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Category: Transport

  • MIL-OSI USA: Investing in Central New York’s Downtowns

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced awards for a total of 20 transformational projects in Central New York as part of two economic development programs: the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward. Nine projects were announced for Aurora, Cayuga and Union Springs, the joint Round 7 winner of a $10 million DRI award; seven projects were announced for Canastota, a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award; and four projects were announced for Brewerton, also a Round 2 winner of a $4.5 million NY Forward award.

    “Central New York is at the forefront of the economic resurgence sweeping across our state, and I’m investing in 20 projects that will transform our towns and villages, and strengthen the communities around them,” Governor Hochul said. “When we invest in our communities, we make it easier for families and businesses to do what they do best with the freedom to do it better — that’s why I’m fighting to make our neighborhoods better for generations to come.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “When we invest in our downtowns, we’re investing in the heart of our communities. Through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward program, we’re not just funding projects – we’re fostering vibrant, walkable neighborhoods that spur economic growth, enhance quality of life for residents and preserve the unique character of each municipality and region. These signature programs exemplify our commitment to ensuring that every New Yorker, in every corner of our State, has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.”

    The 9 Aurora, Cayuga and Union Springs DRI projects, totaling $9.7 million, include:

    • Redevelopment of Beacon Bay Marina ($2,500,000): Redevelop the existing building into new lodging units, a property manager’s apartment and a small open-air gathering space primarily for lodging guests. The project also includes the installation of new docks to accommodate additional boating activity.
    • Improvements to Frontenac Park ($1,338,000): Develop new pathways for pedestrian circulation, new pay station and accommodations for parking. The project also includes repurposing of the house at the end of Factory Street into a recreation office and community gathering space, creation of a new patio for outdoor recreation programming and classes, addition of a new picnic shelter and restoration of lawn areas.
    • Transformation of McIntosh Park ($2,083,000): Transform McIntosh Park through renovations that include drainage improvements, paved entrance road and parking, basketball and pickleball courts, relocation of the existing tee-ball field, new benches, construction of an inclusive playground and a new pavilion.
    • Development of Mixed-Use Building at 143 Cayuga Street ($1,428,000): Construct a new multi-story, mixed-use building that will include apartments on the upper floors and retail space on the ground floor.
    • Construction of a Southern Gateway: Aurora Waterfront Park ($773,000): Construct a Southern Gateway Park by repurposing the old railway bed into a durable, shared use, ADA compliant trail. Additional park features include new signage, a new parking area, picnic tables with grills and shade trees. The project will also include an accessible canoe/kayak launch, kayak storage rack and Blueway launch site signage, Blueway Trail kiosk, benches along the trail and a concrete sidewall.
    • Development of Marina Gateway and Storefront Entrance, Waterfront Café and Additional Boat Service Facilities ($589,000): Develop a marina gateway via removal of structures at 107 Cayuga Street, new storefront entrance for the Marina show room and construction of triple bay service and parts facility. The project also includes the construction of a waterfront café to be open for year-round use.
    • Development of Apartments at 6200 Center Street ($446,000): Adaptive reuse of an existing building at 6200 Center Street into two-bedroom loft style apartments and associated storage spaces for residents.
    • Restoration of the Historic Patrick Tavern Building and Development of Tavern Green at 302 Main Street ($363,000): Restore Patrick Tavern including the addition of an historically accurate covered porch along the Village’s Main Street façade. The project also includes the replacement of the roof, windows and doors as well as new interpretive signage, sidewalk connection, bike racks, storage room, new exterior lighting, a stone patio and stone wall and ADA accessible ramps. Behind the building, a new green space will be developed to allow for markets and events.
    • Upgrades to Community Center and New Accessible Entrance at 337 Main Street ($180,000): Install a new ADA accessible entryway with improved lighting, signage and a sidewalk connection to existing public walk. The project provides updates to the existing meeting space including the replacement of flooring, new lighting, reconstruction of the kitchen and HVAC installation.

    Village of Canastota

    The Village of Canastota has demonstrated that it is ready for transformative growth with its historic village, past investments and abundant recreational opportunities. The NY Forward projects identified will capitalize on these assets and redevelop vacant sites, while also restoring and enhancing the Village’s rural charm and Erie Canal heritage.

    The 7 Canastota NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Develop a Mixed-Use Pocket Neighborhood with Cafe Retail Space & Community Amenities on the Erie Canal ($500,000): Construct a retail space within a new “Canalside Pocket Neighborhood,” a multi-building mixed-use housing project. The total pocket neighborhood project will redevelop a vacant site one block from downtown and feature approximately 51 new housing units for diverse income groups that consist of 7–12 new buildings, including single-family homes, townhomes, senior housing, an apartment complex, retail and community amenities.
    • Expand ZEMS/Penny’s to Create New Community Gathering Space South of the Canal ($239,000): Create a two-acre public space in front of ZEMS/Penny’s, renovate the local businesses’ interior and add 600 feet of new sidewalk, a gazebo, music stage and pavilion. The interior expansion will create more retail space and a multipurpose community space. The sidewalk improvements will facilitate greater connectivity between local trails and downtown.
    • Convert Vacant Canal Street Building into NYS Farm Craft Brewing Facility ($575,000): Convert a vacant historic Erie Canal building into a NYS farm brewery and tourist destination. The renovation will involve converting the interior into a brew facility, tasting room, educational venue and packaging facility for off-premises sales. The exterior renovations will include Erie Canal themed exteriors and ample visitor parking.
    • Transform Vacant Historic Farr Building into Erie Canal Brewing Company Taproom & Village Welcome Center ($450,000): Restore an unoccupied historic building to a productive facility, promoting local economic growth, creating jobs, providing affordable apartments, attracting tourism and providing event space. The taproom will feature NY craft beer, wine and locally sourced food.
    • Renovate Historic Building at 138 Canal Street for Commercial Use ($172,000): Revive one of the oldest original structures along the Erie Canal through a complete building renovation that will include a new facade, front porch, walkways and interior finishes. The first floor of the completed project will be marketed for lease to local retail or food and beverage establishments at below-market rents, attracting entrepreneurs to the location.
    • Enhance North Canal Street to Improve Public Space, Walkability and Recreational Opportunities ($1,706,000): Revitalize space adjacent to the historic Erie Canal into a new Village park, incorporating streetscape improvements, Rotary Park enhancements, a canal overlook, a canal-front pavilion, water circulation features and boat launch.
    • Renovate Canastota Fire House for Improved Community Use & Greater Accessibility ($858,000): The project will modernize the Canastota Fire House’s public meeting space for ADA accessibility and enhanced energy efficiency. It includes an elevator installation and restroom renovation for ADA compliance, window replacement, interior improvements and exterior rehabilitation.

    Hamlet of Brewerton

    With its proximity to the Micron semi-conductor site, the Hamlet of Brewerton’s NY Forward projects are being viewed as the first step towards intentional, strategic and collaborative planning. The development of these projects will welcome new residents, visitors, and businesses in the years to come. The combination of public and private improvements will lay the foundation for future private sector investments that will attract more businesses and events to the downtown.

    The 4 Brewerton NY Forward Projects, totaling $4.5 Million, include:

    • Construct 9693 Brewerton Road Mixed Use Development ($1,600,000): Create new retail and residential space in the heart of the NYF area. The development will include a mixed-use building and energy-efficient townhomes.
    • Enhance Lighthouse Park ($1,500,000): Enhance waterfront recreation by adding a two-slip public boat launch, ADA-compliant fishing platform and kayak launch, nature play facility and a new restroom at Lighthouse Park.
    • Construct Apartment Buildings at 9602 Brewerton Road ($1,000,000): Construct two eight-unit buildings in phase 1 and twenty tiny homes in phase 2 within walking access to Oneida Lake and local businesses.
    • Renovate Brewerton Library ($400,000): Expand the library’s role as a community hub by adding a small café space, public meeting room, additional restrooms, a visitor information center and an outdoor seating area.

    Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are transforming communities across New York State by turning local visions into bold investments to generate place-based economic development. These projects will create new opportunities for businesses, support vibrant public spaces, and attract residents and visitors alike – laying the foundation for sustainable growth and stronger regional economies.”

    New York State Homes and Community Renewal Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “All across this State, the Downtown Revitalization Initiative and NY Forward programs are strategically prioritizing communities, growing economies with targeted awards, creating more housing opportunities that improve affordability for New Yorkers where it is most needed, and building on the diverse character of our neighborhoods. By working with local and municipal partners, these awards continue Governor Hochul’s commitment to developing the full potential of our downtowns as economic drivers and attractive places to live.”

    Central New York Regional Economic Development Council Co-Chairs Randy Wolken and Linda M. LeMura said, “The CNYREDC is incredibly proud to continue our support for the communities of Aurora, Cayuga, Union Springs, Canastota and Brewerton and their exciting futures thanks to the Governor’s Downtown Revitalization and New York Forward Initiatives. These 20 selected, community-driven projects will benefit both residents and visitors alike, promoting economic growth and creating a more vibrant downtown-a place where people will want to live, work, and play for generations to come.”

    State Senator Christopher Ryan said, “These investments in Canastota and Brewerton represent more than bricks and mortar. They’re about building community, honoring heritage, and preparing for the future. In Canastota, we’re breathing new life into our Erie Canal legacy, creating new housing and business opportunities while strengthening our identity as a historic and welcoming village. In Brewerton, we’re laying the groundwork for smart, strategic growth that aligns with the region’s evolving potential, especially as Micron transforms our economic landscape. I’m proud to support these forward-looking projects that will bring lasting benefits to residents and businesses alike and thank Governor Hochul for her commitment to our region.”

    State Senator Rachel May said, “Central New York is full of vibrant downtowns where friends can gather to enjoy great dining, theater, art, and outdoor activities. With nearly $10 million allocated through the Downtown Revitalization Initiative, buildings, parks, and waterfronts in Cayuga County will be enhanced, making these spaces more enjoyable and accessible. Thank you to our local leaders for ensuring that these public areas continue to enrich the lives of residents, and to Governor Hochul and my colleagues for continuing to support the DRI program that serves so many Upstate communities.”

    Assemblymember Al Stirpe said, “The implementation of these projects sets the stage for Central New York to shine, bringing out the best aspects of our communities for years to come. I am proud to support NY Forward’s initiatives in Brewerton, as they revitalize this area’s unique waterfront community with enhanced residential spaces and recreational opportunities for all. As our region’s economic capacity continues to expand, Central New York is committed to be a vibrant and affordable place to work, raise a family, and live a good life.”

    Village of Cayuga Mayor Don Wilson Jr. said, “It is with great honor and gratitude that the Village of Cayuga receive this investment from the taxpayers of New York. I congratulate our neighbors, Union Springs and Aurora, and look forward to continuing this momentum into the future.”

    Village of Aurora Mayor Jim Orman said, “One year ago Wells College closed. The Village of Aurora lost over half of its population. This DRI award will provide the first tangible step to begin the renaissance of Aurora. We have already attracted the interest of an investor to build homes and small businesses across from this new park. This transformational award will provide the initial boost in our long term economic development growth.”

    Village of Union Springs Mayor Robert C. Thurston Jr. said, “The Village of Union Springs ecstatic following the announcement of the projects selected for the Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI). These transformative projects are destined to generate a significant and lasting impact not only on the village itself but also on the wider region. The selection of these DRI projects marks a pivotal moment for Union Springs. These initiatives are exceptionally important to our community, and we are confident that upon their completion, their positive effects will be felt for generations to come. This investment will be truly transformative. The Village of Union Springs eagerly anticipates the commencement of these projects and the vibrant future they will help create for residents and visitors alike.”

    Village of Canastota Mayor Rosanne Warner said, “The Village of Canastota is very excited about the economic and social benefits these NY Forward projects will bring to our community, and we are confident that this investment into our village will spur additional revitalization efforts. On behalf of the residents of Canastota I would like to sincerely thank Governor Hochul, the Department of State, and Empire State Development, for their faith in our projects which hold great promise to be truly transformative. We thank all of the businesses who submitted projects for this highly competitive grant and look forward to starting the next phase of this process which will bring positive changes to our 215-year-old historic downtown.”

    Town of Hastings Supervisor Tony Bush said, “I and the Town of Hastings are so thankful for this Grant in regards to the Lighthouse Park. I want to thank the Governor and all that were involved in making this happen. This money will help enhance our park and usage, with boats, kayaks and family get together. Our Town can not thank you enough.”

    DRI and NY Forward communities developed Strategic Implementation Plans (SIPs), which create a vision for the future of their downtown and identify and recommend a slate of complementary, transformative and implementable projects that support that vision. The SIPs are guided by a Local Planning Committee (LPC) comprised of local and regional leaders, stakeholders and community representatives, with the assistance of an assigned consultant and DOS staff, all of whom conduct extensive community outreach and engagement when determining projects. The projects selected for funding from the SIP were identified as having the greatest potential to jumpstart revitalization and generate new opportunities for long-term growth.

    About the Downtown Revitalization Initiative
    The Downtown Revitalization Initiative was created in 2016 to accelerate and expand the revitalization of downtowns and neighborhoods in all ten regions of the state to serve as centers of activity and catalysts for investment. Led by the Department of State with assistance from Empire State Development, Homes and Community Renewal and NYSERDA, the DRI represents an unprecedented and innovative “plan-then-act” strategy that couples strategic planning with immediate implementation and results in compact, walkable downtowns that are a key ingredient to helping New York State strengthen its economy, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles. Through nine rounds, the DRI has awarded a total of $900 million to 91 communities across every region of the State.

    About the NY Forward Program
    First announced as part of the 2022 Budget, Governor Hochul created the NY Forward program to build on the momentum created by the DRI. The program works in concert with the DRI to accelerate and expand the revitalization of smaller and rural downtowns throughout the State so that all communities can benefit from the State’s revitalization efforts, regardless of size, character, needs and challenges

    NY Forward communities are supported by a professional planning consultant and team of State agency experts led by DOS to develop a Strategic Investment Plan that includes a slate of transformative, complementary and readily implementable projects. NY Forward projects are appropriately scaled to the size of each community; projects may include building renovation and redevelopment, new construction or creation of new or improved public spaces and other projects that enhance specific cultural and historical qualities that define and distinguish the small-town charm that defines these municipalities. Through three rounds, the NY Forward program has awarded a total of $300 million to 60 communities across every region of the State.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Violent man’s sentence extended after abusing against ex-partner

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Violent man’s sentence extended after abusing against ex-partner

    A violent man who assaulted and harassed his ex-partner in a sustained campaign of abuse has had his sentence extended after the Solicitor General intervened.

    Jordan Crewe (27), from Caerphilly, has had his two-year sentence increased after the Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP referred his case to the Court of Appeal under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme. 

    The court heard that Crewe was sentenced to 16 months in March 2022 for harassment and malicious communication offences committed against his ex-partner. The court also placed Crewe under a 12-year restraining order.  

    On the same day that Crewe was released on license in the October, he immediately breached his bail conditions when he barged into his ex-partner’s home before assaulting her and deflating her tyres.  

    The next day, Crewe visited his ex-partner’s home and, even after he was recalled to prison, continued to harass his ex-partner, sending abusive letters, messages and phone calls. He also asked his ex-partner to drop the charges against him. 

    Crewe was released from prison in May 2023 under strict conditions not to contact his ex-partner unless for extenuating circumstances.  

    However, a year later Crewe reignited his campaign of harassment. Over three months, Crewe sent unsolicited text messages asking the victim where she was, he activated a tracker app on the victim’s phone without her consent, he didn’t allow his ex-partner to see her family without him present and controlled what she wore.  

    Crewe sent videos where he simulated committing suicide, groped her in public, assaulted her and bit his ex-partner’s face.  

    The abuse and harassment culminated in an incident on New Years Eve where the victim was in a car with Crewe before he shouted at her, threatened to assault the victim’s family, and eventually assaulted his ex-partner in her car.  

    In a victim personal statement read to the court, the victim said that she was a happy bubbly person but now a shell of the person she was before. She also added that the mental and emotional abuse suffered will stay with her forever. 

    The Solicitor General Lucy Rigby KC MP said: 

    Jordan Crewe’s tirade of abuse against his ex-partner was appalling.  He carried out a systematic campaign of violence and coercive control.  Thankfully the Court has recognised the severity of Crewe’s actions and increased his sentence.

    On 18 February 2025, Jordan Crewe was sentenced to two years at Cardiff Crown Court for one count of harassment, one count of strangulation, one count of Assault Occasioning Actual Bodily Harm, and one count of controlling or coercive behaviour.  

    On Thursday 15 May 2025, the Court of Appeal extended Crewe’s sentence to two years and ten months’ under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • “Significant milestone”: EAM Jaishankar on inauguration of Honduras Embassy in Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, speaking at the inauguration of the Embassy of the Republic of Honduras in New Delhi on Thursday, described the occasion as a significant milestone that opens a promising new chapter in the longstanding and warm relationship between the two nations.
     
    Jaishankar extended his appreciation to Honduras for condemning the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Addressing his counterpart, Eduardo Enrique Reina García, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Honduras, he said, “Minister, let me first acknowledge the statement of solidarity from your country on the cowardly terrorist attack in Pahalgam. We value your public commitment to opposing terrorism in all its forms. It is completely unacceptable in any civilised world. We appreciate your support as we continue to battle terrorism in our region.”
     
    The minister said that the opening of the embassy reflects the shared vision and commitment between India and Honduras to deepen bilateral ties and strengthen institutional cooperation. “I regard this not merely as a ceremonial event but as a testament to our mutual commitment to expand the frontiers of our collaboration,” he said.
     
    He further added that the embassy signifies India’s aspiration to build strong partnerships across the Latin American region, rooted in values of mutual respect, solidarity, and shared progress.
     
    Reflecting on the bilateral relationship since the establishment of diplomatic ties on September 28, 1994, Jaishankar highlighted steady growth across political, commercial, developmental, and cultural dimensions. “Our engagements have been guided by a spirit of friendship and a belief that international cooperation serves broader humanitarian interests,” he added.
     
    Discussing economic relations, Jaishankar stated that bilateral trade now stands at USD 310 million, with India exporting pharmaceuticals, textiles, automobiles, and machinery, while importing coffee, wood, and leather from Honduras. He pointed out that the diverse trade basket demonstrates considerable potential for growth in sectors such as agribusiness, renewable energy, healthcare, IT, and manufacturing.
     
    “During our productive talks earlier today, we agreed on the need to strengthen business-to-business linkages, foster investment partnerships, and explore complementarities while exchanging experiences relevant to Indian companies,” he said.
     
    Highlighting Honduras’ strategic location and favourable investment climate, Jaishankar observed its potential in renewable energy and IT-enabled services. He also mentioned a recent collaboration between Hondatel, Honduras’ national telecom operator, and Reliance Jio, aimed at rolling out a 5G network in the country. “This collaboration marks a significant step in digital connectivity and technology innovation,” he added.
     
    Expressing confidence in the embassy’s future role, Jaishankar said it would serve as a hub for trade promotion and business engagement. “The embassy will encourage entrepreneurs to use it as a base for matchmaking, provide institutional support, and facilitate greater initiatives and activities,” he said.

  • MIL-OSI Security: Deer Lake — Overdue ATV riders safely located by Deer Lake Ground Search and Rescue

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Two overdue ATV riders were safely located this morning by Deer Lake Ground Search and Rescue.

    Shortly after midnight on Thursday, May 15, Deer Lake RCMP were advised that two individuals traveling on a side-by-side all-terrain vehicle (ATV) had become stuck on a trail near Pynn’s Brook. The riders reportedly abandoned the ATV and began walking towards Pasadena.

    Initially, the individuals were within cell service but eventually communication was lost. Deer Lake Ground Search and Rescue (GSAR) was deployed and searched along the trail between Pynn’s Brook and Deer Lake.

    The missing riders were located this morning by GSAR, cold but otherwise safe.

    RCMP NL thanks Deer Lake Ground Search and Rescue for their efforts and their continued dedication.

    With the Victoria Day long weekend kicking off the summer season, ATV operators are reminded to be prepared and travel safely. Where possible, carry a means of communication, such as a cell phone, satellite phone or SPOT device. It is also important to share your intended travel location and expected return time, and to pack the necessary provisions such as food, water and extra clothing, in the event it is needed.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • Centre revokes Celebi’s security clearance over national security concerns

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has revoked the security clearance of Celebi Airport Services India Pvt Ltd and its associated companies citing concerns linked to national security. The announcement was made on Thursday evening and is being seen as a firm step in safeguarding national interests.
     
    Union Minister of Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu, said that the decision reflects the government’s uncompromising commitment to national security. “Nothing is above the security of our nation and fellow citizens. National interest and public safety are paramount and non-negotiable,” the minister added.
     
    Celebi, a Turkish firm, has been operating ground-handling services at multiple Indian airports, including critical hubs like Mumbai and Delhi. Following the revocation, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has assured that all necessary arrangements are in place to maintain uninterrupted airport operations.
     
    The Minister further said that the government is actively working with airport operators to ensure a smooth transition. “Arrangements have been made at all affected airports to ensure seamless handling of passengers and cargo,” he added.
     
    To mitigate any disruption in services and employment, the Ministry is also taking steps to retain employees associated with Celebi. “Efforts are being made to ensure that employees working with Celebi are retained and continue to contribute,” Ram Mohan Naidu said.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Sherrill Criticizes Lack of Urgency, Demands DOT & FAA Address Transportation Nightmare at Newark Airport

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Representative Mikie Sherrill sent a letter to Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau demanding immediate federal action to resolve the air traffic control staffing and systems crisis affecting Newark Liberty International Airport. In the past two weeks alone, over 5,000 flights have been delayed and dozens of round-trip routes canceled, leaving thousands of New Jerseyans stranded or forced to miss critical life events like their child’s graduation.

    Rep. Sherrill cited repeated radar and communications outages at the Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) facility—responsible for managing Newark’s airspace—as well as severe staffing shortages, as unacceptable threats to public safety.

    “I have flown in heavily congested airspaces as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy, so I know how dangerous a 90 second radar and communications outage can be for passengers and crew in the air and on the ground,” wrote Rep. Sherrill. “While I welcomed the Administration and FAA’s comments about increasing air traffic controller staffing and technology upgrades, I am disappointed with the lack of urgency and action. Radar and communications blackouts and unprecedented staffing shortages have continued in the week since, prompting concerns about when federal assistance will actually be available for the Philadelphia TRACON and when my constituents can expect relief from this transportation disaster. On behalf of my New Jersey constituents, I demand answers and action as soon as possible in response to the following questions regarding DOT and FAA’s strategy to return the Philadelphia TRACON and Newark Airport airspace to full operations and safety.”

    Read the full letter here or below:

    Dear Secretary Duffy and Acting Administrator Rocheleau:

    Over the past two weeks, thousands of my constituents in New Jersey have faced a transportation nightmare – including more than 5,000 flight delays and the cancellation of dozens of round-trip routes – in the central hub for air transit in our region. Not only are families unable to reach loved ones in the hospital or attend their child’s graduation, but they are increasingly worried about whether it is safe to fly in and out of Newark Liberty International Airport at all.

    Since the public was made aware of the April 28th radar and communications blackout at the Philadelphia Terminal Radar Approach Control (TRACON) – which manages Newark’s airspace – the situation at Newark Airport has only worsened. On May 9th, radar screens at the Philadelphia TRACON went dark again for another 90-second period. On May 11th, communications and radar displays went down for a third time in less than 14 days, causing the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to order a 45-minute ground stop at Newark Airport. On May 12th, meanwhile, staffing shortages at the Philadelphia TRACON were so severe that several hours during the evening had only three air traffic controllers on duty, dramatically lower than the target of 14 controllers for managing the Newark airspace in evening hours.

    Needless to say, this situation is unacceptable. I have flown in heavily congested airspaces as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Navy, so I know how dangerous a 90 second radar and communications outage can be for passengers and crew in the air and on the ground. Last week, I called on the Department of Transportation and the FAA to boost staffing and resource capacity immediately for the Philadelphia TRACON that controls Newark’s airspace. Additional personnel are critically needed to make up for the air traffic controllers who were forced to take trauma leave after their experiences on April 28th, and more financial resources and equipment are required to deploy backup communications connections between the Philadelphia TRACON and the Long Island-based equipment still used for Newark air traffic control.

    While I welcomed the Administration and FAA’s comments about increasing air traffic controller staffing and technology upgrades, I am disappointed with the lack of urgency and action. Radar and communications blackouts and unprecedented staffing shortages have continued in the week since, prompting concerns about when federal assistance will actually be available for the Philadelphia TRACON and when my constituents can expect relief from this transportation disaster.

    On behalf of my New Jersey constituents, I demand answers and action as soon as possible in response to the following questions regarding DOT and FAA’s strategy to return the Philadelphia TRACON and Newark Airport airspace to full operations and safety:

    1. What are DOT and FAA’s immediate plans to increase the number of air traffic controllers at the Philadelphia TRACON, particularly given the current 20% reduction in staffing capacity as a result of controllers taking trauma leave based on the events of April 28th? What is your deadline for when additional controllers will be able to start work at the Philadelphia TRACON? Is the FAA planning to shift additional air traffic controllers to Philly, and if so, where will these air traffic controllers be moved from? What Newark airspace-specific training will these air traffic controllers need and what is your timeframe for providing it?
       
    2. What are DOT and FAA’s immediate plans to add three new, high-bandwidth telecommunications connections between Philadelphia TRACON and the Long Island TRACON, as well as to install a temporary backup STARS radar hub at Philadelphia TRACON? When will this new equipment be operational and ready to manage the Newark airspace?
       
    3. Regarding DOT and FAA’s longer-term strategy for Newark’s airspace, when will a permanent STARS hub be operational at Philadelphia TRACON so that it doesn’t need to rely on the Long Island radar feed? Have DOT and FAA evaluated moving Newark airspace control back to the Long Island TRACON?
       
    4. What are DOT and FAA’s long-term plans to expand the air traffic controller workforce, including increased funding for workforce development programs, an expansion of the FAA Air Traffic Controller Academy, increased wages and benefits for controllers, and a streamlined hiring process for applicants?
       
    5. As DOT and FAA increase air traffic controller hiring and training, how will you ensure that new controllers are available to work at the Philadelphia TRACON and air traffic control for New Jersey’s airspace? New Jersey currently does not have any participating colleges or universities in the Air Traffic Collegiate Training Initiative, which could help develop a New Jersey air traffic controller workforce. Will DOT and FAA commit to expanding the Collegiate Training Initiative to New Jersey?
       
    6. Last year’s bipartisan FAA Reauthorization legislation provided $70 billion for FAA safety programs (including hiring additional air traffic controllers) and $20 billion for technology modernization. It also expanded the Aviation Workforce Development Grant Program to boost the number of training positions for air traffic controllers. How are DOT and FAA using these funds to boost the air traffic controller workforce?

    It is critical that DOT and FAA act urgently to address this unprecedented situation. Without an immediate boost in air traffic controller staffing levels at the Philadelphia TRACON that manages Newark’s airspace, and the creation of multiple redundancies in the Philadelphia TRACON’s radar and communications systems, equipment blackouts will undoubtedly continue – putting lives at risk and degrading trust in America’s air infrastructure. 

    Congress stands ready to act in whatever way is needed, along bipartisan lines. It’s time to put an end to this crisis.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boyle, Whitehouse Reintroduce Legislation to Extend Social Security and Medicare Solvency Indefinitely

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brendan Boyle (13th District of Pennsylvania)

    Medicare and Social Security Fair Share Act would make wealthiest Americans pay fairer share to protect solvency of bedrock health care and retirement programs

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (D-PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee and member of the Ways and Means Committee reintroduced the Medicare and Social Security Fair Share Act alongside U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). This bicameral legislation would protect the future solvency of Medicare and Social Security by reversing inequities in the tax system so the nation’s highest earners contribute their fair share.  The Medicare and Social Security Fair Share Act will extend the solvency of both programs indefinitely according to analyses from the nonpartisan actuaries of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Social Security Administration.

    “From my first day in Congress, I’ve pledged to protect the long-term stability of Social Security and Medicare—two bedrock promises our country made to seniors, workers, and people with disabilities,” said Ranking Member Boyle. “Now, with Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and DOGE-fueled billionaires openly attacking these programs, that fight is more urgent than ever. This bill would protect Social Security and Medicare for generations by making the wealthiest Americans pay what they owe. While Republicans are pushing a $7 trillion tax giveaway to the ultra-rich, we’re working to protect the benefits that millions of Americans have earned—and we won’t let them be stolen to fund another billionaire windfall

    “Working-class seniors pay into Social Security and Medicare their whole careers so they can enjoy a dignified retirement, but they end up paying a much larger share of their income in taxes than billionaires because the tax code is rigged in favor of the rich,” said Senator Whitehouse.  “As the Trump administration and Congressional Republicans gear up to deliver budget-busting giveaways for their billionaire donors, I will continue pushing to make our tax code fair and protect these twin pillars of retirement security as far as the eye can see.”

    Medicare and Social Security are twin pillars of economic fairness and retirement security, providing lifelines to elderly Americans and their children, and disabled workers.  In 2022, Social Security alone lifted 28.9 million Americans out of poverty, and nearly half of seniors live in households that receive at least 50 percent of their family income from Social Security benefits that they have earned after a lifetime of work. Medicare protects its over 65 million beneficiaries from potentially catastrophic health care costs.

    Despite the bedrock importance of these programs, both are at risk of being unable to fully pay out benefits within the next 15 years.  Without new revenue, the Hospital Insurance trust fund and the Old Age and Survivors Insurance trust fund are expected to become insolvent in 2036 and 2033, respectively.

    The bicameral legislation would:

    • Preserve Medicare and Social Security while safeguarding benefits.
    • Require taxpayers with over $400,000 in income to contribute a fairer share to Social Security.
      • Lift the Social Security tax cap to ensure that no matter the source of their income, high-income taxpayers would pay the same tax rate on their income exceeding that threshold.
    • Require taxpayers with incomes above $400,000 to contribute more to Medicare.
      • Increase the rate for income above $400,000 by 1.2 percent, and ensure that wealthy owners of pass-through businesses like hedge funds and private equity firms with more than $400,000 in annual income cannot avoid Medicare taxes.

    Joining Boyle and Whitehouse on the bill as original cosponsors are Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD).

    The bill has been endorsed by Alliance for Retired Americans, American Federation of Government Employees, American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Federation of Teachers, Americans for Tax Fairness, Center for Medicare Advocacy, Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, Communications Workers of America, Doctors for America, Families USA, Groundwork Collaborative, International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers, Main Street Alliance, Mary’s Center, MomsRising, National Committee to Preserve Social Security and Medicare, National Council on Aging, National Education Association, National Women’s Law Center Action Fund, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, People’s Action, Public Citizen, Revolving Door Project, Social Security Works, and Teamsters.

    Full text of the bill is available here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boyle Statement on Ways and Means Passage of the Republican Budget

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brendan Boyle (13th District of Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, released the following statement after House Republicans on the Ways and Means Committee advanced their budget bill following an 18-hour, overnight markup in which Democrats offered numerous amendments to protect working families:

    “My Democratic colleagues and I fought through the night—offering amendment after amendment to protect the middle class and push for a more responsible, fairer tax policy.

    But Republicans rejected every single one. Instead, they doubled down on a budget that would cause the largest loss of health care in American history—kicking 13.7 million Americans off their health insurance just to pay for tax breaks for billionaires.

    That’s not just cruel—it’s unprecedented. Not even during the Great Depression did we see a loss of health care on this scale.

    This Republican bill is a gift to the ultra-wealthy at the expense of working families—and I’ll keep fighting it every step of the way.”

    Congressman Boyle’s opening remarks can be viewed here.

     

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Boyle In Ways & Means Markup: You Won’t Be Able to Spin The 13.7M Americans Who Lose Their Health Care

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brendan Boyle (13th District of Pennsylvania)

    WASHINGTON, DC – In today’s Ways and Means Committee markup, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, slammed the Republican plan to cut taxes for billionaires while throwing 13.7 million Americans off their health insurance, as confirmed by the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

    Remarks as delivered and video are below:

      

    (Click for video of remarks as delivered) 

    Congressman Boyle’s full opening remarks as delivered:

    Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Well, here we are, the president’s big, beautiful bill for billionaires: tax cuts, almost all of which go to the top 1 percent paid for by the biggest cut to health care in American history.

    Don’t take my word for it. Just days ago, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office confirmed that at least 13.7 million Americans will lose their health care because of this bill. That’s historic.

    I went back and checked. No other previous bill, no other previous law, no other previous event caused so many millions of Americans to lose their health care. Not even the Great Depression.

    So, congratulations. This is one hell of an achievement. And why? All to pay for tax cuts for the richest people in America, the top 1 percent. Now you can understand why many of us on the Democratic side are attacking this awful proposal, but it’s not just us.

    Just yesterday, conservative Republican from Missouri, Senator Josh Hawley called cutting Medicaid and the other health programs “morally wrong.” He’s right, but that’s not all.

    It turns out after cutting Medicaid and cutting the Affordable Care Act and cutting nutrition assistance and cutting education programs and on and on and on, even after all of that, all of those cuts as large as they are only pay for about 25 percent of the tax cuts for the rich.

    So how does this legislation pay for the rest of it? More added to the national credit card. Our national debt will explode as a result of this, to the tune of almost $4 trillion more added to the national debt.

    I never want to hear ever again anyone on the other side lecture us about deficit and debt.  No single piece of legislation in my time here in Congress will do more to add to the national debt than this one.

    The American people get it. They were asked a few weeks ago in one opinion poll, do you support cutting Medicaid to pay for tax cuts? 81 percent of the American people said no, and that was before the Congressional Budget Office confirmed that over 13 million Americans will lose their health coverage.

    Now sure, you can spin numbers, you can spin statistics. It’s the reason why Mark Twain once said there are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.

    You won’t be able to spin the thirteen and a half million Americans who lose their health care as a result of this bill. No amount of spinning will convince them to believe something contrary to what they actually are about to live.

    I say to all of my colleagues here, we can do better. We can ensure that we have tax relief for almost every American, and we can do it in a way that doesn’t rip away health coverage from more than 13 million Americans.

    I urge all of my colleagues to reject this big, beautiful bill for billionaires. I yield back.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Spiritual Business Guide ‘Zen and Stilettos’ Sells 100,000 Copies, Enters Publisher’s Top-10

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BALI, INDONESIA, May 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Elizaveta Babanova’s debut book, “Zen and Stilettos,” has sold approximately 100,000 copies since its release, securing a spot in her publisher’s top-10 bestsellers list in its first year.

    Market analysts report that the book, which combines spiritual practices with practical business advice, has resonated with readers seeking to balance material success with personal development, particularly among professional women aged 30-45.

    “When I achieved what once felt impossible—discovering my purpose—I forged a path forward,” Babanova said in a recent interview. “At its core is my mission: to help others rediscover their soul’s intention, reconnect deeply with their essence, and live a multifaceted, fulfilling life.”

    Industry experts attribute the book’s commercial success to its practical approach to spirituality in an increasingly complex business environment. Nielsen BookScan data indicates a 23% growth in the personal development category over the past year, with spiritual business guides showing particular strength.

    “I spent years searching for meaning,” said Babanova, who holds a background in finance before transitioning to writing and entrepreneurship. “It’s striking how much of the external world seems designed to disconnect us from our true selves.”

    According to published reports, Babanova’s second book, “The Best Year of My Life,” has also achieved bestseller status. Both titles have maintained strong sales momentum through traditional retail and e-commerce platforms.

    The author has leveraged her literary success to develop additional creative ventures, including the “Path of the Soul” music series, featuring music composed by Elizaveta and performed by Tchaikovsky and Gnesin Conservatories graduates. The concerts have been staged in Bali and the United Arab Emirates. This spring, “Path of the Soul” concerts will be performed in Damanhur, Italy and Moscow, Russia.

    “Through books, music, broadcasts, and writing, I share my inner state,” Babanova explained. “Those who resonate with it form a natural, deep connection. There’s no greater joy than helping others unlock their divine potential—it fulfils my own purpose.”

    Market analysts note that Babanova’s success represents a growing trend of merging traditional business principles with holistic approaches to personal development. Her ability to translate spiritual concepts into commercially viable products has positioned her as a notable figure.

    In addition to her writing and music, Babanova operates Mystic Travel, which organises retreats to locations she describes as sacred “places of power.” “For most of my adult life I have been called to places on Earth that hold sacred codes,” Babanova said of the travel venture. “They’re like haute cuisine: you can follow a Michelin-starred chef’s recipe, but it’s never the same as tasting their dish in their kitchen. Similarly, documentaries and books can’t rival the visceral transformation of being in these spaces. Their energy expands and reshapes you,” said the world traveler, who has spent time in over 45 countries.

    The diversified business model has proven effective, with revenue streams from book sales, concert tickets, retreat packages, and merchandise contributing to overall growth. Industry analysts project continued expansion as Babanova’s brand gains international recognition.

    According to publisher announcements, her forthcoming book, “Dance in Abundance,” will be released in 2025 and will deeply explore universal codes of abundance, including ancient initiation traditions and their modern applications. An English-language edition is being prepared for international distribution.

    “I have deeply immersed myself in the study of the ancient practice of initiation,” Babanova said regarding her upcoming work. “During one of my own, I received an insight about crafting a line of sacred artefacts. In ancient times, every significant initiation was marked by a special object—a symbol of transformation that amplified a person’s desired qualities.”

    That insight led to developing a pearl jewellery brand that combines natural elements with spiritual symbolism, adding another dimension to her business portfolio.

    According to social media analytics firm Socialblade, the author maintains active social media channels with over 500,000 combined followers across platforms, where she shares content related to personal growth and business development.

    “Creative expression became my way of sharing profound inner states,” Babanova said. “Books, albums, and concerts flowed naturally from what I felt. Words alone couldn’t capture the depth of those emotions, so I turned to music and performance to convey unconditional love and the joy of existence.”

    Market research firm BookScan reports that the success of “Zen and Stilettos” has helped drive a 15% increase in the spiritual business advice subcategory over the past fiscal year. The book has been particularly successful in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and Yekaterinburg, with growing interest in international markets.

    Literary critics have noted the book’s accessibility despite addressing complex philosophical concepts. The Russian Publishers Association recognised the work in its annual report as an example of effectively bridging practical business advice with personal development principles.

    “Every project starts as a personal need—to experience and express life as something magnificent and eternal. Then it finds its audience, resonating with those meant to connect with it,” Babanova explained her creative process.

    According to development partners, the author plans to launch a mobile application called “World of Abundance” later this year. The application will feature daily practices and support resources for her tribe.

    Babanova’s rise in the publishing industry follows a broader trend of increasing consumer interest in integrated approaches to business success and personal fulfilment. Global market research firm Ipsos reports that 67% of professionals consider spiritual well-being important to their career development.

    Media contact

    Brand: Eliza Babanova

    Contact: Eliza Babanova

    E-mail: info@elizavetababanova.com

    Website: https://elizavetababanova.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The leading engineering school of SPbPU summed up the results of two and a half years of work

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University (PISH SPbPU) presented the results of its work for 2024 and long-term development plans at the Council for the consideration of issues and coordination of the activities of the PISH chaired by the Minister of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation Valery Falkov.

    The flagship project of the Ministry of Education and Science “Advanced Engineering Schools” has been implemented since 2022. Currently, 50 such schools have been created within its framework, and by 2030, on the instructions of Russian President Vladimir Putin, their number should be increased to 100. Starting this year, the first 30 schools from 15 regions, including PISh SPbPU, according to the terms of the project, are moving to a new stage of financing – after three years of budget financing, they will switch to off-budget and will work at the expense of funds attracted from industrial partners.

    The first 30 advanced engineering schools are moving to a new qualitative level of development. The results presented by the university teams show that together we have managed to create an effective model for integrating education, science and production. The next stage for the first wave of schools will be scaling up their activities. Everything necessary for this is available: modern equipment, competencies, established contacts with industrial partners. It is important that regional authorities pay great attention to the development of advanced engineering schools in their cities, understanding their value for strengthening relations between higher education and the real sector of the economy, emphasized the head of the Russian Ministry of Education and Science Valery Falkov.

    Today, 12 master’s programs are implemented at PIS SPbPU. From 2022 to 2024, the enrollment of students in the master’s programs of PIS SPbPU increased by 2.5 times, and the enrollment in the Applied Mechanics program became the largest in Russia – 68 people. In 2024, the first graduation of master’s students took place, and all graduates were employed at industrial partner enterprises, in partner universities, structural divisions of SPbPU and PIS SPbPU, as well as in companies in the high-tech sector of the economy.

    Also, PISh SPbPU has developed and is implementing 53 programs of additional professional education (APE) for managers and engineering personnel of such companies as T Plus, Inter RAO, Power Machines, Severstal, companies of the United Aircraft Corporation (PJSC United Aircraft Corporation, Ilyushin Aviation Complex, Yakovlev, JSC AeroKomposit), UEC, UEC-Aviadvigatel, UEC-Klimov, etc.

    The program of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” allowed us to open many new modern laboratories and scientific and educational spaces at our university, develop and launch new master’s and additional professional education programs in relevant engineering areas. I would like to note that the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU also expanded its effective and systematic interaction with industrial partners – high-tech companies and corporations. In addition, it was at the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” that the qualified partnership model was successfully tested, which formed the basis of the SPbPU Development Program until 2030 and in the long term until 2036. Formed teams with competencies and experience in solving breakthrough scientific and technological problems, the created scientific and scientific-technological reserve and the established effective qualified partnership with industry will help us make a breakthrough in the scientific and technological sphere, aimed at ensuring the technological leadership of our country, – commented the rector of Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, chairman of the St. Petersburg branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences Andrey Rudskoy.

    Over the past 2.5 years, the SPbPU Advanced Engineering School has made a significant contribution to the development of the university’s infrastructure. From 2022 to 2025, 11 research and educational spaces were opened in the SPbPU Advanced Engineering School, and six more are planned to be opened by 2030.

    The Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” of the St. Petersburg Polytechnic University is one of the most successful engineering schools, which is confirmed by the growth in the number of master’s programs and continuing education programs, the number of R & D projects implemented in the interests of high-tech companies and the successful employment of graduates. All this together has a positive effect on the overall qualification growth of the professional workshop of design engineers and developers. In fact, the SPbPU PISh makes a significant contribution to building up the intellectual potential of the Northern capital. It is important to note that the scientific and technological groundwork of the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” formed the basis of the Strategy and Development Program of the Polytechnic University until 2030, in particular one of the key scientific and technological areas “Systemic Digital Engineering”, – noted the Vice-Governor of St. Petersburg Vladimir Knyaginin.

    The delegation of the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU “Digital Engineering” included: the head of the SPbPU Office of Technological Leadership Oleg Rozhdestvensky, the vice-governor of St. Petersburg Vladimir Knyaginin, the director of the department of scientific and technical activities of JSC TVEL Alexey Shishkin, the first vice-rector of SPbPU Vitaly Sergeev, the director of the center for additional professional education of the SPbPU PISh Sergey Salkutsan.

    As for developments, from 2022 to 2025, PISh SPbPU implemented more than 70 projects and attracted more than 1.8 billion rubles under commercial contracts for R&D and the provision of scientific and technological services commissioned by the high-tech industry.

    Several large-scale projects were completed by specialists of the SPbPU PISh at the orders of various companies that are part of the Rosatom State Corporation. In the field of digital modeling, the school’s specialists were the first to create the architecture and digital models for a digital twin of a vitrification furnace for high-level radioactive waste. In 2024, at the order of the Composite Division of the Rosatom State Corporation, engineers developed a pilot industrial technology for the production of filaments from continuous carbon fiber based on thermoplastics and delivered ultra-high-performance installations to the Rosatom State Corporation – 12 km of filament/hour.

    By order of JSC TVEL (Fuel Division of the State Corporation Rosatom), specialists from the Engineering Center (CompMechLab®) of the SPbPU PISh developed digital twins of fuel assemblies of water-cooled nuclear reactors of the TVS-K PWR and TVS VVER types. Over three years of work, engineers from the St. Petersburg Polytechnic University developed virtual test benches and ranges (VIS and VIP) for tetrahedral (TVS-K PWR) and hexagonal (TVS VVER) fuel assemblies: VIS “Gidrodinamika”, VIS “Prochnost”, VIP “Bezopasnost – TUK” and VIP “Bezopasnost – OR SUZ”.

    Using digital systems engineering technologies, the school’s specialists performed comprehensive strength calculations of the ice-resistant fixed platform LSP “A” structures for the Kamennomysskoye-Sea gas field, guaranteeing the reliability of the structure for a period of 100 years of operation.

    Also among the significant achievements is the development of improved sports sleds with improved aerodynamic characteristics for the Russian athlete, three-time world champion and two-time winner of the World Cup in luge Roman Repilov; the development and production of an optimal composite fairing for a modernized two-seater motor paraglider for the famous traveler Fyodor Konyukhov.

    In 2024, the Advanced Engineering School of SPbPU achieved significant success in the field of unmanned aircraft systems, winning the competition of the ANO “FC BAS” as part of the implementation of the state Strategy for the Development of Unmanned Aviation of the Russian Federation and signed a contract for “Development of a system for constructing virtual test stands and virtual test sites, conducting digital tests of unmanned aerial vehicle elements based on a single digital platform for the development and use of UAS digital twins.”

    We would also like to note the development of the Digital Platform for the development and application of digital twins CML-Bench® as a whole as one of the key tools for the implementation of knowledge-intensive multidisciplinary projects. In full accordance with the strategic state objectives of ensuring technological leadership of domestic high-tech products, the development of the Digital Platform CML-Bench® is aimed at active integration with the engineering software of Russian vendors, and in 2024 the platform was certified according to the sixth level of trust of the FSTEC and compliance with the requirements for state information systems of the third class, which provide the ability to process information constituting a commercial secret and information “For official use only”.

    The implementation of the socio-economic development initiative “Advanced Engineering Schools” in the period from 2022 to 2024 was carried out within the framework of the federal project “Advanced Engineering Schools” of the state program “Scientific and Technological Development of the Russian Federation”. Since 2025, the continuity of the activities of the project “Advanced Engineering Schools” was ensured by including them in the federal project “Universities for the Generation of Leaders” of the national project “Youth and Children”.

    In accordance with the Order of the Government of the Russian Federation dated May 26, 2022 No. 1315-r, Vice-Rector for Digital Transformation of SPbPU Alexey Borovkov joined the Council for Grants for Providing State Support for the Creation and Development of Advanced Engineering Schools. In order to avoid a conflict of interest, Alexey Ivanovich did not take part in the presentation and evaluation of the development results of the Advanced Engineering School “Digital Engineering” of SPbPU, of which he is the head.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Israeli airstrikes kill at least 80 in Gaza, cripple cancer hospital

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    GAZA, May 15 (Xinhua) — At least 80 Palestinians were killed and dozens wounded in Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip on Thursday, Palestinian medical and institutional sources said.

    The shelling of the town killed 54 people, including women and children, according to a press statement issued by Nasser Hospital in the southern Gaza Strip city of Khan Younis.

    Gaza’s European Hospital, the only medical facility in the Palestinian enclave that provides cancer care, was put out of action by recent Israeli airstrikes, according to health officials in the Palestinian enclave.

    The attacks by the Jewish state “caused significant damage to infrastructure, in particular sewer lines, damaged department buildings and destroyed roads leading to the hospital,” the authorities said in a press statement.

    Medical sources also told Xinhua that another 26 people were killed in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City and other areas in the northern part of the enclave.

    On May 13, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that the Jewish state’s military would enter the Gaza Strip “with full force” in the coming days to continue the defeat of the Hamas movement.

    Israel resumed full-scale military action in Gaza on March 18, ending a two-month truce. Since then, 2,876 Palestinians have been killed and more than 7,800 wounded, according to health officials in the enclave.

    The total number of Palestinians killed since the current round of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict began on October 7, 2023, reached 53,010 as of Thursday, according to official statistics from Gaza’s health authorities. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Luján: Trump Administration Illegally Blocking Nearly $316 Billion Owed to Native Communities

    US Senate News:

    Source: US Senator for New Mexico Ben Ray Luján
    WATCH Senator Luján’s Remarks in Senate Indian Affairs Committee
    Washington, D.C.— A new tracker revealed that the Trump administration is blocking or freezing more than $430 billion in federal funding owed to communities across the country — including nearly $316 billion for national programs that support Indian Country and Native communities. The data reflects just how widespread the damage is — with funding for public safety, housing, disaster recovery, child care, transportation, infrastructure, and education either delayed or terminated, and whole agencies and offices closed down, cutting off vital services.
    “The Trump administration is illegally withholding hundreds of billions of dollars owed to communities across the country – including nearly $316 billion owed to Native communities – just to hand out more tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans and corporate interests,” said Senator Luján, a member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee. “This is a profound betrayal of Native communities and a shameful failure to uphold the federal government’s trust responsibility to Tribes. Blocking these funds has real consequences – stripping away vital resources from the health care, education, and child care services families depend on. This reckless decision puts the well-being and safety of New Mexicans and Tribal Nations at risk.”
    As these cuts take effect, the Trump administration has imposed “Defend the Spend,” a sweeping new policy that requires grantees to justify spending line by line, even for items that have already been awarded. Grantees have received inconsistent guidance on how to navigate the new mandate, and many have faced significant delays in accessing funding they were already awarded — including funding for essential Tribal services.
    At the same time, the Trump administration is proposing to slash $911 million — a 24% cut — from core Tribal programs in its Fiscal Year 2026 proposed budget. These cuts would gut basic services like public safety and justice, education and workforce training, Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA) housing grants, Native Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFIs), forestry management, and programs for Native children and families. They would also nearly eliminate funding to construct or repair Tribal schools, which are already chronically underfunded, and reduce support for Tribal law enforcement by 20 percent. As the economy slows and prices rise due to President Trump’s policies, these devastating cuts and burdensome new processes would make life harder in Native communities.
    If you or your community has been impacted by withheld or terminated federal funding, you are encouraged to share your story by emailing oversight@indian.senate.gov. Your name and contact information will be kept confidential. Please include the federal agency and program involved in your submission.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Baldwin to Host Two-Day Forum to Spotlight How Americans are Harmed by Trump’s Mass Firings at HHS

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
    Former agency officials from the FDA, CMS, HRSA, CDC, NIH, and more will testify
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) will lead their Democratic colleagues in holding a two-day forum to examine the human harm caused by the Trump Administration’s shuttering of key departments and mass firings of health experts at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
    The forum will be held Tuesday, May 20th and Wednesday, May 21st, and is entitled “Trump’s Destruction of HHS: Mass Firings, Reorganization, and the Human Harm Caused.”
    Welch and Baldwin’s forum will feature former officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), the Administration for Community Living (ACL), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Former HHS agency officials will testify and offer insights on the immediate and long-term impact of mass firings and restructuring on essential programs millions of Americans rely on. 
    On March 27, 2025, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. unveiled a plan to eliminate 20,000 HHS public health experts, scientists, and public servants and eliminate key agencies within HHS entirely. The Trump Administration has refused to provide Congress with information about the decision-making process or the potential impacts on vital programs that serve millions of Americans.
    LOGISTICS: 
    WHAT:  “Trump’s Destruction of HHS: Mass Firings, Reorganization, and the Human Harm Caused.”
    DATE and TIME:
    Tuesday, May 20Time: 3:00–4:30PMLocation: SD-G50 Watch via livestream
    Wednesday, May 21Time: 3:00–4:30PM Location: SH-216 Watch via livestream
    WHO:            U.S. Senators; former officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), the Administration for Community Living (ACL), and the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
    Media interested in attending this event are encouraged to RSVP to Aaron_White@welch.senate.gov by 11:00AM on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Army launches Army Enterprise LLM Workspace, the revolutionary AI platform that wrote this article

    Source: United States Army

    WASHINGTON – The newly launched Army Enterprise Large Language Model Workspace is a generative AI platform that showcases how the Army is harnessing cutting-edge artificial intelligence to streamline communication, enhance operational efficiency and drive innovation. From drafting press releases to reclassifying personnel descriptions, and everything in between, it is proving to be a transformative tool for warfighters and office operations alike. As a demonstration of its capabilities, the Army Enterprise LLM Workspace utilized provided prompts to author this article.

    Key features of the Army Enterprise LLM Workspace include:

    • Powered by Ask Sage, a cutting-edge multi-model generative AI technology tailored for Army needs
    • CUI accredited, which ensures compliance with security standards for sensitive information
    • Lower barrier to entry (Software-as-a-service capability eliminates the need for complex installations)
    • Free for 30 days to allow immediate access for eligible users with CAC registration
    • Token-based subscription (Army CIO has procured limited tokens, and organizations can procure tokens after the trial period from Army IDIQ)
    • Deploying by end of May to SIPRNET and higher networks to support classified workloads

    A Secure and Accessible Solution

    Army Enterprise LLM Workspace, which is powered by Ask Sage IL5 Software-as-a-Service, is hosted within the Army’s cArmy Cloud and is controlled-unclassified-information accredited, ensuring compliance with stringent security standards. The platform’s SaaS capability lowers the barrier to entry, making it accessible to users across the Army enterprise without the need for complex installations or hardware requirements. Soldiers and civilians can register using their common access cards to gain immediate access to the platform’s powerful features.

    Free Trial and Subscription Model

    To encourage adoption and exploration, Army Enterprise LLM Workspace is available free for 30 days to all eligible users. After the trial period, users will need a token to purchase a full subscription. The Army’s Office of the Chief Information Officer has issued a limited number of tokens, and those who sign up during the first 30 days will need to contact their organization to request a token for continued access. The Army awarded Ask Sage an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract with a $49 million ceiling and a five-year ordering period. The platform leverages technologies such as Azure OpenAI Gov, Mistral, LLM3A.3.3, AWS Bedrock Gov, Google Gemini and several open-source LLMs. To request access, send an email to usarmy.apg.acc.mbx.dc3oe-army-llm@army.mil.

    Driving Innovation Across the Force

    Army Enterprise LLM Workspace has been a catalyst for innovation within the Army. For example, the platform was used to tackle the tedious task of reclassifying personnel descriptions, which involves defining and aligning job duties, experience and backgrounds. According to Gabriele Chiulli, chief technology officer of the Army’s Enterprise Cloud Management Agency, “The Army was able to update 300,000 personnel descriptions in a week using Army Enterprise LLM Workspace.” By comparison, it would take a human approximately 10 minutes to review each description, amounting to 50,000 hours (or 5.7 years). This efficiency demonstrates the transformative potential of generative AI in both operational and administrative contexts.

    Empowering Soldiers and Civilians to Innovate

    Army Enterprise LLM Workspace is not just a tool for efficiency, it’s a platform for creativity and problem-solving. Soldiers and civilians who have used the platform to innovate, or who have ideas for new use cases, are invited to submit their experiences and suggestions. These submissions will help shape the future of generative AI integration within the Army and ensure the platform continues to meet the needs of its users. To share your use case or idea, email the Army’s innovation team at innovation@army.mil.

    Join the Innovation Movement

    The launch of Army Enterprise LLM Workspace underscores the Army’s commitment to embracing emerging technologies and fostering a culture of innovation. By providing a secure, scalable and user-friendly AI platform, the Army is equipping its personnel with the tools they need to excel in an increasingly complex operational environment.

    For more information on Army Enterprise LLM Workspace, including registration details and use case submissions, visit https://chat.genai.army.mil.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Orange You Glad that Researchers Made a “Sweet” Discovery for the Citrus Industry?

    Source: US Agriculture Research Service

    Orange You Glad that Researchers Made a “Sweet” Discovery for the Citrus Industry?

    By: Jessica Ryan
    Email: arspress@usda.gov

    May 15, 2025

    ARS scientists made a “sweet” discovery that may be important to solve a major problem within the citrus industry. 

    Huanglongbing (HLB), also known as citrus greening disease, poses a serious threat to the Florida citrus industry. HLB is associated with tree infection by its presumed causal agent Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus and is spreading to many citrus-growing areas worldwide. In Florida, HLB has caused about 90% of citrus production losses since it was first detected in 2005. 

    An orange from a Donaldson tree. (Photo by Giancarlo Buzzi, ARS)

    ARS scientists at the U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory in Fort Pierce, FL, assessed citrus trees with oranges that could be potentially used for commercial production of orange juice. During their assessment, the scientists found a sweet orange tree named “Donaldson” at the A.H. Whitmore Citrus Research Foundation Farm in Groveland, FL. This tree is a selection from the USDA-ARS variety collection that represents over 100 years of USDA-ARS research on citrus in Florida. 

    “The Donaldson sweet orange tree stood out as being exceptionally healthy compared to the industry-standard trees that were planted close by and were in decline or had died,” said Matt Mattia, a research geneticist. “The Donaldson tree also tested positive for the presence of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus, one of the presumed causal agents of HLB. This indicates that the tree may have tolerance to the disease.” 

    The Donaldson orange tree. (Photo by Giancarlo Buzzi, ARS)

    Historical records show that the Donaldson tree was first planted on the farm over 30 years ago. Another tree type named “Hamlin,” which has been ravaged by HLB, was also planted around the same time. Hamlin and Donaldson are early season trees that mature from December to January. While Hamlin has been used in commercial orange juice production for years, Donaldson has remained only on the farm. 

    Researchers assessed if Donaldson oranges could substitute Hamlin oranges for juice production. In the study, researchers conducted taste tests to study the differences between orange juice blends using Hamlin and Donaldson oranges. 

    “The taste testers noted that there was a difference between the two juices,” said Mattia. “However, those differences may be explained by the lower acidity in fruits from young Hamlin trees.” 

    According to Mattia, Donaldson oranges could replace Hamlin oranges for commercial production, maturing in the early season and presenting good orange flavor. However, future research should explore whether Donaldson fruit could replace Hamlin fruit in juice by comparing fruits from trees of the same age. 

    More research is underway to determine if the Donaldson trees have long-term tolerance to HLB and if citrus growers can successfully plant these trees to meet the demands of commercial production. ARS researchers plan to work with research collaborators and industry partners to assess Donaldson’s tolerance to HLB in field trials and study the possible underlying genetic mechanisms responsible for tolerance. 

    The study was published in HortScience. The research done by ARS was in collaboration with researchers at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences’ Horticultural Sciences Department. 

    The Agricultural Research Service is the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s chief scientific in-house research agency. Daily, ARS focuses on solutions to agricultural problems affecting America. Each dollar invested in U.S. agricultural research results in $20 of economic impact.

    # # #

    USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Union Continues Political Pressure for Rail Safety, Railroad Retirement

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Back-to-back weeks of railroaders hitting Capitol Hill put pressure on Congress to act on Rail Safety 

    IAM Assistant to the International President for the Rail Division Josh Hartford and Assistant National Legislative Director Ty Richardson, together with TCU/IAM National Legislative Director David Arouca and National Legislative Representative Connor Vargo, participated in a mass lobbying effort on Capitol Hill organized by railroad unions and companies for Rail Safety Lobby Day.

    “We cannot stop pushing on this issue,” said Hartford. “Railroaders have been sounding the alarm that we need appropriate legislation to keep the public safe and prevent more derailments. We need the Rail Safety Act with specified amendments to pass, and we’re going to keep fighting until it does.”

    With a large membership in the rail industry, IAM Union has continued to put pressure on legislators to finalize and pass the Railroad Safety Act to address growing issues brought on by the use of Precision Scheduled Railroading (PSR) and inspection time limits imposed by railroad companies, among other concerns.

    The unions also participated in the day of action to advocate for the funding of Amtrak and the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB), two high-priority items for IAM and TCU/IAM members.

    “Railroad retirement affects every railroader across the county,” said Arouca. “We pay into this system. We expect this system to work properly, and the Railroad Retirement Board has been flat-funded for too long.”

    IAM Union is working with representatives and senators on both sides of the aisle to gain support for fully-funding the RRB, so that railroad disability claims don’t take 18 months to process.

    “This constraint on administrative expenses has greatly diminished customer service for the rail workers and retirees who depend on this system,” reads the letter. “A continued lack of an increase on RRB’s funding would significantly undermine the RRB’s ability to serve railroad workers, retirees, and their families.”

    The legislative leaders had just finished a week of political action for the IAM 2025 National Legislative conference where they lobbied Congress about the need for rail safety legislation and other issues impacting different sectors of the union.

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Report: Deadly Gaps

    Source: Médecins Sans Frontières –

    In September 2025, the Global Fund, the main funder of a worldwide response to HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, will host its eighth replenishment conference, where donor countries will make pledges to fund its vital, life-saving work.

    Ahead of the conference, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has released a report based on our experience with the communities we serve. This report highlights the challenges this replenishment faces, including the impact of shrinking donor support. Without sufficient funding there will be antiretroviral, antimalarial and tuberculosis drug stockouts, people will travel long distances only to be turned away at dispensaries, community health workers will go unpaid or under-supported, and critical prevention activities will be neglected. These challenges are not confined to ‘fragile’ settings. People in countries with functioning health systems that are simply under-resourced will also feel the impacts.

    This report references findings from Burundi, Central African Republic (CAR), Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Guinea, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Pakistan, Philippines, South Sudan, and Sudan.

    The stakes for replenishment are high. Now is the time to step up—to protect gains made and ensure a future where HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria do not threaten millions of lives.

    Deadly Gaps: Executive Summary pdf — 3.37 MB Download
    Deadly Gaps: Don’t turn away from saving lives pdf — 11.64 MB Download

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Canada’s audiovisual industry should better reflect the country’s diversity

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By John Schoales, Visiting Researcher and Adjunct Professor, School of Creative Industries, Toronto Metropolitan University

    An important reason for underrepresentation in cultural industries is the citizenship-based approach to defining what classifies as Canadian content.
     (Shutterstock)

    The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has recently undertaken a consultation on defining Canadian programming in the film and television industry.

    A longstanding focus has been to base the definition of Canadian programming on having Canadian citizens or permanent residents occupying key creative or ownership positions in film and television. Similar definitions are used in Canada for other cultural industries such as music, publishing and the arts.

    However, the growth of online content has challenged longstanding approaches that were developed when national borders played a larger role in media markets. Today, a new generation of artists and online creators are less likely to see their markets or identities confined by national boundaries.

    This has also highlighted barriers faced by others, long ignored, who don’t necessarily define their cultural identity by their nationality. This can include people from other countries who want to pursue arts and culture careers in Canada, Indigenous communities or anyone who defines their identity by anything other than their citizenship.

    Systemic bias

    An important reason for underrepresentation in cultural industries is the citizenship-based approach to Canadian content used by the CRTC in audiovisual policy and the federal and provincial governments in a variety of culture programs.

    This approach creates preferential access to opportunities for people who are much more likely to be white.

    The Canadian Human Rights Commission has stated that progress towards eliminating systemic racism and discrimination in a meaningful way will remain elusive as long as any doubt remains about the existence of systemic racism in Canada.

    The growth of online content has challenged longstanding approaches that were developed when national borders played a larger role in media markets.
    (Shutterstock)

    Canadian audiovisual policy illustrates that systemic racism does exist and remains embedded in Canadian culture policy.

    The 2021 census indicated that around one-quarter of Canada’s population is racialized. That includes 69.3 per cent of immigrants and 83.1 per cent of non-permanent residents.

    The census also shows that racialized people are underrepresented in all cultural industries, such as film and television, music, publishing and performing arts. Those who are able to work in cultural occupations often earn far less than their non-racialized counterparts.

    As the Ontario Human Rights Commission has stated:

    “Organizations must ensure that they are not unconsciously engaging in systemic discrimination. This takes vigilance and a willingness to monitor and review numerical data, policies, practices and decision-making processes and organizational culture. It is not acceptable from a human rights perspective for an organization to choose to remain unaware of systemic discrimination or to fail to act when a problem comes to its attention.”

    Challenges in the immigration system

    The relationship between immigration, underrepresentation and industry growth, success and cultural impact is particularly important for effective Canadian policy because almost all of Canada’s net population growth is due to immigration.

    Today, Canada is increasingly using a two-step immigration system in which immigrants are selected from non-permanent residents already living in Canada. It is particularly difficult for a culture industry worker to settle in Canada because they don’t qualify for public funding programs in these industries prior to becoming a permanent resident.

    In addition, relevant work they are able to find may not count toward their future immigration applications because it may be self-employment, contract or part-time work, which is the norm in these industries.

    There is little effort to either attract foreign workers in these industries or help them integrate into a workforce in which self-employment and contract work is very common, and success is largely determined by access to established networks.

    Definitions of Canadian content highlight barriers faced by others, long ignored, who don’t necessarily define their cultural identity by their citizenship.
    (Shutterstock)

    Improving creativity and productivity

    Canada’s parochial approach that equates culture with nationality echoes a troubled history of cultural assimilation and discrimination.

    The country does not appear to have learned important lessons about the impact of cultural nationalist assimilation from the Truth and Reconciliation process, restrictive immigration policies or the advancement of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

    It says to some: your cultural identity is Canadian. It says to others: you’re not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident so anything you create has no cultural value.

    Inclusive creative industries allow for the cultural contributions of more people and foster collaboration and new ideas, which are important drivers of a productive industry.

    Productivity is significantly lower in Canada than in the United States. High human capital industries like the creative industries are primary drivers of productivity and are supported by the migration of skilled people.

    A definition of Canadian content based on citizenship or permanent residency status is often promoted as a way to defend against the influx of American cultural products from Hollywood. However, Hollywood products currently have no citizenship focus. Like all highly successful culture centres, Hollywood has always founded its success on attracting talented people from around the world.

    U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to impose film tariffs on foreign-produced films similarly does not reflect an understanding that this is a global industry. It is a short step from there to wanting only Americans in key creative and ownership roles. That would restrict Hollywood’s access to global talent and resources, undermine its primary advantage, and undermine the industry’s competitiveness.



    Read more:
    Tax Canadian movies? Why culture has always been at the centre of trade wars

    As a leading global destination for immigrants and with aspirations to be inclusive, Canada has the unique potential to become a leading global culture centre with thriving and diverse creative industries.

    To achieve this potential, the CRTC and Canadian governments must reorient their policies to develop cultural industries that cultivate great art by talented people, regardless of their identity or where they are from.

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

    – ref. Canada’s audiovisual industry should better reflect the country’s diversity – https://theconversation.com/canadas-audiovisual-industry-should-better-reflect-the-countrys-diversity-252883

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: World’s largest car carrier, built by China, sets off on maiden voyage

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SHANGHAI, May 15 (Xinhua) — China’s self-built car carrier Anji Ansheng, the world’s largest by cargo capacity, departed from Shanghai Port on Thursday evening on its maiden voyage, carrying nearly 7,000 Chinese-made vehicles to Europe.

    The car carrier’s departure from Shanghai marked a new milestone for Chinese shipbuilding as the Anji Ansheng broke the world’s largest cargo-carrying capacity record set just weeks earlier by Chinese auto giant BYD’s Shenzhen. The Shenzhen previously held the title of the world’s largest car carrier in operation. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Norcross Outraged by Republicans Cuts to Lifesaving Healthcare and Food Assistance for Seniors, Children, Veterans

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released a statement on Republicans budget plan to slash Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act, and food assistance from our seniors, veterans, children, and hard-working families. This week, Republicans released a plan that dictates the specific cuts they would be making to these programs and voted for them in their Congressional committees.

    “Trump and Republicans in Congress spent months lying to the American people, saying they would preserve health care, and they wouldn’t touch Medicaid,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “This week, Republicans voted to make the largest cuts to Medicaid and food assistance in American history. Millions of seniors, veterans, children, and hardworking families will lose their healthcare coverage, and millions more will be left hungry. Let’s be clear; when Medicaid is cut, people don’t ‘tighten their belts.’ They lose access to life-saving medications, they skip doctor visits because they can’t afford them, they forgo vital surgeries and, in some cases, they die. Cutting Medicaid won’t create prosperity it will create poverty.  We must fight back, because Medicaid matters, food for our seniors and children matters. I will never stop fighting for our seniors, veterans, children, and hard-working families in South Jersey.”

    The Republican budget plan will end healthcare coverage for almost 14 million Americans: 

    • The bill’s Medicaid and Affordable Care Act cuts terminate health insurance for 8.6 million Americans
    • Republicans’ plans to take away enhanced tax credits cause another 5.1 million Americans to lose coverage.

    The Republican budget plan directs:

    • At least $700 billion in Medicaid cuts, terminating health insurance and slashing benefits, like home care and mental health services, for low-income seniors, kids, veterans, people with disabilities, and working families.
    • A $350 billion cut to the Affordable Care Act because Republicans refuse to extend tax credits that ensure Americans can afford their health coverage 

    Largest cut to SNAP, which provides critical food assistance for low-income families, in American history:

    • 27,000 grocery stores could be at risk of closure due to a massive loss in revenue, creating and exacerbating food deserts in largely rural areas.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WSDOT urges early planning for Memorial Day weekend travel and ferry crowds

    Source: Washington State News 2

    Holiday travel charts provide best times to travel on busy corridors like I-5, US 2 and I-90

    OLYMPIA – It may not be officially summer yet – but travelers should certainly plan ahead for summer-like crowds for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend.

    The Washington State Department of Transportation has released Memorial Day weekend travel charts showing the best (and worst) times to travel on key routes like Interstate 5, US 2, I-90 and at the I-5/Canada border crossing. Most state highway construction will pause Friday through Tuesday, May 23-27 to help ease congestion, though some temporary lane shifts, closures or adjusted bike lanes may remain in place for travel.

    Holiday weekends often mean increased traffic and delays along state highways, waterways, airports and pedestrian trails. Travelers should be patient, expect delays and stay alert. Delays may also occur as crews respond to crashes or conduct emergency repairs. Washington state ferry routes also are expected to be busy and reservations are strongly encouraged on routes that offer them. 

    WSDOT encourages travelers to “know before you go,” and follow these tips whether traveling across town or statewide:

    • Get informed about WSDOT’s online tools, including the WSDOT mobile app, traffic cameras and email alerts.
    • Visit online traveler information for traffic, weather, ferry schedules and a real-time travel map.
    • Follow WSDOT on various social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Bluesky and X.
    • Identify potential safety rest areas before heading out, to ensure enough breaks to avoid drowsy driving.
    • Pre-program vehicle radios to 530 AM and 1610 AM for highway advisory radio alerts – and be alert for other stations listed on notice signs in some areas.
    • Have a backup outdoor destination as parks and other outdoor recreation sites tend to fill up quickly on holiday weekends. If a site’s parking is full, never park along road shoulders as this is unsafe for everyone on the roadway, including emergency response vehicles.

    Most highway construction paused

    Most state highway construction work is suspended through the holiday weekend – including both Friday, May 23, and Monday, May 26 – to ease congestion. However, travelers should stay alert for lane shifts or work zone staging that may remain in place. Emergency repairs and crash response will still occur, so drivers need to give crews plenty of space to work safely. While no major construction is planned over the holiday weekend, work zone speed cameras may still be active in areas where speeding has been an ongoing issue and crews are present.

    Snoqualmie Pass

    No construction is planned on I-90 from Friday, May 23, through Tuesday, May 27. However, the usual holiday increase in traffic means travelers should expect delays, especially eastbound on Friday and westbound on Monday (see charts for more detail). People can receive text message alerts about significant delays by texting the words “WSDOT Snoqualmie” to 468311. 

    Chinook and Cayuse passes

    State Route 410/Chinook Pass and SR 123/Cayuse Pass are tentatively scheduled to reopen Friday, May 23. Check the mountain passes webpage to ensure the passes are open and to view current conditions.

    Mount Rainier information

    • The National Park Service has a project in progress to repair sections of SR 123 that adds about 30 minutes of travel time, seven days a week, through October.
    • This year marks the second season of timed-entry reservations into the park. More information.

    Vantage Bridge

    To help accommodate increased travel during the two major summer holidays (Memorial Day and Independence Day weekend), all four lanes of I-90 across the Vantage Bridge will be open from May 23 through July 7. Outside of that time, the bridge will have only one lane in each direction through fall due to construction on the bridge. This project is part of a long-term effort to replace the deteriorating bridge deck, with construction expected to be complete by fall 2028.

    Tolling

    In the Puget Sound region, weekend toll rates will be in effect on Monday, May 27, on the SR 520 bridge and SR 99 tunnel. The I-405 express toll lanes and SR 167 HOT lanes will be free and open to all drivers on the Monday holiday. Out-of-town travelers, including those using rental cars, can learn about toll roads and temporary account payment options on the Good To Go! visitors page.

    Ferry travel

    People boarding a ferry by vehicle can expect the busiest sailings will likely be westbound (or onto an island) Thursday through Saturday, May 22-24, and eastbound (or off island) Saturday through Monday, May 24-26. Walk-on passengers can bypass vehicle lines and usually board much faster.

    Trains, airports and transit

    Travelers making a trip by train, personal aircraft or bus also should plan ahead to avoid holiday delays:

    • Amtrak Cascades passengers are encouraged to purchase tickets early and plan to arrive at the station one hour before departure. Trains are running between Vancouver, British Columbia and Eugene, Oregon, stopping at 18 stations along the way. Buses also are available for travel between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia and between Seattle and Bellingham. Visit www.AmtrakCascades.com or call 800-USA-RAIL for tickets and schedules.
    • For information about traveling via state-sponsored airports, visit wsdot.wa.gov/travel/aviation/airports-list or call 360-618-2477.
    • Check with local public transit agencies for any holiday schedule or service changes, including some Dial-A-Ride and fixed-route service that may not run on holidays.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senators Coons, Ricketts, colleagues introduce bill to counter the People’s Republic of China’s strategic placement of military bases around the world

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Delaware Christopher Coons
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.) introduced the Combating PRC Overseas and Unlawful Networked Threats through Enhanced Resilience (COUNTER) Act to combat the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) attempts to strengthen its global reach by expanding its overseas basing efforts. The COUNTER Act is also cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.).
    “China is using the placement of new military bases in strategically important countries around the world to expand their military and economic power,” said Senator Coons. “A successful long-term plan to deal with our global pacing threat in Beijing must include a comprehensive approach to stop China from gaining more military footholds by working with our partners and allies across the globe. The bipartisan COUNTER Act will push our government to come up with the tailored solutions we need to face this growing challenge.”
    “Communist China’s growing military footprint across the world poses a serious threat. We cannot afford to be reactionary to Xi Jinping’s military expansion and his desire to project power globally. The COUNTER Act will ensure that we have the urgency, strategy, and coordination necessary to potentially mitigate the next overseas PLA military base from developing,” said Senator Ricketts.
    “China is rapidly expanding its global footprint, and we need to do more to address the threat this poses to our national security and the security of our allies,” said Senator Kaine. “This bipartisan legislation would help ensure that the U.S. government has a comprehensive strategy to counter China’s establishment of new military bases around the world.”
    “The Chinese Communist Party is aggressively working to undermine the United States and spread its authoritarian influence to strategic countries by building military bases and undermining national security and global stability,” said Senator Cornyn. “The COUNTER Act would enhance our understanding of their devious plans and sharpen our efforts to thwart future CCP footholds, and I’m proud to stand with my colleagues to push back against their hostile actions.”
    The PRC has significantly increased its efforts in recent years to establish an overseas network of military and transportation bases, which would allow the People’s Liberation Army to project and expand military power. The COUNTER Act would begin to mitigate the threat this poses to the United States and our allies by requiring a comprehensive intelligence assessment of the PRC’s global basing activities, as well as a strategy from the State Department and the Department of Defense to address them. The legislation would also create an interagency task force to implement the strategy and identify proactive measures to counteract both current and future Chinese attempts to add military bases in strategic countries.
    Specifically, the COUNTER Act would: 
    Require an assessment from the Director of National Intelligence analyzing the risk of PRC global basing to the U.S and allied power projection and freedom of movement
    Require a strategy from the State Department and the Department of Defense identifying current or future PRC basing locations
    a comprehensive list of U.S. government activity aimed at addressing PRC global basing in each location
    an identification of resource or personnel constraints limiting the U.S. response
    an identification of the most effective practices to persuade foreign governments to terminate plans for hosting a PRC base in their territory

    Establish an interagency task force to counter the PRC’s global basing expansion and prevent new locations
    Require a report every four years on updates to PRC basing intentions and subsequent updates to U.S. strategy
    Senator Coons is the Ranking Member on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense and a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Senator Ricketts is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
    A one-pager on the bill is available here. 
    The text of the bill is available here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Further investment into special school places in Plymouth

    Source: City of Plymouth

    More than £900,000 is being invested to create more capacity at special schools in Plymouth.

    This is part of Plymouth City Council’s £13 million SEND sufficiency plan, which aims to improve support for children and young people with special needs and/or disabilities (SEND) by increasing the availability of special school places.

    The Council will spend £728,392 to carry out reconfiguration works at Woodlands Special School, transforming an unused space to facilitate a 10-place assessment nursery provision and creating extra school places.

    The nursery provision will provide year-long placements for pre-school aged children who are waiting to be assessed for an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP). It will be staffed by a teacher and Education, Health and Care assistants, who will monitor children to see whether they need a specialist or mainstream school place. Children will then be supported to transition directly from the nursery into their new school placement.

    A further £192,000 will also be used to increase capacity at Longcause Special School, by converting four offices into additional classroom spaces to better meet the needs of pupils at the school.

    Woodlands Special School supports pupils aged between two and 19-years-old who have complex physical and sensory difficulties, with many also having medical needs.

     Longcause Special School provides places to children aged four to 16-years-old who are on the autism spectrum and have other learning difficulties. 

    Councillor Sally Cresswell, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Apprenticeships, said: “One of the biggest challenges we face when it comes to improving our SEND services is the lack of special school places available for children who really need extra support to learn and thrive.  

    “We are committed to maximising the limited resources available to us to create more specialist provision. I’m delighted that we’re able to work with Longcause and Woodlands to reconfigure their respective school buildings to turn underutilised space into useful learning environments for children and young people with SEND.  

    “Thank you to our special school headteachers for working so constructively with us to help find creative solutions to what are very complex problems.”   

    All of the new places for the next school year have already been allocated to children who have been waiting for a specialist place.   

    The majority of the building work is due to take place during the summer holidays to avoid disrupting pupils and staff.

    While most children’s needs can be met in a mainstream setting, for some a specialist setting is more appropriate. To be eligible for a special school place, children must have an EHCP or be undergoing a statutory assessment of their special educational needs and have needs that cannot be met in a mainstream school.  

    The Council and local schools have recently launched a new website outlining the Plymouth Graduated Approach to Inclusion. This helps schools and parents and carers by setting out the support available for children and young people with SEND to ensure that their needs are meet. Find out more at https://plymouthgati.co.uk.   

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: A UN-facilitated political process can deliver lasting peace, stability and security for Libya: UK Statement at the UN Security Council

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    A UN-facilitated political process can deliver lasting peace, stability and security for Libya: UK Statement at the UN Security Council

    Statement by Legal Adviser Colin McIntyre at the UN Security Council meeting on Libya.

    I will make three points.

    First, let me express the UK’s deep concern at the escalation of violence which has occurred in Tripoli over recent days.  

    This has included the use of heavy weaponry in densely populated areas, resulting in credible reports of civilian casualties. 

    This most recent escalation underscores the urgent need for a credible, UN-facilitated political process that can deliver lasting peace, stability and security for the Libyan people.  

    We welcome recent reports that the Libyan parties have agreed on a ceasefire and we urge that it be fully and unconditionally respected.

    Secondly, we welcome the continued progress made by the Office of the Prosecutor during this reporting period.  

    We note, for example, the 20 additional Missions undertaken by the Office of the Prosecutor over recent months and especially welcome the increased engagement with civil society organisations described in the briefing today.

    The unsealing of the arrest warrant against Osama Elmasry Njeem represents a further positive step, further strengthening the Office’s work in relation to crimes allegedly committed in detention facilities in Libya.  

    As mentioned in the briefing today, the national authorities in the UK engaged closely with the Court in relation to this matter, including freezing Mr Njeem’s bank accounts in the United Kingdom. 

    We were pleased to read in the report of some positive steps taken by the authorities in Libya over recent months. This includes the arrest of a number of perpetrators of crimes allegedly committed in Tarhunah, at least two of whom remain subject to ICC arrest warrants.  

    However, we also note that the Office of the Prosecutor has requested further assistance, both in order to gain access to investigative files and to assist with the surrender of suspects.

    We also warmly welcome the decision just announced by the government of Libya to submit a declaration under Article 12, Paragraph 3 of the Rome Statute. This is clearly an important and very positive development.

    Mr President, it is clear that cooperation remains key to the Court’s work. It is therefore important that all States fulfil their obligations pursuant to UN Security Council resolution 1970 and the Rome Statute, including in relation to those subject to ICC arrest warrants.

    Mr President, let me conclude by reiterating the UK’s strong support for the International Criminal Court and for its independence. 

    It is important that the Court is able to carry out its mandate free from sanctions or other measures which interfere with the work of the Court or its officials.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: MHRA approves vaccine to protect against pneumococcal infections such as pneumonia and meningitis

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    MHRA approves vaccine to protect against pneumococcal infections such as pneumonia and meningitis

    As with all products, the MHRA will keep its safety under close review.

    The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has today (15 May 2025) approved a vaccine (Capvaxive) for people aged 18 years and older to help protect against illnesses caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae or pneumococcus.

    Illnesses caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria include lung infection (pneumonia), inflammation of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis) and infection in the blood (bacteraemia). The vaccine works by helping the body to make its own antibodies, which protect against these diseases.

    This vaccine has been approved through the International Recognition Procedure (IRP). The IRP allows the MHRA to take into account the expertise and decision-making of trusted regulatory partners for the benefit of UK patients. 

    The MHRA conducts a targeted assessment of IRP applications and retains the authority to reject applications if the evidence provided is not considered sufficiently robust.

    As with any medicine, the MHRA will keep the safety and effectiveness of this vaccine under close review. Anyone who suspects they are having a side effect from this medicine are encouraged to talk to their doctor, pharmacist or nurse and report it directly to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme, either through the website (https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/) or by searching the Google Play or Apple App stores for MHRA Yellow Card. 

    Notes to editors  

    1. The marketing authorisation was granted on 15 May 2025 to Merck Sharp & Dohme (UK) Limited.
    2. More information can be found in the Summary of Product Characteristics and Patient Information leaflets which will be published on the MHRA Products website within 7 days of approval.
    3. The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is responsible for regulating all medicines and medical devices in the UK by ensuring they work and are acceptably safe.  All our work is underpinned by robust and fact-based judgments to ensure that the benefits justify any risks.
    4. The MHRA is an executive agency of the Department of Health and Social Care.
    5. For media enquiries, please contact the newscentre@mhra.gov.uk, or call on 020 3080 7651.

    Updates to this page

    Published 15 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Iraq: Concluding Statement of the 2025 IMF Article IV Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 15, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    An International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission, led by Mr. Jean-Guillaume Poulain, met with the Iraqi authorities in Amman and Baghdad during May 4–13 to conduct the 2025 Article IV consultation. The following statement was issued at the end of the mission:

    A highly uncertain global environment, falling oil prices, and acute financing pressures, are taking a toll on economic activity and exacerbating Iraq’s existing vulnerabilities, calling for urgent measures to preserve fiscal and external stability. These include containing the fiscal deficit by mobilizing non-oil tax revenues and reining in the public wage bill, completing the restructuring of state-owned banks, and promoting private sector growth, by reforming the labor market, improving the business environment, enhancing governance and fighting corruption. Building on recent progress, the Central Bank of Iraq (CBI) should continue modernizing the banking system and supporting private banks in expanding their corresponding banking relationships.

    Recent Economic Developments, Outlook and Risks

    The non-oil sector grew at a slower pace last year and inflation remained subdued. Following a very strong growth of 13.8 percent in 2023, Iraq’s non-oil GDP is expected to have considerably moderated to 2.5 percent in 2024, driven by a slowdown in public investment and in the services sector, as well as a weaker trade balance. The agriculture, manufacturing, and construction sectors remained resilient, benefiting from post-drought recovery, expanded refining capacity, and strong growth in credit to households. The decline in oil production weighed on overall growth, which contracted by 2.3 percent for the year. Inflation dropped to 2.7 percent by end-2024, amid lower food price inflation and liquidity absorption from the CBI.

    The fiscal position has deteriorated, along with external balances. The 2024 fiscal deficit is estimated at 4.2 percent of GDP, compared to 1.1 percent in 2023, reflecting rising spending on wages and salaries and energy purchases. Financing constraints have led to reemergence of arrears notably in energy and capital expenditure. On the external front, the current account surplus narrowed sharply from 7.5 percent to 2 percent of GDP, due to a surge in goods imports. Nonetheless, external buffers remain strong, with reserves at US$100.3 billion at end-2024—covering over 12 months of imports.

    Non-oil growth is projected to remain subdued in 2025 amid a challenging global environment and financing constraints. Non-oil GDP is projected to slow down to 1 percent this year as the impact of falling oil prices and financing constraints weigh on government spending and consumer sentiment. The current account is expected to weaken considerably in 2025 primarily due to declining oil export revenues. The deterioration in the external position is projected to weigh on foreign reserves.

    Policy Priorities

    Iraq’s vulnerabilities have increased in recent years due to a large fiscal expansion. Beside weighing on prospects of private sector-led growth, current public employment policies and resulting wage costs are unsustainable given Iraq’s low non-oil tax base. Accordingly, dependence on oil revenues has worsened, and the oil price required to balance the budget increased to around $84 in 2024, up from $54 in 2020.

    These challenges have been exacerbated by the sharp decline in oil prices in 2025, requiring an urgent policy response. In the very short-term, the authorities should review current and capital spending plans for 2025 and limit or postpone all non-essential expenditure. At the same time, there may be scope to increase non-oil revenues by revising customs duties as well as introducing or raising excise taxes. The authorities should also explore options to diversify the creditors base for increasing financing availability. Monetary financing of the deficit should be avoided as it could fuel inflation, drain FX reserves, and weaken the CBI’s balance sheet.

    More broadly, a sizable fiscal consolidation is needed to mitigate macro-fiscal risks, ensure debt sustainability, and rebuild fiscal buffers. On the revenue side, besides customs duties and excise taxes, there is scope to gradually reform personal income tax by limiting exemptions and increasing rates. Strengthening tax administration—through digitalization, improved enforcement, and better collection—is essential. A more effective tax administration should allow for eventually introducing a general sales tax. On the spending side, curbing current expenditures, particularly via comprehensive wage bill reforms, limiting mandatory hiring, and adopting attrition rule, would yield significant savings. Recent efforts to better target the public distribution system are welcome, but there is scope to further improve targeting and eventually shift to cash-based social safety nets. Finally, it is urgent to reform the public pension system through raising the retirement age and reducing both the accrual and replacement rates is needed to enhance its sustainability.

    Implementing these reforms would also create fiscal space to increase capital spending. Expanding non-oil investment, especially in trade and transportation infrastructure should help economic diversification. Substantial investments are also required to modernize the electricity sector and develop natural gas resources, both of which are essential for improving energy security and reducing dependence on gas imports. Improved procurement, public financial management, and corruption control would enhance the effectiveness of any additional public investment.

    Further efforts are needed to mop up excess liquidity in order to improve monetary policy transmission. While the CBI has made progress in absorbing excess liquidity, additional adjustments could enhance the effectiveness of the framework. Key measures include increasing the issuance of CB-bills, focusing on the short maturity (14-day) at the policy rate, revising size limits on individual banks’ bids, and improving liquidity forecasting tools and practices. To safeguard its balance sheet and preserve credibility, the CBI should continue to avoid financing the government deficit.

    The mission commended the CBI for the successful transition to the new trade finance system. Trade finance is now fully processed by commercial banks through their correspondent banking relationships. This has also supported the recent decline in the spread between the official and parallel market exchange rates. Nonetheless, further efforts are needed to further reduce the spread, including by imposing Iraqi dinar usage for car and real estate transactions, improving customs controls to curb smuggling, and simplifying FX access.

    While initial steps to reform state-owned banks are encouraging, broader efforts are needed to strengthen the financial sector. The restructuring plan for state-owned banks should be finalized without delay, encompassing treatment of non-performing loans, and recapitalization needs. In parallel, the mission welcomed progress in digitalization and the authorities’ intention to undertake a comprehensive banking sector overhaul. Reforms should include enhancing corporate governance, digital infrastructure, and cybersecurity, while promoting a stronger role for private banks. Efforts to enhance AML/CFT measures by tackling the deficiencies identified in the MENAFATF Mutual Evaluation report should continue.

    Chronic power shortages, electricity losses and excessive tariff subsidization continue to weigh on the economy. Addressing inefficiencies in the electricity sector is important for fiscal sustainability and improving productivity. In 2024, distribution losses reached 55 percent, driven by theft and illegal connections, leading to significant financial losses. The authorities are deploying smart meters and have introduced other measures to enhance billing and collection. However, progress should be accelerated. Once collection substantially improves, achieving cost recovery will also require electricity tariff increases, with carefully calibrated subsidies targeted to low-income users. Recent disruptions in electricity imports from Iran further underscore the need for diversified supply and the development of gas projects.

    Combating corruption and governance weaknesses is imperative to support economic development. Steps taken in the implementation and upgrade of the national anticorruption strategy and the improvements in corruption perception indices are positive developments. However, corruption remains a significant hurdle for growth. Strengthening accountability frameworks for the operation of state-owned and private enterprises in the oil, electricity and construction sectors is critical, and thorough compliance with Extractives Industries Transparency Initiative standards and the enactment of the law on Transparency and Access to Information should be prioritized. Additionally, aligning anticorruption legal frameworks with international covenants and best practice, and strengthening the independence of the judiciary are essential for effective enforcement and for the protection of economic rights.

    A comprehensive structural reform agenda is essential to unlock growth potential. The mission estimates that a comprehensive set of reforms covering the labor market, business regulation, the financial sector and governance could double non-oil potential GDP growth over the medium term. On labor market, priorities include increasing labor force participation, particularly among women, by improving female education and further reducing barriers to their work and mobility, and reforming public sector hiring, which distort labor markets and reduce productivity. Efforts to better align skills with labor market needs should intensify. More generally, simplifying regulations and reducing bureaucratic impediments in e.g. business registration or tax administration should increase participation in the formal economy and help private sector development.

    The mission would like to thank the Iraqi authorities and various stakeholders for their excellent hospitality and cooperation and candid discussions during the mission.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Mayada Ghazala

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/15/mcs-iraq-concluding-statement-of-the-2025-imf-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Protects the Central Valley from Illegal Street Racing

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G Valadao (CA-21)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Congresswoman Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) to reintroduce the They’re Fast, We’re Furious Act. This bipartisan bill would establish a Street Racing Prevention and Intervention Task Force under the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to coordinate local, state, and federal strategic responses to street racing and unlawful organized street shows. The task force would directly address the impacts of street racing and develop best practices to combat the problem, creating safer communities and potentially saving lives.

    Congressman Valadao co-sponsored the They’re Fast, We’re Furious Act of 2023 in the 118th Congress.

    “In the Central Valley, street racing is an epidemic that puts our communities in danger,” said Congressman Valadao. “Kern County’s fatal hit-and-run accident rate is over 151% higher than the national average, and deadly crashes are a direct result of reckless driving at high speeds. Illegal street racing in our neighborhoods puts the lives of other drivers, first responders, and innocent bystanders at risk, and I’m proud to join Congresswoman Pettersen to give law enforcement the tools they need to combat this dangerous trend.”

    “I’ve heard from constituents across Broomfield and Jefferson Counties who are concerned by the illegal street racing on the rise in our communities, including the death of a college student in Westminster caused by a street racing incident” said Rep. Pettersen. “As a mom, I’m committed to making sure our communities are a safe place for our kids and neighbors. That’s why I’m working with Congressman Valadao during National Police Week to ensure law enforcement has the tools they need to crack down on reckless driving and save lives.”

    Background:

    A national study analyzing data from 2018 to 2022 found that two counties in California’s 22nd Congressional District—Kern and Tulare—rank among the top 25 in the nation for fatal hit-and-run crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding has contributed to roughly one-third of all motor vehicle fatalities over the past two decades. Illegal street racing and unlawful street shows are becoming increasingly common across the Central Valley, and with growing populations and more vehicles on the road, the risk of tragic outcomes continues to rise.

    Beyond the dangerous nature of these activities, street racing and unlawful street shows cause noise and safety disruptions, negatively impacting neighborhoods in rural areas and large cities alike. This bill is a step towards cracking down on these dangerous activities, as the established task force would coordinate efforts nationwide and ensure law enforcement and agencies have the best information and resources available. Members of the task force would be appointed by the Attorney General, Secretary of Transportations, and the FBI Director, and would be composed of employees from the DOJ Criminal Division, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the FBI, and local and state law enforcement agencies.

    Read the full bill here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Supervised Exercise Improves Broken Hip Outcomes in Older Women

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    Results from a recent multi-center, randomized, controlled trial demonstrate that testosterone gel does not improve long-distance mobility compared to exercise alone in older women recovering from a hip fracture.

    The STEP-HI (Starting a Testosterone and Exercise Program after Hip Injury) study results were published in JAMA Network Open on May 15. This is to date the largest study of testosterone administration to women following a fracture of the hip.

    UConn Center on Aging was a clinical trial site for the national STEP-HI study since its launch in 2018.

    Threat of Broken Hips in Older Women
     “Historically, despite dramatic advances in surgical techniques, nearly three out of four older women fail to regain their previous level of function following hip fracture even when followed by the usual level of rehabilitation,” shares study co-author Dr. George Kuchel, director of the UConn Center on Aging.

    In fact, hip fractures are the most serious type of osteoporotic fracture, as they are accompanied by considerable pain, loss of muscular and bone strength, reduced mobility and independence with daily activities, and increased risk for future fractures and death. After a hip fracture, patients undergo surgery to repair the broken bone, followed by a period of rehabilitation.

    Patient does leg presses at UConn Center on Aging. (Lauren Woods/UConn Photo)

    Results of the STEP-HI Clinical Trial
    The large STEP-HI study focused on interventions intended to improve outcomes after standard therapy was completed. The study, “Effects of Exercise Training and Testosterone Therapy in Older Women after Hip Fracture:  A Randomized Clinical Trial,” provides valuable information that does not support adding low-dose testosterone to exercise in women recovering from a hip fracture to improve long-distance mobility. Testosterone is a hormone present in all women that declines with age. It has effects on muscle that were hypothesized to augment the benefits of exercise during the recovery period.

    The study was a randomized, double-blind clinical trial that enrolled women aged ≥ 65 years who had a recent surgical repair of a hip fracture, met objective criteria for mobility impairment, and were community-dwelling. Participants (n=129) were recruited from 8 clinical sites in the United States between February 2018 and February 2023.

    Key findings of the study include:

    • 24 weeks of supervised exercise combined with testosterone therapy did not significantly improve Six Minute Walk Distance (a measure of long-distance mobility) compared to supervised exercise alone. This suggests that adding testosterone to exercise may not provide further benefits beyond exercise itself in terms of long-distance mobility in older women post hip fracture.
    • Adding testosterone therapy to exercise had positive effects on short-distance mobility and balance, while also reducing the requirement of assistive walking devices at the end of the study. These secondary findings will require further research to confirm.

    Jenna M. Bartley, Ph.D. served as the UConn Center on Aging’s clinical trial site principal investigator alongside Kuchel and Richard Fortinsky, Ph.D.

    “While we did not see improvements with testosterone in endurance activities, these findings are important for our understanding of how older women can best recover from hip fracture. While we thought that adding an anabolic agent like testosterone would aid in mobility improvements, we did not see a benefit in that aspect. We did see a benefit of testosterone in other functional domains, but more research is needed to confirm those findings,” Bartley reports.

    Kuchel, director of the UConn Center on Aging, agrees.

    “Our findings did not demonstrate any additional benefits in long-distance mobility of testosterone replacement beyond the positive effects of exercise. However, our findings confirm that more intense and sustained exercise protocols are well-tolerated by older women and can result in substantial functional improvements.”

    Kuchel stresses a secondary post hoc finding of the study that needs further investigation.

    “Among women who required a walker or cane at baseline, those who were randomized to receive exercise and testosterone replacement were more likely to be able to walk without a cane or walker 6 months later as compared to women receiving only exercise or usual care. These findings will require future study and further confirmation,” says Kuchel of UConn.

    Striking Impact of Strength Training for Older Women at UConn Center on Aging
     “What was most striking from our STEP-HI study was how well the older women performed the progressive resistance training and how much they improved over the course of the study,” says Principal Investigator Bartley at UConn.

    She says while some women were hesitant at first, by the end of the study some were leg pressing over 100lbs!

    “It was really impressive to see the progress over time from these women. It really is never too late to start an exercise training program!” Bartley advises.

    Also, Bartley shared how progressive resistance training for 6 months led to huge improvements in functional outcomes.

    ‘‘The power of weight training is really impressive, even in these older women. This research really highlighted how older women can benefit from weight training despite being recently injured or more frail,” concludes Bartley.

    The study team of co-authors concluded overall that: “Although testosterone did not provide the functional benefits to older women recovering from a hip fracture that we were expecting, our study offers valuable information on the importance of exercise and other treatments during recovery,” wrote the study co-authors led by Dr. Ellen F. Binder of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis.

    Other study co-authors include: Sarah D. Berry, MD, MPH, Peter Doré, MS, Steven R. Fisher, PT, PhD, Richard H. Fortinsky, PhD, Camelia Guild, MPH, Douglas P. Kiel, MD, MPH, Robin L. Marcus, PT, PhD, Christine M. McDonough, PT, PhD, Kelly M. Monroe, MSW, Denise Orwig, PhD, Rocco Paluch, MA, Dominic Reeds, MD, Jennifer Stevens-Lapsley, PT, PhD, Elena Volpi, MD, PhD, Kenneth B. Schechtman, PhD, and Jay Magaziner, PhD.

    The JAMA Network Open study co-authors are faculty at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, the UConn Center on Aging, Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Hebrew Senior Life and the Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School, University of Texas Medical Branch, University of Utah, University of Pittsburgh. University at Buffalo, University of Colorado, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio GRECC, Sealy Center on Aging, and the University of Texas Medical Branch.

    This work is in part supported by the following grants: The National Institute on Aging provided funding and supervision for STEP-HI under award numbers: R21 AG023716, R34 AG040257, R01 AG051647, P30 AG067988 (UConn Older Americans Independence Pepper Center), P30 AG024832, P30 AG028747. Support for STEP-HI at the Baltimore site was also provided by the Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Center Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Centers (GRECC).

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Army Soldier Charged with Child Pornography Offenses

    Source: United States Attorneys General 1

    A federal grand jury returned an indictment yesterday charging Seth Herrera, 35, a U.S. Army soldier, previously of El Paso, TX, with attempted sexual exploitation of a child and receipt of files depicting child sexual abuse.

    According to court documents, Herrera allegedly used encrypted messaging applications and network applications to find, receive, and download child sexual abuse material (CSAM) over the course of multiple years, beginning in 2021. He also allegedly used artificial intelligence chatbots to generate CSAM using images of children he knew. He is also alleged to have surreptitiously taken images and videos of those same children undressing in his home in El Paso.

    Herrera is already charged in Alaska relating to his alleged transportation, receipt, and possession of CSAM, including AI-generated CSAM, while stationed at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska.

    Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Acting U.S. Attorney Margaret F. Leachman for the Western District of Texas made the announcement.

    Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory J. Rasmussen for the Western District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

    This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

    MIL Security OSI –