launch narrative.” The price of VIRTUAL rose from $0.50 in mid-April to a peak of $2.50 in early June—a 400% gain.

    The key advantages of Virtual’s launch model include:

    • Ultra-low fundraising price: Each new project raises funding based on a fixed valuation of 42,425 VIRTUAL (approximately $224,000), allowing users to participate at extremely low entry prices. This creates substantial profit potential once the token goes live.
    • Linear token vesting: Unlike MEME launches on Pump.fun, tokens in Virtual’s launchpad projects are not fully unlocked at listing. Instead, they follow a transparent vesting model similar to VC-backed tokens, with tokens released in tranches. Moreover, to prevent immediate sell-offs by project teams, all raised funds are injected directly into the initial liquidity pool rather than handed over to the team.
    • Low participation risk: If a launch fails to meet its fundraising target, users receive a full refund. Additionally, Virtual only features a few new launches per day, meaning the overall project quality tends to be higher than most MEME tokens—making user participation relatively low-risk.
    • Reduced rug-pull potential: Virtual imposes a 1% trading fee, 70% of which is returned to the project team. This incentivizes teams to focus on increasing trading volume rather than cashing out quickly, creating a more sustainable ecosystem loop.

    However, as the platform gained popularity, early users frequently adopted a strategy of selling immediately after token launch to capture short-term gains. This behavior led to heavy selling pressure on new projects, undermining overall ecosystem stability. In response, Virtual introduced a “Green Lock” mechanism in mid-June, imposing a mandatory lock-up period on token allocations for launch participants. During this period, users are prohibited from selling their tokens; violating this rule results in a suspension of points accumulation.

    While this mechanism helps curb early dumping and extends project lifespans, it also significantly alters the speculative logic that drove initial enthusiasm. Users now face longer profit cycles and lower capital efficiency, leading to a temporary cooling of market sentiment. Since mid-June, the price of VIRTUAL has entered a downward trend, falling from its peak to $1.69—a decline of over 37%.

    Kaito: The Leading Project in the Attention Economy

    Kaito stands as the leading project in the emerging “Information Finance” (InfoFi) sector. Since May, its token price has surged from $0.79 to a peak of $2.41, marking an increase of nearly 205%.

    At the core of Kaito’s appeal is its Yaps module, which tokenizes user attention by rewarding those who post content on X (formerly Twitter). By incentivizing high-quality content creation around trending projects—such as Berachain, Monad, and Initia—Kaito has built a Web3-native content-driven influence model. This mechanism has significantly boosted community engagement. Coupled with weekly airdrops and leaderboard rewards, users are empowered to both “speak” and “monetize,” attracting a growing number of content creators and thought leaders. This dynamic has played a key role in driving the growth of social and narrative-driven content on the Base network.

    3. Coinbase and the Future Trajectory of Base

    In June 2025, the U.S. Senate passed the GENIUS Stablecoin Act, establishing a formal legal framework for USD-backed stablecoins. This marked the first time that regulatory authorities legally recognized digital assets’ compliance status. Against this backdrop, Coinbase, as a fully compliant U.S.-based exchange, has launched a three-pronged strategic layout around Base:

    1. Enabling Regulated On-Chain Asset Access — Bridging Coinbase Balances to Base

    Coinbase is currently deepening the integration between its centralized trading platform and the Base chain. It has rolled out the Verified Pools feature, allowing KYC-verified users to interact directly with Base dApps using their Coinbase account balances—eliminating the need to switch wallets or perform manual on-chain transfers.

    Uniswap and Aerodrome have already been announced as the primary DEXs supporting this integration. Although the feature remains in its early stages, it aligns with the broader trend of centralized exchanges moving toward on-chain/off-chain convergence.

    2. Building a Compliant Stablecoin Ecosystem with Traditional Finance — Tokenizing Fiat On-Chain

    Following the establishment of an access gateway, Coinbase has partnered with Wall Street giants—including JPMorgan Chase—to pilot the issuance of compliant stablecoins and deposit tokens (e.g., JPMD) on Base. These assets are fully custodied by regulated banks and come with traditional financial benefits such as interest accrual, legal protections, and deposit insurance.

    This initiative goes beyond simply putting USD on-chain—it represents the digitization of traditional financial system infrastructure, positioning Base as a core ledger layer for real-world finance in the Web3 ecosystem.

    3. Building a Diverse On-Chain Ecosystem — Creating Real Use Cases for On-Chain Dollars

    To strengthen actual demand for on-chain USD, Coinbase is simultaneously expanding the Base ecosystem with a wide array of applications:

    • On-Chain U.S. Stock Trading: Coinbase is seeking SEC approval to tokenize U.S. equities, planning to launch products that allow trading of Apple, Tesla, and other stocks directly on-chain—removing geographical barriers from traditional markets.
    • Collaboration with Circle: The launch of Circle Payments Network (CPN) provides USDC with robust clearing infrastructure. As the leading stablecoin on Base, USDC will support DeFi, RWA, and cross-border payment applications—positioning Base as a key hub for compliant blockchain finance.
    • Global Crypto Payments: Coinbase is working with Shopify and Stripe to integrate USDC into e-commerce checkout systems, expanding the real-world use of stablecoins in cross-border settlements.
    • Compliant DeFi and On-Chain Lending: Protocols such as Aerodrome, Uniswap, and Spark are being guided toward KYC-enabled, compliant operations, offering secure and auditable services in trading and lending for both institutions and retail users.
    • AI Agents and InfoFi Applications: New on-chain innovations like AI Agents and attention economy platforms (e.g., Kaito) are being explored to attract traditional users into emerging crypto-native interaction models.

    Through this multi-layered strategy, Coinbase is not only building a regulated on-chain asset highway, but also constructing a value loop for USD stablecoins—from fiat onboarding and token issuance to liquidity, circulation, and real-world application.

    High-Potential Projects in the Base Ecosystem

    • Aerodrome: As the flagship DEX on Base and a key partner in Coinbase’s integration plan, Aerodrome is well-positioned to benefit from stable institutional liquidity flows. This will likely boost trading volume, TVL, and protocol revenues. Holders of AERO tokens stand to gain from enhanced fee-sharing and staking yields, reinforcing user participation in governance.
    • Uniswap: Similarly, Uniswap—another DEX integrated by Coinbase—will gain increased on-chain liquidity and potential platform revenue, thereby enhancing the value proposition of its UNI token.
    • Keeta: A high-performance RWA-focused chain claiming millions of TPS and sub-second confirmation times. Backed by investors including former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, Keeta has already validated its performance through independent stress testing. Despite significant token price corrections, it is expected to collaborate with Base on compliant RWA integration.
    • Creator Bid: In partnership with Kaito, Creator Bid launched version 2.0 with new features such as staking-based launches, increasing user engagement and expanding creator economy models. The platform’s BID token recently reached a historical market cap of $150 million, showing early signs of traction. Similar to Virtual’s early-stage momentum, Creator Bid is poised for continued growth as it iterates.
    • Upside: The first socially driven prediction market on Base. Users can tokenize X/Twitter posts, articles, and videos, and use USDC to vote and trade on them. Currently in its second test season with ~20,000 followers on X, the platform has not yet issued a token, but its unique blend of prediction and content mechanics gives it strong potential to become a liquid and narrative-rich application on Base.

    Conclusion

    Base is undergoing a transformation—from being merely a “high-activity trading L2” into a structurally complete financial and content infrastructure on-chain. From innovation-driven projects like Virtual and Kaito, to Coinbase’s efforts in building a robust USD-denominated ecosystem, the narrative of Base is evolving.

    While short-term hype cycles may cool and speculative behaviors persist, Base’s long-term strength lies in its consistent storytelling and institutional alignment. It is increasingly poised to serve as a bridge between traditional capital and Web3, making it not just a rotating narrative hotspot, but a vital reference point for tracking the crypto industry’s broader shift toward compliance, financialization, and utility.

    About BitMart

    BitMart is a premier global digital asset trading platform with more than 10 million users worldwide. Consistently ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, BitMart offers over 1,700 trading pairs with competitive fees. Committed to continuous innovation and financial inclusivity, BitMart empowers users globally to trade seamlessly. Learn more about BitMart at Website, follow their X (Twitter), or join their Telegram for updates, news, and promotions. Download BitMart App to trade anytime, anywhere.

    Risk Warning:

    The information provided is for reference only and should not be considered a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any financial asset. All information is provided in good faith. However, we make no representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of such information.

    All cryptocurrency investments (including returns) are highly speculative in nature and involve significant risk of loss. Past, hypothetical or simulated performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. The value of digital currencies may rise or fall, and there may be significant risks in buying, selling, holding or trading digital currencies. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding digital currencies is suitable for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial situation and risk tolerance. BitMart does not provide any investment, legal or tax advice.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Research—Reframing the On-Chain Narrative: What New Story Is Base Telling?

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mahe, Seychelles, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BitMart Research, the research arm of BitMart Exchange, has released a comprehensive analysis on the resurgence of the Base ecosystem, highlighting its explosive growth, evolving narratives, and rising institutional alignment. As daily active addresses, TVL, and transaction volumes reach new highs, Base is rapidly transitioning from a speculative L2 to a foundational layer for compliant, on-chain financial and content infrastructure. With support from Coinbase’s strategic initiatives and breakout projects like Virtual and Kaito redefining launch dynamics and the attention economy, Base is emerging as a pivotal force in bridging traditional finance and Web3 innovation.

    1. Recent Developments in the Base Ecosystem

    Since the end of May 2025, Base has entered a clear period of ecological “explosion.” Key metrics such as daily active addresses, total value locked (TVL), and daily transaction count have surged significantly. The main driver behind this explosive growth is the emergence of multiple trending narratives within the Base ecosystem, each generating waves of market hype and drawing substantial attention.

    From a macro perspective, the recent IPO of Circle has sparked renewed investor optimism around the concept of stablecoins in global equity markets. This optimism, especially amid expectations of a more favorable regulatory environment, has positioned Base as an increasingly attractive option for traditional institutions.

    • User Growth: The number of active addresses has grown exponentially, recently hitting a record high of 3.6 million.
    • TVL Surge: Base’s total value locked climbed from $2.8 billion in early May to a peak of nearly $4 billion, matching its bull market highs in 2024.
    • On-Chain Activity: Since May, daily on-chain transactions have averaged nearly 9 million, reaching the peak levels of the 2024 bull cycle.

    2. Trending Projects in the Base Ecosystem


    Virtual: Pump.fun + Bn Alpha-Style Launch Mechanism Sparks Market Frenzy

    Among the many trending projects in the Base ecosystem, Virtual has undoubtedly become one of the most closely watched by the market. Leveraging an innovative token launch mechanism, it has rapidly attracted a large influx of capital and users, emerging as the flagship project in Base’s ongoing “launch narrative.” The price of VIRTUAL rose from $0.50 in mid-April to a peak of $2.50 in early June—a 400% gain.

    The key advantages of Virtual’s launch model include:

    • Ultra-low fundraising price: Each new project raises funding based on a fixed valuation of 42,425 VIRTUAL (approximately $224,000), allowing users to participate at extremely low entry prices. This creates substantial profit potential once the token goes live.
    • Linear token vesting: Unlike MEME launches on Pump.fun, tokens in Virtual’s launchpad projects are not fully unlocked at listing. Instead, they follow a transparent vesting model similar to VC-backed tokens, with tokens released in tranches. Moreover, to prevent immediate sell-offs by project teams, all raised funds are injected directly into the initial liquidity pool rather than handed over to the team.
    • Low participation risk: If a launch fails to meet its fundraising target, users receive a full refund. Additionally, Virtual only features a few new launches per day, meaning the overall project quality tends to be higher than most MEME tokens—making user participation relatively low-risk.
    • Reduced rug-pull potential: Virtual imposes a 1% trading fee, 70% of which is returned to the project team. This incentivizes teams to focus on increasing trading volume rather than cashing out quickly, creating a more sustainable ecosystem loop.

    However, as the platform gained popularity, early users frequently adopted a strategy of selling immediately after token launch to capture short-term gains. This behavior led to heavy selling pressure on new projects, undermining overall ecosystem stability. In response, Virtual introduced a “Green Lock” mechanism in mid-June, imposing a mandatory lock-up period on token allocations for launch participants. During this period, users are prohibited from selling their tokens; violating this rule results in a suspension of points accumulation.

    While this mechanism helps curb early dumping and extends project lifespans, it also significantly alters the speculative logic that drove initial enthusiasm. Users now face longer profit cycles and lower capital efficiency, leading to a temporary cooling of market sentiment. Since mid-June, the price of VIRTUAL has entered a downward trend, falling from its peak to $1.69—a decline of over 37%.

    Kaito: The Leading Project in the Attention Economy

    Kaito stands as the leading project in the emerging “Information Finance” (InfoFi) sector. Since May, its token price has surged from $0.79 to a peak of $2.41, marking an increase of nearly 205%.

    At the core of Kaito’s appeal is its Yaps module, which tokenizes user attention by rewarding those who post content on X (formerly Twitter). By incentivizing high-quality content creation around trending projects—such as Berachain, Monad, and Initia—Kaito has built a Web3-native content-driven influence model. This mechanism has significantly boosted community engagement. Coupled with weekly airdrops and leaderboard rewards, users are empowered to both “speak” and “monetize,” attracting a growing number of content creators and thought leaders. This dynamic has played a key role in driving the growth of social and narrative-driven content on the Base network.

    3. Coinbase and the Future Trajectory of Base

    In June 2025, the U.S. Senate passed the GENIUS Stablecoin Act, establishing a formal legal framework for USD-backed stablecoins. This marked the first time that regulatory authorities legally recognized digital assets’ compliance status. Against this backdrop, Coinbase, as a fully compliant U.S.-based exchange, has launched a three-pronged strategic layout around Base:

    1. Enabling Regulated On-Chain Asset Access — Bridging Coinbase Balances to Base

    Coinbase is currently deepening the integration between its centralized trading platform and the Base chain. It has rolled out the Verified Pools feature, allowing KYC-verified users to interact directly with Base dApps using their Coinbase account balances—eliminating the need to switch wallets or perform manual on-chain transfers.

    Uniswap and Aerodrome have already been announced as the primary DEXs supporting this integration. Although the feature remains in its early stages, it aligns with the broader trend of centralized exchanges moving toward on-chain/off-chain convergence.

    2. Building a Compliant Stablecoin Ecosystem with Traditional Finance — Tokenizing Fiat On-Chain

    Following the establishment of an access gateway, Coinbase has partnered with Wall Street giants—including JPMorgan Chase—to pilot the issuance of compliant stablecoins and deposit tokens (e.g., JPMD) on Base. These assets are fully custodied by regulated banks and come with traditional financial benefits such as interest accrual, legal protections, and deposit insurance.

    This initiative goes beyond simply putting USD on-chain—it represents the digitization of traditional financial system infrastructure, positioning Base as a core ledger layer for real-world finance in the Web3 ecosystem.

    3. Building a Diverse On-Chain Ecosystem — Creating Real Use Cases for On-Chain Dollars

    To strengthen actual demand for on-chain USD, Coinbase is simultaneously expanding the Base ecosystem with a wide array of applications:

    • On-Chain U.S. Stock Trading: Coinbase is seeking SEC approval to tokenize U.S. equities, planning to launch products that allow trading of Apple, Tesla, and other stocks directly on-chain—removing geographical barriers from traditional markets.
    • Collaboration with Circle: The launch of Circle Payments Network (CPN) provides USDC with robust clearing infrastructure. As the leading stablecoin on Base, USDC will support DeFi, RWA, and cross-border payment applications—positioning Base as a key hub for compliant blockchain finance.
    • Global Crypto Payments: Coinbase is working with Shopify and Stripe to integrate USDC into e-commerce checkout systems, expanding the real-world use of stablecoins in cross-border settlements.
    • Compliant DeFi and On-Chain Lending: Protocols such as Aerodrome, Uniswap, and Spark are being guided toward KYC-enabled, compliant operations, offering secure and auditable services in trading and lending for both institutions and retail users.
    • AI Agents and InfoFi Applications: New on-chain innovations like AI Agents and attention economy platforms (e.g., Kaito) are being explored to attract traditional users into emerging crypto-native interaction models.

    Through this multi-layered strategy, Coinbase is not only building a regulated on-chain asset highway, but also constructing a value loop for USD stablecoins—from fiat onboarding and token issuance to liquidity, circulation, and real-world application.

    High-Potential Projects in the Base Ecosystem

    • Aerodrome: As the flagship DEX on Base and a key partner in Coinbase’s integration plan, Aerodrome is well-positioned to benefit from stable institutional liquidity flows. This will likely boost trading volume, TVL, and protocol revenues. Holders of AERO tokens stand to gain from enhanced fee-sharing and staking yields, reinforcing user participation in governance.
    • Uniswap: Similarly, Uniswap—another DEX integrated by Coinbase—will gain increased on-chain liquidity and potential platform revenue, thereby enhancing the value proposition of its UNI token.
    • Keeta: A high-performance RWA-focused chain claiming millions of TPS and sub-second confirmation times. Backed by investors including former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, Keeta has already validated its performance through independent stress testing. Despite significant token price corrections, it is expected to collaborate with Base on compliant RWA integration.
    • Creator Bid: In partnership with Kaito, Creator Bid launched version 2.0 with new features such as staking-based launches, increasing user engagement and expanding creator economy models. The platform’s BID token recently reached a historical market cap of $150 million, showing early signs of traction. Similar to Virtual’s early-stage momentum, Creator Bid is poised for continued growth as it iterates.
    • Upside: The first socially driven prediction market on Base. Users can tokenize X/Twitter posts, articles, and videos, and use USDC to vote and trade on them. Currently in its second test season with ~20,000 followers on X, the platform has not yet issued a token, but its unique blend of prediction and content mechanics gives it strong potential to become a liquid and narrative-rich application on Base.

    Conclusion

    Base is undergoing a transformation—from being merely a “high-activity trading L2” into a structurally complete financial and content infrastructure on-chain. From innovation-driven projects like Virtual and Kaito, to Coinbase’s efforts in building a robust USD-denominated ecosystem, the narrative of Base is evolving.

    While short-term hype cycles may cool and speculative behaviors persist, Base’s long-term strength lies in its consistent storytelling and institutional alignment. It is increasingly poised to serve as a bridge between traditional capital and Web3, making it not just a rotating narrative hotspot, but a vital reference point for tracking the crypto industry’s broader shift toward compliance, financialization, and utility.

    About BitMart

    BitMart is a premier global digital asset trading platform with more than 10 million users worldwide. Consistently ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, BitMart offers over 1,700 trading pairs with competitive fees. Committed to continuous innovation and financial inclusivity, BitMart empowers users globally to trade seamlessly. Learn more about BitMart at Website, follow their X (Twitter), or join their Telegram for updates, news, and promotions. Download BitMart App to trade anytime, anywhere.

    Risk Warning:

    The information provided is for reference only and should not be considered a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any financial asset. All information is provided in good faith. However, we make no representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of such information.

    All cryptocurrency investments (including returns) are highly speculative in nature and involve significant risk of loss. Past, hypothetical or simulated performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. The value of digital currencies may rise or fall, and there may be significant risks in buying, selling, holding or trading digital currencies. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding digital currencies is suitable for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial situation and risk tolerance. BitMart does not provide any investment, legal or tax advice.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Intolerance Displayed Once Again Towards Orange Culture, and the Responsibility Does Not Lie Solely with the Perpetrators

    Source: Traditional Unionist Voice – Northern Ireland

    Statement from TUV deputy leader Court councillor Ron McDowell:
    “Attacks on Orange parades have been reported tonight in multiple locations across the city, both verbal and physical in nature.
    “The lodge I have been a member of for many years came under both verbal abuse and physical harassment on Royal Avenue. Similar reports are coming in from other areas as well.
    “Tonight, I raise a question regarding what appears to be a hierarchy of victims in Northern Ireland.
    “This kind of intolerance is nothing new. Anyone who has been a member of the Loyal Orders for any length of time will have their own experiences to share. But tonight I ask, where is our equality compared to other sections of society? The PSNI historically make no arrests. Tonight they are commended as they reacted appropriately and three individuals were seen to be detained. When we are targeted by youths while parading in the city centre,  we are generally expected to dismiss this as nothing more than “unruly behaviour”.
    “Imagine if Unionist politicians had said the same in Ballymena during the recent trouble.
    “The media also shows a clear imbalance when reporting on Unionist communities. When it comes to crimes affecting migrant or LGBT individuals, their stories are rightly highlighted. Yet when it happens to us, it feels like no one cares.
    “Consider the council’s response. When threats were made to the GAA, the council sprang into action and allocated thousands of pounds to their clubs for safeguarding measures. I make no criticism of those individual actions by the council, the PSNI, or the media, but I ask, where is the same support and protection for my identity?
    “Where is our policing and protection when we compare Londonderry’s republican riots with the events in Ballymena?
    “Where is the support when Orange Halls, still among the most attacked buildings in Belfast, are vandalised time and again?
    “Ignore our community, and you will have to deal with the fallout. Parity is not too much to ask.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Seven Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing and Trafficking 240 Firearms from Indianapolis Shipping Center

    Source: United States Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

    INDIANAPOLIS— The following seven individuals have been sentenced for their roles in a firearms theft and trafficking conspiracy:

    Defendant Charge(s) Sentence
    Zackary Doss, 27
    • Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms
    • Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

    2.5 years imprisonment

    3 years of supervised release
    Dominique Ellison, 37
    • Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

    1.5 years imprisonment

    3 years of supervised release
    Antonio Grant, 33
    • Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms
    • Possession of a Firearm by a Felon
    		 3 years of probation
    Ryan Hurt, 30
    • Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms
    • Possession of Stolen Firearms

    4.5 years imprisonment

    3 years of supervised release
    Kevin Jones, Jr, 23
    • Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms
    • Possession or Sale of Stolen Firearms

    3.5 years imprisonment

    3 years of supervised release
    Malyk Mendez, 32
    • Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms

    1.5 years imprisonment

    1 year of supervised release
    Bruce Williams, 33
    • Conspiracy to Receive, Possess, Store or Sell Stolen Firearms
    • Possession of a Firearm by a Felon

    9 years imprisonment

    3 years of supervised release

    According to court documents, Bruce Williams and Ryan Hurt—then employees at an Indianapolis shipping facility—masterminded a scheme to steal firearms and sell them for profit, utilizing accomplices Malyk Mendez and convicted felon Antonio Grant, among others.  Firearms were ultimately sold to individuals including Kevin Jones, Jr., and convicted felons Dominique Ellison and Zackary Doss.  Jones and Doss, in turn, then sold the firearms to numerous other individuals.

    Between January and March 2022, the group made off with 240 firearms from four separate shipments headed for different states. The conspiracy began to unravel when ATF agents noticed a disturbing pattern: firearms sent through the Indianapolis terminal were missing key inventory.

    A breakdown of stolen firearms, varying in make and models, is as follows:

    • 9 mm semi-automatic handguns (174)
    • .38 caliber revolvers (13)
    • .22 caliber revolvers (2)
    • .45 caliber semi-automatic handguns (38)
    • semi-automatic rifles (5)
    • 10mm semi-automatic handguns (8)

    Williams and Hurt kept some firearms from the thefts for themselves but recruited others, including codefendants, to assist in locating buyers for the stolen guns. Williams also personally sold a substantial number of the stolen firearms.

    Of the 240 firearms that were stolen, only 61 firearms have been recovered as of May 5, 2025; over three years since the thefts occurred. Five of those firearms were recovered from Williams and Hurt upon their arrests.

    The other firearms recovered have been found in a wide array of criminal activity and locations; Indianapolis, Lafayette, Gary, Chicago, Florida, and Oklahoma, to name a few. The criminal activity has included felons possessing firearms, drug trafficking, domestic violence incidents, vehicle pursuits, shootings, carjackings, and homicides.

    “Stolen firearms are a major source of crime guns for violent offenders and pose a serious threat to public safety,” said John E. Childress, Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Working with our law enforcement partners, we’re committed to stopping gun traffickers, recovering stolen weapons, and keeping them out of the hands of dangerous individuals.”

    The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. The sentences were imposed by U.S. District Judge Jane Magnus-Stinson. 

    Acting U.S. Attorney Childress thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Pamela S. Domash and Bradley P. Shepard, who prosecuted this case.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: APA Corporation Releases 2025 Sustainability Publications

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — APA Corporation (Nasdaq: APA) today released its sustainability publications highlighting progress in environmental stewardship, social responsibility and corporate governance throughout 2024. This year, APA simplified its reporting into two complementary documents. Our Approach to Sustainability details the ongoing sustainability programs and initiatives. The 2025 Sustainability Progress Report contains progress on 2024 goals, yearly highlights, key performance data and new goals for 2025. To explore the publications, visit https://apacorp.com/sustainability.

    “Our sustainability progress is tangible,” said APA CEO John J. Christmann IV. “APA has taken meaningful steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, minimize freshwater usage, and protect sensitive ecosystems. We remain committed to a strong safety culture and responsible operations. We are proud to share our 2024 highlights in the pages of our progress report.”

    Highlights from the 2025 Sustainability Progress Report include:

    • Air – As industry partners, APA focuses on reducing emissions by setting goals, sharing knowledge, and delivering commitments. The company exceeded its goal to eliminate at least 1 million tonnes of annualized carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions between 2021 and 2024, completing over 50 global projects that eliminated 1.24 million tonnes of annualized CO2e emissions.
    • Water – APA aims to minimize freshwater use by recycling produced water, sourcing alternatives, and reducing overall water requirements for its operations. Ninety-seven percent of the global water use was produced water and brackish, nonfresh water.
    • People – As an organization, APA is committed to the health and safety of its employees, contractors and people in the communities where it operates. APA achieved or exceeded all corporate safety targets in 2024, including its lowest global Total Recordable Incident Rate (TRIR) in company history at 0.16.
    • Community – In efforts to continue building a sustainable future, APA continues its work across three focus areas of community well-being, energy poverty and conservation. In 2024, APA spent 44% of its operating area’s budgets with local suppliers and contractors.

    About APA

    APA Corporation owns consolidated subsidiaries that explore for and produce oil and natural gas in the United States, Egypt and the United Kingdom and that explore for oil and natural gas offshore Suriname and elsewhere. APA posts announcements, operational updates, investor information and press releases on its website, www.apacorp.com.

    Contacts

    Investor: (281) 302-2286
    Media: (713) 296-7276
    Website: www.apacorp.com

    APA-G

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Credit Building Apps (2025): Kikoff Recognized for Accessible, Low-Risk Credit Tools in Expert Consumers Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Expert Consumers has published a new report identifying the leading credit-building app of 2025, with Kikoff receiving top recognition for its consistent performance, beginner-friendly structure, and accessibility for consumers with limited or no credit history.

    The annual evaluation focused on platforms that provide effective credit-building pathways without requiring interest payments, hard credit checks, or complex account structures. Kikoff stood out for its low-cost plans, ease of use, and ability to report to all three major credit bureaus – positioning it as a strong option for individuals starting or rebuilding their credit journey.

    Designed for Credit-Invisible and First-Time Users

    Kikoff’s platform is built to address the needs of the estimated 45 million U.S. adults who are credit-invisible or unscored. Its service model includes:

    • No hard credit checks
    • Monthly plans starting at $5
    • Reports to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion
    • No interest or hidden fees
    • Built-in financial education tools

    This structure allows users to establish positive credit history in a predictable, low-risk environment – without taking on traditional debt or facing fees for missed requirements.

    How Kikoff’s Model Works

    Kikoff offers users a virtual tradeline – typically starting at $750 – which can be used to make purchases in its online store or access its financial wellness services. Users repay on a monthly schedule, with consistent reporting to credit bureaus to help build payment history and credit utilization metrics.

    Key features include:

    • No prior credit history required
    • Fixed monthly payments
    • Support for credit-building fundamentals

    Plans Available in 2025

    To meet a range of credit goals, Kikoff provides three plan tiers:

    • Basic – $5/month: $750 tradeline, monthly bureau reporting, and access to credit tips
    • Premium – $20/month: Tradeline up to $2,500, includes rent reporting and credit monitoring
    • Ultimate – $35/month: Up to $3,500 tradeline, identity protection, and expanded benefits

    All plans remain interest-free and are designed to build credit gradually over time.

    Performance in Real-World Credit Scenarios

    In testing environments, Kikoff demonstrated a reliable pattern of credit score improvement over a three- to six-month period, especially for users starting from limited credit backgrounds. Its transparency, simple onboarding process, and structured payment model contributed to its top placement in this year’s report.

    Unlike traditional credit cards or installment loans, Kikoff does not rely on user credit scores for approval and avoids common fees and interest charges. This makes it a practical choice for consumers seeking a straightforward entry point into the credit system.

    Evaluated on Key Credit-Building Metrics

    Expert Consumers’ 2025 review assessed leading platforms based on:

    • Ease of access and onboarding
    • Cost structure
    • Credit score impact
    • User experience
    • Bureau coverage

    Kikoff performed strongly in each category, with standout marks in affordability and accessibility.

    Reflecting Broader Trends in Consumer Credit

    The growing popularity of tools like Kikoff reflects broader shifts in consumer finance, including:

    • Increased demand for alternative credit solutions
    • Rising interest in fintech among Gen Z and Millennials
    • A focus on transparency and predictability
    • Expanded use of credit data in housing, employment, and insurance

    Kikoff’s approach – centered on ease, trust, and education – continues to align with these trends, offering consumers a practical path forward in today’s financial landscape.

    Looking Forward

    With continued development in areas like rent reporting and digital identity protection, Kikoff is positioned to evolve alongside the needs of modern consumers. Analysts expect further growth in this sector as more users seek accessible, digital-first tools to navigate the credit system.

    For full evaluation results, visit ExpertConsumers.org.

    About Expert Consumers
    Expert Consumers provides independent reviews and rankings of consumer products and services. As an affiliate publisher, it may earn commissions from purchases made via links in its content.

    About Kikoff
    Kikoff is a credit-building platform helping users establish and grow credit through interest-free, no-fee plans with monthly reporting to all major credit bureaus. Designed especially for beginners, Kikoff supports long-term financial health through simple tools and educational resources.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP surges above $2.2 as investors flock to PBK Miner, XRP mining project officially launched, redefining AI cloud mining

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Carshalton, UK, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the XRP price surpassed $2.00 and returned to the spotlight of the top cryptocurrencies, a new wave of investors’ attention turned to a fast-rising but little-known project on the XRP Ledger: PBK Miner (PBKMiner XRP Mining).

    Given XRP’s resilience and strong fundamentals, many XRP holders are now looking to PBK Miner, a next-generation XRP mining program driven by artificial intelligence. By launching a 2-day XRP cloud mining contract, the platform provides investors with a flexible and efficient opportunity to accumulate XRP. The program aims to unlock the market’s strong demand for low-threshold, high-liquidity XRP investment products.

    Why PBK Miner is the XRP mining project everyone is paying attention to

    While XRP continues to dominate headlines in the wider crypto market, PBK Miner is quietly becoming one of the most promising XRP mining projects for 2025.

    PBK Miner fills a much-needed gap in the XRP ecosystem, integrating a powerful computing power leasing service, flexible and efficient contract options, and an AI-driven yield optimization system, and integrating all functions into a user-centric platform. With ultra-low entry barriers, flexible terms, and stable returns, this XRP mining-focused solution quickly won the favor of XRP holders and short-term investors. In just one week, the number of XRP short-term investors on the platform surged by 300%.

    PBK Miner now offers flexible XRP mining plans:

    2-day strategy: return rate +6.7%

    5-day strategy: return rate +6.19%

    15-day strategy: return rate +20.9%

    30-day strategy: return rate +55.7%

    These performance figures are not speculation, but are based on real usage data from millions of users. This is due to PBKMiner’s AI-driven profit optimization engine and result-oriented XRP mining model.

    One of the most attractive aspects of the XRP mining plan is the ultra-low investment threshold and flexible contract period. For example, the 2-day XRP mining strategy starts at only $100.

    Why it’s easy for everyone to start mining XRP with PBKMiner

    No hardware required: Users can leverage the platform’s massive hashing power to mine XRP — without having to purchase expensive equipment.

    Zero maintenance costs: PBKMiner covers all electricity, maintenance, and operational needs. After purchasing a package, users can enjoy the benefits with peace of mind – even a novice can start mining in minutes.

    Newbie-friendly: No technical knowledge required. New users can instantly receive a $10 sign-up bonus.

    Stable daily income: Daily income can be withdrawn, and the principal will be fully returned at the end of the contract to ensure the safety of funds.

    Since its founding in 2019, PBKMiner has expanded its cloud mining business for BTC, ETH, LTC, DOGE, and SOL in 183+ countries and regions, serving more than 8.5 million active users worldwide. With the launch of 2-day XRP contracts, PBKMiner has now opened access to its high-performance XRP cloud mining infrastructure and has quickly become the first choice for XRP holders and short-term investors.

     

    How to start XRP cloud mining with PBKMiner

    1.Register: Sign up now and get a $10 welcome bonus, plus a $0.60 daily login bonus.

    1. Choose a contract: Select a mining plan that fits your budget and financial goals. All available plans support XRP mining.
    2. Start earning: Once your contract is activated, PBKMiner’s intelligent platform will take care of the rest – ensuring seamless and efficient mining operations to maximize your profits.

     

    About PBKMiner

    Founded in 2019, PBKMiner represents a new generation of AI-driven cloud mining technology, based on data, performance, and trust. The platform supports cloud mining of XRP, BTC, ETH, LTC, DOGE, and SOL. With a rapidly growing global user base, PBKMiner will stand out as one of the most promising cryptocurrency investment opportunities in 2025, especially for investors who seek sustainable long-term returns rather than speculative gains.

    For full details and participation options please visit: https://pbkminer.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or a trading recommendation. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and may result in the loss of funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Hawley Passes RECA, Secures New Medicaid Funding in Senate Reconciliation Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo)

    Tuesday, July 01, 2025

    Vows to Fight Future Medicaid Cuts

    U.S. Senator Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) secured the largest expansion ever to the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) as well as new funding for Medicaid as part of the “One Big, Beautiful Bill” that passed the Senate today. Senator Hawley supported the legislation after negotiating the inclusion of these key Missouri priorities.
     
    Senator Hawley’s RECA provision will deliver long-overdue compensation and health care for survivors of radiation-linked cancers in the St. Louis and St. Charles areas. The Senate-passed reconciliation bill will also deliver major relief for working people, such as no taxes on overtime, no taxes on tips, and a larger child tax credit for families. Following negotiations between Senate GOP Leadership and Senator Hawley, the legislation included a new $50 billion fund for rural hospitals. This means that Missouri is set to receive approximately $1 billion in new funding to support providers and Medicaid recipients over the next five years. Senator Hawley also secured the delay of any Medicaid reductions. 
     
    “RECA is generational legislation for Missouri and will finally deliver justice for survivors in the St. Louis region. And when this reconciliation bill is signed into law, Missouri will also see new health care funding and big tax cuts for working families. I call on the House to quickly pass this legislation and send it to President Trump’s desk,” said Senator Hawley. “But let me be clear, I will continue to do everything in my power to reverse future cuts to Medicaid. If Republicans want to be the party of the working class, we cannot cut health insurance for working people.”
     
    For two years, Senator Hawley has fought to secure funding for survivors of nuclear contamination in Missouri and across the country, having twice passed a RECA reauthorization bill through the Senate in July 2023 and March 2024.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Statement on Senate Republicans Passing Extreme Bill to Strip Health Care, Food Assistance from Nevadans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)

    Senate Republicans Rammed Through Their Extreme Tax Spending Bill, Cutting Medicaid And SNAP For Millions To Pay For More Billionaire Tax Cuts
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) released the following statement after Senate Republicans passed their extreme tax spending bill that will take away health care coverage and food assistance from millions of Americans, all to pay for tax cuts for the ultra-wealthy.
    “What Senate Republicans just did is truly appalling: they passed an extreme tax spending bill that’ll slash health care coverage and food assistance for Nevadans who need it most in order to pay for more tax cuts for billionaires,” said Senator Rosen. “This extreme bill will also eliminate thousands of good-paying, clean energy jobs in our state while raising costs for hardworking families. It’s a disgrace. Hardworking Nevada families won’t ever forget how Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans betrayed them to give more money to the ultra-wealthy.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Peters Statement on Senate Republicans Passing Bill to Cut Health Care & Food Assistance for Michiganders to Give Tax Breaks to Billionaires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters

    Ahead of Final Passage, Peters Delivered Speech on Senate Floor to Voice His Opposition to the Bill

    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement after Senate Republicans passed a bill that would add more than $3 trillion to the deficit, increase our skyrocketing national debt, and take away health care and food assistance from millions of Americans, including hundreds of thousands of Michiganders, in order to cut taxes for billionaires:

    “The bill that Republicans just passed will rip health care away from hundreds of thousands of Michiganders, make it harder for families across the country to afford food and pay their energy bills, and balloon our deficit by trillions of dollars. Democrats did everything in our power to stop this legislation, but President Trump and Republicans in Congress are dead set on selling out hardworking Michiganders so they can pay for a massive tax cut for billionaires. This bill is reckless, irresponsible, and an unconscionable betrayal of American families. I voted no.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Energy – Developing the largest oil producer on the Norwegian continental shelf – Equinor

    Source: Equinor

    01 JULY 2025 – Equinor and its partners are investing NOK 13 billion in the third phase of Johan Sverdrup, one of the world’s most carbon-efficient oil fields. New subsea infrastructure will increase recovery by 40–50 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe).

    “By building on the technologies, solutions, and infrastructure from phases 1 and 2 of Johan Sverdrup, we can carry out an efficient development with a rapid start-up of production. The project increases the recovery rate and value creation from Johan Sverdrup, one of the world’s most carbon-efficient oil and gas fields. At the same time, it contributes to stable energy supplies to Europe,” says Trond Bokn, senior vice president for project development in Equinor.

    Increased value creation and innovation

    The development includes two new subsea templates which will be tied into existing infrastructure via new pipelines. The investment will increase recoverable volumes from the field by 40–50 million boe, with production expected to start in the fourth quarter of 2027.

    To ensure optimal resource utilisation, the project leveraged artificial intelligence to analyse field layouts and well paths. This technology has enabled faster decision-making and resulted in cost savings of NOK 130 million for the phase 3 project.

    The project also facilitates future value creation at Johan Sverdrup by adding extra well slots, and opportunities for connecting additional subsea templates.

    Contract awards

    The Johan Sverdrup field contributes significantly to value creation and ripple effects in society and has driven important industrial development in Norway.

    For the phase 3 project, TechnipFMC has been awarded the contract for engineering, procurement, construction, and installation (EPCI) for the subsea development, with a contract value of approximately NOK 5.3 billion. Additional contracts, including platform modifications and the drilling of eight wells, are planned to be awarded later in 2025.

    Increased recovery and production

    Safe and efficient operations at Johan Sverdrup are delivering results, with systematic efforts to maximise recovery. Phase 3 of the development will create additional value.

    The expected recovery rate from Johan Sverdrup is already world-class at 66 percent. The phase 3 project is an important step towards achieving our ambition of 75 percent. The average for the Norwegian continental shelf (NCS) is 47 percent.

    “In 2024, Johan Sverdrup set a production record with 260 million barrels of oil, the highest annual oil production ever from a Norwegian field. Every third barrel of oil from the Norwegian continental shelf now comes from the field. Phase 3 is an important contribution to maintaining high production from Johan Sverdrup in the years to come,” says Marianne Bjelland, vice president for Johan Sverdrup.

    Equinor aims to maintain a high level of oil and gas production on the NCS towards 2035. Johan Sverdrup phase 3 is one of several projects receiving an investment decision this year that supports this ambition.

    The partnership has submitted a notification to the authorities in accordance with the existing plan for development and operation (PDO). The notification is subject to governmental approval.

    Johan Sverdrup phase 3

    • Location: Johan Sverdrup is located in the Utsira High area of the North Sea, 160 kilometres west of Stavanger, in water depths of 110–120 metres, covering an area of 200 square kilometres.
    • Production capacity: 755,000 barrels per day, approximately one-third of Norway’s total oil production at current levels.
    • Economic impact: In 2024, the operation of the Johan Sverdrup field alone contributed over 4,400 full-time equivalents and Norwegian deliveries worth NOK 7 billion.
    • Electrification: Johan Sverdrup is powered by electricity from shore, with CO₂ emissions of 0.67 kilograms per barrel of oil produced – approximately 5% of the global average.
    • Phase 3 development: Comprises two new subsea templates in the Kvitsøy and Avaldsnes areas with six well slots each, totalling eight wells (seven oil production wells and one water injection well), tied back to existing templates and pipelines to the P2 platform for processing and export.
    • Future-proofing: The project enables future value creation by including extra well slots, spare capacity in the control cable, and opportunities for connecting additional subsea templates.
    • Ownership interests: Equinor Energy AS 42.6267% (operator), Aker BP ASA 31.5733%, Petoro AS 17.36%, and TotalEnergies EP Norge AS 8.44%.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to unpublished conference abstract looking at microplastics in human reproductive fluids

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    An unpublished conference abstract presented at the ESHRE 41st Annual Meeting in Paris looks at microplastics in human reproductive fluids.

    Prof Oliver Jones, Professor of Chemistry, RMIT University, said:

    “It is hard to say much at all about this study without knowing the full details of the methods used and the precautions taken against background contamination.  All we have to go on is a very brief abstract, not a peer-reviewed paper.  Many previous scary-sounding headlines on microplastics in blood and food have turned out to be measurement errors by people unfamiliar with the problems of microplastic measurements1,2 and/or background contamination3.  I don’t think lab contamination can be ruled out in this case.  The most common plastic found, PTFE, is very widely used in laboratories, including IVF labs, and background contamination makes all forms of microplastic analysis extremely technically challenging.

    “Even if we assume no measurement errors, the results are from a total of 51 individuals, so they are far from conclusive (a limitation acknowledged by the authors), and this study does not claim to demonstrate any harm.  We would need these findings to be replicated, ideally in other laboratories around the world, before we could tell if this was a one-off event or not.  So, while the data are certainly interesting, they are at best preliminary.  I don’t think people who may be trying to conceive, either naturally or via IVF, need to be concerned.”

    References
    1 Kuhlman, R. L., Letter to the editor, discovery and quantification of plastic particle pollution in human blood. Environment International 2022, 167, 107400, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412022003270?via%3Dihub

    2 Mühlschlegel, P. et al. Lack of evidence for microplastic contamination in honey. Food Additives & Contaminants: Part A 2017, 34 (11), 1982-1989, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28665769/  

    3 Rauert C.  et al. Blueprint for the design construction and validation of a plastic and phthalate-minimised laboratory. Journal of Hazardous Materials 2024 468 133803, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0304389424003820

    Dr Channa Jayasena, Associate Professor in Reproductive Endocrinology, Imperial College London, said:

    “Microplastics are able to interfere with how cells in different bits of the body speak to each other, and can cause cell damage.  Unfortunately, it is no longer a surprise that microplastics find their way into the fluids which are essential for men and women to reproduce.  This study was very small, and did not report fertility outcomes in the study participants.  But it was well-designed study using state-of-the-art technology to show just how commonly microplastics enter reproductive fluids.  They showed that most of the studied samples in men and women contained microplastics.  Some previous studies have reported that microplastic exposure is associated with lower-than-normal fertility in men.  The results contribute to a growing concern for public health – we don’t know what the impact of all types of microplastics are on reproductive function in men and women.  Understanding this will help us understand how big a problem microplastics post for fertility in society.”

    Dr Stephanie Wright, Associate Professor in Environmental Toxicology, Imperial College London, said:

    “Without information on the sizes of the microplastic particles observed, it is challenging to interpret how meaningful this data is.  There is a high potential for samples to become contaminated with microplastic throughout the sampling, laboratory processing, and analysis procedures.  If stringent steps to minimise this are taken, other clues such as the size of the particles observed can be used to rule out such contamination, with there being a greater likelihood for smaller particles ( 0.01 mm) being absorbed and redistributed around the body.  It is not a surprise that microplastics have been found – they are everywhere, even in the lab – but the data provided do not support that they are there as a result of human exposure as opposed to methodological artefact and must be interpreted with caution at this early stage.”

    Prof Fay Couceiro, Professor of Environmental Pollution, and Head of the Microplastics Research Group, University of Portsmouth, said:

    “As this is not peer reviewed and there is no detailed methodology it is difficult to give specific information on quality etc.  Here are some general comments:

    “The study is very interesting and considering the global reduction in fertility rates, looking at possible causes is very topical and timely.  As the authors state, finding microplastics is not that surprising as we have found them in lots of other areas of our bodies. Presence is also not the same as impact and the authors are clear that while they have found microplastics in the reproductive fluids of both men and women, we still don’t know how they are affecting us.  As a preliminary study the work is interesting, but more information is required on numbers of microplastics found, sizes, method blanks and any plastics used during the medical procedures before any real conclusions can be made.  I look forward to reading the full article once it is ready. (A method blank is when you run the experimental steps, but with clean water, and then analyse that to see if you have any microplastics in it.  This would let you know if there is any external contamination, and if the microplastics in the samples are from the reproductive fluid, or introduced from the digestion and analysis steps.  It would be very unusual not to see any microplastics in the blanks if they are looking below 10 micrometres in size range. At that size, microplastics are in the air and very hard to get away from.  If they only analysed larger particles then you tend to find less in your method blanks, but it is common practice to give these in a full paper so that people can see if the number you are finding in your samples is higher than in the blanks.)

    Does the press release accurately reflect the science?

    “To the extent of which data is available it does, it is clear this is only looking at the presence of microplastics and not impacts.

    Is this good quality research?  Are the conclusions backed up by solid data?

    “Very hard to judge without more in depth information on methods, numbers found in blanks, size ranges of microplastics etc.

    Is there enough data available to be able to judge the quality of this work?

    “At this stage I would say no – as above the methods really need to be more detailed.  Microplastics are everywhere and even with the best methods you find some in the blanks at the smaller sizes (less than 10 um).  They say they looked in the containers but the method blank data is missing as are the actual numbers found, e.g. is it 10 microplastics per ml of SF?  Is 10 significantly greater than what was found in the method blank?  Size range is also very important and not mentioned anywhere I can see.

    Is this a peer-reviewed journal publication or more preliminary?

    “Preliminary.

    How does this work fit with the existing evidence?

    “It is expected as microplastics have been found in all bodily fluids/organs tested.

    Have the authors accounted for confounders?  Are there important limitations to be aware of?

    “It is unclear if there is any plastic used in the collection of the samples as I am unfamiliar with the procedures – the storage vessel is glass but is plastic used in the follicular aspiration?  Many medical instruments are made from plastic, is that the case here?

    What are the implications in the real world?  Is there any overspeculation?

    “No – they are clear this is just a presence/absence experiment and that further work needs to take place to determine any impacts.”

    Abstract title: ‘Unveiling the Hidden Danger: Detection and characterisation of microplastics in human follicular and seminal fluids’ by E. Gomez-Sanchez et al. It will be presented at the ESHRE 41st Annual Meeting in Paris, and the embargo lifted at 23:01 UK time on Tuesday 1 July 2025.

    There is no paper.

    Declared interests

    Prof Oliver Jones: “I am a Professor of Chemistry at RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia.  I conduct research into environmental pollution, including microplastics.  I have no conflicts of interest to declare.”

    Dr Channa Jayasena: “None.”

    Dr Stephanie Wright: “Own research: MRC, NERC, NIHR, Common Seas, Minderoo Foundation, LECO;

    To attend scientific meetings: American Chemistry Council – to attend a workshop on microplastic reference materials (2022); Minderoo Foundation – to attend workshops on microplastic measurement in human tissue (2024, 2025);

    Current or previous advisory roles or committee membership: ILSI Europe, PlasticsEurope (BRIGID project), Cefic LRI projects advisory roles, have been a temporary member of UK Air Quality Expert Group;

    Previous employment in companies: none.”

    Prof Fay Couceiro: “I work in the field of microplastics but I was not involved in the study and I am not working with the authors.  I am unaware of any conflict of interest.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Industry Skills Boards will drive better training

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Eight new Industry Skills Boards (ISBs) will give industry a strong voice in work-based learning, ensuring the system delivers the right skills, in the right places, for a growing economy, Vocational Education Minister Penny Simmonds says. 

    “The Government promised to disestablish Te Pūkenga and return decision-making to local providers and industry. The Industry Skills Boards are a key part of delivering on that promise,” Ms Simmonds says.

    “This is all part of our plan to make sure that the training people receive is aligned to what industry needs, and skills are matched to ensure they are fit-for-purpose, paving the way for economic growth.  We want to ensure our workforce across key growth sectors are ready to hit the ground running.

    “The ISBs will be led by industry experts who know their trades and sectors best. They will set training standards, oversee quality, and make sure apprenticeships and traineeships match what employers and students need.”

    The eight Industry Skills Boards will begin operating from 1 January 2026 once the legislation is passed later this year. They will also temporarily manage work-based training currently overseen by Te Pūkenga. Backed by industry consultation, they will cover:

    • Automotive, transport, and logistics
    • Construction and specialist trades
    • Food and fibre (including aquaculture)
    • Infrastructure
    • Manufacturing and engineering
    • Services
    • Health and community
    • Electrotechnology and information technology

    Industry Skills Boards will have three main funding sources. They will receive some core public funding, they can choose to charge fees to fund their quality assurance functions, and industries can also choose to support ISBs through a levy. 

    Around 250,000 learners enter the vocational education system each year — half learning on campus or online, and half through work-based training. 

    “Whether you’re learning on the job or in a classroom, these changes will make your training more relevant and valuable,” Ms Simmonds says. 

    “We want every apprentice and trainee to be confident their qualifications will be recognised by employers. Employers can trust the system to deliver skilled workers ready to step into roles. 

    “This is a win for apprentices, trainees, employers, and the economy. We’re building a modern, connected work-based learning system that supports quality jobs and drives the economic growth powering New Zealand’s future.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New director bolsters freight expertise on KiwiRail board

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The appointment of Scott O’Donnell to the KiwiRail board will bolster its freight expertise Minister for Rail Winston Peters says. 

    “Railways have no shortage of potential for New Zealand, and we expect to see sustained growth in earnings, revenue, volumes, reliability, and safety to turn this business into something great.”

    Mr O’Donnell is a current director of HW Richardson Group and was its managing director from 2006 to 2015. The Group owns 46 companies, employing 2000 people across six sectors including road freight.

     “Mr O’Donnell, new Chair Sue Tindal and the Treasury have established a conflict-of-interest management plan which will be reviewed and monitored.

     “The company’s road freight operation is primarily south of Oamaru, and as such Mr O’Donnell will recuse himself from KiwiRail activities in this part of New Zealand. 

    “Mr O’Donnell has resigned as chair of HW Richardson-owned Dynes Transport but remains on its board, noting this company is receiving Government co-investment for a rail siding into a new Mosgiel road and rail freight hub,” Mr Peters says.

    Term: 1 September 2025 – 31 August 2028

    Biography: Scott O’Donnell is a Director of the HW Richardson (HWR) Group and was previously Managing Director of the Group from 2006 to 2015. In addition to his directorship, Mr O’Donnell spearheads the HWR Group Property portfolio that is responsible for various projects across New Zealand. Mr O’Donnell has led HWR Group through a decade of considerable growth, in both company size, business growth and diversification. His deep expertise both operational and governance in property management, transport, freight, and logistics as well as his commercial nous will add important strategic insights to KiwiRail’s business.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –