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  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CCUS explained: experts answer your questions

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    CCUS explained: experts answer your questions

    Got a question about Carbon Capture, Usage, and Storage (CCUS) and the technology involved? Experts answer some of the most common questions here.

    How does CCUS work? 

    Olivia Powis, CEO at the Carbon Capture and Storage Association, says:  

    Carbon Capture, Usage, and Storage (CCUS) is essential for reducing emissions from heavy industries. It can also be used to generate low-carbon power by gas power stations with carbon capture and storage as well as enabling hydrogen power. These sources of power are important for when the sun isn’t shining, and the wind isn’t blowing.

    This low carbon technology captures carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from industrial facilities, compresses it, and then transports it by pipeline or ship for utilisation or safe and permanent storage deep under the seabed, preventing the CO2 from entering the atmosphere. The CO2 is stored in porous rocks – in old oil fields, gas fields, or saline formation – that act like a sponge and are covered by layers of trapping mechanisms such as impermeable ‘caprock’ – ensuring safe and permanent storage. The CO2 is then monitored to make sure that its stored securely.

    Is CCUS a proven technology? 

    Professor Stuart Haszeldine, Professor of Carbon Capture and Storage at University of Edinburgh, says: 

    Yes, carbon capture and storage has been operating successfully and safely since 1996 at the Sleipner storage site in the North Sea, halfway between Aberdeen and Bergen. A similar project has been developed at Snøhvit offshore in Norway. Experience gained in those operations has led to the Northern Lights project, situated north of Bergen which offers secure CO2 storage commercially to European industries.

    Is CCUS safe? 

    Professor Niall Mac Dowell, Professor in Energy Systems Engineering at Imperial College London, says: 

    Yes, various technical components of the carbon capture, utilisation, transport, and storage value chain have all been extensively deployed in other contexts around the world for decades. In the UK, not only can existing Health and Safety legislation effectively regulate the safety of CCUS, but we are also fortunate to have a wealth of experience in the offshore industry, which will be used to safely store the CO2 several kilometres below the seabed, in formations similar to those that have trapped natural gas for millennia.

    Does CCUS help us tackle climate change? 

    Chris Stark, former CEO at the Climate Change Committee and Head of Mission Control for Clean Power 2030 at the Department of Energy Security & Net Zero, says:

    CCUS provides the lowest cost pathway to reaching net zero which is why the independent Climate Change Committee has declared it a ‘necessity, not an option.’ CCUS gives a range of options to decarbonise that would otherwise not be possible, and it minimises the climate warming emissions released to the atmosphere on our journey to net zero. It will be an important part of our industrial future.

    With an increase in renewable energy, why do we need CCUS? 

    Louise Stott, Deputy Director for Policy at Energy UK, says:

    To help secure our energy supply, we need low-carbon power that is available at all times of the day and in all weathers. Gas-fired power stations with CCUS, used alongside all other forms of low-carbon energy generation, will be able to provide flexible power on the system. Beyond power generation, CCUS will also play an important role in the decarbonisation of heavy industry. There are certain industrial processes, such as cement production, which will only be able to decarbonise through technologies like carbon capture.

    Is CCUS too expensive? 

    Mathilde Fajardy, Energy Analyst at the International Energy Agency, says: 

    CCUS technologies are critical to put energy systems around the world on a sustainable path. The cost of a project depends heavily on the source of the CO2 captured, the distance and mode used to transport it, as well as where and how it is stored. The cost of CCUS also needs to be considered against alternative decarbonisation options – in some cases, CCUS may be the only option available today.

    Is there enough space to safely store carbon captured by CCUS projects? 

    Stuart Payne, CEO at the North Sea Transition Authority, says: 

    The North Sea has the potential to store up to 78 GT of CO2 in a combination of depleted oil and gas reservoirs and natural saline aquifers. That could be enough capacity on the UK Continental Shelf to store centuries worth of UK emissions. In fact, we believe we have an exceptional case for the UK to become a carbon storage centre for the world.

    Further information

    Read more about UK carbon capture, usage and storage.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: China supports WFP to improve nutrition for over 100,000 school children in the Kyrgyz Republic

    Source: World Food Programme

    BISHKEK – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and the Government of the People’s Republic of China, through the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), will provide nutritious school meals to more than 100,000 children in the Kyrgyz Republic. This marks CIDCA’s first multilateral initiative in the country and in Central Asia through its Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund.

    To launch this initiative, a handover ceremony was held yesterday at the #86 School in Osh province in the south of the country, with the Ambassador of China in the Kyrgyz Republic, H.E. Liu Jiangping, the Deputy Plenipotentiary Representative of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic in Osh region, Ilyas Tashbaev and the WFP Representative and Country Director in the Kyrgyz Republic, Kojiro Nakai.

    “As a strategic partner of the Kyrgyz Republic, China has been supporting the country through bilateral channels, improving infrastructure and other sectors,” said H.E. Liu Jiangping, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Kyrgyz Republic. “The support from CIDCA aims to enhance the National School Meals Programme via multilateral channels, which will complement China’s existing large-scale assistance and set a good example for South-South cooperation initiative.”

    In 2025, 1,700 metric tons of fortified wheat flour, vegetable oil, rice and lentils will be delivered to 300 schools across Osh, Jalal-Abad and Batken provinces. WFP and the Ministry of Education and Science selected these schools based on poverty levels and nutritional needs.

    “WFP is grateful for this new contribution from the Government of China. This support will help address the serious micronutrient deficiencies affecting primary school children in three provinces. WFP remains committed to strengthening the school meals programme and contributing to the growth of a healthy and successful young generation,” said Kojiro Nakai, WFP Representative and Country Director.

    Under the leadership of the Ministry of Education and Science and supported by WFP, the National School Meals Programme has already introduced nutritious meals in 920 schools across the country, with support from various donors. Each year, WFP not only supplies food but also upgrades school kitchen infrastructure, provides catering equipment and trains cooks to ensure the safe and nutritious preparation of meals.

    Together, the Ministry of Education and Science, WFP, and their partners remain committed to further improving the National School Meals Programme, nourishing children for a healthier and brighter future.

    #                 #                  #

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

    Follow us on X, formerly Twitter, via @WFPinKG 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 16 May 2025 Departmental update Marking 30 years of progress – engaging the health sector to tackle violence against women and girls

    Source: World Health Organisation

    The health sector is increasingly engaged in responding to and mitigating violence against women as a public health problem that has serious health consequences for women and their children. 

    Thirty years since the landmark Beijing Platform for Action on Women provided a roadmap toward equality and empowerment for women, more than 160 countries have at least one national survey on prevalence of violence against women. This allows monitoring of progress on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 5.2, to eliminate all forms of violence. 

    In 2016, the World Health Assembly endorsed the WHO Global Plan of Action to strengthen the health system, within a multisectoral response, in addressing interpersonal violence against women and girls and children. The plan emphasizes a public health approach, integration of violence prevention and response into essential health services, and strengthening linkages with multisectoral efforts on gender equality, human rights and sustainable development. 

    This plan aimed to support Member States to operationalize Resolution WHA67.15 (2014), Strengthening the role of the health system in addressing violence, in particular against women and girls, and against children, in four areas:  

    • strengthening leadership and governance of the health sector through laws, policies and protocols;  
    • strengthening comprehensive service delivery and capacities of the health sector;  
    • fostering evidence-based prevention; and  
    • improving monitoring, surveillance and evidence to end violence against women.  

    A newly released Violence against Women in Health Policies Database tracks progress made by countries towards commitments made in this global plan. Data from 200 countries across 48 indicators shows increasing integration of the prevention of and response to violence against women and girls in national health strategies and policies. More countries are training health workers in survivor-centred clinical care for intimate partner violence and/or sexual violence and adopting standardized protocols, while access to and quality of quality care for survivors is improving.   

    For example, to respond to the Ukrainian refugees experiencing sexual violence during the conflict, WHO guidance and training materials have been translated into Polish. Capacity strengthening of health professionals has been institutionalized to serve the refugee and local populations through the national chamber of nurses and midwives and WHO training integrated into the curricula of four universities. In 2024, almost 500 health workers were trained, and a task force led by a Polish feminist NGO – Feminoteka is monitoring progress on coverage and quality of clinical management of rape and intimate partner violence services.   

    To date in 2025, WHO and the UN’s Special Programme in Human Reproduction (HRP) have finalized and published several key resources that enhance the capacity of health systems to respond to violence in both emergency and non-emergency settings.  

    Caring for women subjected to violence: online facilitated training for health workers offers a virtual, interactive curriculum that equips health providers to deliver empathetic, first-line support to women experiencing violence, using the WHO-endorsed LIVES approach. Adapted from in-person trainings, it is designed for use in emergencies or low-resource settings where in-person training is not feasible, to help ensure continuity of care and survivor-centred response.  

    These training tools are essential to build a sustainable and integrated national health systems response that addresses violence against women as a public health issue

    Avni Amin / Unit Head of Rights and Equality across the Life Course at WHO and HRP

    Meanwhile, the Clinical management of rape and intimate partner violence in emergencies: a training toolkit offers tools to strengthen capacities of health workers to deliver clinical care to survivors. The toolkit addresses the unique challenges of humanitarian contexts by offering flexible, modular training aligned with WHO guidelines and the minimum initial service package for sexual and reproductive health. 

    “These training tools are essential to build a sustainable and integrated national health systems response that addresses violence against women as a public health issue,” says Avni Amin, Unit Head of Rights and Equality across the Life Course at WHO and HRP. “They help translate global commitments into real-world action by making frontline health services more survivor-centred and of higher quality, no matter the context.”  

    Research that fuels impact in country 

    As highlighted in the Global Plan, research is key to informing evidence-driven programming. Preliminary results from a recently completed study showed promising results from a Strengthening Women’s Agency in Pregnancy programme, an empowerment counselling intervention with pregnant Congolese women and girls attending antenatal care in a hospital in Nyarugusu refugee camp in Kigoma, Tanzania. The intervention showed high acceptability with 82% of women enrolled in the study returning for more than the minimum number of sessions. It also showed improved maternal mental health as a result of the intervention, with participants experiencing a 44% reduced likelihood in moderate-to-severe depression compared to the control group, 6 months after receiving the intervention.  

    By training over 10 000 health workers across 29 fragile and humanitarian settings, training packages operationalize WHO and HRP’s commitment to building capacity in line with SDG 5.2 as well as WHO’s commitment to ensuring universal health coverage. They ensure that care for survivors is embedded in both routine and emergency health responses, and exemplify how WHO and HRP translate global policy commitments into practice at the country level, guided by strong research.  

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 16 May 2025 Departmental update Neglected tropical diseases centre-stage at the Seventy-eighth World Health Assembly

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Sunday 18 May 2025 10:30−13:30
     
    Restaurant Vieux-Bois, Avenue de la Paix 12    		 Snakebite envenoming : reaching our 2030 targets
     
    Host: Ministry of Health, Kenya    		 The objective of this meeting is to build visibility for snakebite on the global health agenda
     
    Sunday 18 May 2025
    17:30−19:30
     
    Restaurant Vieux-Bois, Avenue de la Paix 12
     
         		 Shared progress: how collaborative philanthropy can accelerate country-led health goals
     
    Host: Mohammed bin Zayed Foundation for Humanity    		 Under the theme Shared Progress: How Collaborative Philanthropy Can Accelerate Country-led Health Goals, the reception will convene country representatives; global health leaders; philanthropic organizations; and multilaterals to discuss how countries and donors can work collaboratively to forge new pathways for global health progress. 
    Monday 19 May 2025
    13:00−14:30
     
    Centre d’Accueil de la Genève Internationale (CAGI), La Pastorale, Route de Ferney 106    		 Protecting Progress: Integration for Infectious Disease Elimination in a Shifting Geopolitical Landscape
     
    Host: Global Institute for Disease Elimination (GLIDE)    		 The global health landscape is undergoing tectonic shifts, driven largely by the recent significant changes in traditional donor priorities. This, compounded by ongoing challenges of climate change and humanitarian crises threatens to erode decades of progress in eliminating preventable infectious diseases such as malaria, polio, and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). Given this new reality, integration—both across disease programs and within broader health and development efforts—has never been more urgent.
    Tuesday 20 May 2025
    08:00−10:00
     
    Hôtel Royal, Rue de Lausanne 41    		 Health financing : what now ? What next? Insights from malaria, dengue & NTDs
     
    Hosts: Health Finance Coalition (HFC); Malaria No More; and the International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases (ISNTD)    		 The world is witnessing major shifts in the global health landscape. Among these, the decrease in donor funding for climate-sensitive infectious and tropical diseases on the one hand, and the explosive growth of health threats such as arboviruses including dengue, as well as the persistent threat of malaria and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) on communities worldwide are likely to be among the most defining factors of future health policy.
    Tuesday 20 May 2025 17:00−19:00
     
    Pavillon Gallatin, Domaine de Penthes, Route de Pregny 26    		 5 Billion Mectizan Treatments Donated and Counting
     
    Hosts: Mectizan Donation Program, Task Force for Global Health    		 The event will celebrate the tremendous progress made towards the elimination of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis, notably the 5 billion ivermectin (Mectizan) treatments that have been donated. Since 1987 MSD and the Mectizan Donation Program have provided Mectizan to eliminate onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis worldwide.
    Tuesday 20 May 2025 18:00−20:00
     
    Hôtel Président Wilson, Quai Wilson 47    		 Skin diseases as a global public health priority
     
    Hosts: International Alliance of Dermatology Patient Organizations (GlobalSkin), International League of Dermatology Societies (ILDS), Anesvad Foundation, Health Diplomacy Alliance    		 The event will discuss the importance of addressing skin diseases as a public health problem, and will provide critical discussions on the groundbreaking WHA resolution, “Skin Diseases as a Global Health Priority”.
    Wednesday 21 May 2025
    08:00−09:30
     
    Restaurant Vieux-Bois, Avenue de la Paix 12
         		 Strengthening Strategic Partnerships to fight VBDs, NTDs, and Emerging Infectious Diseases
     
    Hosts: Japan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Assoc. (JPMA), Permanent Mission of Japan, IFPMA    		 As the field of global health undergoes significant transformation, we aim to raise global awareness of the challenges and solutions related to infectious diseases such as VBDs, NTDs, and emerging infectious diseases that have long affected LMICs. As part of this effort, we would like to overview the progress made and the challenges we face, as well as showcase strategic initiatives/contributions in this field by governments, private sector and international organizations
    Wednesday 21 May 2025
    09:00−13:30
     
    Campus Biotech Innovation Park, Avenue de Sécheron 15    		 Economics of elimination and NTDs
     
    Host: Global Institute for Disease Elimination (GLIDE)    		 The event will initiate an International Economics Working Group (IEWG) dialogue, share current work, and explore collaboration on the economics of elimination and neglected tropical diseases.
    Wednesday 21 May 2025
    12:00−15:00
     
    Geneva Press Club,
    Domaine de Penthes,
    Chemin de l’Impératrice 18    		 Accelerating NTD elimination through country-driven efforts and cross-border collaboration
     
    Hosts: Global Onchocerciasis Network for Elimination (GONE), African Union, END Fund, DNDi
     
    Member State Leadership: Cameroon, Chad, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda    		 The purpose of the meeting is to share progress and celebrate successes of NTD elimination milestones, share cross-border collaboration examples, celebrate the endorsement of cross-border agreements and a Call for Action which will inspire and further enhance cross-border and multi-disease collaboration to accelerate progress towards global disease elimination targets. Ministers of Health of Chad, Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda will sign a MoU to End VL in Africa. The event will stress the importance of country ownership and strategies to reach NTD public health target and to mitigate the risk of losing the gains made over the past decades, highlighting the opportunity of the implementation of the proposed resolution on skin diseases at WHA78. A signature of an MoU for Visceral Leishmaniasis in East African countries will take place during the ceremony.
    Wednesday 21 May 2025 18:00−20:00
     
    Hõtel Royal, Rue de Lausanne 41    		 Roundtable dinner: The Future of Funding for NTDs
     
    Hosts: The END Fund, DEVEX    		 The event will be hosted by Kate Warren EVP and Executive Editor, Devex and Dr Solomon Zewdu, CEO, The END Fund. The roundtable dinner will bring together a select group of 10–12 senior stakeholders from the private sector, philanthropy, global health, policy and international financing organizations to engage in meaningful dialogue , enabling key decision-makers to share insights, align priorities and identify actions to accelerate progress in combating NTDs. Roundtable dinner: The Future of Funding for NTDS
    Wednesday 21 May 2025 18:30−19:30
     
    Colladon Parc Restaurant,
    Chemin Colladon 5,
    Petit-Saconnex    		 Reception for countries endemic for dracunculiasis (Guinea-worm disease) and in pre-certification Guinea
     
    Hosts: Ministry of Health, Chad and The Carter Center    		 The reception will be an occasion to celebrate the tremendous progress toward eradication, rally behind the WHA Resolution being voted on, reflect on commitments made in the Abu Dhabi Declaration and N’Djamena Commitment, and look ahead to what remains to achieve Guinea worm eradication by the year 2030.
    Wednesday 21 May 2025 18:30−20:30
     
    The International Red Cross & Red Crescent Museum, Geneva, Avenue de la Paix 17    		 “A seat at the table” – art installation
     
    Hosts: Gilead Sciences, Harvard Medical School Center for Primary Care Program in Global Primary Health Care, International Alliance of Patient Organizations (IAPO) and UNAIDS    		 Frontline AIDS in collaboration with the Female Genital Schistosomiasis Integration Group (FIG), Education as a Vaccine, Alliance for Public Health, and LVCT Health will contribute artwork to this important event. It will feature stories and an art installation that bring the importance of people-centered care into focus— addressing the imbalance of power in which people with lived experience of disease are too often left out of health system decision-making.
    Wednesday 21 May 2025 18:30−21:00
     
    Hôtel Mandarin Oriental,
    Quai Turrettini 1    		 Ministerial summit: REACH network
     
    Hosts: Nigeria, REACH Network (Chairs: Minister Muhammad Ali Pate [Nigeria] and Professor Samba Sow [former Minister of Health, Mali])    		 The event is convened to reinforce ministerial commitment from existing REACH countries and expand the network’s impact by engaging potential new member countries. It will emphasize integrated, equitable and evidence-driven child survival strategies, particularly mass drug administration of azithromycin
    Thursday 22 May 2025
    08:00−10:00
     
    Hôtel Président Wilson,
    Quai Wilson 47    		 Surveillance and innovation for dengue & arboviruses: international unity to avert future health emergencies
     
    Host: the International Society for Neglected Tropical Diseases    		 The event will focus on updates on the progression of the arboviral threat worldwide (dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, Oropouche fever), will provide a platform for Member States to make statements on arboviruses experiences and collaborative surveillance strategies, will enable discussions among participants, will serve as a forum for exchange of best practices and networking among participants
    Thursday 22 May 2025
    12:00−14:00
     
    Hôtel Intercontinental,
    Chemin du Petit-Saconnex 7−9    		 Innovation Meets Unity: Advancing Global Health Solutions for Africa
     
    Host: Merck KGaA, Circle Diplomatique Genève    		 Global health leadership discussion to discuss diminished engagement with multilateral institutions which has resulted in weakened health systems in Africa and diminished international support

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Two Gang Members from Lowell Sentenced for Trafficking Methamphetamine Pills

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Defendants sold thousands of counterfeit “Adderall” pills supplied by the Asian Boyz gang

    BOSTON – Two members of the Asian Boyz gang have been sentenced in federal court in Boston for trafficking homemade imitations of the pharmaceutical drug, Adderall, containing methamphetamine.

    Erickson Dao, a/k/a “Silent,” 32, of Lowell, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 85 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release. . In January 2025, Dao pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of cocaine. Bill Phim, a/k/a “Bonez,” 37, also of Lowell, was sentenced by Judge Gorton to 10 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. In February 2025, Phim pleaded guilty to two counts of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams and more of methamphetamine and two counts of distribution of and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine.  

    A long-term investigation proved that Asian Boyz gang members and associates allegedly had access to a plentiful supply of counterfeit methamphetamine pills marketed as “Adderall.” These pills were similar in shape, size and appearance to genuine Adderall. On 12 different dates in 2022, Phim sold these counterfeit “Adderall” pills to an undercover agent. In total, Phim sold the undercover agent over 10,000 pills for more than $36,000.

    Dao was identified as one of Phim’s suppliers of the methamphetamine pills. Between February 2022 and April 2022, Dao delivered the counterfeit pills to Phim on at least five occasions. Phim then sold the pills to an undercover federal agent for more than $11,000. Chemical testing confirmed that the pills were a dangerous compound of methamphetamine and caffeine. When investigators searched Dao’s residence, they discovered thousands more counterfeit “Adderall” pills and large quantities of cocaine.

    In other drug transactions with the undercover officer, Phim admitted that he coordinated the supply of methamphetamine pills with other Asian Boyz gang members and associates, including Brian Gingras, a/k/a “Cheech.” Between May 2022 and September 2022, Gingras met Phim prior to the planned deals to personally deliver the pills. Gringas pleaded guilty in January 2025 and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 4, 2025. 
     
    U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Superintendent Gregory C. Hudon of the Lowell Police Department made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Billerica, Haverhill, North Andover and Salem Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fred M. Wyshak, III of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the 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 gun violence and other violent crime, 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 Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/PSN.

    This case is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

    The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant in the case is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Pharmacy Pleads Guilty to Health Care Fraud and Agrees to Pay More Than $1 Million Settlement

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – On May 13, 2025, a Florida-based pharmacy, OHM Pharmacy Services, aka “Benzer,” aka “Auburndale,” pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud and was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay restitution of $82,000. As part of the global resolution, Benzer also agreed to pay $1,018,000 to resolve False Claims Act violations.

    According to OHM’s admissions in the global resolution of criminal charges and civil claims, the pharmacy dispensed Evzio, one of several naloxone products on the market indicated for use on an emergent basis in the case of opioid overdose. Due to Evzio’s high price, insurers (including Medicare Part D plans) frequently required that health care providers submit prior authorization requests before they approved coverage. OHM completed prior authorization forms in place of prescribing physicians, and in some instances OHM personnel signed the prior authorization forms without the physician’s authorization and submitted information to insurers that made it appear as though a physician, and not OHM, was submitting the information. Moreover, OHM also submitted prior authorization requests to insurers, including Medicare Part D plans, that contained false information. For example, OHM staff filled out and submitted dozens of Evzio prior authorization request forms that falsely asserted that patients had previously tried and failed to successfully use Narcan or naloxone.  

    In connection with the resolution, Benzer entered into an integrity agreement (IA) with the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). The IA requires, among other things, that Benzer implement measures to ensure that its submission of claims for pharmaceutical products complies with applicable law relating to prior authorizations.  

    The civil settlement concludes the government’s resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by a former employee of kaleo Inc., Evzio’s manufacturer. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Socol v. Benzer Pharmacy Holding, LLC, et al., No. 18-cv-10050-RGS (D. Mass.). As part of the civil resolution, the whistleblower will receive $285,040 of the civil settlement amount.  

    In 2021, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced settlements with kaléo Inc. for $12.7 million and with other pharmacies for $1 million relating to their submission of false claims for Evzio. In 2022, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced a $1.31 million deferred prosecution agreement and civil settlement with another pharmacy.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kim Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Roberto Coviello, Special Agent in Charge, Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General; the Department of Defense Criminal Investigative Service; Office of Personnel Management, Office of Inspector General; and the U.S. Postal Service Office of the Inspector General made the announcement.

    The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Abraham R. George, Chief of the Civil Division, Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie A. Queenin, Chief of the Health Care Fraud Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren A. Graber, Deputy Chief of the Narcotics and Money Laundering Unit.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Everett Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking Four Victims

    Source: United States Department of Justice (Human Trafficking)

    BOSTON – An Everett man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to four counts of an indictment charging him with sex trafficking four separate female victims.   

    Trevor Jones, 47, pleaded guilty to four counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion. U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs scheduled sentencing for Aug. 12, 2025. In May 2023, Jones was indicted by a federal grand jury. Jones was arrested on related state charges on March 23, 2023 and has remained in state custody since.

    According to the charging documents, from at least 2016 until 2023, Jones ran a sex trafficking operation targeting victims who were suffering from substance use disorder. As part of his sex trafficking operation, Jones provided his victims with controlled substances, including heroin, fentanyl and cocaine to intensify their drug dependance and gain their compliance, while prohibiting the victims from obtaining controlled substances from other sources. Jones demanded “loyalty” and “dedication” from his victims. He allegedly enforced his requirements by punishing victims with acts of violence, threats of violence and withholding controlled substance from drug-dependent victims. As outlined in court, Jones beat one victim with a belt causing bruising throughout her body. When confronted with the injuries he caused, Jones told the victim that she deserved the abuse. Jones was verbally abusive toward another victim, locking her out of the house, demanding to know where her “loyalty” was and berating her for not “contributing everything” she was making. Another victim experienced degradation from Jones, with him telling her that she needed to “make daddy proud” and scolding her for being “disobedient.”

    The charge of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Kimberly Milka, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble, Superintendent of the Massachusetts State Police; and Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Revere, Arlington and Boston Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Riley, Chief of the Human Trafficking & Civil Rights Unit and Assistant United States Attorney Torey B. Cummings of the Human Trafficking and Civil Rights Unit are prosecuting the case along with Essex County Assistant District Attorneys Jessica Strasnick and Marina Moriarty, who were sworn in as Special Assistant United States Attorneys.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Medallion Bank Announces Pricing of Series G Preferred Stock Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Medallion Bank (Nasdaq: MBKNP), an FDIC-insured bank providing consumer loans for the purchase of recreational vehicles, boats, and home improvements, along with loan origination services to fintech strategic partners, announced today that it has priced a public offering of 3,000,000 shares of its Fixed-Rate Reset Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G, par value $1.00 per share, with a liquidation amount of $25 per share (the “Series G Preferred Stock”) and an aggregate liquidation amount of $75 million.

    Dividends will accrue on the liquidation amount of $25 per share of the Series G Preferred Stock at a fixed rate per annum equal to (i) 9.00% from the original issue date of the Series G Preferred Stock to, but excluding, July 1, 2030, and (ii) from and including July 1, 2030, at a rate equal to the five-year U.S. Treasury rate plus 4.94% per annum. Dividends will be payable in arrears on January 1, April 1, July 1 and October 1 of each year, commencing October 1, 2025. In each case, dividends will be paid only when, as and if declared by the board of directors of Medallion Bank (or a duly authorized committee of the board) and to the extent Medallion Bank has legally available funds to pay dividends.

    Medallion Bank’s Series G Preferred Stock is expected to trade on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the ticker symbol “MBNKO.” The underwriters have also been granted a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 450,000 shares of the Series G Preferred Stock solely to cover over-allotments, if any. Medallion Bank will remain a wholly owned subsidiary of Medallion Financial upon completion of the offering.

    Medallion Bank intends to use the net proceeds from this offering for general corporate purposes, which may include, among other things, increasing Medallion Bank’s capital levels, growing its consumer loan portfolios or redeeming some or all of its outstanding Series F Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock (the “Series F Preferred Stock”), subject to the prior approval of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. The offering is expected to close on May 22, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.

    Piper Sandler & Co. and Lucid Capital Markets, LLC are acting as joint book-running managers. A.G.P./Alliance Global Partners, B. Riley Securities, Inc., InspereX LLC, Ladenburg Thalmann & Co. Inc., Muriel Siebert & Co., LLC, Wedbush Securities Inc., and William Blair & Company, L.L.C. are acting as lead managers.

    The offering of the Medallion Bank’s Series G Preferred Stock is exempt from the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 pursuant to Section 3(a)(2) of that Act and will be made only by means of an offering circular. This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of that jurisdiction. The securities are neither insured nor approved by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other Federal or state regulatory body.

    The preliminary offering circular relating to the offering is available at medallionbankoffering.com. In addition, copies of the preliminary offering circular may also be obtained from: Piper Sandler & Co.; Attn: Debt Capital Markets, 1 Greenwich Plaza, 1st Floor, Suite 111, Greenwich, CT 06830, or by email at fsg-dcm@psc.com.

    About Medallion Bank

    Medallion Bank specializes in providing consumer loans for the purchase of recreational vehicles, boats, and home improvements, along with loan origination services to fintech strategic partners. The Bank works directly with thousands of dealers, contractors and financial service providers serving their customers throughout the United States. Medallion Bank is a Utah-chartered, FDIC-insured industrial bank headquartered in Salt Lake City and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Medallion Financial Corp.

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements”, which reflect Medallion Bank’s current views with respect to future events and which address matters that are, by their nature, inherently uncertain and beyond Medallion Bank’s control. These statements are often, but not always, made through the use of words or phrases such as “expect” and “intend” or the negative version of those words or other comparable words or phrases of a future or forward-looking nature. These statements relate to the offering of shares of the Series G Preferred Stock, the anticipated use of the net proceeds by Medallion Bank and the grant to the underwriters of an option to purchase additional shares of the Series G Preferred Stock. No assurance can be given that the transaction discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or at all, or that Medallion Bank will decide to redeem its Series F Preferred Stock or, if it does, the amount to be redeemed and the timing of redemption and required regulatory approval. Completion of the offering on the terms described, including the grant of the option to the underwriters, and the application of net proceeds, are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of Medallion Bank. Medallion Bank undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law. For a description of certain risks to which Medallion Bank is or may be subject, please refer to the factors discussed under the headings “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and “Risk Factors,” in Medallion Bank’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2025.

    This press release does not constitute a notice of redemption with respect to the Series F Preferred Stock. If Medallion Bank decides to redeem the Series F Preferred Stock, it intends to announce its decision by press release and an appropriate notice of redemption during the applicable notice window.

    Company Contact:
    Investor Relations
    212-328-2176
    InvestorRelations@medallion.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Occidental and ADNOC’s XRG Agree to Evaluate Joint Venture to Develop South Texas Direct Air Capture Hub

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Occidental (NYSE: OXY) and its subsidiary 1PointFive today announced an agreement with XRG, ADNOC’s investment company, to evaluate a potential joint venture to develop a Direct Air Capture (DAC) facility in South Texas. As part of the joint venture, XRG will consider investing up to $500 million for the development of a DAC facility designed to capture 500,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. The Strategic DAC Framework Agreement was signed by Occidental President and CEO Vicki Hollub and ADNOC Group CEO Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, during U.S. President Donald J. Trump’s state visit to the United Arab Emirates.

    The announcement follows several significant milestones in the development of DAC, including Occidental’s progress on STRATOS, its first DAC facility in West Texas, which is on-track to start commercial operations in 2025; further de-risking of Occidental’s DAC technology; and an award from the U.S. Department of Energy for up to $650 million to support development of the South Texas DAC Hub.

    “We are proud to advance our decades-long partnership with ADNOC and XRG on our South Texas DAC Hub, which we believe will deliver game-changing technology to support U.S. energy independence and global goals. Agreements like this, along with U.S. DOE support, demonstrate continued confidence in DAC as an investable technology that can create jobs and economic value in the United States and Texas,” said Hollub.

    Khaled Salmeen, Chief Operating Officer, XRG, said: “Our longstanding partnership with Occidental continues to drive scalable, high-growth and strategically attractive projects that create long-term sustainable value. The U.S. is a priority market for XRG and we look forward to building on this partnership as we continue to invest in strategic projects across the energy value chain.”

    Occidental and ADNOC have been discussing opportunities to collaborate on carbon capture, utilization and storage projects in the United States and UAE since signing a memorandum of understanding in 2023.

    The South Texas DAC Hub, located on the King Ranch in Kleberg County, Texas, will be close to industrial facilities and energy infrastructure along the U.S. Gulf Coast, where CO2 can be transported for use or securely stored in geologic formations. The site comprises approximately 165 square miles of acreage with the potential to store up to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2). The first DAC facility at the Hub is expected to capture 500,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year and is currently in front-engineering and design.

    XRG focuses on transformational global investments that create value across natural gas, chemicals and lower-carbon energy solutions. Occidental and ADNOC have a long-standing partnership at Al Hosn Gas, one of the largest Middle Eastern natural gas developments, and onshore oil and gas development projects in the UAE.

    About Occidental

    Occidental is an international energy company with assets primarily in the United States, the Middle East and North Africa. We are one of the largest oil and gas producers in the U.S., including a leading producer in the Permian and DJ basins, and offshore Gulf of America. Our midstream and marketing segment provides flow assurance and maximizes the value of our oil and gas, and includes our Oxy Low Carbon Ventures subsidiary, which is advancing leading-edge technologies and business solutions that economically grow our business while reducing emissions. Our chemical subsidiary OxyChem manufactures the building blocks for life-enhancing products. We are dedicated to using our global leadership in carbon management to advance a lower-carbon world.

    About 1PointFive

    1PointFive is a Carbon Capture, Utilization and Sequestration (CCUS) company that is working to help curb global temperature rise to 1.5°C through the deployment of decarbonization solutions, including Carbon Engineering’s Direct Air Capture and AIR TO FUELS™ solutions alongside geologic sequestration hubs. Visit 1PointFive.com for more information.

    AIR TO FUELS™ is a registered trademark of Carbon Engineering ULC.

    About XRG

    XRG is a transformative international energy investment company, focused on lower-carbon energy and chemicals, and headquartered in Abu Dhabi. Wholly owned by ADNOC, XRG has an enterprise value of over $80 billion. Its portfolio includes interests in industry-leading companies that are meeting rapidly increasing global demand for lower carbon energy and the chemicals that are essential building blocks for products central to modern life.

    To find out more, visit: www.xrg.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including those relating to the agreement’s benefits and related impact on carbon emissions and Occidental’s and 1PointFive’s deployment and use of DAC technology, which are based on Occidental’s current expectations, beliefs, plans, estimates, and forecasts. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements for purposes of federal and state securities laws. Words such as “believe,” “will,” “may,” “expect,” “plan,” or similar expressions that convey the prospective nature of events or outcomes are generally indicative of forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release. Unless legally required, Occidental does not undertake any obligation to update, modify, or withdraw any forward-looking statements as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    These statements are not guarantees of future performance as they involve assumptions that may prove to be incorrect and risks and uncertainties, including those that are beyond Occidental’s control. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements include Occidental’s and 1PointFive’s ability to access necessary technology, to develop and employ existing or new technology on a commercial scale, to access capital, to collaborate with third parties and customers, and to receive approvals from regulatory bodies, as well as market conditions, geopolitical events, and scientific developments. Additional factors that may affect the agreement’s benefits and related impact on carbon emissions and Occidental’s and 1PointFive’s deployment and use of DAC technology can be found in Occidental’s public disclosure and its filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which may be accessed at Occidental’s website at oxy.com or the SEC’s website at sec.gov. Information included herein is not necessarily material to an investor in Occidental’s securities.

    Contacts

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: AFRICA/SUDAN – The “drone war” hides a “proxy war”

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    Friday, 16 May 2025 wars  

    Khartoum (Agenzia Fides) – The “drone war” is intensifying in Sudan. The use of armed drones and “suicide drones” (similar to cruise missiles, but cheaper) is primarily the prerogative of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) militias, which do not have an air force.Even the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF), although they have combat aircraft, are making extensive use of drones to bomb areas under RSF control.The latter have expanded the area of action of their devices, targeting Sudan’s administrative capital, controlled by the SAF, as well as the country’s most important seaport, Port Sudan (see Fides, 6/5/2025).Previously, attacks carried out by RSF drones were limited to the White Nile, Nile River, and Northern State regions, as well as Omdurman and El Fasher. Among the targets hit were power plants and fuel depots. The expansion of the areas hit by RSF drones raises the question of whether they are launched from within Sudan or from neighboring countries. This is a legitimate suspicion, especially regarding Port Sudan, which is located several hundred kilometers from known RSF positions. Some radar interference on merchant ships operating in the Red Sea suggests that the drones are launched from bases outside Sudan, perhaps from Puntland, where the United Arab Emirates – accused by the Khartoum government of supporting the RSF (see Fides, 11/4/2025) – has a major base in Bosaso (see Fides, 6/5/2025). According to this hypothesis, those who launch them disrupt the radars of ships navigating in the area to hide their launch site. Remnants of the artillery used by the RSF suggest that it is Chinese-made material supplied to Sudanese paramilitaries by the United Arab Emirates.The Khartoum government has called on Beijing to urgently intervene to prevent the RSF from acquiring Chinese-made drones and strategic aircraft. Minister of Culture and Information and government spokesperson Khaled Al-Aiser stated in a Facebook post on May 15, 2025, that China is a friendly country with historical ties and strategic interests with Sudan. He therefore called on Beijing to intervene with the Abu Dhabi regime to end violations of arms purchase contracts and end-use certificates, under which the RSF has been able to obtain advanced drones.The SAF, in turn, is suspected of using Turkish-made drones to support its offensives against the paramilitaries. There are even unconfirmed reports that, in the RSF drone attacks on Port Sudan, some Turkish experts were injured and later repatriated by air ambulance. Thus, the internal Sudanese conflict risks escalating into a “proxy war” between external powers – particularly Turkey and the Emirates – which would further aggravate the conflict. As Pope Francis, and now his successor, Pope Leo XIV, have repeatedly stated, “to end wars, we must end the arms trade.” (L.M.) (Agenzia Fides, 16/5/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Pope Leo to the Diplomatic Corps: Peace, Justice and Truth, ‘key words’ of papal diplomacy

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    VaticanMedia

    Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) – Peace, Justice, Truth. These are the three words Pope Leo XIV chose in his address to members of the Diplomatic Corps accredited to the Holy See. Peace which is “the first gift of Christ”, an “active and demanding gift. It engages and challenges each of us”. Justice, which is also denied by “global inequalities – between opulence and destitution – that are carving deep divides between continents, countries and even within individual societies”. Truth, which “can never be separated from charity, always has at its root a concern for the life and well-being of every man and woman”.The “sui generis” Nature of Papal DiplomacyPope Leo began by thanking the Ambassador of the Republic of Cyprus and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, for his cordial greeting, and recalling the tireless work that he has carried out with his characteristic energy, commitment and kindness”, stressing that papal diplomacy is “an expression of the very catholicity of the Church. In its diplomatic activity, the Holy See is inspired by a pastoral outreach that leads it not to seek privileges but to strengthen its evangelical mission at the service of humanity.” For this reason it appeals to consciences, as witnessed by the constant efforts of my venerable predecessor, ever attentive to the cry of the poor, the needy and the marginalized, as well as to contemporary challenges, ranging from the protection of creation to artificial intelligence”. The Pope born in Chicago then referred to his “own life experience, which has spanned North America, South America and Europe, has been marked by this aspiration to transcend borders in order to encounter different peoples and cultures. Through the constant and patient work of the Secretariat of State”, Pope Leo continued, “I intend to strengthen understanding and dialogue with you and with your countries, many of which I have already had the grace to visit, especially during my time as Prior General of the Augustinians. I trust that God’s providence will allow me further occasions to get to know the countries from which you come and enable me to have occasions to confirm in the faith our many brothers and sisters throughout the world and to build new bridges with all people of good will”.Human Nature and the Gift of PeaceThen, recognizing, with the Christian realism with which Saint Augustine and the Fathers of the Church also contemplated the condition of the human race, marked by Original Sin, the Pope said: “it is part of human nature and always accompanies us, pushing us too to live in a constant “state of conflict” at home, at work and in society”. And “no matter how hard we try, tensions will always be present, a little like embers burning beneath the ashes, ready to ignite at any moment”.In this state of affairs – the Bishop of Rome added – “peace is first and foremost a gift. It is the first gift of Christ”. Yet it is “an active and demanding gift. It engages and challenges each of us, regardless of our cultural background or religious affiliation, demanding first of all that we work on ourselves. Peace – he added -is built in the heart and from the heart, by eliminating pride and vindictiveness and carefully choosing our words. For words too, not only weapons, can wound and even kill”. Looking at global scenarios, Pope Leo recognized “the fundamental contribution to fostering a climate of peace. This naturally requires full respect for religious freedom in every country, since religious experience is an essential dimension of the human person. Without it, it is difficult, if not impossible, to bring about the purification of the heart necessary for building peaceful relationships”. The Pontiff also reiterated that “there is a need to give new life to multilateral diplomacy and to those international institutions conceived and designed primarily to remedy eventual disputes within the international community”. Furthermore – he added – “there must also be a resolve to halt the production of instruments of destruction and death, since, as Pope Francis noted in his last Urbi et Orbi Message: No peace is “possible without true disarmament [and] the requirement that every people provide for its own defence must not turn into a race to rearmament.”Justice and the faces of the new “Social Question”“I chose my name,” Pope Leo XIV repeated, introducing the reflections on justice – “thinking first of all of Leo XIII, the Pope of the first great social Encyclical, Rerum Novarum. In this time of epochal change, the Holy See cannot fail to make its voice heard in the face of the many imbalances and injustices that lead, not least, to unworthy working conditions and increasingly fragmented and conflict-ridden societies.”To build “harmonious and peaceful civil societies”- the Pontiff underlined in this passage of his speech – it is necessary to invest “in the family, founded upon the stable union between a man and a woman”, and to ensure that “respect for the dignity of every person, especially the most frail and vulnerable, from the unborn to the elderly, from the sick to the unemployed, citizens and immigrants alike. My own story”, he added, making another reference to his personal story in his speech, “is that of a citizen, the descendant of immigrants, who in turn chose to emigrate. All of us, in the course of our lives, can find ourselves healthy or sick, employed or unemployed, living in our native land or in a foreign country, yet our dignity always remains unchanged: it is the dignity of a creature willed and loved by God”.Truth is an encounter“Truly peaceful relationships cannot be built, also within the international community,” the Pontiff remarked, dwelling on the third key word of his speech – apart from truth. Because “where words take on ambiguous and ambivalent connotations, and the virtual world, with its altered perception of reality, takes over unchecked, it is difficult to build authentic relationships, since the objective and real premises of communication are lacking.” The Church, for her part –Pope Prevost added – “can never be exempted from speaking the truth about humanity and the world, resorting whenever necessary to blunt language that may initially create misunderstanding. Yet truth can never be separated from charity, which always has at its root a concern for the life and well-being of every man and woman”. And from the Christian perspective – the Pontiff clarified – “truth is not the affirmation of abstract and disembodied principles, but an encounter with the person of Christ himself, alive in the midst of the community of believers. Truth, then, does not create division, but rather enables us to confront all the more resolutely the challenges of our time, such as migration, the ethical use of artificial intelligence and the protection of our beloved planet Earth”. (GV) (Agenzia Fides, 16/5/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Extensive Failures

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Extensive Failures

    In a public inquiry at the end of April, Deputy Traffic Commissioner Nick Denton revoked the standard international goods vehicle operator’s licence held by Transglobal Solutions Ltd with immediate effect.

    He cited extensive and persistent breaches of statutory obligations under the Goods Vehicles (Licensing of Operators) Act 1995.

    Following a pattern of non-compliance, the company and its director, Maricel Taranu, have also been indefinitely disqualified from holding or obtaining an operator’s licence. Mr. Taranu is further barred from acting as a transport manager for any operator.

    The inquiry was unattended by either the company or Mr. Taranu.

    The revocation follows serious concerns uncovered during multiple investigations by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), including vehicles operated without MOTs and road tax presenting a direct risk to public safety, failure to download tachograph data, and extended operation of vehicles without driver cards – both clear violations of drivers’ hours regulations.

    There was a shocking lack of maintenance, culminating in one vehicle being stopped with four loose wheel nuts, a disintegrated tyre, and a defective indicator. On top of this, there was no engagement with the DVSA or the Office of the Traffic Commissioner, despite repeated attempts to obtain essential compliance records.

    Further DVSA inspections revealed that the company had no legitimate maintenance arrangements, minimal operating facilities, and an exceptionally high prohibition and MOT failure rate— double and triple the national average respectively. In addition, false information was provided to authorities regarding vehicle operations, and a warrant for Mr. Taranu’s arrest remains active in Romania for unrelated driving offences.

    Mr Denton said “This is one of the worst operators I have ever come across. Mr Taranu has refused to engage both with DVSA and the traffic commissioner. He has overseen illegal and dangerous operations in the UK and appears to be wanted by the Romanian authorities for serious motoring offences… I cannot allow the company’s vehicles to operate and pose a danger to other road users for a moment longer.”

    He concluded that there should be no room in the industry for Mr Taranu, who has shown an utter indifference to the law and to road safety. The full written decision can be found here.

    For any further details or enquiries, please contact: Email : pressoffice@otc.gov.uk

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Choi Yuk-lin promotes HK in Seoul

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Secretary for Education Choi Yuk-lin visited Seoul National University (SNU) on the last day of her Korea trip today.

    She exchanged views with the university’s president Ryu Hong Lim on deepening higher education collaboration between Korea and Hong Kong, and promoted the “Study in Hong Kong” brand.

    Ms Choi said Hong Kong boasts a highly internationalised and diverse post-secondary education sector, adding that a number of measures have been put in place by the Government to enhance the city’s status as an international education hub.

    Apart from striving to host international education conferences and exhibitions, the Government also encourages local post-secondary institutions to enhance collaboration and exchanges with their counterparts around the world in promoting the “Study in Hong Kong” brand on a global scale. It also attracts more overseas students to study in Hong Kong through the provision of scholarships.

    In addition, the Government is developing the Northern Metropolis University Town to encourage local post-secondary institutions to introduce more branded programmes, research collaborations and exchange projects with renowned Mainland and overseas institutions in a flexible and innovative manner.

    At the meeting, Ms Choi introduced to the SNU the various large-scale education mega events to be held in Hong Kong, such as the Learning & Teaching Expo to be held during Digital Education Week in July this year, as well as the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education Conference & Exhibition to be held in February 2026.

    The education chief welcomed representatives from universities in Korea to come to Hong Kong to take part in the events and forge collaborations and exchanges with institutions worldwide.

    Ms Choi also welcomed students from Korea and other places to study in Hong Kong or participate in short-term student exchange programmes, and said that she looked forward to further strengthening education ties between Korea and Hong Kong.

    Ms Choi also met Hong Kong students studying at SNU to learn about their school life and encouraged them to return to Hong Kong to develop their careers after completing their studies.

    Today and yesterday, Ms Choi paid courtesy calls on the Chinese Ambassador to Korea Dai Bing and the Consul General of China in Jeju Chen Jianjun, respectively to introduce Hong Kong’s latest education policy.

    Yesterday, she also joined a side event of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Education Ministerial Meeting to visit an elementary school in Jeju to learn about its experiences in promoting artificial intelligence and digital innovation education.

    Ms Choi will depart for a visit to the UK tomorrow.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: No Credit Check Loans Guaranteed Approval Direct Lender: Instant Small Payday Loans Online – No Denial, Direct Lenders Only! – 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Brisbane, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Do you have bad credit but require instant financial help? It can be difficult to know where to get loans guaranteed approval direct lender products without credit checks.

    This in-depth guide discusses how Viva Payday Loans matches bad credit borrowers with direct lenders providing no credit check loans with guaranteed approval. We’ll discuss everything from application procedures to funding times so you can make informed choices about these financial products.

    Why Viva Payday Loans is the Best Option for No Denial Payday Loans

    Viva Payday Loans has become the leading match service for those who are looking for a payday loan with no credit check services. Unlike other lenders that base their decisions heavily on credit scores, Viva Payday Loans’s database of direct lenders places more emphasis on other parameters when considering loan requests, making it simpler for individuals with bad credit to borrow money when they need it.

    What separates Viva Payday Loans from others is its large network of lenders that provide offerings that cater directly to credit-strained borrowers. By negotiating with multiple direct lenders at once, Viva Payday Loans improves approval odds for those who would otherwise be rejected.

    Most customers select Viva Payday Loans due to their honest loan terms and responsible lending principles. With guaranteed approval from direct lenders in their portfolio, Viva Payday Loans ensures that borrowers realize the total effect of their loan contract prior to proceeding.

      >>>> Viva Payday Loans Offers Instant No Credit Check Loans – Apply Today! <<<<

    Learning About No Credit Check Loans with Guaranteed Approval from Direct Lenders

    What is a No Credit Check Loan?

    A no credit check loan is a financial product whereby lenders extend cash advances without carrying out conventional credit checks via significant credit bureaus. In place of credit history, no credit check guaranteed approval direct lender alternatives weigh other criteria such as:

    • Recent income
    • Job stability
    • Banking history
    • Utility company payment history
    • Rent payment history

    This method makes these loans especially available to those with bad credit or limited credit history who may not be able to qualify for traditional financing.

    Direct lenders of no credit check loans tend to utilize income verification instead of credit scores to assess borrowers’ repayment capability. This basic distinction provides opportunities for many Americans who have been shut out of the conventional financial system because of previous credit errors.

     <<<< Viva Payday Loans – Get Cash Now, No Credit Check! >>>

    How Do No Credit Check Loans Exactly Work?

    When you request a loan with no credit check via a site such as Viva Payday Loans, the process differs from traditional loans. Rather than checking your credit report, lenders provide approval based mainly on your present financial status and ability to repay.

    The application process usually takes these steps:

    • Fill out a simple online application with financial and personal details
    • Viva Payday Loans immediately connects your application with their group of direct lenders
    • Your information is reviewed by the lenders, and you get rapid approval decisions
    • You are offered loan terms directly by the lender in case of approval
    • After you accept the loan offer, money is usually transferred by direct deposit
    • Money tends to reach your account within one business day

    The whole process—application to funding—is optimized for speed and convenience, which makes these loans especially suitable for emergency spending when time is of the essence.

    No Denial Payday Loans Direct Lenders Only No Credit Check from Viva Payday Loans

     

    Viva Payday Loans’s Unique Lending Platform – No Credit Check Loan Services

    Viva Payday Loans serves as an intermediary between borrowers and a wide range of direct lenders. This arrangement makes it more likely for bad credit individuals to be approved, as lenders on the site provide no credit check loans and make decisions based on other criteria.

    Some of the main features of Viva Payday Loans’s platform are:

    • Proprietary matching algorithm that effectively matches borrowers with appropriate lenders
    • Higher chances of loan approval than applying directly with individual lenders
    • Sophisticated encryption to secure sensitive personal and financial data
    • Efficient process eliminating the agony of repeated rejections

    Time-efficient method for borrowers looking for payday loans online with no credit check facilities

    Viva Payday Loans platform is unique in providing online payday loans that are fast, safe, and available 24/7. By emphasizing speed and confidentiality, Viva Payday Loans has emerged as the first choice for online credit check loans.

     <<<< Apply with Viva Payday Loans Today – Even If Credit Isn’t Perfect! >>>>

    How Viva Payday Loans’s Direct Lender Network Ensures No Denial Loans

    Viva Payday Loans’s network consists of direct lenders specializing in guaranteed approval loans. The lenders do not solely depend on conventional credit checks but rather on your present financial standing. By considering factors like income and employment, Viva Payday Loans provides no denial of payday loans, even for individuals with a bad credit history.

    This large network provides Viva Payday Loans a competitive advantage when it comes to providing guaranteed approval loans and direct lender access, better ensuring you secure the loan that you need.

    Why Viva Payday Loans Provides Guaranteed Approval for Bad Credit Borrowers

    Viva Payday Loans has established its name by offering access to approval for individuals typically not accepted by mainstream lending avenues. Their emphasis on guaranteed approval for bad credit borrowers is based on their knowledge that credit scores don’t always paint the full picture of a person’s financial situation.

    Most individuals with poor credit histories are financially stable but have encountered temporary financial setbacks such as:

    • Medical crises
    • Loss of employment
    • Divorce
    • Natural disasters
    • Other situations beyond their control

    Viva Payday Loans understands that such individuals are entitled to financial products even with bad credit and operates only with lenders having this value system.

    The “guaranteed approval” feature is derived from Viva Payday Loans’s belief in their large pool of lenders and matching process. Although no financial product can guarantee 100% approval for all applicants, Viva Payday Loans’s method maximizes the chances of identifying a matching lender for each borrower’s case.

    The Viva Payday Loans Advantage for Credit-Challenged Borrowers

    Poor credit or credit-invisible borrowers frequently find themselves with no good lender to turn to. Viva Payday Loans offers a reputable site that welcomes a wide variety of credit profiles and matches users with lenders that provide payday loans and no credit online.

    Viva Payday Loans also streamlines the process of obtaining a loan through a simple online application and a high approval rate, making it well-suited for people in an emergency situation that requires immediate money.

     <<<< Need Fast Funds? Viva Payday Loans Approves You in Minutes! >>>>

    Viva Payday Loans’s Application and Funding Process – Instant Payday Loans Online Guaranteed Approval

    Viva Payday Loans has developed one of the most streamlined application and funding processes in the industry, allowing them to make good on the guarantee of instant payday loans online with guaranteed approval.

    Their simplified application process includes the following:

    Simple Online Application

    • Only takes around 5-10 minutes to fill out
    • Can be completed on any device with an internet connection
    • Gathers basic information regarding identity, income, employment, and banking information

    Immediate Matching System

    • Links applications with suitable lenders in real-time
    • Offers real-time processing of data

    Rapid Approval Decisions

    • The majority of borrowers have decisions within minutes
    • Permits instant examination of loan terms and offers

    Quick Funding Capabilities

    • Several borrowers receive money through direct deposit within the next business day
    • Some lenders provide same-day funding opportunities
    • Ideal for urgent financial requirements

     <<<< Your Emergency Cash Solution: Viva Payday Loans – Click to Qualify! >>>>

    Viva Payday Loans’s Small Payday Loan Options

    Viva Payday Loans’s rapid funding ability makes it a valuable asset for emergency financial circumstances. Whether you’re looking for a $100 emergency payday loan or a $500 cash advance no credit check, Viva Payday Loans has you covered. These small payday loans online are tailored for short-term expenses and are available even for individuals with poor credit.

    Benefits of small payday loans through Viva Payday Loans include:

    • Loan amounts start from as little as $100
    • Simplified approval processes
    • Faster funding times compared to larger loans
    • More manageable repayment terms
    • Shorter repayment periods
    • Potentially lower total costs

    Viva Payday Loans also offers flexibility in repayment, enabling borrowers to align their loan terms with their pay cycle, minimizing the likelihood of default.

    Viva Payday Loans’s No Credit Check Options vs. Traditional Loans

    Traditional bank loans usually involve high credit scores, extensive paperwork, and days (or even weeks) of waiting for approval. Viva Payday Loans, by contrast, offers online no credit check loans with quick approval and quick funding.

    This makes Viva Payday Loans’s services suitable for urgent requirements and easier for borrowers with bad credit who would otherwise be turned down because of previous credit records.

     <<<< Viva Payday Loans – Instant Payday Relief Is One Click Away! >>>>>

    Features and Benefits of No Credit Check Loans

    No credit check loans have a number of advantages:

    • Fast Approval: The majority of applicants are instantly approved.
    • Bad Credit Friendly: For people with bad credit or poor credit.
    • Direct Lender Access: No intermediaries—Viva Payday Loans links you directly to lenders with guaranteed approval loans.
    • Flexible Terms: Choice of payday loans, installment loans, and personal loans based on your requirements.

    Eligibility Criteria for Loans Without Credit Check

    Most direct lenders ask for:

    • Age 18+ (or age of majority in your state)
    • Valid government-issued ID
    • Active checking account for direct deposit
    • Regular income from employment or other source that is verifiable
    • Citizenship in the U.S. or permanent resident status

    Credit score is not a high consideration, so loans without credit are available to nearly anyone who qualifies based on the minimal requirements.

    Documents Usually Required:

    • Identification (driver’s license or state ID)
    • Income verification (recent paycheck stubs or bank statements)
    • Active bank account information (account number and routing number)
    • Contact information
    • Social Security Number

    Various Types of Emergency Loans | Instant Payday Loans Online Guaranteed Approval for Borrowers Looking for No Credit Check Payday Loans

    • Personal Loans

    Personal loans are utilized for multiple purposes and tend to have longer repayment periods. Traditional personal loans look into your credit score, but no credit check personal loans for bad credit individuals are provided by certain direct lenders.

    • Credit Card Cash Advances

    This provides you with the ability to withdraw cash against your credit limit. Yet, excessive interest charges and fees may turn this into an expensive proposition.

    • Payday Loans

    Short-term payday loans are ideal for emergencies. Viva Payday Loans offers online payday loans with guaranteed approval direct from lenders who don’t require a credit check.

    •  Title Loans

    These require a car title as collateral. While easy to obtain, the risk of losing your vehicle makes them a last resort.

    • Paycheck Advances

    Usually provided by an employer or a third-party software program, they enable access to earned wages before receiving a payday. They could act as payday loan alternatives.

      <<<< Viva Payday Loans – Get Cash Now, No Credit Check! >>>

    How Long Does It Take to Get Approved?

    With sites such as Viva Payday Loans, the majority of borrowers get immediate approval once they finish filling out the online application. The assessment is determined by income and employment status, not credit score.

    Payday Loans Online No Credit Check Instant Approval

    • Disbursement Schedule for Quick Loans No Credit Check

    Direct deposit of payday loans online guaranteed approval funds are typically made within 24 hours. 1-hour payday loans can be issued in some instances.

    • 1 Hour Payday Loans Online No Credit Check Instant Approval

    These are best in emergencies that necessitate same-day funding. Viva Payday Loans gives you access to direct lenders with 1-hour payday loans online with no credit check and instant approval.

    • $255 Payday Loans Online Same Day

    A fast way to borrow among Californians and residents in other states, the $255 payday loan has no credit check and is simple to obtain. Access to this loan can be obtained through the network of direct Viva Payday Loans lenders.

    Pros and Cons of No Credit Check Loans

    Pros:

    • Accessibility: Available to subprime borrowers with bad credit
    • Speed: Easy, rapid process to apply for and get money
    • Convenience: Easy online application with few documents required
    • No credit hit: Application doesn’t harm credit score
    • Flexibility: Money can be spent on many things
    • No collateral needed: Most are unsecured

    Cons:

    • High expense: Much higher interest rates and fees than regular loans
    • Short payment terms: Creates pressure to repay
    • Risk of debt cycles: Can cause renewal or rollover cycles
    • Limited credit building: Most don’t report a good payment history
    • Size restrictions: Usually, smaller loan sizes
    • Regulatory differences: Availability and terms differ by state

    For borrowers considering these loans, the most important point is grasping whether the short-term advantage is worth the long-term expense. These products should ideally be considered emergency measures and not part of general money management.

      <<<< Apply with Viva Payday Loans Today – Even If Credit Isn’t Perfect! >>>>

    No Credit Check Loan Scenario in the USA

    The demand for payday loans and no credit checks is growing as many Americans face falling credit scores. Sites such as Viva Payday Loans offer an essential solution to cope with this demand by providing loans with guaranteed approval and direct lender access.

    Small Payday Loans Online With No Credit Check

    1. Options to Small Payday Loans Online No Credit Check and Urgent Loans No Credit Check

    Other alternatives are credit unions, peer-to-peer loans, or a secured loan. These can have more favorable terms and lower interest.

    2. $500 Cash Advance No Credit Check Loans

    Viva Payday Loans’s network provides cash advances of up to $500 for borrowers who need money urgently. These loans are available with rapid approval and guaranteed approval even for bad credit borrowers.

    3. Emergency Loans No Credit Check

    These loans are only for medical bills, car repairs, or emergencies. Viva Payday Loans facilitates your timely access to these emergency loans with no credit check.

    How to Apply for No Denial Payday Loans Direct Lenders Only With No Credit Check?

    • Go to Viva Payday Loans’s website.
    • Complete the loan application.
    • Matched with a direct lender.
    • Accept the loan offer.
    • Fund via direct deposit.

    Types of Alternatives to No Credit Check Loans Guaranteed Approval: Direct Lenders for Instant Cash

    1. Payday Loans Online No Credit Check Instant Approval Alternatives up to $5000

    Sites such as Upstart or LendingClub provide greater loan amounts to those with better financial health, although they do involve a soft credit check.

     2. $255 Payday Loans Online Same Day No Credit Check Alternatives

    Apps such as Earnin or Dave provide paycheck advances with low fees and no conventional credit checks.

    3. 1 Hour Payday Loans Online No Credit Check Instant Approval

    These are ideal for emergencies, as provided by Viva Payday Loans and some select guaranteed approval direct lenders.

      <<<< Your Emergency Cash Solution: Viva Payday Loans – Click to Qualify! >>>>

    Alternatives to Loans for Bad Credit No Credit Check

    Consider alternatives such as secured loans, installment loans, or financial aid programs through community organizations.

    Some Risk-Free Alternatives to No Credit Check Loans – Alternatives to Unsecured Installment Loans

    1. Secured Loans

    Employ collateral such as a vehicle or savings account to secure lower rates and improved terms.

    2. Credit Unions

    Credit unions tend to provide improved rates and lenient approval for bad credit members.

    3. Peer-to-Peer Lending

    Sites such as Prosper or LendingClub provide personal loans with less stringent credit check requirements.

    4. Tribal Loans No Credit Check

    These are provided by Native American tribes and are not subject to state regulations, but costs can be high.

    What Are the Risks of No Credit Check Loans?

    Although no credit check loans offer useful access to capital for many borrowers, they involve serious risks that must be carefully weighed:

    • High APRs
    • Short time to repay
    • Risk of debt trap if not used responsibly
    • No Credit Building Benefits
    • Limited Regulation in Some States
    • Aggressive Collection Practices

    Why Go For No Credit Check Loans?

    These loans open the door to funds when conventional banks close them because of bad credit or no credit history. These loans offer instant approval, are simple to apply for, and are ideal for emergencies.

    Loan Services and Borrowing Options – How to Find a Reputable No Credit Check Loan Direct Lender?

    Always choose licensed and transparent websites like Viva Payday Loans. Search for lenders who provide:

    • Simple loan terms
    • No concealed charges
    • Direct access to the lender
    • Reasonable repayment solutions

    Where to Get The Best No Denial Payday Loans From Direct Lenders Only With No Credit Check?

    Viva Payday Loans is the best lender platform for bridging borrowers and direct lenders of good standing, providing no-denial payday loans. They have a comprehensive network, fast application process, educational tools, and transparency guarantees that make them the best alternative for credit-hard-pressed borrowers looking for guaranteed funding solutions with approval possibilities.

      <<<< Need Fast Funds? Viva Payday Loans Approves You in Minutes! >>>>

    Final Thoughts

    No credit check loans with guaranteed approval direct lenders such as Viva Payday Loans provide a convenient solution for individuals facing bad credit or financial crises. From personal loans to payday loans, Viva Payday Loans provides quick approval, flexible terms, and peace of mind. Whether you require a small cash advance or an emergency loan, the correct platform can be the difference-maker.

    Secure your financial future—begin your online loan process with Viva Payday Loans today.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the easiest loan to get with no credit?

    Payday and installment loans are generally simplest to obtain with no credit.

    Who is the easiest lender to get a loan from?

    Online lending platforms such as Viva Payday Loans, which have big networks of lenders, usually have the easiest requirements.

    Can I get a loan with a 450 credit score in USA?

    Yes, you can get a short-term loan with 450 credit score from Viva Payday Loans.

    Can I get a loan with a 500 credit score?

    You can get a small personal loan or payday loan with your 500 credit score from direct lenders like Viva Payday Loans.

    Which loan company is best for bad credit?

    Viva Payday Loans is one of the best companies to locate lenders who accept bad credit.

    What is the best legit payday loan app?

    Viva Payday Loans is a legitimate and secure method to locate payday loan offers.

    Can I get a loan without a credit check?

    Yes, there are lenders like Viva Payday Loans that will lend you money without doing a hard credit check.

    Which loan company is easiest to get?

    Viva Payday Loans is undoubtedly one of the easiest sites to have a quick loan approved.

    Disclaimer: This announcement contains general information about Get Payday Loan loan services and should not be considered financial advice. Loans are available to US residents only.

    Media Details:

    Website – https://vivapaydayloans.com/

    Company name – Viva Payday Loans

    Email – support@vivapaydayloans.com

    Address – 4/134 Constance St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia

    Phone – +61 455 466 131

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oxford Lane Capital Corp. Awarded “Best Public Closed‐End CLO Fund” by Creditflux 

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GREENWICH, Conn., May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxford Lane Capital Corp. (NasdaqGS: OXLC) (NasdaqGS: OXLCP) (NasdaqGS: OXLCL) (NasdaqGS: OXLCO) (NasdaqGS: OXLCZ) (NasdaqGS: OXLCN) (NasdaqGS: OXLCI) (NasdaqGS: OXLCG) (“Oxford Lane,” the “Company,” “we,” “us” or “our”) has been named “Best Public Closed-End CLO Fund” by Creditflux, a leading global information source covering credit funds and CLOs.

    The award was presented at Creditflux’s Credit Symposium and Manager Awards, which took place in London on May 15th. The annual Creditflux Manager Awards recognize leading managers and funds based purely on data over the applicable review period. The “Best Public Closed-End CLO Fund” award category measured the change in value of eligible funds between December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2024.

    “We are very pleased to have received this recognition from Creditflux,” said Jonathan Cohen, CEO of the Company. “We’d like to thank our team for their efforts in achieving this success, and also recognize the many collateral managers and counterparties we’ve worked with over the years.”

    About Oxford Lane Capital Corp. 

    Oxford Lane Capital Corp. is a publicly-traded registered closed-end management investment company principally investing in debt and equity tranches of CLO vehicles. CLO investments may also include warehouse facilities, which are financing structures intended to aggregate loans that may be used to form the basis of a CLO vehicle.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements subject to the inherent uncertainties in predicting future results and conditions. Any statements that are not statements of historical fact (including statements containing the words “believes,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimates” and similar expressions) should also be considered to be forward-looking statements. These statements are not guarantees of future performance, conditions or results and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Certain factors could cause actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected in these forward-looking statements. These factors are identified from time to time in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update such statements to reflect subsequent events, except as may be required by law.

    Contact:
    Bruce Rubin
    203-983-5280

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: ‘Manu jumping’: The physics behind making humongous splashes in the pool

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Pankaj Rohilla, Postdoctoral Fellow in Fluid Dynamics, Georgia Institute of Technology

    Maybe you’ve unknowingly tried to do a manu jump. Isabel Pavia/Moment via Getty Images

    Whether diving off docks, cannonballing into lakes or leaping off the high board, there’s nothing quite like the joy of jumping into water.

    Olympic divers turned this natural act into a sophisticated science, with the goal of making a splash as small as possible. But another sport looks for just the opposite: the extreme maximum splash, one as high, wide and loud as possible.

    Welcome to the world of “manu jumping.” Although not a familiar term in the United States, manu jumping is beloved throughout New Zealand. The sport originated in the Māori community, where popping a manu is a way of life. There, manu jumpers leap from bridges, wharves and diving platforms to make the giant splashes.

    The sport is playful yet competitive. At the Z Manu World Champs, you win based on the height and width of your splash. The current record: a splash more than 32 feet high (10 meters).

    The concept sounds simple, but like Olympic diving, it turns out there’s a science to manu jumping.

    In New Zealand, manu jumping is an obsession.

    The Worthington splash

    As fluid dynamicists, we study the way living organisms interact with fluids – for instance, how flamingos feed with their heads underwater,
    or how insects walk on water.

    So when we stumbled upon viral videos of manu jumping on TikTok and YouTube, our curiosity was triggered. We launched a scientific investigation into the art of making a splash.

    Our research was more than just fun and games. Optimizing how bodies enter fluids – whether those bodies are human, animal or mechanical – is an indispensable branch of science. Understanding the physics of water entry has implications for naval engineering, biomechanics and robotics.

    We discovered that creating the perfect manu splash isn’t just about jumping into the water. Instead, it’s about mastering aerial maneuvers, timing underwater movements and knowing exactly how to hit the surface.

    The microsecond the manu jumper hits the water is critical. Two splashes actually occur: The first, the crown splash, forms as the body breaks the surface. The next, the Worthington splash, is responsible for the powerful burst of water that shoots high into the air. Manu jumping is all about triggering and maximizing the Worthington splash.

    So we analyzed 75 YouTube videos of manu jumps. First, we noticed the technique: Jumpers land glutes first, with legs and torso scrunched up in a V-shaped posture.

    But the moment they go underwater, the divers roll back and kick out to straighten their bodies. This expands the air cavity, the space of air created in the water by the jump; then the cavity collapses, detaching itself from the body. This period of detachment is known as “pinch-off time” – when the collapse sends a jet of water shooting upward. All of this happens within a fraction of a second.

    The science behind making a big splash.

    Answers from Manubot

    We found that jumpers entered the water at a median V-angle of about 46 degrees. Intrigued, we recreated these movements in a lab aquarium, using 3D-printed, V-shaped projectiles to test different V-angles.

    The result? A 45-degree angle produced the fastest, tallest splashes, virtually matching what we observed in the human jumpers. V-angles greater than 45 degrees increased the risk of injury from landing flat on the back. We found it interesting that the jumpers very nearly hit the optimal angle largely through what appeared to be intuition and trial and error.

    Note how the splash of the V-shaped projectiles was highest at 45 degrees.

    Digging deeper, we then built Manubot, a robot that mimics human body movements during manu jumps. It’s able to switch from a V-shape to a straight posture underwater. This is how we learned the optimal timing to maximize splash size.

    For instance, for someone who’s 5-foot-7 and jumping from 1 meter, opening their body within 0.26 to 0.3 seconds of hitting the water resulted in the biggest splash. Open too soon or too late, and splash size is compromised.

    Here’s how the Manubot worked.

    One caveat: Humans are far more complex than any 3D-printed projectile or a Manubot. Factors such as weight distribution, flexibility and anatomical shape add nuance that our models can’t yet replicate.

    For now, though, our findings highlight a simple truth: Creating the perfect manu splash isn’t the result of luck. Instead, it relies on a carefully tuned symphony of aerial and underwater maneuvers. So the next time you see someone spray everyone in the pool with a gigantic jump, remember – there’s a beautiful science behind the splash.

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

    – ref. ‘Manu jumping’: The physics behind making humongous splashes in the pool – https://theconversation.com/manu-jumping-the-physics-behind-making-humongous-splashes-in-the-pool-255837

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: New chancellor, old constraints: Germany’s Friedrich Merz will have a hard time freeing the country from its self-imposed shackles

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Mark I. Vail, Worrell Chair of Politics and International Affairs, Wake Forest University

    German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has had an uncertain start to his tenure. John MacDougall/AFP via Getty Images

    Friedrich Merz received a rude shock on the morning of May 6, 2025, as he prepared to lose the “in-waiting” qualifier from his title as German chancellor.

    After weeks of negotiations following February’s federal election, Merz’s Christian Democrats (CDU) had struck a coalitional bargain with the center-left Social Democrats (SPD), giving the bloc a thin majority of 13 seats in the 630-member Bundestag, the lower house of Germany’s parliament. Yet, Merz still struggled to ratify his chancellorship.

    He fell short of the majority he needed on the first vote, with 18 members of his coalition voting against him.

    Though he was elected on a second ballot, the initial “no” vote was unprecedented for an incoming chancellor in the postwar federal republic, with insiders claiming that some of those voting “no” were conservatives opposed to Merz’s push to loosen German fiscal rules. Aside from the immediate political embarrassment, the vote was symptomatic of something else: a more deep-seated weakness in both the new chancellor and his government. As a scholar of German politics and history and the author of a forthcoming book on German state traditions and economic governance, I see Merz’s problems, and those of his country, as having deep historical roots.

    Taking the brakes off?

    For Germany and Europe, the stakes in the run-up to the vote to ratify Merz as chancellor could not have been higher – a cascade of crises confronts both. As SPD’s parliamentary leader Jens Spahn noted in the run-up to the May 6 vote: “All of Europe, perhaps the whole world, is watching this ballot.”

    The German chancellor is looking to strengthen both Europe and Germany through firm leadership and heavier spending. He has promised a massive increase in defense outlays in order to create the “strongest conventional army in Europe,” to counter the threat from a bellicose Russia and the United States’ wavering over traditional security commitments to the continent.

    This broad vision, however, is confronted by a number of obstacles, most importantly the so-called “debt brake.” Adopted after the 2008 financial crisis, this “brake” limited annual deficits to a paltry 0.35% of gross domestic product and proscribed any debts at all for the German “Länder,” or regions.

    In March, soon after the February election but before the seating of the new Bundestag, then-presumptive Chancellor Merz called for an exemption to the debt brake for defense spending above 1% of annual gross domestic product, with a promise to do “whatever it takes” to bolster Germany’s military and verbally committing to spend up to US$1.12 trillion (1 trillion euros) over 10 years. The outgoing parliament agreed and also created a $560 billion (500 billion euros) fund dedicated to rehabilitating Germany’s crumbling infrastructure.

    But Merz’s plans to revitalize Germany’s military and infrastructure could be seriously undermined by domestic forces – both within and outside of his coalition. It runs up against long-standing German norms and ideologies that threaten to hamper the state’s capacity and the government’s ability to act decisively.

    Ambivalence about state power

    This wobbly start to the new government hearkens back to old and deeply rooted divisions about the character of the post-World War II German state.

    In the late 1960s, West German Chancellor-to-be Willy Brandt quipped that the federal republic had become an “economic giant but a political dwarf.”

    Though the phrase would become a cliché, it captured both the fraught legacies of World War II and older German ambivalence about state power, which had long been associated with authoritarian politics under both the Nazis and the Wilhelmine Reich following German unification under Bismarck in 1871.

    U.S. President John F. Kennedy, left, rides through the streets of Berlin with West Berlin Mayor Willy Brandt, center, and Chancellor Konrad Adenauer.
    Bettmann/Contributor

    Until the 1980s, such constraints posed relatively few problems. The country’s postwar “economic miracle” legitimized the fledgling democratic state, while empowering capital and labor within the export sectors that fueled the boom. This effectively devolved political power to economically strategic actors.

    These institutional features also reflected a distinctive postwar model of German politics that weakened centralized power. Achieved in the late 1940s by Chancellor Konrad Adenauer, West German sovereignty was fragmented: domestically by federalism and decentralized political institutions, and internationally through integration into NATO and the European Economic Community.

    This “semi-sovereign state,” in political scientist Peter Katzenstein’s famous formulation, helped reclaim German moral credibility from the ashes of fascism and genocide. A decentralized state with robust checks and balances was viewed as both a bulwark against authoritarianism and a recipe for export-led growth and political stability.

    Even after the restoration of full sovereignty with German reunification in 1990, German officials still trod lightly. Their concern was that a more assertive Germany would reawaken old fears about German militarism. Moreover, they were content to privilege economic rather than military power as the coin of their peculiar realm.

    A nation of Swabian housewives?

    The historical ambivalence about the German state’s role and related dilemmas about German power will not be easy for Merz to resolve.

    With respect to Germany’s capacity for decisive leadership, the past three years suggest that much work remains to be done. Confronted with a series of unprecedented shocks − from Russian military aggression in Ukraine, to the attendant energy crisis that exposed German dependence on imported Russian gas, to the rise of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) − Merz’s predecessor, Social Democrat Olaf Scholz, called in 2022 for a “Zeitenwende,” or “epochal change,” in defense and energy policy.

    But instead, Scholz’s “traffic light coalition” of (yellow) Liberals, Greens, and (red) Social Democrats dithered and bickered, eventually succumbing to a rare – in German politics – public interparty squabble that ultimately brought down the government in late 2024.

    Reluctant to send its most advanced weapons – notably long-range Taurus cruise missiles – to Ukraine, and unable to overcome the Liberals’ hostility to badly needed fiscal expansion, Scholz was criticized for leading from behind, wary of backlash from pacifist currents in the German electorate and captive to long-held German concerns over expanding the national debt.

    Merz is looking not to repeat the same mistakes. But to accomplish his vision of a revitalized and more secure Germany, he has to overcome both the debt brake and, even more important, the deep ideological currents that gave rise to it.

    These factors intensified long-standing constraints on defense spending, which had failed to keep up with inflation for much of the 2000s and remained far below the NATO norm of 2% of annual gross domestic product.

    The “brake” was subsequently embraced by governments of both left and right, from SPD Chancellor Gerhard Schröder’s “Red-Green” coalition of 1998 to 2005 to the governments of Christian Democrat Angela Merkel from 2005 to 2021. As is abundantly clear in the pages of Merkel’s recent memoir, the proverbial character of the frugal “Swabian housewife” was one that she relished rather than resisted.

    But to many observers, this fetishization of austerity has contributed to decades of underinvestment in domestic infrastructure − from roads, to schools, to public buildings, to broader public services − failures which the AfD has been eager to exploit. And as promising as it seems, Merz’s commitment of $560 billion (500 billion euros) is approximately equivalent to the country’s existing needs, without accounting for future depreciation.

    Far-right activists gather near the Ostkreuz railway station in Berlin, Germany, on March 22, 2025 .
    Omer Messinger/Getty Images

    Even Germany’s traditionally punctual train service has become a laughingstock, with jokes about late or canceled trains now standard fare for German comics.

    Going beyond rhetoric

    It remains unclear whether Merz’s rhetorical shift and a constitutional change that permits but does not in itself create more robust defense spending augur a new direction in German politics, or whether Europe’s largest economy will continue to be hobbled by self-imposed constraints and parliamentary squabbling. If the latter happens, Germany risks both continued economic decline and bolstering the AfD, whose support comes disproportionately from economically stagnant former Eastern regions, and which last month surpassed Merz’s CDU in public opinion polls.

    And despite Merz’s commitments, not a single euro of the promised military and infrastructure funds has yet been budgeted. And even if it were, that would not address the country’s yawning needs in other areas, such as state-funded research and development and education.

    Europe, too, needs Merz’s words to turn into action − and soon. The threat of Russia to the east and the turning tide of relations with Trump’s America to the west has put the EU in a bind and in need of strong leadership.

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

    – ref. New chancellor, old constraints: Germany’s Friedrich Merz will have a hard time freeing the country from its self-imposed shackles – https://theconversation.com/new-chancellor-old-constraints-germanys-friedrich-merz-will-have-a-hard-time-freeing-the-country-from-its-self-imposed-shackles-256048

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: NDA appoints two new Non-Executive Board Members

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    NDA appoints two new Non-Executive Board Members

    NDA announces Catriona Schmolke CBE FREng and Dr Neil Bruce OBE CEng as NDA Board members.

    NDA logo

    The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) has announced that Catriona Schmolke CBE FREng and Dr Neil Bruce OBE CEng have been appointed to the NDA Board as Non-Executive Board members.

    Neil and Catriona will begin their three-and-a-half-year term on 1 June 2025.

    Catriona brings 40 years of expertise in the infrastructure sector as a hydrogeologist and engineer, with significant experience in Chief Executive, Board Chair and Non-Executive roles. Her career has spanned numerous sectors and major programmes, including nuclear, energy, water, waste, and contaminated land.

    She served as the Chief Safety Security and Sustainability Officer at Jacobs from 2014 to 2020. Catriona currently holds the position of Chair at Artus Air Ltd. Additionally, she serves as a Non-Executive Director and member of the Audit & Risk Committee for the National Physical Laboratory and Scottish Water Group. She is also a Non-Executive Director with NES Fircroft Ltd.

    Catriona is a former Visiting Professor of Sustainability at Newcastle University and serves as a lay member and Chair of the Statutory Safety Committee at Strathclyde University.

    Neil has 40 years of experience, including as a Chief Executive, Board Chair, and Non-Executive Director, in the maritime, resources, nuclear, built environment, and energy sectors. He has managed global and regional markets in over 50 countries, working with public, private, and PE-backed companies.

    Neil’s current roles include Non-Executive Director at McDermott International and Dar Groups; Executive Advisor and Chair with two private equity groups; Chair of a start-up waste-to-biofuels technology business and Visiting Professor at Robert Gordon University Aberdeen.

    His previous roles include President and CEO of SNC Lavalin Group Inc, Group COO at AMEC plc, and various leadership and delivery positions in major projects and in industry associations.

    Peter Hill CBE, the Chair of the NDA, said:

    I am delighted that Catriona and Neil are joining us. Their extensive experience will be invaluable in helping us to drive forward our nationally important mission.

    Catriona Schmolke CBE FREng said:

    I am honoured to join the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority as a Non-Executive Director. As we navigate the complexities of decommissioning and environmental stewardship, I look forward to contributing my expertise and experience in sustainable solutions to this nationally important mission, thus safeguarding the future for generations to come.

    Dr Neil Bruce OBE CEng said:

    It is a privilege to join the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority at this important juncture, as the breadth of its decommissioning work is set to expand. I am committed to leveraging my experience in energy and nuclear markets to support the NDA’s efforts in decommissioning the UK’s nuclear legacy, ensuring we meet the highest standards of safety and efficiency.

    Catriona and Neil were appointed to the NDA Board by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) following a fair, open and transparent selection process.

    Updates to this page

    Published 16 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: NextNRG Reports Preliminary April 2025 Revenues up 154% Year-over-Year

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NextNRG, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXXT), a pioneer in AI-driven energy innovation—transforming how energy is produced, managed and delivered through its advanced Utility Operating System, smart microgrid technology, wireless EV charging and on-demand mobile fuel delivery solutions— today announced preliminary unaudited financial results for April 2025.

    April 2025 Highlights:

    • Revenue: $5.82 million, up 154% year-over-year
    • Gallons Delivered: 1.78 million, up 207% year-over-year

    April marks another strong month of growth, supported by sustained volume increases and recent expansion into Oklahoma, alongside rising demand from national fleet clients using NextNRG’s on-demand fueling platform.

    “Our April performance further validates the strength of our business model and execution strategy,” said Michael D. Farkas, Executive Chairman and CEO of NextNRG. “With year-over-year revenues more than doubling, we are seeing growing demand from national fleet operators who value the reliability, efficiency and sustainability of our smart fueling solutions. We’re not just delivering fuel, we’re laying the groundwork for a cleaner energy future. As we prepare to scale our Next Utility Operating System, our AI-powered microgrid systems, and wireless EV charging products, April’s results reflect our ability to grow rapidly while staying focused on operational efficiency and long-term value creation.”

    Note on Preliminary Results
    The financial results for April 2025 are preliminary and unaudited. Final results may differ and will be confirmed upon the completion of standard month-end and quarter-end closing procedures.

    About NextNRG, Inc.
    NextNRG, Inc. (NextNRG) is Powering What’s Next by implementing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into renewable energy, next-generation energy infrastructure, battery storage, wireless electric vehicle (EV) charging and on-demand mobile fuel delivery to create an integrated ecosystem.

    At the core of NextNRG’s strategy is its Utility Operating System, which leverages AI and ML to help make existing utilities’ energy management as efficient as possible, and the deployment of NextNRG smart microgrids, which utilize AI-driven energy management alongside solar power and battery storage to enhance energy efficiency, reduce costs and improve grid resiliency. These microgrids are designed to serve commercial properties, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, parking garages, rural and tribal lands, recreational facilities and government properties, expanding energy accessibility while supporting decarbonization initiatives.

    NextNRG continues to expand its growing fleet of fuel delivery trucks and national footprint, including the acquisition of Yoshi Mobility’s fuel division and Shell Oil’s trucks, further solidifying its position as a leader in the on-demand fueling industry. NextNRG is also integrating sustainable energy solutions into its mobile fueling operations. The company hopes to be an integral part of assisting its fleet customers in their transition to EV, supporting more efficient fuel delivery while advancing clean energy adoption. The transition process is expected to include the deployment of NextNRG’s innovative wireless EV charging solutions.

    To find out more, visit: www.nextnrg.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Any statement describing NextNRG’s goals, expectations, financial or other projections, intentions, or beliefs is a forward-looking statement and should be considered an at-risk statement. Words such as “expect,” “intends,” “will,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, those related to NextNRG’s business and macroeconomic and geopolitical events. These and other risks are described in NextNRG’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time. NextNRG’s forward-looking statements involve assumptions that, if they never materialize or prove correct, could cause its results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Although NextNRG’s forward-looking statements reflect the good faith judgment of its management, these statements are based only on facts and factors currently known by NextNRG. Except as required by law, NextNRG undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements for any reason. As a result, you are cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements.

    Investor Relations Contact
    NextNRG, Inc.
    Sharon Cohen
    SCohen@nextnrg.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Richtech Robotics Expands ADAM Robot Capabilities with AI Powered Artisanal Espresso System

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New system utilizes advancements in physical AI to provide customers efficient and precise artisanal coffee products

    Las Vegas, NV, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Richtech Robotics Inc. (Nasdaq: RR) (“Richtech Robotics” or the “Company”), a Nevada-based provider of AI-driven service robots, is expanding the capabilities of its AI-powered barista robot, ADAM, with a new artisanal espresso system debuting at the National Restaurant Association Show at McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago from May 17 to May 20, 2025.

    “Richtech Robotics remains committed to delivering practical, revenue-generating AI solutions that solve high-need challenges in hospitality today,” said Matt Casella, President of Richtech Robotics. “As automation continues to reshape the service industry, our ADAM robot has already demonstrated its ability to craft high-quality lattes, boba teas, and more—earning praise from both business owners and consumers. With expanded coffee-based offerings, ADAM now bridges the gap between automation and artisanal craft, offering operators new ways to curate their unique customer experience.”

    The new artisanal coffee system features equipment commonly found in cafés worldwide, including a precision grinder, distribution and tamping equipment, and a hand-pressed espresso machine. This upgrade introduces a new layer of intelligence by applying ADAM’s physical AI capabilities to monitor and control the espresso-making process in real time. Using NVIDIA-powered AI vision, ADAM observes the water pressure during extraction and makes precise adjustments to optimize each shot. This interaction between perception and control moves beyond basic automation, demonstrating how AI can bring precision, adaptability, and consistency to traditionally manual tasks.

    With this upgrade, the company believes automation doesn’t have to mean compromise. ADAM’s advanced physical AI capabilities offer a way for businesses to serve high-quality, handcrafted beverages while maintaining workflow efficiency and stable staffing.

    In addition to crafting artisanal coffee, ADAM uses AI-enabled vision to detect when a customer approaches, prompting him to begin explaining each step of the process in real time.

    Attendees at the National Restaurant Association Show will be able to meet ADAM and see the new artisanal coffee system in action at booth #4084 in the south building on the exhibition floor.

    About Richtech Robotics

    Richtech Robotics is a provider of collaborative robotic solutions specializing in the service industry, including the hospitality and healthcare sectors. Our mission is to transform the service industry through collaborative robotic solutions that enhance the customer experience and empower businesses to achieve more. By seamlessly integrating cutting-edge automation, we aspire to create a landscape of enhanced interactions, efficiency, and innovation, propelling organizations toward unparalleled levels of excellence and satisfaction. Learn more at www.RichtechRobotics.com.

    Forward Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this press release are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements may be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “forecast,” “estimate,” “expect,” and “intend,” among others. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the performance of Richtech Robotics’ products and the success of the Richtech Accelerator Program, including the likelihood of improving research efficiency and success rates.

    These forward-looking statements are based on Richtech Robotics’ current expectations and actual results could differ materially. There are a number of factors that could cause actual events to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements include, among others, risks and uncertainties related to the results of the Richtech Accelerator Program and the ability of AI-powered robotic solutions to improve efficiency. Investors should read the risk factors set forth in Richtech Robotics’ Annual Report on Form 10-K/A, filed with the SEC on March 4, 2025, the IPO registration statement and periodic reports filed with the SEC on or after the date thereof. All of Richtech Robotics’ forward-looking statements are expressly qualified by all such risk factors and other cautionary statements. The information set forth herein speaks only as of the date thereof. New risks and uncertainties arise over time, and it is not possible for Richtech Robotics to predict those events or how they may affect Richtech Robotics. If a change to the events and circumstances reflected in Richtech Robotics’ forward-looking statements occurs, Richtech Robotics’ business, financial condition and operating results may vary materially from those expressed in Richtech Robotics’ forward-looking statements.

    Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Richtech Robotics assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Investors:
    CORE IR
    Matt Blazei
    ir@richtechrobotics.com

    Media: 
    Timothy Tanksley
    Director of Marketing
    Richtech Robotics, Inc
    press@richtechrobotics.com
    702-534-0050

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Time for NZ media to ditch the propaganda and stand against genocide

    COMMENTARY: By Saige England in Christchurch

    “RNZ is failing in its duty to inform the public of an entirely preventable humanitarian catastrophe.”

    Tautoko to Jeremy Rose, Ramon Das and Eugene Doyle for this critique of a review of RNZ’s coverage of a genocide.

    Sadly, this highlights RNZ’s failure to report the genocide from the perspective of the very real victims — more journalists killed in Gaza than the whole of World War Two, aid workers murdered and buried, 17,000 children, including babies, who will never ever grow.

    I respect so many RNZ journalists and have always supported this important national broadcaster but it is time for it to pull up its pants, ditch the propaganda and report from the field of truth.

    I carry my Jewish ancestors in standing against genocide and calling for reports that show the truth of the travesty.

    For reporting on protests I have been pepper sprayed by thugged-up police donning US-style gloves and glasses (illegally carrying pepper spray and tasers).

    I was banned from my own town hall when I tried — with my E Tu press card — to attend the deputy leader Winston Peters’ media conference.

    This government does not want the truth reported, it seems.

    I have reported from the fields of invasion and conflict. I’ve taught journalism and communications. Good journalists remember journalism ethics. Reports from the point of view of the oppressor support the oppressor.

    Humanitarianism means not reporting from the perspective of a mercenary army — an army that has been enforcing apartheid for decades, and which is invoking a policy of extermination for expansion.

    Please read this media review and think of how you would feel if someone demanded that you leave your home. Palestinians have faced oppression and apartheid and “unhoming” for decades.

    Think of the intolerable weight of grief you would carry if a sniper put a bullet between the eyes of a child you love and know.

    Report on the victims. And stop subscribing to propaganda.

    Saige England is a journalist and author, and a member of the Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa (PSNA). She is a frequent contributor to Asia Pacific Report. This was first published as a social media post.

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Trump’s vision for Air Force One will turn it from the ‘Flying White House’ to a ‘palace in the sky’

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Janet Bednarek, Professor of History, University of Dayton

    Former first lady Jacqueline Kennedy helped design Air Force One’s color scheme, which has been used since her husband’s presidency. Jeff J. Mitchell/Getty Images

    Since President Donald Trump excitedly announced that he would be accepting a US$400 million plane from the Qatari government to serve as the next Air Force One, even members of his own party have expressed alarm.

    There’s the price tag of refurbishing the plane with top-secret systems – upward of $1 billion, according to some estimates. Then there are the conflicts of interest from accepting such a large present from a foreign nation – what some say would be the most valuable gift ever given to the U.S.

    But it would also mark a striking departure from tradition.

    While they’re often variants of commercial planes, presidential planes have almost always been U.S. military aircraft, flown and maintained by the Air Force.

    The first White Houses in the sky

    I’m an aviation historian who once worked in the United States Air Force’s history program for three years, so I’m well-acquainted with the history of presidential aircraft.

    Franklin D. Roosevelt became the first president to fly while in office. In January 1943, he boarded the Navy-owned, civilian-operated Boeing Dixie Clipper – a sea plane – for a trip to Casablanca to meet with Allied leaders.

    President Franklin D. Roosevelt made the first presidential flight on a Dixie Clipper, a sea plane built by Boeing.
    Hulton Archive/Getty Images

    The security measures needed to safely transport the president – especially during wartime – spurred the creation of the first custom-built aircraft for presidential use, a heavily modified VC-54 Skymaster. Though officially named “The Flying White House,” the new presidential aircraft became better known by its nickname, the “Sacred Cow.”

    President Harry Truman used the Sacred Cow as his presidential aircraft through much of his first term in office.

    In late 1947, the U.S. Air Force ordered a second custom-built presidential aircraft, a modified DC-6, which Truman named the Independence.

    While in office, Presidents Franklin D. Roosevelt and Harry Truman flew on a modified Douglas C-54, nicknamed the Sacred Cow.
    Museum of Flight/Corbis via Getty Images

    During Dwight D. Eisenhower’s two terms, the president flew on two different planes operated by the Air Force: the Columbine II, which was a customized, military version of Lockheed’s commercial airliner the Constellation, and the Columbine III, which was a Super Constellation.

    Embracing the jet age

    In the 1960s, the use of jet engine technology in U.S. commercial aircraft revolutionized air travel, allowing planes to fly higher, farther and faster. Jet travel became associated with the glamorous and the elegant lifestyles of the “jet set” crowd.

    So it’s fitting that President John F. Kennedy – who was sometimes called the “the first celebrity president” – was the first White House occupant to fly in a jet, the Boeing 707.

    Kennedy’s aircraft was also the first painted in the distinctive light blue-and-white scheme that’s still used today. First lady Jacqueline Kennedy developed it with the help of industrial designer Raymond Loewy.

    It would go on to serve eight presidents before leaving the presidential fleet in 1990, when Boeing delivered the first of two modified Boeing 747s.

    These are the aircraft that continue to serve as the president’s primary plane. Boeing signed a contract to provide two new aircraft in 2017, during Trump’s last term. In 2020, the company decided to refurbish two existing aircraft that were originally built for another customer.

    The refurbishment has been more cumbersome and expensive than building a new aircraft from scratch. But it’s the only option because Boeing closed its 747 assembly line in late 2022.

    A nickname sticks

    On a trip to Florida, the crew of Columbine II first used “Air Force One” as the plane’s call sign to clearly distinguish the plane from other air traffic.

    While the public has associated the name Air Force One with the modified Boeing 707s and 747s and their distinctive colors, any plane with the president aboard will carry that call sign.

    They include several smaller aircraft, also operated by the Air Force, such as the North American T-39 Sabreliner used to transport Lyndon B. Johnson to his ranch in Texas and the Lockheed VC-140B JetStars, the fleet of backup planes used by several presidents, which Johnson jokingly called “Air Force One Half.”

    A cultural and political symbol

    Air Force One has long served as a symbol of the power and prestige of the presidency.

    It became an indelible part of U.S. history in November 1963, when Johnson took his oath of office from Air Force One’s cabin while Kennedy’s body lay in rest in the back of the aircraft.

    Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson is sworn in as president aboard Air Force One following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
    Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

    Air Force One carried President Richard M. Nixon to China and the Soviet Union for historic diplomatic missions. But it also famously flew him from Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland to his home state, California, after he resigned from office. On that day, the plane took off as Air Force One. But it landed as SAM 27000, the plane’s call sign used when the president wasn’t on board.

    Trump has been compared to Nixon in more ways than one.

    And Trump’s complaint that Arab leaders have bigger and more impressive airplanes than the current Air Force One is reminiscent of Nixon’s own concerns of being outclassed on the world stage.

    The Nixon family boards Air Force One to fly to California on Aug. 9, 1974, following President Richard Nixon’s resignation.
    Wally McNamee/Corbis via Getty Images

    When president, Nixon strongly advocated for American supersonic transport – a 270-passenger plane designed to be faster than the speed of sound – that he hoped could be modified to serve as a new Air Force One. He feared the failure to develop an SST would relegate the U.S. to second-tier status, as other world leaders – particularly those from England, France and the USSR – traversed the globe in sleeker, better performing aircraft.

    Trump’s concerns about Air Force One seem less focused on safety and security and more on size and opulence. His longing for a “palace in the sky” is befitting for a president drawn to soaring skyscrapers, lavish parades and gold ornamentation.

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

    – ref. Trump’s vision for Air Force One will turn it from the ‘Flying White House’ to a ‘palace in the sky’ – https://theconversation.com/trumps-vision-for-air-force-one-will-turn-it-from-the-flying-white-house-to-a-palace-in-the-sky-256745

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Beechside children’s home receives outstanding Ofsted rating

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Beechside short breaks children’s home, which provides short-break services for children with learning and/or physical disabilities, has proudly received outstanding ratings in all areas following a recent Ofsted inspection.

    The unannounced inspection of Portsmouth City Council’s Beechside short breaks children’s home on 15 and 17 April 2025, evaluated the home on the following criteria:

    • Overall experiences and progress of children and young people: Outstanding
    • How well children and young people are helped and protected: Outstanding
    • The effectiveness of leaders and managers: Outstanding

    Cllr Nicholas Dorrington, Cabinet Member for Children, Families, and Education, said: “This outstanding achievement is a testament to the hard work and commitment of the Beechside staff and the wider council team.

    “We are incredibly proud of this recognition by Ofsted and remain dedicated to providing the best possible care for the children and young people we care for at Beechside children’s home and their families.”

    The outstanding rating reflects the dedication and hard work of Beechside’s team in providing high-quality care and support to some of the most vulnerable children and young people in our community. Additionally, the comprehensive improvements made over the past couple of years, including renovations to the house, have significantly enhanced the positive experiences of those cared for at Beechside.

    You can read the full report here: https://reports.ofsted.gov.uk/provider/2/SC037588?utm_source&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=report

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Save Loch Lomond: “Appalling” Flamingo Land mega-resort approved by Scottish Government officials

    Source: Scottish Greens

    16 May 2025 Nature Save Loch Lomond

    The most unpopular planning application in Scottish history, Flamingo Land would cause irreversible damage to the world-famous local environment

    More in Nature

    The decision by Scottish Government officials to approve Flamingo Land’s destructive mega-resort application for Loch Lomond will cause “irreversible damage” and is an “anti-democratic outrage” says Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer.

    Flamingo Land have attempted to gain planning permission for their mega resort at Balloch for the past decade, with their first application failing in 2019. Their latest bid was unanimously rejected by the board of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park at a public hearing in September of last year.

    This followed a campaign led by Ross Greer which collected over 155,000 individual objections to the plans, as well as objections from the National Trust for Scotland, Woodland Trust, Scottish Environment Protection Agency, the local community council and the Park’s own expert planning officers.

    Flamingo Land lodged an appeal against this decision shortly before Christmas, seeking to have the rejection overturned by the Scottish Government and secure consent for their plans, which include two hotels, a waterpark, over 370 car parking spaces, a hundred woodland lodges, monorail, and more.

    In a letter to Ross Greer and other stakeholders this morning, the Scottish Government’s Planning And Environmental Appeals Division confirmed that they have overturned the democratic decision of the National Park’s board and granted permission for the destructive mega-resort.

    This is despite flood risk warnings from SEPA, loss of nature and biodiversity, the disruption of over 250 extra cars on congested local roads at peak times and a range of other damaging impacts the development would have.

    Mr Greer said:

    “This is an anti-democratic outrage. I cannot believe that Flamingo Land’s destructive and immensely unpopular mega-resort is being given the go-ahead by Government officials. It was the most unpopular planning application in Scottish history and will cause irreversible damage to the world-famous local environment at Loch Lomond.

    “Their destructive plans were unanimously rejected by the National Park’s board, opposed by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency, the National Trust for Scotland, the Woodland Trust, the Park’s expert planning officers and 155,000 people who joined our Save Loch Lomond campaign.

    “This greedy developer would not take no for an answer and I am shocked that Government officials have put Flamingo Land’s interests above the need to protect Loch Lomond.

    “We are urgently considering our options for continuing this fight. I will leave no stone unturned in the campaign to save Loch Lomond.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • India’s GDP growth in Q4 of 2024–25 expected at 6.8–7%: report

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian economy is projected to grow at a rate of 6.8–7 per cent in the fourth quarter of the financial year 2024–25, largely driven by the agriculture sector, according to a report released by Bank of Baroda on Friday.

    For the full financial year, GDP growth is estimated at 6.2–6.4 per cent, with the report highlighting that India continues to outperform many of its global counterparts due to strong macroeconomic fundamentals.

    Looking ahead to FY26, the economy is expected to grow at a similar pace of 6.4–6.6 per cent. This outlook is supported by factors such as anticipated monetary easing, lower inflation, robust domestic demand, a budgetary push, and sustained capital expenditure. However, the report cautions that geopolitical conflicts or the imposition of global tariffs could dampen this optimism.

    In Q4 FY25, agriculture is expected to grow by a robust 7.7 per cent—significantly higher than the 0.9 per cent growth recorded in the same period last year. This surge is attributed to record foodgrain production, as reflected in the second advance estimates covering both kharif and rabi crops.

    While overall Q4 growth is expected to exceed that of Q3, the performance is likely to be uneven across sectors.

    In the industrial sector, mining is projected to grow by 1.5 per cent in Q4 FY25, compared to 0.8 per cent in the corresponding quarter of FY24. However, growth in manufacturing is likely to moderate sharply to 1.8 per cent from 11.3 per cent a year earlier, partly due to a high base and weaker corporate earnings. Industries such as iron and steel, capital goods, and textiles witnessed lower profit margins, despite softening commodity prices. The electricity sector is also expected to grow at a slower pace of 5.5 per cent, down from 8.8 per cent in Q4 FY24.

    On a more positive note, the construction sector is projected to maintain strong growth, supported by increased output in steel and cement, along with continued government capital expenditure.

    The services sector shows a mixed trend. The marriage season and events like the Mahakumbh are expected to boost hospitality, transport, logistics, and food and beverage services. The trade, hotels, and transport sector is projected to grow by 6.4 per cent in Q4, up slightly from 6.2 per cent in the same quarter last year. GST collections have also continued their steady growth. However, financial services are likely to slow, with projected growth of 6.6 per cent compared to 9 per cent last year, amid a decline in credit growth.

    Public administration and defence spending are expected to rise, driven by an increase in net revenue expenditure.

    Looking forward, the report notes that rural demand is likely to remain strong in FY26, bolstered by expectations of a favourable monsoon. According to NOAA, neutral ENSO conditions are expected to prevail in the coming months, supporting agricultural output. Consumption is also set to rise, aided by higher disposable incomes and new tax incentives. Additionally, an ongoing easing of monetary policy due to lower inflation is expected to support growth, along with relief from subdued commodity prices.

    “Based on the above factors, we expect the Indian economy to grow by 6.4–6.6 per cent in FY26. However, downside risks remain, particularly for the external sector, due to evolving global tariff challenges,” the report stated. “Any adverse geopolitical conflict or extreme weather event could also pose a risk to growth, although potential bilateral trade deals—particularly with the US—could offer some positives.”

    (Reuter)

  • Novel approach to HIV vaccine shows early promise

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The first human clinical trials testing a new strategy to protect against HIV infections have yielded promising early results, according to two separate reports published on Thursday in Science.
     
    The trials tested “germline targeting” HIV vaccines, which aim to activate immune system B cells in their naive, or germline, state, inducing them to become specialized cells that produce broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs).
     
    By delivering a variety of HIV immunogens – typically, viral protein fragments – germline vaccines train the B cells to produce antibodies that can recognize and block a broad range of different strains of HIV from infecting healthy cells.
     
    Germline targeting requires an initial dose to prime the correct B cells, and subsequent doses to guide their maturation until they can produce effective bnAbs, the researchers reported.
     
    “Across the participants we saw an immune response that indicates that we’re on the right track,” Rogier Sanders of Amsterdam UMC, senior investigator on one of the trials, said in a statement.
     
    “We saw that we can target the cells that we need to target with atomic precision. The next step is to further stimulate these cells to secrete broadly neutralizing antibodies,” Sanders said.
     
    In a separate paper, a different team of researchers reported on two early trials that used mRNA-encoded nanoparticles produced by Moderna to successfully prime the germline B cells, although a small proportion of patients had skin reactions to the vaccines.
     
    The mRNA technology, similar to that used in Moderna’s COVID-19 shots, would allow for faster vaccine development, the study authors said.
     
    One of the trials was conducted in the United States and the other in Rwanda and South Africa. The majority of HIV patients live in Africa, but germline targeting has not previously been attempted there.
     
    The researchers said the mRNA approach appeared to work with both North American and African populations, opening the door to further testing of germline-targeting vaccines for “African populations in most need of an HIV vaccine.”
     
    EASING THERAPIES FOR SOME PROSTATE, CERVIX CANCERS
     
    Two new studies suggest that patients with certain cancers might do just as well with a shorter course of radiation or a less extensive surgery as with standard treatments.
     
    In JAMA Oncology, researchers reported that in men who require radiation after undergoing the most extensive type of surgery for prostate cancer, a form of high-dose radiation delivered in just five sessions known as stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) appears to be as safe as conventional treatment delivered daily for up to seven weeks.
     
    SBRT is a well-established treatment for prostate cancer, but its use after a radical prostatectomy has been limited due to concerns about the shifting position of the prostate bed and nearby healthy tissues.
     
    The researchers tracked 100 men treated with SBRT in the single-arm study. Two years after the treatment, outcomes and side effects were similar to what the researchers had seen in the past from patients who received the longer-course treatments.
     
    If randomized studies and longer follow-up confirm the results, “this approach could remove a major barrier to post-surgery radiation therapy,” study leader Dr. Amar Kishan of the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA said in a statement.
     
    In JAMA Network Open, a separate team of researchers reported that women with low-risk early-stage cancer of the cervix do as well after simple hysterectomy as after modified radical hysterectomy or radical hysterectomy.
     
    Among 2,636 carefully selected patients treated for stage IA2 or IB1 cervical carcinoma at accredited cancer hospitals, there was no difference in survival rates at 3 years, 5 years, 7 years or 10, or in postoperative outcomes after the three types of surgery.
     
    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Harbour protection law now in force

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Protection of the Harbour (Amendment) Ordinance 2025 was published in the Government Gazette and came into force today.

    The Development Bureau said the amended ordinance will more effectively regulate the Government in exercising its power to pursue reclamations in the Victoria Harbour.

    The bureau and relevant departments are finalising administrative guidelines for the ordinance. These will be completed and published within two months. The amended ordinance received its third reading and was passed at the meeting of the Legislative Council last Wednesday.

    Amending the Protection of the Harbour Ordinance, it sets out a clearer mechanism to regulate reclamations in Victoria Harbour, in particular large-scale reclamations, in order to protect the Harbour.

    It also introduces a streamlined mechanism for small-scale reclamations that improve Victoria Harbour’s functions and harbourfront and for non-permanent reclamations, in order to facilitate and promote harbourfront enhancements.

    According to the amended ordinance, harbour enhancement reclamations and non-permanent reclamations that meet certain criteria and are in the public interest may be granted exemption from the “Presumption against Reclamation” by the Financial Secretary.

    Other reclamations in the Victoria Harbour will still be subject to the stringent presumption.

    To rebut the presumption, it will be necessary to apply three considerations set out in earlier court judgment which are now incorporated in the ordinance, and to comply with the new statutory procedures.

    These include preparing an assessment on a project’s “overriding public need”, publishing a report for public comment, and submitting the report and comments received to the Chief Executive-in-Council for determination.

    The bureau stressed that even under existing arrangements government departments or other persons must submit proposals to carry out reclamations for consideration and approval by the Government.

    It added that the amendments do not change the right of members of the public to apply for judicial review against decisions.

    It stressed that the Amendment Ordinance demonstrates the Government’s commitment to protecting Victoria Harbour, and also provides a more solid legal basis for its long-term protection.

    Moreover, it said the Government will have greater flexibility to promote better use of harbourfront resources and create a harbourfront that everyone can be proud of.

    The Government has made it clear that there is no plan to initiate large-scale harbour reclamations to form land for housing, commercial or industrial developments.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • UN peacekeepers attacked by civilians in Lebanon, no casualties reported

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A large group of civilians wielding metal rods and axes attacked a patrol of U.N. troops in southern Lebanon on Friday, causing damage to U.N. vehicles but no injuries, a United Nations peacekeeping force said.

    The U.N. troops used non-lethal force to protect themselves and those present, according to the U.N. Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), adding the patrol had been on a routine operation between the villages of Jmayjmeh and Khirbat Silim.

    The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) were notified and arrived shortly after the incident, escorting the patrol back to base.

    UNIFIL said the patrol had been pre-planned and coordinated with the LAF.

    The U.N. peacekeeping mission stressed that its mandate, under U.N. Security Council Resolution 1701, guarantees freedom of movement in its area of operations with or without LAF accompaniment.

    On Wednesday, UNIFIL said that direct fire from the Israeli army had hit the perimeter of one of its peacekeeping positions in south Lebanon. UNIFIL said the incident on Tuesday was the first of its kind since Israel and Iran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah agreed to a ceasefire last November.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Victory Anniversary at the Center of Legal Discussion: Conference Opening at the Polytechnic

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The plenary session of the XXVI annual All-Russian scientific and practical conference with international participation “Problems of Law in Modern Russia” was held in the conference hall of the Academic Council of Peter the Great Polytechnic University. The event is traditionally held by the Higher School of Jurisprudence and Forensic Science of the Humanitarian Institute of SPbPU. This year’s conference acquired special significance in connection with the celebration of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

    The plenary session was opened by the Vice-Rector for Security of SPbPU Alexander Airapetyan. He congratulated everyone on the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, noting the importance of the scientific and practical events of the Polytechnic University, which play a fundamental role in consolidating security and maintaining unity. The Director of the Higher School of Law and STE Dmitry Mokhorov welcomed the conference participants, congratulated them on the Great Victory Day, reflecting the fateful milestones of polytechnic thought in Russian and Soviet reality.

    Traditionally, the event brought together leading scientists and representatives of the professional community from the system of state and municipal administration, the judicial system, law enforcement agencies, the legal profession, notaries, forensic examination and representatives of the real sector of the economy.

    The guests of the event delivered welcoming remarks. Deputy Head of the Secretariat of the Council of the Interparliamentary Assembly of the CIS Member Nations, Director of the International Institute for Monitoring the Development of Democracy, Parliamentarism and Observance of Electoral Rights of Citizens of the CIS Member States Ivan Mushket read out a greeting from the Secretary General – Head of the Secretariat of the Council of the IPA CIS Dmitry Kobitsky. In his address, Dmitry Kobitsky emphasized the importance of the unity and courage of the Soviet people, noting that the Victory in the Great Patriotic War is a common heritage, and also called for confronting racism and xenophobia, recalling the criminal actions of Nazism, recognized by the International Military Tribunal in Nuremberg.

    Law should serve as a tool for maintaining justice, protecting human rights and freedoms, and we must work on its development together, noted Dmitry Kobitsky.

    The President of the Leningrad Region Bar Association, Denis Laktionov, greeted his colleagues on behalf of the legal community and emphasized the practical importance of the traditional conference “Problems of Law in Modern Russia” for the industry.

    Olga Safronova, Director of the Legal Department of the North-West Bank of Sberbank PJSC, noted the demand for significant events aimed at legal education and educating young people in the spirit of respect for the law and historical justice, emphasizing that the modern realities of the development of scientific and technological progress require us to take adequate professional measures to protect state interests and the rights of citizens, especially in the field of cybersecurity.

    Representatives of legislative and executive bodies of federal and regional authorities, courts, the prosecutor’s office, the Investigative Committee, and law enforcement agencies sent welcoming words to the organizing committee and participants.

    The scientific part of the plenary session included reports on the issues of historical justice of the Nuremberg Trials in the context of modern understanding, the role of the prosecutor’s office during the war and the problems of cybersecurity in the modern social and legal reality. The participants were addressed by Vladimir Mikhailov, Senior Justice Advisor, Senior Prosecutor of the Criminal and Judicial Department of the Leningrad Region Prosecutor’s Office, Artem Klinitsky, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Law and European Economics, and representatives of the North-West Bank of Sberbank Olga Safronova, Natalia Eroshenko and Kirill Yakovlev.

    At the end of the meeting, a video trailer for the historical film “Blockade Justice” was shown, containing rare archival footage of the activities of the courts, prosecutors and lawyers during the Great Patriotic War.

    On the first day of the conference, work was carried out in the sections “Theoretical-historical and public-law sciences”, “Private law (civil) sciences”, “Criminal-law sciences”. More than 250 people took part in the conference in person and over 70 section reports were presented, and an online broadcast with the possibility of open connection was also conducted. Abstracts of the reports will be published in a collection based on the results of the conference, and the best articles will be sent to the journals of the Higher Attestation Commission and the Russian Science Citation Index.

    The conference will include a round table (International teleconference St. Petersburg – Baku) “Modern Methods of Engineering and Technical Expertise”; a discussion platform “Application of Special Expert Knowledge in Legal Practice”; a round table “Counteracting Terrorism and Cybercrime”; master classes on forensic examination; a round table “Economic and Legal Regulation of Environmental Safety”; a discussion platform “East – West: Paths of Cultural Dialogue”; an International Theoretical and Practical Dialogue – Prospects for Development and Integration (Russia – Uzbekistan); a discussion platform (International teleconference St. Petersburg – Andijan) “Modern Trends in Legal Education and Enlightenment”; an exhibition of scientific, educational and educational-methodical works on jurisprudence and forensic examination.

    The detailed program can be found aton the website of the Higher School of YuISTE.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: OptimizeRx to Participate in Upcoming Investor Conferences

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WALTHAM, Mass., May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OptimizeRx Corp. (the “Company”) (Nasdaq: OPRX), a leading provider of healthcare technology solutions helping life sciences companies reach and engage healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients, today announced that management will participate in the following upcoming investor conferences:

    • B. Riley Securities 25th Annual Investor Conference, Marina del Rey, May 21 – 22, 2025
    • Stifel 2025 Boston Cross Sector 1×1 Conference, Boston, June 3 – 4, 2025
    • 45th Annual William Blair Growth Stock Conference, Chicago, June 3 – 5, 2025
    • The Citizens Medical Devices and Healthcare Services Forum, Boston, June 17, 2025
    B. Riley Securities 25thAnnual Investor Conference
    Date:  Thursday, May 22, 2025
    Format: 1×1 Meetings & Fireside Chat
    Location: The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey
       
    Stifel 2025 Boston Cross Sector 1×1 Conference
    Date:  Tuesday, June 3, 2025
    Format: 1×1 Meetings
    Location: InterContinental Boston
       
    45thAnnual William Blair Growth Stock Conference
    Date:  Thursday, June 5, 2025
    Format: 1×1 Meetings
    Location: Loews Chicago Hotel
       
    The Citizens Medical Devices and Healthcare Services Forum
    Date:  Tuesday, June 17, 2025
    Format: 1×1 Meetings
    Location: Boston Harbor Hotel


    To request a meeting or for more details about the conferences please reach out to your institutional contact.

    About OptimizeRx

    OptimizeRx is a leading healthcare technology company that’s redefining how life science brands connect with patients and healthcare providers. Our platform combines innovative AI-driven tools like the Dynamic Audience Activation Platform (DAAP) and Micro-Neighborhood Targeting (MNT) to deliver timely, relevant, and hyper-local engagement. By bridging the gap between HCP and DTC strategies, we empower brands to create synchronized marketing solutions that drive faster treatment decisions and improved patient outcomes.

    Our commitment to privacy-safe, patient-centric technology ensures that every interaction is designed to make a meaningful impact, delivering life-changing therapies to the right patients at the right time. Headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, OptimizeRx partners with some of the world’s leading pharmaceutical and life sciences companies to transform the healthcare landscape and create a healthier future for all.

    OptimizeRx Contact
    Andy D’Silva, SVP Corporate Finance
    adsilva@optimizerx.com

    Investor Relations Contact
    Steven Halper
    LifeSci Advisors, LLC
    shalper@lifesciadvisors.com

    The MIL Network –