Category: Ukraine

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mark Rutte takes office as NATO Secretary General

    Source: NATO

    On Tuesday (1 October 2024), Mark Rutte took office as the NATO Secretary General. He was welcomed to NATO Headquarters in Brussels by the outgoing Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg, whose term ends after ten years. Mr Rutte and Mr Stoltenberg laid a wreath during a ceremony at the NATO Memorial to the Fallen.

    At a special session of the North Atlantic Council, Mr Stoltenberg formally handed over to Secretary General Mark Rutte. “It is a great honour to be here and to take up the position of NATO Secretary General” Mr Rutte said before thanking Allies for entrusting him with the responsibility of guiding the Alliance in the coming years.

    Secretary General Rutte outlined his three priorities for the Alliance. “The first is to keep NATO strong and ensure our defences remain effective and credible, against all threats” he began. “My second priority is to step up our support for Ukraine and bring it ever closer to NATO, because there can be no lasting security in Europe without a strong, independent Ukraine” he continued, adding that his “third priority is to strengthen our partnerships” in a more interconnected world.

    The Secretary General also paid tribute to his predecessor describing his tenure as “exemplary” and adding that “today NATO is bigger, NATO is stronger and is more united than ever, that is in large part because of your leadership.”

    In his farewell remarks Mr Stoltenberg commended Mr Rutte’s pragmatism and consensus-building skills while noting that “you don’t compromise on our values and principles.” He also praised his successor’s “personal commitment to our transatlantic bond. And your unwavering support for Ukraine.”

    The handover was marked by the ceremonial passing of an historic gavel.

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Alleged sharp rise in Ukrainian refugee women falling victim to prostitution rings – E-001766/2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-001766/2024
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Mathilde Androuët (PfE)

    The Council of the EU has accepted the Commission’s proposal to extend the temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees until March 2026, including access to the labour market and to housing[1]. As of May 2024, Eurostat[2] reported 4.2 million displaced Ukrainians, mainly in Germany and Poland. According to data provided by the Federal Statistical Office in Germany, 70% of refugees are women, and only 14% of them are in employment. German media and NGOs have recently warned about a high number of ‘very young Ukrainian women’ falling victim to human traffickers and ending up in prostitution rings[3], either on the internet or in brothels, owing to a lack of accommodation and employment. There can be little doubt that this prostitution is not voluntary.

    Alarm about the increase in sexual exploitation networks involving Ukrainian refugees, including ‘via online platforms’, had already been raised in November 2022, when Valiant Richey of the OSCE[4], said that the DSA[5] was ‘silent on trafficking in human beings’[6].

    What measures has the Commission taken in the meantime, or what measures does it recommended, specifically to address this serious problem?

    Submitted: 19.9.2024

    • [1] ‘Ukrainian refugees: Council extends temporary protection until March 2026’ – Council of the European Union – 25 June 2024.
    • [2] Temporary protection for persons fleeing Ukraine – monthly statistics – Eurostat Statistics Explained -10 October 2024.
    • [3] ‘In den Bordellen sind es mittlerweile etwa 50 Prozent Ukrainerinne’, Uma Sostmann, Die Welt, 17 September 2024.
    • [4] Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe.
    • [5] Digital Services Act.
    • [6] ‘Trafficking and sexual exploitation of Ukrainian refugees on the rise’, Clara Bauer-Babef, 30 November 2022 (updated 25 August 2023).
    Last updated: 1 October 2024

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Biden Administration Announces New Security Assistance Package for Ukraine

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Today, as part of the surge of assistance that President Biden directed ahead of his meeting with President Zelenskyy, the Department of Defense (DoD) announced a significant new security assistance package to ensure Ukraine has the tools it needs to prevail in its fight against Russian aggression. This security assistance package commits an additional $2.4 billion in support through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) that will provide Ukraine with additional air defense, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and air-to-ground munitions, as well as strengthen Ukraine’s defense industrial base and support its maintenance and sustainment requirements. 

    The capabilities in this announcement include:

    • Munitions and support for Ukrainian air defense systems;
    • Air-to-ground munitions;
    • Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and components to support Ukrainian production of UAS;
    • Counter-UAS equipment;  Unmanned surface vessels;
    • Secure communications equipment;
    • Equipment and materiel to support Ukrainian munitions production; and 
    • Spare parts, maintenance and sustainment support, and other ancillary equipment.

    This is the Biden Administration’s twenty-first USAI package. The United States will continue to work together with some 50 Allies and partners through the Ukraine Defense Contact Group and its associated capability coalitions to provide the support Ukraine needs to win the war.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Readout of Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III’s Meeting With United Kingdom Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    Pentagon Press Secretary Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder provided the following readout:

    Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III met today with his UK counterpart, Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, on the margins of the AUKUS Defense Ministers Meeting in London. The discussion included the situation in Middle East, support to Ukraine, and continued defense cooperation.

    The two leaders reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to continue supporting Ukraine’s efforts to defend itself against Russian aggression and reiterated the importance of stopping the escalation of violence in the Middle East. Secretary Austin reiterated his thanks for continued defense cooperation with the UK on a wide range of operational and capability development efforts.

    Both leaders look forward to continued coordination and cooperation between our two militaries.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: President Erdoğan’s Address to the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

    Source: Republic of Turkey

    ADDRESS TO THE 79TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY
    by
    THE PRESIDENT of the REPUBLIC of TÜRKİYE,
    H.E. RECEP TAYYİP ERDOĞAN
    (24 SEPTEMBER 2024, NEW YORK)

    Mr. President, 
    Distinguished Heads of State and Government,
    Mr. Secretary General,
    Esteemed Delegates,
    I greet you with my most heartfelt feelings and respect on behalf of myself, my country and my nation.
    I am very pleased to have the opportunity to address the United Nations General Assembly once again today.
    I wish the 79th General Assembly to be beneficial to our countries and to all humanity.
    I would like to congratulate Mr. Dennis FRANCIS, who has completed his Presidency of the General Assembly, and I wish success to Mr. Philemon YANG, who assumed this duty.
    I would like to express our pleasure in seeing the Representative of the friendly and brotherly Palestine in the place he deserves among the member states, after lengthy struggles.
    I wish this historic step to be the last stage on the way to Palestine’s membership in the United Nations.
    I also invite other states, that have not yet done so, to recognize the State of Palestine as soon as possible and take their place on the right side of history at this very critical period.
    Distinguished Delegates…
    We are living through and trying to manage the crises minute by minute that most of my friends here watch on TV screens.
    Therefore, I am addressing you today as the leader of a country that is not far from the tensions, but right in their epicentre.
    Even if some feel uncomfortable, even if some will once again criticize us, I wish to speak out certain truths openly today, in the name of humanity, from the common rostrum of humanity.
    Let’s consider… the United Nations, under whose roof we are now, was established to maintain international peace and security after the Second World War, during which millions of people lost their lives.
    With the establishment of the United Nations, expectations for global stability, peace and justice blossomed again, and hopes for peace revived.
    However, we observe with regret that in recent years, the United Nations is struggling to fulfill its founding mission and is gradually turning into a dysfunctional, unwieldy and inert structure.
    We need the values represented by the maxim “THE WORLD IS BIGGER THAN FIVE”, more and more nowadays.
    We witness that international peace and security are too important to be left to the arbitrariness of the “privileged five”.
    The most dramatic example of this is the massacre that has been going on in Gaza for 353 days.
    More than 41 thousand Palestinians have lost their lives in the ongoing Israeli attacks since October 7.
    41 thousand people, 41 thousand lives brutally taken away, most of whom are children and women.
    Similarly, the whereabouts of more than 10 thousand Gazans, most of whom are children, is unknown.
    In the same way, about 100 thousand people have been injured and become disabled.
    172 journalists have been killed while trying to do their job under difficult conditions.
    More than 500 paramedics working to save lives have been killed.
    Humanitarian aid workers and more than 210 United Nations personnel, who rushed to the rescue of the people of Gaza struggling with hunger and thirst, have been killed.
    They hit 820 mosques and 3 churches that should be protected even at war.
    They hit tens of hospitals, hundreds of schools, and more than 130 ambulances carrying patients.
    By tearing down the Charter of the United Nations at the United Nations rostrum, they shamelessly challenged the whole world, all the conscientious people right from here, from this rostrum.
    Friends…
    The leaked images from the prisons that Israel has turned into “concentration camps” indicate very clearly what kind of persecution we are facing.
    As a result of the Israeli attacks, Gaza has become the largest cemetery for children and women in the world.
    More than 17 thousand children have been the targets of Israeli bullets and bombs.
    HİND RAJAB was only 6 years old.
    Their vehicle was hit by Israeli forces while she was searching for a safe place with her relatives.
    Her uncle, aunt-in-law, and cousins all died, only she survived.
    For 12 days she waited desperately to be rescued.
    She waited for a helping hand to reach out to her for 12 days, saying, “WILL YOU COME TO PICK ME UP? I AM SCARED!”
    Despite the level of development which our world has reached, despite the technology at our disposal; despite our organisations with huge budgets employing thousands of personnel under their roofs, unfortunately, as humanity of 8 billion, we have not been able to save a 6-year-old girl, an injured sparrow fluttering in front of our eyes.
    Hundreds of Gazan children have died so far because they were not able to find a bite of dry bread, a sip of water or a bowl of soup, and they are still dying.
    Not only children are dying in Gaza; the United Nations system is also dying, the truth is dying, the values that the west claims to defend are dying, the hopes of humanity to live in a fairer world are dying one by one.
    I am asking you frankly from here…
    HUMAN RIGHTS ORGANISATIONS!
    Are the ones in Gaza, the ones in the West Bank not human beings? 
    The children in Palestine, do they not have the right to study, live, and play in the streets?
    INTERNATIONAL PRESS ORGANISATIONS!
    The journalists that Israel massacred on live TV, whose offices were raided, are they not your colleagues?
    THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL!
    What are you waiting for to prevent the genocide in Gaza and to say “stop” to this cruelty, this barbarism?
    What more are you waiting for to stop the massacre network that endangers also the lives of its own citizens along with the Palestinian people and drags the entire region into war for the sake of its political prospects?
    AND THOSE WHO UNCONDITIONALLY SUPPORT ISRAEL!
    For how long will you continue to bear the shame of looking on this massacre, of being accomplices in this atrocity?
    Distinguished Friends…
    While children are dying in Gaza, Ramallah, Lebanon, and babies are dying in incubators, unfortunately, the international community has also given a very bad account of itself.
    What is happening in Palestine is an indicator of a huge moral breakdown.
    I believe that all the peoples of the world, leaders, international organisations should reflect on this painful picture.
    I also want to hereby express a truth loud and clear.
    Ignoring basic human rights, the Israeli government, is practicing ethnic cleansing, an overt genocide against a nation, a people, and occupying their territory step by step.
    Palestinians, whose freedom, independence and the most basic rights have been usurped, are very rightly exercising their “LEGITIMATE RIGHT OF RESISTANCE” against this occupation and these ethnic cleansing activities.
    The rightful resistance of the Palestinian people against those who occupy their land is too noble, honourable, heroic to be portrayed as illegitimate.
    From here, I wholeheartedly salute once again my Palestinian brothers who defend their country at the cost of their lives.
    The only reason for Israel’s aggression against the Palestinian people is the unconditional support of a handful of countries to Israel.
    The countries that have an influence over Israel are openly becoming accomplices of this massacre with the policy of “run with the hare, hunt with the hounds”.
    Those who are supposedly working for a ceasefire in the limelight continue to send weapons and ammunition to Israel behind the stage, so that it can continue its massacres.
    This is inconsistency and insincerity.
    Please consider … there’s a document that has been going back and forth since May.
    HAMAS has repeatedly declared its acceptance of the ceasefire proposal.
    However, the Israeli government has very clearly indicated that it is the party that does not want peace by continuously hampering the process, constantly finding excuses, perfidiously killing the interlocutor it negotiated with at a time when the ceasefire was closest.
    There should be no more credit given to Israel’s distraction and deception moves.
    In an environment where United Nations Security Council Resolution 2735 is not being implemented, coercive measures against Israel should be put on the agenda.
    Israel’s attitude has once again shown that it is essential for the international community to develop a protection mechanism for Palestinian civilians.
    Just as HITLER was stopped by the alliance of humanity 70 years ago, Netanyahu and his murder network must be stopped by the “alliance of humanity”.
    We believe that the power of the General Assembly to make recommendations on the use of force, as it exists in the “Uniting for Peace Resolution dated 1950”, should definitely be considered in this process.
    An immediate and permanent ceasefire should be achieved, a hostage-prisoner exchange should be carried out, and humanitarian aid should be delivered to Gaza in an unhindered and uninterrupted way.
    We have to extend a helping hand to the people of Gaza trying to survive, especially before winter when conditions will deteriorate.
    Please consider, 70 percent of the water resources and 75 percent of the ovens in Gaza have been destroyed until now.
    95 percent of health centres have been partially or completely damaged.
    150 thousand houses were completely destroyed, 200 thousand houses were partially destroyed, 80 thousand houses became uninhabitable.
    Infectious diseases, especially polio and hepatitis, are gradually increasing.
    The people of Gaza can only reach a quarter of the amount of aid they need.
    As Türkiye, we have maintained and are continuing to maintain our humanitarian aid activities for our Palestinian brothers since the first day.
    With the amount of aid exceeding 60 thousand tons, Türkiye is the country that sends the highest amount of aid to Gaza. 
    In the same way, by stopping commercial transactions with Israel, we have demonstrated our sensitivity on this issue.
    We also stand with the people and government of Lebanon, where Israel has stepped up its attacks in recent days.
    Now we can all see this truth:
    Our conscience cannot be at peace until those who massacred 41 thousand people are held accountable for the crimes they committed, from the person who gives the order to the ones who pull the trigger, and drop the bomb.
    The bill for the billions of dollars of damage at the destroyed, wiped out, demolished cities must and will definitely be compensated by the perpetrators.
    We support the lawsuit filed by the Republic of South Africa at the International Court of Justice to ensure that the crimes committed by Israel do not go unpunished.
    We will take all necessary steps to ensure that justice is served in this case in which we have applied for intervention.
    We will make every legal struggle to find justice for our daughter Ayşenur Ezgi Eygi, who was shot in the head by Israeli soldiers during a peaceful protest in Nablus.
    Although there is an urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza, the main issue is the occupation of Palestinian territories by Israel.
    Creation of an independent, sovereign and geographically contiguous Palestinian State on the basis of the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital can no longer be delayed.
    I would like it to be known that we are also closely following the increasing attacks against our first Qibla, Al-Masjid al-Aqsa and Al-Haram Al-Sharif.
    While saying all this as Tayyip Erdoğan, I never speak with empty words from this rostrum.  
    Here, I am speaking with the courage that I get from my history and the conscientious and fair stance of my ancestors. 
    Because we are a nation that has always been on the side of the oppressed and stood against oppressor and tyranny throughout history.
    We had welcomed the Jews who escaped from the inquisition 500 years ago and the Jews who escaped from Hitler’s concentration camps.
    I tell it frankly; as a country and as a nation, we have no hostility towards the people of Israel.
    We are against ANTI-SEMITISM in the same way that we are against the targeting of Muslims just because of their beliefs.
    Our problem is with the policies of massacre of the Israeli government.
    Our problem is again with the oppressor and tyranny, just as it was 5 centuries ago.
    Everyone should know that we do not refrain from crying out the truth.
    Even if some feel uncomfortable, we are not afraid to tell the truth.
    Insha’Allah, we will continue to stand by the righteous until the end and speak of what we know as truth, even if it is harsh. 
    Hereby, I would also like to thank all the brave people who show solidarity with the Palestinian people without distinction of faith, country, language or religion, and raise their voice against the massacre in Gaza by filling the streets almost every week.
    Distinguished Delegates…
    Unfortunately, in the 14th year of the conflict, Syria is also still far from stability.
    The economic and humanitarian situation in the country, which is in the grip of terrorist and separatist organizations remains dire.
    We hope that the political process will be advanced and national reconciliation will be achieved on the basis of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2254.
    We are determined to maintain our position in favour of a realistic dialogue with sincerity.
    While our neighbour Iraq continues its struggle against terrorism, it is taking decisive steps towards development, reconstruction and reintegration with the region.
    The international community should support these efforts of Iraq.
    It is important in this context to implement initiatives that will benefit the entire region, such as the Development Road Project.
    The success of all these efforts depends on the elimination of the terrorist threat in Iraq, especially from the PKK.
    We believe that taking steps towards reviving the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action with our other neighbour Iran will contribute to the establishment of the environment of trust and stability in the region. 
    As the third year of the war in Ukraine comes to an end, we are still far from reaching a just and lasting peace.
    As the armament race accelerates, the field of diplomacy is gradually narrowing.
    We will further increase our support to the efforts to end the war through diplomacy and dialogue, on the basis of Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
    In this process, we will continue to meticulously implement the Montreux Convention.
    We support the peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, and we hope that the work will be completed with good news as soon as possible.
    We are also taking mutually positive steps on the Türkiye-Armenia track.
    The developments that can be achieved in the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process will also have a positive impact on the Türkiye-Armenia normalization process.
    Esteemed Friends…
    We play a constructive role for the prosperity and peace of the Balkans, of which we are an integral part, and act in close cooperation with all actors in the region. 
    As a member of the Steering Board of the Peace Implementation Council, we emphasize the importance of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s sovereignty, political unity and territorial integrity on every platform, and we continue to contribute to the EUFOR-ALTHEA Operation.
    We successfully continue the KFOR command that we assumed last year and support the Belgrade-Prishtina Dialogue process.
    We want to see the Aegean Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean as a region of stability and prosperity where the legitimate interests of all parties concerned are respected.
    The limitation of maritime jurisdiction areas in accordance with international law, freedom and safety of navigation, and the development of cooperation, especially on maritime trade issues, are to the common interest of the entire region.
    Türkiye is ready for constructive cooperation on all issues, especially energy and environment.
    We expect the same approach from our neighbours.
    As the country with the longest coastline in the Eastern Mediterranean, Türkiye’s key role is undeniable.
    Türkiye has rights to the north and west of the Island of Cyprus in the declared continental shelf and Turkish Cypriots have rights all around the Island.
    It has been 50 years since the Cyprus Peace Operation and 61 years since the Cyprus issue emerged as a result of the usurpation of the partnership state by Greek Cypriots.
    From that day to this, peace and tranquillity have prevailed on the Island.
    It has always been the Turkish Cypriots and Türkiye that have shown a sincere will to bring about a just, permanent and sustainable solution to the Cyprus issue.
    The federation model has now completely lost its validity.
    There are two separate states and two separate peoples on the island.
    The sovereign equality and equal international status of the Turkish Cypriots, which are their inherent rights, should be reaffirmed, and the isolation should now come to an end.
    Today, I once again call on the international community to recognize the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and establish with it diplomatic, political and economic relations.
    We provide active support to the establishment of stability in Libya and the preservation of the unity and integrity of the country.
    We call on all states to take a sincere stand by Libya during this sensitive period and to contribute to the establishment of trust between the parties.
    We need to exert more efforts to end the conflicts in Sudan.
    We all have a responsibility to deliver humanitarian aid to millions of Sudanese displaced due to conflicts.
    Africa has a very huge potential with its young and dynamic population, rich natural resources and fertile extensive lands.
    On the basis of the principles of equal partnership and mutual respect, we support the Continent’s peace, stability and development efforts with the African peoples.
    We will continue to be in full solidarity with our African brothers and sisters.
    We are deepening our engagement with regional organizations, such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association, the Pacific Islands Forum and particularly ASEAN.
    We maintain our will to develop our relations with BRICS, which brings together emerging economies.
    We share a deep-rooted history with the Central Asian countries; we further strengthen our cooperation on bilateral and multilateral grounds.
    Our Organisation of Turkic States is increasingly turning into a centre of attraction.
    The Organisation is becoming an exemplary model of cooperation, also with the contributions of observer members Hungary and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.
    As the Turkic world, we will further strengthen our unity and solidarity.
    Within the framework of respect for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, we are in close dialogue with China to protect the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Uighur Turks, with whom we have strong historical, cultural and human ties.
    We are trying to advance the friendly ties we have established with all the countries in Latin America and the Caribbean to a further stage.
    Distinguished Delegates…
    We are obliged to work together to eliminate global injustice.
    The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals’ notion of “leave no one behind” is a guide for these efforts.
    As one of the countries that provide the highest aid in proportion to its national income, Türkiye’s activities contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
    We support the activities that will ensure fair, inclusive growth and development on all international platforms, especially within the G20.
    We believe that all nations should benefit equally from the transformative power of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
    The United Nations Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries that we host is a concrete manifestation of our efforts in this direction.
    The “cyber terrorist attacks” perpetrated against Lebanon last week demonstrated how these technologies can at the same time turn into a fatal weapon.
    We address climate change with a similar approach.
    No country can cope with the emission reduction and adaptation process to climate change alone.
    The most important issues for developing countries are financing, technology transfer and capacity building.
    I believe that the COP29 Climate Summit to be held in Baku will contribute to the solution of these issues.
    With the vision of a more sustainable and cleaner world, we have carried the Zero Waste Movement, which we launched under the auspices of my Spouse, Mrs. Emine Erdoğan, to a global level with the resolution co-sponsored by 105 countries and adopted unanimously at the United Nations General Assembly.
    Hereby, I invite all countries, international organisations and non-governmental organisations to become partners in our movement.
    We see that Islamophobia, xenophobia and racism are enveloping the world like a poison ivy.
    Hardly a day goes by that we do not witness attacks on mosques and our holy book, the Holy Quran.
    In the middle of Europe, people’s houses are being set on fire; their lives are being targeted; their most fundamental rights are being usurped because of their ethnic and religious identities.
    No one can ignore this growing danger any longer.
    As stipulated in the resolution adopted on 15 March 2024, we expect the appointment of a “Special Envoy for Combating Islamophobia” at the United Nations as soon as possible.
    Distinguished Friends…
    Today I would like to draw your attention once again to a danger that I raised at this rostrum last year.
    The attacks against the family institution, which is the basic pillar of society, are intensifying.
    The disgrace staged at the opening of the 2024 Olympic Games has revealed the dimensions of the threat we face as humanity.
    A sports event followed by innocent children and hundreds of millions of people of all ages and faiths has been used, in a very ugly manner, for degenderization propaganda.
    Those wicked scenes have deeply wounded not only the Catholic world, the Christian world, but also Muslims and everyone who respects the sacred.
    The issue of desexualisation is now turning into a global imposition rather than a “preference”, literally a war against the sacred and the creation.
    Anyone who raises a voice against this destruction project and shows the slightest reaction is silenced and becomes the target of lynching campaigns.
    Türkiye is determined to break this siege and resist this climate of fear at all cost.
    For this purpose, we became a member of the United Nations Group of Friends of the Family.
    Insha’Allah, we will not hold back from defending the family, the human being and the creation in solidarity with other member states.
    I invite the countries that share the same concerns with us to support this struggle.
    With these thoughts, I wish that the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly will be beneficial for all humanity.
    I salute you all once again with affection and respect.
    May you all remain in good health…

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine recap: Putin’s nuclear sabre-rattling becomes more ominous

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jonathan Este, Senior International Affairs Editor, Associate Editor

    In recent months, Vladimir Putin and his proxies have been foreshadowing a change in Russia’s nuclear doctrine. This is the set of rules that spells out when and how his country might resort to the use of its nuclear arsenal, which is currently the largest in the world. Most recently his deputy foreign minister, Sergei Ryabkov, said the revisions to the rulebook were “connected with the escalation course of our western adversaries”. In other words: it’s not us, it’s you.

    You don’t have to read too much between the lines to discern a connection between the growing clamour by some in the west to allow Ukraine to use western long-range missiles against targets deep inside Russia and Russia’s decision to reconsider under what circumstances it would use its nuclear arsenal.

    Over the past couple of years – since shortly after he initiated Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine – Putin and his inner circle have regularly invoked Russia’s nuclear deterrent, writes Christoph Bluth, an expert in nuclear proliferation and international security at the University of Bradford. All it seems to take is for the west to agree another large package of funding, or change the terms of its aid to Kyiv for the Kremlin to dust off the doomsday scenario.

    So it comes as little surprise that, shortly after Volodymr Zelensky gave his impassioned speech to the United Nations general assembly yesterday restating his country’s urgent need for more support and more latitude in how to use it, Putin announced his country’s new “draft” nuclear doctrine. Henceforth, he said, Russia would consider using nuclear weapons if it was attacked by any state with conventional weapons. The trigger for the launch of nuclear missiles against Ukraine or any of its allies, he said, would be “reliable information about a massive launch of aerospace attack means and their crossing of our state border”.




    Read more:
    Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin ups the ante on his nuclear blackmail – the big question is how the west will respond


    Bluth recounts how, earlier this month, one of Putin’s proxies, Alexander Mikhailov, the director of the Bureau of Military Political Analysis, recently called for Russia to “bomb plywood mock-ups of London and Washington to simulate a nuclear attack, so that it would ‘burn so beautifully that it will horrify the world’.” Vyacheslav Volodin, the speaker of Russia’s lower house, said that any attacks against Russia would prompt it to respond with nuclear weapons. He is reported to have added – with what appears to have been ghastly relish – that the European parliament in Strasbourg was “only a three-minute flight for a Russian nuclear missile”.

    It’s tempting to dismiss Russia’s threats as just so much sabre-rattling. And there have been plenty of voices in the west urging leaders to defy Putin’s threats. After Ukraine launched its lightning raid into Russia’s Kursk province in August, Zelensky said it was clear that Russia’s red lines were a bluff. He said: “The naive, illusory concept of so-called red lines regarding Russia, which dominated the assessment of the war by some partners, has crumbled apart these days.”

    Colin Alexander, a specialist in political commnunications at Nottingham Trent University, believes that since the end of the cold war the focus of what he calls “fear propaganda” has changed. It has moved away from the prospect of nuclear annihilation to “other threats, such as extremism, pandemics and migration”.

    But anyone who grew up during the cold war will remember the omnipresent fear of the “three-minute warning” regularly reinforced by government messaging, TV documentaries and dramas. These all served to remind everyone that a nuclear holocaust was only a series of wrongheaded decisions away. It’s that atmosphere of peril, writes Alexander, which makes a leader’s threats believable.

    And the “madman theory” which holds that only an unstable leader would contemplate pushing the button, has helped lull people into the idea that a nuclear conflict is indeed unthinkable, because surely no leader would be mad enough. But Alexander concludes by citing the one leader who actually did drop a nuclear bomb in an enemy:

    US president Harry S. Truman pushed the button in 1945. He was then given detailed reports of the death and destruction that his decision caused to Hiroshima. Then he pushed the button again to annihilate Nagasaki.




    Read more:
    The world isn’t taking Putin’s nuclear threats seriously – the history of propaganda suggests it should


    Zelensky’s plea

    Zelensky’s speech to the UN general assembly was compelling and moving in equal measure. He warned of intelligence reports that Russia was preparing to target Ukraine’s nuclear power plants as part of its campaign to wreck the country’s energy infrastructure before winter. He mourned for the children of Ukraine, who “are learning to distinguish the sounds of different types of artillery and drones because of Russia’s war”. And he restated his ten-point plan for peace, which involves Russia withdrawing from all the lands it has occupied since 2014.

    But, Stefan Wolff notes, a growing number of countries are lining up behind a peace plan proposed earlier in the year by China and Brazil, which would freeze the conflict along the existing frontlines before proceeding to negotiations.

    The state of the conflict in Ukraine as at September 25.
    Institute for the Study of War

    Wolff, an expert in international security at the University of Birmingham, believes this plan is deeply flawed. For one thing it would inevitably involve Kyiv being forced to give up territory illegally annexed by Russia. It would also give Russia time to regroup, rearm and train extra troops and would almost certainly not guarantee a lasting peace, but would simply stave off another Russian assault on Ukraine.

    But Zelensky faces two key problems which make his diplomatic mission that much harder. His voice is in danger of being drowned out by the conflict in the Middle East, which appears almost inevitably bound for a ground war in Lebanon in days to come. And the prospect of Donald Trump winning a second term in about six weeks’ time, means that the days of Washington as Kyiv’s staunchest partner could well be coming to an end.




    Read more:
    Ukraine war: Zelensky’s pleas for help are getting drowned out in the clamour from the Middle East


    As the conflict drags on – 31 months and counting – there is evidence that some Ukrainians would give up territory in return for peace and an end to the killing. Our team of political scientists, Kristin M. Bakke of UCL, Gerard Toal of Virginia Tech and John O’Loughlin of University of Colorado Boulder, have been polling Ukrainians since the invasion and have detected a definite shift in attitudes towards the conflict.

    While most Ukrainians still hate the idea of having to give up territory to Russia, support for the proposition that Ukraine should “continue opposing Russian aggression until all Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, is liberated” had fallen from 71% in 2022 to 51% now. And, while in 2022 just 11% of respondents agreed with “trying to reach an immediate ceasefire by both sides with conditions and starting intensive negotiations”, that number had almost tripled in the most recent polling.

    Interestingly, the researchers note, while most people they spoke with professed unchanged support for their country’s war effort, a growing number said they were worried that their fellow Ukrainians were beginning to suffer from war-weariness.




    Read more:
    Growing number of war-weary Ukrainians would reluctantly give up territory to save lives, suggests recent survey


    Land grabs

    Russia is already calling for more territory in eastern Ukraine in the form of a “buffer zone” around Ukraine’s second city, Kharkiv in the north-east of the country. This, the Kremlin claims, is to protect Russian towns from shelling and missile attacks from Ukrainian territory.

    Interestingly, writes Iain Farquharson, a security expert and military historian at Brunel University London, Israel has also proposed setting up a buffer zone in southern Lebanon, to protect Israelis living near the the country’s northern border from Hezbollah missile barrages.

    Farquharson considers the history of buffer zones in the Middle East and beyond. Firstly, buffer zones rarely live up to their supposed function – as Afghanistan’s misfortune to be between British India and southern Russia in the 19th century and Lebanon’s bad luck to be between Syria and Israel in the 1960s and 1970s amply demonstrate.

    But what Russia and Israel are proposing are not so much buffer zones as land grabs, pure and simple. There’s no sense that either country is willing to contribute any of its own territory to these so-called demilitarised areas (or that they’ll actually be demilitarised). They should, he writes, “instead primarily be seen as a way of formalising control over contested territory to protect their home bases, which would give them a military advantage”.




    Read more:
    When Russia and Israel talk about setting up ‘buffer zones’ what they are really talking about is a land grab


    ref. Ukraine recap: Putin’s nuclear sabre-rattling becomes more ominous – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-recap-putins-nuclear-sabre-rattling-becomes-more-ominous-239974

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: Durbin Statement On Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s Meeting With United States Senators

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin
    09.26.24
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Co-Chair of the Senate Ukraine Caucus, today released the following statement after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with United States Senators:
    “President Zelenskyy’s message remains clear: without continued U.S. support, Ukraine will lose the war.  Allowing a Putin victory in Ukraine would surrender U.S. leadership around the world, undermine the hard-fought stability in Europe that emerged after two devasting world wars, and further endanger the Baltics, Poland, and others in the region.  President Biden understands these historic stakes and has led a critical allied effort to reject Russia’s threat to the global order. 
    “For more than two-and-a-half years, our Ukrainian allies have fought off one of the largest militaries in the world—and given their lives to do it.  While I’m pleased Congress came together to pass a vital aid package to help our Ukrainian friends earlier this year, we must continue to push for the resources, equipment, and flexibility necessary to prevail against Russian tyranny.  We cannot walk away from Ukraine at this moment in history, and I reiterated my support to President Zelenskyy in today’s meeting.”
      
    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Translation: Canada-France Declaration on a Strengthened Partnership in Defence and Security

    MIL OSI Translation. Canadian French to English –

    Source: Government of Canada – in French 1

    Meeting in Ottawa on September 26, 2024, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, call for working together to foster the development of a strengthened partnership in defence and security.

    September 26, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    Meeting in Ottawa on September 26, 2024, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, call for working together to foster the development of a strengthened partnership in defence and security.

    Canada and France have a strong defence relationship, based on shared history and interests, a common language and universal values.

    During the 20th century, Canada and France have forged a close defence relationship. During both world wars, Canadian and French soldiers fought side by side. This year, our two countries celebrated the eightieth anniversary of the Normandy landings. This defence relationship was solidified in 1949 with the establishment of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), of which our two countries are founding members, and with our joint participation in several peacekeeping operations under the auspices of the United Nations, in operations under NATO command, and as part of the international coalition against Daesh.

    We share common security interests in a context of serious international tensions and, more broadly, the assertion of power logics and fait accompli. The year 2024 is thus characterized by an increase in meetings between our respective authorities, both at the political and military levels, with a shared desire to boost our exchanges in the field of defense and security, in order to establish a more ambitious strategic partnership. We are convinced that strengthened cooperation between our two countries will make it possible to better contribute to defending the international order based on the rules of respect for the sovereignty of States and our democratic principles. Together, we are determined to do our part to uphold the principles of the United Nations Charter, to contribute to the management of international crises and conflicts, including in the cyber domain, and to ensure the security and collective defense of NATO members.

    We will therefore deepen our defence and security cooperation with a view to supporting Ukraine, contributing to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific, strengthening our collaboration in crisis management and in the modernisation of our armed forces and combating foreign interference and the manipulation of information.

    Support Ukraine

    Canada and France will support Ukraine for as long as it takes to defeat Russia’s war of aggression in flagrant violation of international law, including the United Nations Charter. Our support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders is unwavering. In line with the G7 Joint Statement of Support for Ukraine of July 2023, Canada and France have respectively signed bilateral agreements with Ukraine committing them, over the long term, to strengthening Ukraine’s capacity to defend itself, developing the country’s resilience and deterring Russia from any further aggression.

    We will strengthen our cooperation in the field of military material support to Ukraine and in the field of training, within the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG – also called the “Ramstein format”).

    Canada and France have already trained tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers through Operation UNIFIER for Canada and the EU Military Assistance Mission in Support of Ukraine (EUMAM Ukraine) for France. Our armed forces have continued cooperation on the training of Ukrainian fighter pilots. Our armed forces will continue to deepen their strategic cooperation in the field of cyber defence in support of Ukraine. We are determined to work with Ukraine and our partners to enable Ukraine to defend its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity in the face of Russian aggression, both in traditional domains and in cyberspace, including by supporting the strengthening of Ukraine’s civilian cybersecurity capacities through the Tallinn Mechanism. More broadly, we will continue our discussions on the topics of common interest discussed at the Paris conference on February 26, 2024.

    Canada and France recognize that the deportation of Ukrainian children is a major issue and will continue their efforts, within the framework of the international coalition, for the return of Ukrainian children deported to Russia.

    Contributing to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific

    Canada and France are two Pacific countries that wish to actively contribute to regional stability and security. We aim to maintain an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, free from excessive dependencies and any form of coercion, and based on respect for international law, sovereignty and multilateralism.

    We reaffirm our shared commitment to support peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula through the implementation of United Nations resolutions and the enforcement of sanctions imposed by the United Nations Security Council. We remain fully mobilized with our partners to deter any attempt to circumvent these sanctions through maritime and air-sea surveillance.

    We deplore the escalating tensions in the South China Sea. We firmly oppose coercive or destabilizing activities, which lead to increasingly violent and recurring incidents, and call for enhanced dialogue between the different parties. We also emphasize the importance of the ability of all States to exercise their rights and freedoms, including freedom of navigation and overflight, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

    Our two countries will strengthen their cooperation in strategic and military analysis in the area, study the deployment of future joint patrol missions and increase their participation in multilateral exercises. This cooperation will improve interoperability between the armed forces of our two countries. With this in mind, we will work on the possibility of integrating Canadian support for the deployment of the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier.

    Canada and France will deepen cooperation to combat illegal fishing and conduct maritime surveillance with Pacific Island countries to strengthen their sovereignty. We will work toward joint deployments in the area. We will also strengthen regional security by participating in training for Pacific Island partner countries.

    Strengthening our collaboration in international crisis management and engaging together

    Canada and France recognize that climate change is not only an environmental threat, but also one of the greatest security challenges of our time. We strongly support NATO’s Action Plan on Climate Change and Security, including as co-sponsors, with 10 other Allies, of the NATO Centre of Excellence for Climate Change and Security in Montreal.

    We will share our crisis management situation assessments, as we did recently during the crisis in Haiti and in anticipation during targeted situation assessment exchanges in areas of common interest, such as the Middle East. We will identify new opportunities to deploy together. We will strengthen the NATO partnership by sharing experience between framework nations for the Canadian deployments in Latvia and the French deployments in Romania. France is ready to cooperate with Canada to facilitate logistical support to Canadian forces positioned in Latvia.

    In the Canadian Arctic, Canada and France are collaborating on Operation NANOOK, the Canadian Armed Forces’ flagship operation in this region. Our two countries aim to increase joint navigation exercises, experience sharing, interoperability and crew training in polar environments, particularly by leveraging the expertise and support of the Canadian Armed Forces in the Canadian Arctic.

    In the Sahel and more recently in the Gulf of Guinea, Canada provides unwavering support to the French armed forces through its operation FREQUENCE. We intend to renew this important and effective cooperation in 2025.

    Strengthening our collaboration in the modernization of the armed forces

    To better respond to crises, Canada and France will deepen their partnership to modernize their armed forces and improve their ability to engage together.

    We will continue to share expertise in human resources, which form the heart of our armed forces, in order to improve recruitment or for training in specific skills, by drawing on the capabilities that each has, particularly in terms of transport and strategic supply or submarine forces.

    Canada and France are committed to increasing their defence resources and strengthening their capabilities in order to ensure their sovereignty and support their partners. In this context, we will develop the sharing of our respective technological know-how, and work on new concrete cooperation in the land, maritime, air and cyber domains. We will continue our discussions on the organization and improvement of our industrial and acquisition processes.

    Combating foreign interference and manipulation of information

    Canada and France are facing foreign interference operations and the manipulation of information. Canada and France will strengthen their exchanges in order to respond effectively to these threats.

    Through our commitment to the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (G7 RRM), our two countries are developing a collective response framework to counter foreign information manipulation operations, as announced at the G7 Summit in Puglia. These efforts must be accompanied by support for honest and quality information, for example through the Partnership for Information and Democracy and its Forum on Information and Democracy. We welcome initiatives such as the Journalism Trust Initiative, in which several of our Canadian and French media participate, to promote quality information.

    Through the G7 MRR, we are also developing collective approaches to counter other threats to democracy and will continue to advance these goals under our successive G7 presidencies in 2025 and 2026.

    EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is a translation. Apologies should the grammar and/or sentence structure not be perfect.

    MIL Translation OSI

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Canada–France Declaration on a Stronger Defence and Security Partnership

    Source: Government of Canada News

    On September 26, 2024, in Ottawa, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, called on our countries to work together towards a stronger defence and security partnership.

    September 26, 2024 – Ottawa, Ontario – Global Affairs Canada

    On September 26, 2024, in Ottawa, the Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada, and Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic, called on our countries to work together towards a stronger defence and security partnership.

    Canada and France have cultivated a strong defence relationship, founded upon shared history, interests, a common language and universal values.

    During the 20th century, Canada and France developed a close defence relationship. During both World Wars, Canadian soldiers and French soldiers fought side by side and this year, our countries celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings. Our defence relationship was solidified in 1949 with the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), of which our two countries are founding members, as well as through our joint participation in various United Nations peacekeeping operations, NATO-led operations, and the Global Coalition Against Daesh.

    We share common security interests in a world facing serious international tensions and, more broadly, one marked by unilateral assertions of power. Given this, our respective officials, both political and military, have met with one another more regularly in 2024, to enhance our conversations on defence and security, and ultimately build a more ambitious strategic partnership. We are convinced that stronger cooperation between our two countries will facilitate better defence of the rules-based international order founded on respect for state sovereignty, and our democratic principles. Together, we are committed to doing our part to uphold the principles of the Charter of the United Nations; to help manage international crises and conflicts, including in the cyber domain; and to ensure the collective security and defence of NATO members.

    We will therefore expand our defence and security cooperation to support Ukraine, contribute to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific, reinforce our collaboration on crisis management and modernization of our armed forces, and fight against foreign interference and information manipulation.

    Support Ukraine

    Canada and France will support Ukraine for as long as it takes to thwart Russia’s war of aggression, which is a flagrant violation of international law, including the Charter of the United Nations. Our support for Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognized borders is unwavering. In line with the G7 Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine of July 2023, Canada and France respectively signed bilateral agreements with Ukraine to confirm our commitment to strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend itself, foster resilience in the country, and deter future aggression from Russia in the long-term.

    As part of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group (UDCG), also known as the Ramstein group, we will strengthen our cooperation in the area of military equipment support to Ukraine and training.

    Canada and France have trained tens of thousands of Ukrainian soldiers through Operation UNIFIER (Canada) and the EU Military Assistance Mission in support of Ukraine (France). Our armed forces have cooperated on training Ukrainian fighter pilots. Our armed forces will continue to deepen their strategic cooperation in the field of cyber defence in support of Ukraine. We are determined to work with Ukraine and our partners to support Ukraine in defending its sovereignty, independence and its territorial integrity against Russian aggression, both in the traditional domains and in cyberspace, including by helping strengthen Ukraine’s civilian cyber capacity through the Tallinn Mechanism. More broadly, we will continue our conversations on the topics of shared interest broached at the conference in Paris on February 26, 2024.

    Canada and France recognize that the deportation of Ukrainian children is a major concern and, as part of the international coalition, we will continue our efforts to ensure the return of the Ukrainian children deported to Russia.

    Contribute to regional stability and security in the Indo-Pacific

    Canada and France are two Pacific nations that wish to actively contribute to regional stability and security. We aim to maintain an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, free of excessive dependencies and any form of coercion, and founded on respect for international law, sovereignty and multilateralism.

    We reaffirm our shared commitment to support peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, through implementing United Nations resolutions and implementing sanctions decided upon by the United Nations Security Council. We remain fully engaged with our partners to dissuade any attempt to circumvent those sanctions by means of maritime surveillance and maritime air surveillance.

    We deplore the rising tensions in the South China Sea. We strongly oppose coercive and destabilizing activities, which are leading to increasingly violent and recurrent incidents, and call for the various parties to engage in dialogue. We also highlight the importance for all states to be able to exercise their rights and freedoms, including freedom of navigation and overflight, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

    Our two countries will strengthen our cooperation in terms of strategic and military analysis in the region, study opportunities for deploying future joint patrol missions, and increase our participation in multilateral exercises. This cooperation will improve interoperability between the armed forces of our two countries. In the same vein, we will consider integrating Canadian support to the deployment of the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.

    Canada and France will cooperate more closely to fight against illegal fishing and ensure maritime surveillance with Pacific Island countries in order to strengthen their sovereignty. We will work on joint deployments in the area. We will also strengthen regional security by participating in the training of Pacific Island partner countries.

    Collaborate more closely on international crisis management and conduct joint operations

    Canada and France recognize that climate change is not only an environmental threat, but is also one of the greatest security challenges of our time. We wholeheartedly support NATO’s Climate Change and Security Action Plan, and we are two of the 12 sponsoring Allied nations of the NATO Climate Change and Security Centre of Excellence in Montreal.

    We will share our crisis management situation assessments, as we did recently during the crisis in Haiti, and in anticipation of situations in areas of mutual interest, like the Middle East. We will identify new opportunities to deploy together. We will strengthen the partnership within NATO by sharing experience among framework nations for Canada’s deployment in Latvia and France’s deployment in Romania. France stands ready to cooperate with Canada to facilitate logistical support to Canadian forces prepositioned in Latvia.

    In the Canadian Arctic, Canada and France collaborate on Operation NANOOK, the Canadian Armed Forces’ signature operation in that region. Our two countries wish to increase joint navigation exercises, knowledge sharing, interoperability and training of crews in polar environments, drawing on the expertise and support of the Canadian Armed Forces in the Canadian Arctic.

    In the Sahel and more recently in the Gulf of Guinea, Canada has provided the French Armed Forces with unfailing support under Operation FREQUENCE. We intend to renew this important, effective collaboration in 2025.

    Collaborate more closely on the modernization of armed forces

    To better respond to crises, Canada and France will deepen our partnership to modernize our armed forces and improve our ability to conduct joint operations.

    We will continue sharing expertise on human resources, the heart of our armies, to improve recruitment and training on specific skills, while leveraging each other’s capabilities in areas such as transport, strategic resupply, and submarine forces.

    Canada and France are committed to increasing our defence capacity and strengthening our capabilities to ensure our sovereignty and support our partners. To that end, we will share our respective technical know-how, and will find tangible new ways to work together on land, sea, air and cyberspace. We will continue discussing how to organize and improve our industrial and procurement processes.

    Fight against foreign interference and information manipulation

    Canada and France are confronted with foreign interference operations and information manipulation. Canada and France will increase communication with each other to effectively respond to those threats.

    Through our commitment to the G7 Rapid Response Mechanism (G7 RRM), our two countries are developing a collective response framework to counter foreign operations of information manipulation, as announced at the G7 Summit in Apulia. These efforts must be accompanied by support for factual and high-quality information, such as through the International Partnership on Information and Democracy and the Forum on Information and Democracy. We welcome initiatives such as the Journalism Trust Initiative, in which Canadian and French media are participating, to foster high-quality information.

    Thanks to the G7 RRM, we are also developing collective approaches to counter other threats to democracy and will continue to advance these objectives during our successive G7 presidencies in 2025 and 2026.

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI: Cegedim: Revenue and EBITDA both increased in the first half of 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

         
     

    PRESS RELEASE

    First-half financial information at June 30, 2024
    IFRS – Regulated information – Audited

    Cegedim: Revenue and EBITDA both increased in the first half of 2024

    • Revenue grew 6.0% as reported and 4.6% LFL to €319.0 million
    • EBITDA rose 6.9% to €52.2 million
    • Recurring operating income(1) (REBIT) fell 3.4% to €10.3 million

    Boulogne-Billancourt, France, September 26, 2024, after the market close

    Cegedim generated consolidated H1 2024 revenues of €319.0 million, a 6.0% year-on-year increase as reported, and EBITDA of €52.2 million, a €3.4 million or 6.9% increase. Recurring operating income fell €0.4 million, or 3.4%, to €10.3 million.

      H1 2024 H1 2023 Change
      in €m (in %) (in €m) (in %) (in €m) in %
    Revenues 319.0 100.0% 301.0 100.00% 18.0 6.0%
    EBITDA(1) 52.2 16.4% 48.8 +16.2% 3.4 6.9%
    Depreciation & amortization -41.9   -38.1   -3.8 -9.8%
    Recurring operating income(1) 10.3 3.2% 10.7 3.6% -0.4 -3.4%
    Other non-recurring operating income and expenses(1) -2.6   -1.4   -1.2 -88.8%
    Operating income 7.7 2.4% 9.3 3.1% -1.6 -17.1%
    Financial result -5.0   -5.6   0.6 10.8%
    Total tax -2.9   -12.4   9.5 76.8%
    Share of net profit (loss) of equity method companies 0.1   -0.5   0.6 110.3%
    Consolidated net profit -0.1 0.0% -9.2 -3.1% 9.1 99.0%
    Non-controlling interests -0.7   -0.4   -0.3 -69.3%
    Group share 0.6 0.2% -8.8 -2.9% 9.4 107.2%
    Recurring earnings per share(2) (in euros) 0.0 -0.6    
    Earnings per share (in euros) 0.0 -0.6    

    Consolidated revenues rose €18.0 million, or 6.0%, to €319.0 million in H1 2024 compared with €301.0 million in 2023. The positive scope effect of €3.7 million, or 1.2%, was attributable to the first-time consolidation in Cegedim’s accounts of Visiodent starting March 1, 2024. The positive currency impact was €0.5 million, or 0.2%, chiefly owing to appreciation of the pound sterling against the euro. In like-for-like terms(2), revenues rose 4.6% in the first half, in line with the Group’s announced outlook. The performance was attributable to seasonality and the non-recurrence of Ségur public health investments in 2024.

    EBITDA(1) rose €3.4 million between the first half of 2023 and 2024, or 6.9%. The improvement is the result of good management of personnel costs and external costs, in moderate growth as a percentage of revenues even though the amount of R&D capitalization fell and the Group had an additional quarter of start-up costs for its biggest BPO contract.

    ————-
    (1)    Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.
    (2)   At constant scope and exchange rates.

    Depreciation and amortization expenses rose €3.7 million, chiefly due to a €3.1 million increase in R&D amortization (€22.7 million at June 30, 2024 compared with €19.7 million a year earlier) driven by development efforts in recent years.

    Recurring operating income(1) fell €0.4 million to €10.3 million in H1 2024 compared with €10.7 million in 2023.  It amounted to 3.2% of 2024 revenue compared with 3.6% in 2023. The fine EBITDA performance did not drop through to recurring operating income solely because of higher depreciation and amortization. Excluding the impact of Ségur subsidies and at comparable levels of amortization of capitalized R&D, Recurring operating income would have more than doubled.

    Other non-current operating costs(1) amounted to €2.6 million in H1 2024 compared with €1.4 million in the same period in 2023.  The principal items in 2024 were restructuring costs related to the Group’s decision to refocus software for doctors in the UK on Scotland and fees related to the Visiodent acquisition.

    Taking these elements into account, operating income came to €7.7 million at June 30, 2024, compared with €9.3 million a year earlier.

    Financial result was a loss of €5.0 million compared with a €5.6 million loss in H1 2023. Dividend income over the period more than offset the increase in the cost of financial debt.

    Tax was back to normal levels at €2.6 million in H1 2024 compared with €12.4 million in H1 2023. As a reminder, in 2023 the Group made a non-cash adjustment that caused it to record a deferred tax charge corresponding to the downward revision of its estimated remaining deferred tax assets.

    Analysis of business trends by division

    in millions of euros Total Software & Services Flow Data & Marketing BPO Cloud & Support
    Revenue            
    2023 reported

    2023 reclassified (*)

    301.0

    301.0

    161.5

    150.6

    48.2

    46.8

    54.9

    54.9

    32.8

    32.8

    3.5

    15.8

    2024 319.0 152.1 49.5 59.3 39.9 18.1
    Change 6.0% 1.0% 5.8% 8.0% 21.6% 14.5%
                 
    Recurring operating income            
    2023 reported

    2023 reclassified (*)

    10.7

    10.7

    -2.0

    -2.5

    5.6

    5.2

    6.6

    6.6

    1.4

    1.4

    -0.9

    0.0

    2024 10.3 -1.4 5.9 5.3 1.9 -1.3
    Change -3.4% 42.4% 12.8% -19.8% 36.0% na
                 
    Recurring operating margin (as a % of revenues)

    2023 reported

     

    3.6%

     

    -1.2%

     

    11.7%

     

    11.9%

     

    4.3%

     

    -24.7%

    2023 reclassified (*) 3.6% -1.7% 11.1% 11.9% 4.3% 0.3%
    2024 3.2% -1.0% +11.8% 8.9% 4.8% -7.0%
                 

    (*) As of January 1, 2024, our Cegedim Outsourcing and Audiprint subsidiaries—which were previously housed in the Software & Services division—as well as BSV—formerly of the Flow division—have been moved to the Cloud & Support division in order to capitalize on operating synergies between cloud activities and IT solutions integration.

    • Software & Services: H1 2024 revenues posted a €1.5 million increase, and recurring operating income (REBIT)(1) improved by €1.1 million to a loss of €1.4 million, compared with a €2.5 million loss a year earlier.

    ————-
    (1)    Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.

    Software & Services First half Change

    2024 / 2023

    in millions of euros 2024 2023
    Revenues 152.1 150.6 1.5 1.0%
    Cegedim Santé 38.9 39.8 -1.0 -2.4%
    Insurance, HR, Pharmacies, and other services 86.7 84.5 2.3 2.7%
    International businesses 26.5 26.3 0.2 0.6%
    Recurring operating income(1) -1.4 -2.5 1.1 42.4%
    Cegedim Santé -1.6 -1.4 -0.2 -11.8%
    Insurance, HR, Pharmacies, and other services 3.4 3.3 0.1 3.5%
    International businesses -3.3 -4.4 1.1 25.6%

    As expected, Cegedim Santé felt the impact of increased R&D amortization (nearly €1 million) and a demanding comparison owing to the non-recurrence of Ségur public health investments (€4.4 million in H1 2023 revenues). The consolidation of Visiodent starting March 1, 2024, only partly offset those two items. Recurring operating income was nearly stable over the first half, but EBITDA increased as expected.

    The other businesses in the division posted REBIT(1) of €1.2 million. A solid performance by HR solutions, which managed to keep costs under control during a phase of strong growth, compensated for slower pharmacy equipment sales post-Ségur. The international businesses got a boost from dynamic sales for doctors in Spain and for insurers in the UK. As we shift our operations, narrowing the focus of our UK doctor’s software business to Scotland continued to generate costs in the first half.

    • Flow: Revenues rose 5.8%, driven by Cegedim e-business (process digitalization and electronic data flows), both of whose businesses made positive contributions; by Invoicing & Procurement, which rebounded in France and is benefiting from the upcoming reform in Germany; and by Healthcare Flow Management, which has dynamic new offerings for hospitals to make their drug purchasing secure. Over the same period, Third-party payer systems posted 3.6% growth. As a result, REBIT(1) rose 12.8%, with Third-party payer systems making the biggest contribution, as Cegedim e-business recorded a large R&D amortization charge.
    • Data & Marketing: Trends differed at this division—Marketing is still going strong, with 20% growth, whereas Data revenues fell 2.8%, particularly abroad. REBIT(1) of €6.6 million was down €1.3 million over the first half owing to high fixed costs in Data and increased depreciation and amortization costs at C-Media (+€1 million) due to heavy investments in updating its digital signage equipment.
    • BPO: Revenue jumped more than 21% over the first half, buoyed notably by a full six months of the contract with Allianz, which started on April 1, 2023, and is expected to generate losses in the early years. But the division reined in those losses so well that REBIT(1) rose €0.5 million in the first half of 2024 to reach €1.9 million, also getting a boost from the HR BPO and digitalization businesses.
    • Cloud & Support: H1 2024 REBIT(1) was a loss of €1.3 million, compared with breakeven a year earlier. The drop was due to surcharges related to the launch of a new cloud offering and recruitment of new offshore teams.

    ———

    (1) Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.

    Highlights

    Apart from the items cited below, to the best of the company’s knowledge, there were no events or changes during H1 2024 that would materially alter the Group’s financial situation.

    • Acquisition of Visiodent

    On February 15, 2024, Cegedim Santé acquired Visiodent, a leading French publisher of management software for dental practices and health clinics. Visiodent launched the market’s first 100% SaaS solution, Veasy, at a time when it was significantly expanding its organization. Its users now include the country’s largest nation-wide networks of health clinics, both cooperative and privately owned, as well as several thousand dental surgeons in private practice. Visiodent generated revenue of c.€10 million in 2023 and began contributing to Cegedim Group’s consolidation scope on March 1, 2024.

    Cegedim S.A. has been subject to two tax audits since 2018, which have resulted in reassessments relating to the use of tax-loss carryforwards contested by the tax authorities. Cegedim, in consultation with its lawyers, believes that the reassessments are unfounded in light of the applicable tax law and jurisprudence. The Company has therefore taken, and continues to take, all possible avenues of contestation.

    As these appeals are not suspensive, Cegedim has paid the amounts reassessed over time (a total of 23 million euros already paid, including 10.9 million euros disbursed in February 2024). The remaining risk of future disbursements in respect of this dispute thus amounts to only 5 million euros at June 30, 2024.

    However, these disbursements have never given rise to the recognition of a tax charge in the P&L, since the Company considers that these sums will be recoverable at the end of the proceedings (they are recognized as advances paid on the assets side of the balance sheet). Should the outcome be unfavorable, a charge of 28 million euros (of which 23 million has already been paid) would have to be recorded in the consolidated income statement.

    In addition, the consolidated balance sheet must show the future tax savings still realizable in respect of tax loss carryforwards. This “deferred tax asset” amounted to 6.9 million euros at June 30, 2024.
    Should the outcome be unfavorable, the probability of realizing these future savings would become nil, and an adjustment of 6.9 million euros would have to be recorded in the consolidated income statement (with no cash impact, since these gains have never yet been realized).

    Consequently, the risk associated with this dispute is not (or very little) in terms of cash, but rather in terms of a possible adjustment to the consolidated income. The maximum P&L adjustment risk is known: it amounts to 34.9 million euros and will remain unchanged. Only its breakdown varies at each closing: the amount of disputed tax savings (28 million to date) will continue to increase, and that of remaining future savings (6.9 million to date) will decrease accordingly until exhausted.

    In the last quarter of 2023, the Company referred this dispute to the administrative court, which is likely to continue for several years.

    Significant transactions and events post June 30, 2024

    Apart from the items cited below, to the best of the company’s knowledge, there were no post-closing events or changes after June 30, 2024, that would materially alter the Group’s financial situation.

    • New financing arrangement

    On July 31, 2024, Cegedim announced that it had secured a new financing arrangement consisting of a €230 million syndicated loan. The arrangement is split into €180 million of lines drawn upon closing to refinance the Group’s existing debt (RCF and Euro PP, which were to mature in October 2024 and October 2025 respectively) and an additional, undrawn revolving credit facility (RCF) of €50 million. This new financing arrangement will bolster the Group’s liquidity and extend the maturity of its debt to, respectively, 5 years (€30 million, payments every six months); 6 years (€60 million, repayable upon maturity); and 7 years (€90 million, repayable upon maturity).

    Outlook

    Based on the currently available information, the Group expects 2024 like-for-like(2) revenue growth to be in the range of 5-8% relative to 2023. Recurring operating income should continue to improve, following a similar trajectory as in 2023.  

    Recurring operating income(1) is expected to grow, notably thanks to the initial returns on investments made in Cegedim Santé and refocusing international activities.

    These targets may need to be revised in the event of unexpected developments (pandemic, etc.) and/or a significant worsening of geopolitical and macroeconomic risks. The Group reiterates that it has no activities or exposed assets in Russia or Ukraine.

    —————

    The Audit Committee met on September 25, 2024. The Board of Directors, chaired by Jean-Claude Labrune, met on September 26, 2024, and approved the consolidated financial statements at June 30, 2024, of which the statutory auditors have conducted a limited review. The Interim Financial Report will be available in a few days’ time, in French and in English, on our website.

    2024 financial calendar

    2024 October 24 after the close Q3 2024 revenues

    Financial calendar: https://www.cegedim.fr/finance/agenda/Pages/default.aspx

    Disclaimer
    This press release is available in French and in English. In the event of any difference between the two versions, the original French version takes precedence. This press release may contain inside information. It was sent to Cegedim’s authorized distributor on September 26, 2024, no earlier than 5:45 pm Paris time.
    The figures cited in this press release include guidance on Cegedim’s future financial performance targets. This forward-looking information is based on the opinions and assumptions of the Group’s senior management at the time this press release is issued and naturally entails risks and uncertainty. For more information on the risks facing Cegedim, please refer to Chapter 7, “Risk management”, section 7.2, “Risk factors and insurance”, and Chapter 3, “Overview of the financial year”, section 3.6, “Outlook”, of the 2023 Universal Registration Document filled with the AMF on April 3, 2024, under number D.24-0233.

    About Cegedim:
    Founded in 1969, Cegedim is an innovative technology and services group in the field of digital data flow management for healthcare ecosystems and B2B, and a business software publisher for healthcare and insurance professionals. Cegedim employs more than 6,500 people in more than 10 countries and generated revenue of €616 million in 2023.

    Cegedim SA is listed in Paris (EURONEXT: CGM).
    To learn more please visit: http://www.cegedim.fr
    And follow Cegedim on X: @CegedimGroup, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

    Aude Balleydier
    Cegedim
    Media Relations
    and Communications Manager

    Tel.: +33 (0)1 49 09 68 81
    aude.balleydier@cegedim.fr

    Damien Buffet
    Cegedim
    Head of Financial Communication

    Tel.: +33 (0)7 64 63 55 73
    damien.buffet@cegedim.com

    Céline Pardo
    Becoming RP Agency
    Media Relations Consultant

    Tel.:        +33 (0)6 52 08 13 66
    cegedim@becoming-group.com

     

    ———

    (1) Alternative performance indicator See pages 112-113 of the 2023 Universal Registration Document.
    (2) At constant scope and exchange rates.

    Annexes

    Consolidated financial statements at June 30, 2024

    • Assets au 30 juin 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 12/31/2023
    Goodwill 234,955 199,787
    Development costs 29,706 1,562
    Other intangible fixed assets 177,834 192,616
    Intangible non-current assets 207,541 194,178
    Land 594 544
    Buildings 1,556 1,660
    Other property, plant, and equipment 53,006 45,829
    Advances and non-current assets in progress 901 831
    Rights of use 86,092 89,718
    Tangible fixed assets 142,149 138,582
    Equity investments 0 0
    Loans 16,332 15,332
    Other long-term investments 7,120 5,230
    Long-term investments – excluding equity shares in equity method companies 23,452 20,563
    Equity shares in equity method companies 19,086 22,065
    Deferred tax assets 18,209 19,747
    Prepaid expenses: long-term portion 0 0
    Non-current assets 645,390 594,922
    Goods 6,072 5,498
    Advances and deposits received on orders 1,396 3,703
    Accounts receivables: short-term portion 182,907 175,199
    Other receivables: short-term portion 59,070 59,563
    Current tax credits 27,262 16,495
    Cash equivalents 0 0
    Cash 35,414 46,606
    Prepaid expenses: short-term portion 26,138 22,082
    Current assets 338,260 329,146
    Total assets 983,651 924,068
    • Liabilities et shareholders’ equity at June 30, 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 12/31/2023
    Share capital 13,432 13,337
    Consolidated retained earnings 276,449 282,521
    Group exchange gains/losses -11,848 -12,275
    Group earnings 630 -7,407
    Shareholders’ equity, Group share 278,663 276,175
    Minority interest 17,550 18,381
    Shareholders’ equity 296,213 294,556
    Non-current financial liabilities 187,714 188,546
    Non-current lease liabilities 76,267 78,761
    Deferred tax liabilities 5,949 5,600
    Post-employment benefit obligations 30,632 31,007
    Non-current provisions 2,147 2,521
    Non-current liabilities 302,710 306,435
    Current financial liabilities 61,570 3,006
    Current lease liabilities 14,661 14,789
    Trade payables and related accounts 57,225 61,734
    Current tax liabilities 192 235
    Tax and social security liabilities 113,884 121,371
    Non-current provisions 1,660 1,730
    Other current liabilities 135,538 120,212
    Current liabilities 384,728 323,077
    Total liabilities 983,651 924,068
    • Income statement at June 30, 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 6/30/2023
    Revenues 318,995 301,011
    Purchases used -14,045 -14,739
    External expenses -72,687 -66,371
    Taxes -3,961 -4,291
    Payroll costs -173,240 -163,623
    Impairment of trade receivables and other receivables and on contract assets -872 -2,041
    Allowances to and reversals of provisions -2,440 -1,830
    Other operating expenses -690 108
    Share of profit (loss) from affiliates on the income statement 1,146 603
    EBITDA (1) 52,207 48,827
    Depreciation expenses other than right-of-use assets -33,140 -29,030
    Depreciation expenses of right-of-use assets -8,733 -9,097
    Recurring operating income(1) 10,334 10,700
    Non-recurring operating income and expenses -2,616 -1,385
    Other non-recurring operating income and expenses(1) -2,616 -1,385
    Operating income 7,718 9,315
    Income from cash and cash equivalents 326 180
    Cost of gross financial debt -7,121 -5,633
    Other financial income and expenses 1,813 -136
    Net financial income (expense) -4,983 -5,589
    Income taxes -1,226 -1,841
    Deferred income taxes -1,652 -10,588
    Tax -2,878 -12,429
    Share of profit (loss) from affiliates 53 -515
    Consolidated net profit -90 -9,219
    Group share 630 -8,793
    Income from equity-accounted affiliates -721 -426
    Average number of shares excluding treasury stock 13,695,317 13,658,348
    Recurring earnings per share (in euros) 0.0 -0.6
    Earnings per share (in euros) 0.0 -0.6
    • Cash flow statement as of June 30, 2024
    In thousands of euros 6/30/2024 6/30/2023
    Consolidated net profit -90 -9,219
    Share of profit (loss) from affiliates -1,199 -88
    Depreciation and amortization expenses and provisions 40,531 37,972
    Capital gains or losses on disposals of operating assets -52 -798
    Cash flow after cost of net financial debt and taxes 39,190 27,867
    Cost of net financial debt 4,983 5,589
    Tax expenses 2,878 12,429
    Cash flow from operating activities before tax and interest 47,051 45,885
    Tax paid -11,634 -378
    Impact of change in working capital requirements -13,206 -18,032
    Cash flow generated from operating activities after tax paid and change in

    working capital requirements

    22,211 27,476
    Acquisitions of intangible fixed assets -29,879 -29,550
    Acquisitions of tangible fixed assets -15,935 -11,759
    Acquisitions of long-term investments 0 -36
    Disposals of property, plant, and equipment and of intangible assets 553 2,575
    Disposals of long-term investments 934 805
    Change in deposits received or paid -860 -156
    Impact of changes in consolidation scope -35,454 -2,172
    Dividends received from outside the Group 4,073 30
    Net cash from (used in) investing activities -76,568 -40,264
    Capital increase 985
    Dividends paid to minority shareholders of consolidated cos. 0
    Dividends paid to shareholders of the parent company -1
    Debt issuance 55,000
    Debt repayments -219 -193
    Employee profit sharing 145 129
    Repayment of lease liabilities -8,152 -11,353
    Interest paid on loans -972 -117
    Other financial income received 718 596
    Other financial expenses paid -3,612 -3,492
    Net cash flow used in financing activities 43,892 -14,430
    Change in net cash excluding currency impact -10,465 -27,218
    Impact of changes in foreign currency exchange rates -728 -456
    Change in net cash -11,194 -27,674
    Opening cash 46,606 55,553
    Closing cash 35,412 27,879
    • Financial covenants

    The Group complied with all its covenants as of June 30, 2024.


    (1) Alternative performance indicator

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK constrains Russia’s future Liquified Natural Gas plans 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

    The UK has sanctioned 5 ships and 2 entities involved in the Russian Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) sector. 

    • the UK has sanctioned 5 ships and 2 entities involved in the Russian Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) sector

    • this is the first time the UK is using its new ship specification power to target LNG vessels directly

    • today’s action builds on efforts alongside allies to bear down on Russia’s attempts to bolster its future energy revenues – the most critical source of funding for Putin’s war in Ukraine

    The UK has today, 26 September, taken decisive action to sanction 5 vessels and 2 associated entities involved in the shipping of Russian LNG, including from Russia’s flagship Arctic LNG 2 project. 

    LNG is an important source of funding for Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine. Russia has plans to expand its LNG revenues, aiming to grow their global LNG market share from 8% to 20%.  

    Earlier this year, the UK sanctioned Arctic LNG 2, alongside our allies in the US and EU. Since then, the project has been forced to slash production. Today’s action builds on this by targeting ships and entities involved in the Russian LNG sector, which engage with projects important to Russia’s future energy production. 

    The UK has now sanctioned 15 vessels and entities involved in the Russian LNG sector and we will continue to bear down on this important source of funding for Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine.   

    The vessels sanctioned today are: 

    • PIONEER (IMO 9256602) 

    • ASYA ENERGY (IMO 9216298) 

    • NOVA ENERGY (IMO 9324277) 

    • NORTH SKY (IMO 9953523) 

    • SCF LA PEROUSE (IMO 9849887)  

    We are also sanctioning the following entities associated with the vessels: 

    • OCEAN SPEEDSTAR SOLUTIONS OPC – The operator and manager of PIONEER and ASYA ENERGY. 

    • WHITE FOX SHIP MANAGEMENT – The operator and manager of NORTH SKY 

    View the UK Sanctions List.

    Background

    Ships specified under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 are prohibited from entering a port in the UK, may be given a movement or a port entry direction, can be detained, and will be refused permission to register on the UK Ship Register or have its existing registration terminated.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: High-level Open Debate: “Leadership for peace: United in respect of the UN Charter in search of a secure future” Address by Jean-Noël Barrot Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs at the Security Council (25.09.24

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    President,

    I would like to thank Slovenia for organizing this open debate, and the UN Secretary-General, ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric Egger, and President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for their remarks.

    Our Council had to meet at a time when the world was being struck and divided by major conflicts of an exceptional gravity. And unfortunately, these conflicts are growing in number. It is the responsibility of our Council to resolve them and it needs to do more.

    Our first responsibility is to enforce the rules that govern the international order and to enforce the Charter of the United Nations.

    This means condemning without hesitation Russia’s war of aggression on Ukraine, its neighbour. As I said yesterday: the Ukrainian people have been subjected to atrocities, war crimes, and indiscriminate bombardments on civilian targets on a daily basis for over 900 days. They are unjustly living in fear and suffering.

    This means condemning all violations committed by Russia. This means demanding that Russia end its war of aggression on Ukraine immediately and withdraw its troops from Ukrainian territory. The General Assembly made this demand seven times in no uncertain terms.

    We have a responsibility to support Ukraine in its right to self-defence. France and its partners will continue to support Ukrainians as long as it takes in its efforts to stop Russia’s aggression and to find a just peace. And a just peace can only be based on compliance with our common Charter. It is at the core of President Zelenskyy’s peace plan that we support.

    We have a responsibility to uphold the fundamental principles of the Charter of the United Nations in the face of an unequivocally illegal and unjustifiable war of aggression. Of this I am certain: these principles are dear to all of us, particularly the sovereignty and territorial integrity of States. Without these principles, it is the strong who make the law and not the law that governs the strong. Without these principles, borders would no longer be intangible. Without these principles, States would no longer have security and everyone would fear an invasion by their neighbour. We must uphold these principles and enforce them. You all understand that compliance with international law is our compass everywhere.

    We have clearly said since the barbaric terrorist attacks committed by Hamas and other terrorist groups on 7 October, which we condemn in the strongest terms, that Israel has the right to defend itself against aggression and the duty to do so in compliance with international law, particularly international humanitarian law. Everyone must respect this law, including Israel.

    The war in Gaza must stop now. For civilians, for the men and women of Gaza whose suffering must end; for the hostages who must finally be released, and for stability in the region, which is currently deeply shaken.

    The situation is untenable. The number of civilian victims is intolerable. In the face of this humanitarian disaster, it is vital to establish an immediate and permanent ceasefire and to enable the massive unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid as a matter of urgency. The civilian population’s needs are huge.

    To ensure a lasting end to the crisis in the Middle East, it is vital to reach a political settlement of the conflict between Israel and Palestine as a matter of urgency. This settlement is a two-state solution. You can count on France to continue to take the helm, with its partners, in promoting a critical and irreversible revitalization of peace efforts.

    It is also vital to now begin building the future of Gaza, the “day after”. It is up to the Palestinian Authority, which we support, to exercise its full authority over Gaza. For this to become a reality, the United Nations has and will have a central role to play.

    President,

    These vital demands must not be paid lip service but met with action. And I will say it again: our collective responsibility is to ensure this happens. That is why France will continue to work within this Council to sketch out this path.

    I asked that a meeting be held this evening on Lebanon, as hundreds of Lebanese people, including children, have lost their lives in Israel’s strikes. At a time when this Council must call for de-escalation to avoid regional conflagration with devasting outcomes. Our Council must call for reason, which requires restraint and a ceasefire, something that it has been doing for a long time.

    President,

    No war, no humanitarian tragedy should be forgotten.

    In Sudan, more than half the population is suffering from acute food insecurity. Famine has taken hold in the Zamzun camp in North Darfur. The situation is tragic. And we must remain mobilized. To raise awareness of the international community and to work together to address this tragic situation in Sudan, we held a conference in Paris where we raised more than €2 billion, €900 million of which from the European Union and its Member States, to support civilian populations in Sudan and its neighbouring countries. Many of our States signed a declaration of principles calling for Parties in the conflict to cease their hostilities, abide by their commitments and deliver on their obligations with respect to international humanitarian law and human rights. We have called on all States to refrain from any committing any acts that would fuel the conflict. I reiterate this appeal here today.

    Many diplomatic efforts have been made in recent months to end the crisis. These initiatives have produced humanitarian advances, such as the issuance of visas for humanitarian workers and the re-opening of the Adre border post. These advances are encouraging but are still not enough given the urgency of the situation. Together, we must do more.

    President,

    As members of this Council, and more broadly as members of the United Nations, we must work to ensure the Security Council is capable of fully exercising its prime responsibility in upholding international peace and security.

    That is the reason for France’s clear, long-standing and constant support for a comprehensive reform of the Security Council, based on the belief that expansion of both membership categories is required.

    We have been tirelessly advocating greater representation of Africa on the Security Council for 20 years, including among the permanent members. That is a key aspect of the G4 model, which we support, just as we support the aspirations of Brazil, Germany, India and Japan to gain permanent membership.

    In this same spirit of responsibility, France and Mexico promote an initiative that requires no amendment of the Charter. It is a commitment, an essential one, not to use a veto in the event of mass atrocities. That is a major expectation of the UN’s Member States. We owe it to them to progress on this matter.

    President,

    The principle of humanity must prevail. This year, we celebrate the 75th anniversary of the 1949 Geneva Conventions, and I would like to recall that they are universal and apply in all circumstances in the event of armed conflict.

    We need to ensure they are enforced. We will reiterate this at high level, with the ICRC which is their guarantor. We need to enforce international humanitarian law. Because respect for these rules saves lives: the lives of women, children and men who suffer in war; the lives of the humanitarian personnel who try to save them, and whose immense courage I salute; and the lives of those, too, who will otherwise live with a terrible injury in their memory.

    There is only one standard: the law, made up of our Charter and our Conventions, which put humanity first.

    You can count on France to enforce this standard.

    Our Council, too, must enforce it in all circumstances.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin ups the ante on his nuclear blackmail – the big question is how the west will respond

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Christoph Bluth, Professor of International Relations and Security, University of Bradford

    Vladimir Putin has announced what appears to be a dramatic strengthening of Russia’s nuclear doctrine. The Russian president was responding to speculation that the west may relax its restrictions on Ukraine’s use of its weapons to attack targets inside Russia.

    He told his security council that Russia would consider using nuclear weapons if it was attacked by any state with conventional weapons. The trigger for the launch of nuclear missiles against Ukraine or any of its allies, he said, would be “reliable information about a massive launch of aerospace attack means and their crossing of our state border”.

    Whether this will affect the thinking of Ukraine’s western allies about the use of its long-range missiles has yet to be seen. But one of the major features of the public discourse about the Ukraine war has been the risk of the use of nuclear weapons.

    Nuclear threats have been a standard tactic for the Russian leadership. Whenever Ukraine receives new weapons from the west or is allowed to use western arms to target Russian territory Moscow has responded by either referring to the devastation it could wreak with its nuclear arsenal or by holding a drill to remind the west of its existence.

    But there have recently been reports of a growing realisation among Putin’s close advisers that these threats are beginning to wear thin, as one after another of Moscow’s “red lines” are ignored.

    Nevertheless, despite providing Ukraine with the most advanced air defence systems and offensive missiles that could strike targets deep within Russia – and perhaps even influence the course of the war – Nato countries are maintaining a strict limit on their use. It’s an indication that despite scepticism about Putin’s willingness to use nuclear weapons, deterrence remains robust – in western minds anyway.

    Nuclear deterrence is based on the threat to inflict “unacceptable damage” on an enemy. It is credible only if the adversary believes that the threat is accompanied by the capability and will to follow through.

    Nuclear powers have generally conducted nuclear messaging by publicising guidelines for the use of their arsenals. Nato’s current strategic concept was adopted by heads of state and government at the alliance’s summit in Madrid in June 2022. It states: “The circumstances in which Nato might have to use nuclear weapons are extremely remote.”

    But the document stresses that if nuclear weapons were used against any Nato member state it would “fundamentally alter” any conflict in which Nato was engaged. It goes on to warn that: “The Alliance has the capabilities and resolve to impose costs on an adversary that would be unacceptable and far outweigh the benefits that any adversary could hope to achieve.”

    Russia, meanwhile, is reportedly updating its nuclear doctrine in response to what it says is “western escalation” in the war in Ukraine. The current doctrine, established by a decree in 2020, says Russia can use nuclear weapons to respond to a nuclear attack by an enemy, or to a conventional attack that “threatens the existence of the state”.

    The latest statement by Putin is apparently the “draft” of a reworked nuclear doctrine. It certainly appears to lower the bar on resorting to the use of nuclear weapons.

    Sabre rattling

    The Russian leader made his first overt threat to use nuclear weapons in the conflict in Ukraine in September 2022. He was overseeing the annexation of four occupied Ukrainian provinces after hastily arranged plebiscites, which were generally regarded in the west as being rigged.

    He stated that “the US is the only country in the world that twice used nuclear weapons, destroying the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Incidentally, they created a precedent.”

    He went on to assert that during the second world war the US and Britain had deliberately bombed several German cities to rubble. This, he insisted, had the “sole goal, just like in the case of nuclear bombardments in Japan, to scare our country and the entire world”.

    But CIA director William Burns recently said the west should not take Putin’s threats seriously: “Putin’s a bully. He’s going to continue to sabre rattle from time to time.”

    CIA director Wiliam Burns and MI6 chief Richatrd Moore in conversation at an FT conference, September 2024.

    Burns told a festival organised by the Financial Times on September 7 that: “There was a moment in the fall of 2022 when I think there was a genuine risk of potential use of tactical nuclear weapons … I never thought … we should be unnecessarily intimidated by that.”

    He said he had subsequently passed on a message from US president Joe Biden to Sergey Naryshkin, the head of the Russian foreign intelligence service at a meeting in Turkey in November 2022 “to make very clear what the consequences of that kind of escalation would be”.

    US satellite networks and other intelligence sources have shown no evidence of any preparations for the employment of nuclear weapons. This is despite Russian claims that the alert status of Russian forces has been raised.

    But Putin’s proxies have been busily putting out propaganda messages to reinforce their leader’s threats. According to the Washington Post, Alexander Mikhailov, the director of the Bureau of Military Political Analysis, recently called for Russia to bomb plywood mock-ups of London and Washington to simulate a nuclear attack, so that that would “burn so beautifully that it will horrify the world”.

    The speaker of the lower house, Vyacheslav Volodin, warned that strikes on Russia would lead to war with nuclear weapons and warned that the European parliament in Strasbourg was only a three-minute flight for a Russian nuclear missile.

    So far Putin’s threats have been sufficient to limit the scope of western involvement. Whether the Russian president’s latest threat will be effective is now the question.

    Christoph Bluth received funding from the Volkswagen Stiftung and the AHRC

    ref. Ukraine war: Vladimir Putin ups the ante on his nuclear blackmail – the big question is how the west will respond – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-war-vladimir-putin-ups-the-ante-on-his-nuclear-blackmail-the-big-question-is-how-the-west-will-respond-239660

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ukraine war: Zelensky’s pleas for help are getting drowned out in the clamour from the Middle East

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Stefan Wolff, Professor of International Security, University of Birmingham

    While Russia continues its nuclear sabre rattling, with renewed threats to use its arsenal if attacked, fighting on the frontlines in Ukraine and in Russia’s Kursk region remains intense. But the diplomatic centre of gravity of the war recently shifted to New York and Washington.

    Discussions at the UN and meetings scheduled between the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelensky, the US president Joe Biden and vice-president Kamala Harris are by no means unimportant for the outcomes of the conflict. But it is unlikely that they will constitute the pivotal moment in accelerating the pace towards a Ukrainian victory that Zelensky might envisage.

    At meetings at the UN general assembly and security council, Zelensky appealed to world leaders to support his country and force Russia to make peace with Ukraine. His vision to achieve this is via a second global peace summit. This time he wants Russia to participate after the first effort in Switzerland in June achieved very little.




    Read more:
    Ukraine summit fails to provide a path to peace for Kyiv and its allies


    But with Zelensky continuing to push his ten-point peace plan and Putin insisting on Ukraine recognising Russia’s annexation of Crimea and four regions on the mainland, the two sides are as far apart as ever. So prospects of any meaningful negotiations virtually non-existent.

    This has not deterred Zelensky from promoting to Ukraine’s allies what he is calling his “victory plan”.

    The plan “envisages quick and concrete steps by our strategic partners … from now until the end of December”. These concrete steps are likely to include more western military support and the permission to use longer-range western weapons against targets deeper inside Russia.

    This latter point is something on which the western alliance is divided – and the US sceptical on its strategic value. Putin’s insistence that Russia will respond by using its nuclear arsenal if it detects any western missiles crossing its border will have added to this uncertainty.

    Even if more decisive western support were suddenly forthcoming, it is unlikely that it would offset other disadvantages that Ukraine and its allies are facing on the battlefield and beyond. Russia has consolidated its alliances with Iran, North Korea and China. All of these countries have supplied mission-critical ammunition and equipment that has enabled the Kremlin to sustain its war effort in Ukraine.

    Russia, so far, has also maintained its advantage in numbers. It appears to be determined to push this even harder following Putin’s order to increase the number of combat troops of the Russian army by another 180,000 soldiers.

    Meanwhile, a relentless Russian air campaign against Ukrainian infrastructure has also caused lasting damage, especially to the country’s energy supply network. This is likely to have a particularly adverse effect on Ukraine’s civilian population. It is likely to seriously dent morale during the coming winter.

    Other plans (and priorities)

    As discussions at the UN this week have underlined, there is also some diplomatic momentum building up behind a joint proposal by Brazil and China that was initially launched in May. Brazil’s president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, pushed the plan during his speech at the UN general assembly on September 24, as did China’s foreign minister, Wang Yi.

    Like previous proposals from China and Brazil individually, as well as from Indonesia, a group of African states and Saudi Arabia, the joint Brazilian-Chinese plan calls for a ceasefire along the current frontlines. Negotiations would then follow.

    Ukraine fears, rightly, that this would entrench the status quo and effectively amount to Kyiv giving up territory illegally annexed by Russia. It would not guarantee any fruitful negotiations but give Russia time and space to regroup and rebuild its armed forces for a likely future escalation. None of this is acceptable to Ukraine and its allies as Zelensky made clear in his speech at the UN.

    Volodymr Zelensky criticises the Brazil-China plan at the UN general assembly.

    China’s previous effort to promote this joint initiative with Brazil just before the peace summit in Switzerland last June, did not go very far. It may not go much further this time either.

    But attention and resources are now much more focused on the Middle East and – to a lesser extent – the civil war in Sudan. So the very fact of this plan’s resurrection may be enough for Russia and its allies to prevent the rest of the world from uniting behind the western-backed Ukrainian proposal for a second global peace summit.

    This is clearly a concern for Ukraine. Zelensky, with a clear eye on countries in the global south, not only rejected the proposal but also argued that forcing Ukraine to make territorial concessions to Russia would be akin to reimposing a version of the brutal colonial past of the Soviet era on his country.

    Will Zelensky be Trumped in November?

    While the stars are thus hardly aligning in Ukraine’s favour at the UN in New York, things did not go much better as far as US domestic politics is concerned ahead of presidential elections in November. Questioning whether Donald Trump really has a credible plan to end the war, Zelensky triggered the notoriously short-fused Republican contender into lashing out at him at campaign rallies.

    Donald Trump takes aim at Volodymr Zelensky.

    Trump is both accusing Zelensky of refusing to make a deal and expressing doubts about Ukraine’s ability to win the war. Meanwhile, a recent opinion piece penned by Robert F. Kennedy Jnr and Donald Trump Jnr for The Hill, an influential political newspaper, urges that Ukraine be pushed to make a deal with Russia to prevent nuclear escalation.

    And Trump’s running-mate J.D. Vance has made clear his opposition to the US continuing to supply aid to Ukraine if elected in November. So it’s pretty clear that there is a very real prospect that Washington may soon cease to be Kyiv’s most important global ally.

    All of this explains the urgency behind Zelensky’s push for more and more decisive western support in the coming months, and his pleas to the wider international community to back efforts for a just peace for Ukraine. But it also indicates that Russia and its allies have, for now, done enough to further frustrate any progress towards a Ukrainian victory both on the battlefield and at the negotiation table.

    Stefan Wolff is a past recipient of grant funding from the Natural Environment Research Council of the UK, the United States Institute of Peace, the Economic and Social Research Council of the UK, the British Academy, the NATO Science for Peace Programme, the EU Framework Programmes 6 and 7 and Horizon 2020, as well as the EU’s Jean Monnet Programme. He is a Trustee and Honorary Treasurer of the Political Studies Association of the UK and a Senior Research Fellow at the Foreign Policy Centre in London.

    ref. Ukraine war: Zelensky’s pleas for help are getting drowned out in the clamour from the Middle East – https://theconversation.com/ukraine-war-zelenskys-pleas-for-help-are-getting-drowned-out-in-the-clamour-from-the-middle-east-239752

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI Global: The world isn’t taking Putin’s nuclear threats seriously – the history of propaganda suggests it should

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Colin Alexander, Senior Lecturer in Political Communications, Nottingham Trent University

    Vladimir Putin has spoken several times about using nuclear weapons since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. However, the initial attention and concern that global news media gave to Putin when he first spoke on the issue in September 2022 seemed to have largely dissipated over the past two years of conflict, perhaps because of the frequency with which he has threatened to resort to use of Russia’s nuclear arsenal.

    Now Putin has issued his strongest threat yet, saying that Russia would use nuclear weapons against any country attacking it, even with conventional weapons. This statement appears to be intended to influence the debate happening at the United Nations, where Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky is trying to persuade his country’s western allies to allow Ukraine to use the weapons they have provided against targets deep within Russia itself.

    This has been a “red line” hitherto that Ukraine’s allies have been unwilling to cross. That may be about to change though and Russia’s reaction has been to reiterate a nuclear response.

    For those interested in the study of propaganda, Putin’s threats appear to have moved from what American media scholar Dan Hallin called the “sphere of legitimate controversy”, where the validity of an utterance is urgently debated by journalists, politicians and academics, into the “sphere of consensus”, where there is broad agreement about the meaning of the message. This generally results in it receiving less attention.

    To believe that Putin is not serious about using nuclear weapons is a dangerous assumption to make. But it provides a good opportunity to examine the political and public relationship with nuclear weapons in more detail.

    The psychology of nuclear threat

    Most adults know of the existence of nuclear weapons and understand the consequences of their use. Very few are simply ignorant of them or their immense power. But global annihilation is too overwhelming to think about other than fleetingly. As a result we tend to focus on less drastic futures.

    These regular denials and self-deceptions affect political outlooks though. Every so often the leader of a nuclear-armed country is asked by a journalist or another politician about their readiness to press the nuclear button. They always say “yes”. When this question is asked in front of an audience there is usually enthusiastic applause.

    This response – applauding an individual politician’s willingness to bring about the end of the world – is perhaps the most compelling evidence of the duality that the threat of nuclear war exists within. Rather than perceiving such a response as the worrying sign that a maniac has somehow manoeuvred their way into high office and should be immediately removed, the voter perceives the utterance as a signifier of leadership strength.

    Psychologically, it can be argued that the applause actually represents an outpouring of relief that this mass self-deception can continue.

    ‘Fear propaganda’ and confirmation bias

    During the cold war, official propaganda placed great emphasis upon threat and preparedness for nuclear attack. The BBC film Threads first aired 40 years ago in September 1984 and depicted the aftermath of a nuclear strike. It was responsible for great alarm among the British public at a time when news media, movies and even official literature were also focused upon the threat of nuclear war.

    Between 1974 and 1980, the UK government issued a booklet entitled Protect and Survive, accompanied by short films. The BBC, in its public service role, also ran documentary programming including a 1980 edition of Panorama called If The Bomb Drops. While US secretary of state Henry Kissinger’s 1957 study Nuclear War and Foreign Policy caused alarm for arguing that small-scale nuclear war using “battlefield” weapons might be possible.

    Cold war communications like these served to focus the public mind towards the threat of nuclear attack above all other fears. And perhaps, at that time, they were right to do so. But more than 30 years have now passed since the end of the cold war and the emphasis within what is known as “fear propaganda” now focuses on other threats, such as extremism, pandemics and migration.

    As such, Putin’s nuclear threats provide propaganda analysts like myself with a case study about the important role played by fear propaganda in determining what people are scared of. If taken within the wider history of the fear of nuclear holocaust, it is clear that political leaders cannot rely on their words alone to be taken seriously. They require a wider supportive propaganda environment – like the atmosphere created at the height of the cold war.

    Putin the ‘madman’

    Questions around how to understand Putin’s nuclear attack threats ought to be positioned as the latest in a long(ish) line of world leaders who have tried to convince global publics of their readiness to commit nuclear genocide.

    Richard Nixon, for example, used what was referred to as “madman” tactics when trying to convince people of his readiness to push the button. Interestingly, the more recent depictions of Putin, Kim Jong-un and other authoritarian leaders as madmen by western tabloids can actually helps them by playing down the fact of their inferior military capabilities when compared to those of the Nato allies.

    Don’t think for a moment though that any of this discussion of propaganda increases or decreases the actual threat posed by nuclear weapons. Indeed, there exists a degree of confirmation bias among politicians, journalists and other public commentators that because nuclear war did not happen during the cold war, it is unlikely to happen now. But this can’t be guaranteed. It may be that these conclusions are mistakenly based upon the intensity of the propaganda environment – not the actuality of the threat posed.

    To this end, it ought to be remembered that the ability to press the button sits well within the capacity of the sane human mind. US president Harry S. Truman pushed the button in 1945. He was then given detailed reports of the death and destruction that his decision caused to Hiroshima. Then he pushed the button again to annihilate Nagasaki.

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

    ref. The world isn’t taking Putin’s nuclear threats seriously – the history of propaganda suggests it should – https://theconversation.com/the-world-isnt-taking-putins-nuclear-threats-seriously-the-history-of-propaganda-suggests-it-should-239942

    MIL OSI – Global Reports

  • MIL-OSI USA: Victory in the Field Begins in the Factory’: Ukrainian President Thanks IAM Local 847 Members in Visit to Pennsylvania Ammunition Facility

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently visited a factory in Scranton ,Pa., to watch proud IAM Local 847 (District 1) members manufacture artillery shells. Zelensky also wanted to meet and thank the workers he considers vital to his country’s defense.  He was accompanied by U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.,) and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) , who also wanted to meet and thank IAM Union members. 

    (Photo Courtesy: Volodymyr Zelensky, via X)

    Over 400 IAM members work at the Scranton Army Ammunition factory, with another 1,000 General Dynamics workers nearby manufacturing the lethal explosives used inside each shell. 

    “400 people save millions of Ukrainian people,” said Zelensky. “I just say thank you.”

    Watch a highlight video here.

    If you are a Russian soldier on the front in Ukraine, you have roughly 75 seconds from the time Ukrainian forces fire a 155 millimeter shell your way, until that artillery round hits. When it does, most things within 50 meters are dead, and much within 100 meters is seriously shredded by steel shrapnel.

    The modern artillery systems, like the famed M777 Howitzer cannon, sold to the Ukrainians by NATO since the Russian invasion in 2022, are accurate to within 10 meters of a target point. Russians within 100 meters of that target point are having a seriously bad day.

    Ukrainian military leaders report that they fire 6,000 to 8,000 rounds of these artillery shells every day at the Russians, from 15 to 20 miles away. Russian troops are firing multiple thousands of 120 millimeter artillery rounds per day back at the Ukrainians, with far less accuracy, which often fail to function on impact. Ukraine has asked western defense contractors, like this U.S. Army factory run by General Dynamics, to up their production rate of artillery shells so that Ukraine can send 7,000 to 9,000 shells a day at the Russians.

    That means steady work for IAM members of local 847, just outside of Scranton.

    “Our members at Local 847 have been shaping the steel artillery rounds for the Army for a few generations now,” said IAM District 1 Directing Business Representative Anthony Armideo. “General Dynamics runs that factory now, but we have been at that site since Hoffman Machinery Corp. converted the factory to produce artillery shells in 1953.”

    (Photo Courtesy: Volodymyr Zelensky, via X)

    “Any time we hear that production is ramping up for our members, that is good news. Local 847 has a long history with the IAM, dating back to its charter in 1952 when 500 brothers voted to join,” said IAM Eastern Territory General Vice President David Sullivan. “Now these Brothers, Sisters, and Siblings are continuing that legacy of shaping steel for our defense industry at General Dynamics”.

    Media reports that Ukraine has ordered 1.5 million of these rounds, and IAM members have helped meet that demand. 155 millimeter rounds have become one of the most sought after tools for the Ukrainian military. Some unique engineering has seen mortars and artillery rounds dropped from drones by the Ukrainians to defeat Russians. 

    “Our members do this work everyday, with little notice or fanfare,” said IAM Local 847 President Joe Leary. “We were just happy to see Zelensky up close, because we want him to win.”

    A banner stretches above the factory floor: “Victory in the field begins in the factory.” Above the banner hangs a flag of each U.S. military service branch, with the U.S. flag in the proper position of honor, facing forward from the right of all other flags.

    These IAM members are honored to hold their position in this factory to bring victory closer each day. Hoping to shape an outcome of a war of self defense that keeps Ukraine free and independent.

    (Photo Courtesy: Volodymyr Zelensky, via X)

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    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: The Russian Federation’s malign activities and interference: UK statement to the OSCE, September 2024

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Deputy Ambassador Brown condemns Russian disinformation and other forms of malign influence.

    Thank you Madam Chair.     

    The United States has just informed this Council of steps it has taken to defend its democratic institutions in the face of a covert foreign influence operation by the Russian Federation. This follows other participating States’ interventions in this Council to highlight multiple forms of malign interference across our region in recent months.    

    Indeed the United Kingdom put Russia’s malign influence and interference onto the Permanent Council’s agenda in May and I thank the US for once again raising this matter.   

    All OSCE Participating States – including the UK – have made important commitments to uphold media freedom, including to foster “free, independent and pluralistic media” as part of open societies and accountable governments.   

    The United Kingdom will continue to uphold media freedom, learning from best practice – including that shared by the Office of the Representative for Freedom of the Media. And we again call on all other participating States – particularly Russia and Belarus – to uphold OSCE commitments on media freedom, safety of journalists and freedom of expression.  

    At the same time the United Kingdom will also take action to defend our national and regional security against the full spectrum of threats emanating from Russia, working in partnership with others. This has included sanctioning Russian media outlets like Rossiya Segodnya and TV Novosti (which controls Russia Today) which spread disinformation and propaganda designed to incite violence and hatred towards Ukraine and its people.     

    Madam Chair. Our message to Russia is clear: stop this illegal war; withdraw your troops from Ukraine; cease your malign activities including disinformation and information manipulation; and, respect the OSCE principles and commitments that keep us all safe.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden’s National Statement at the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Mr President, Excellencies,

    We are gathered in this Assembly while the world, and this organisation, are facing major and existential challenges.

    We are gathered while we are witnessing an unprecedented number of armed conflicts. From Ukraine to Sudan, the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and Gaza.

    We are gathered while we are failing at our collective goal of maintaining international peace and security, of saving future generations from the horrors of war and from the disastrous consequences of underdevelopment and climate change.

    Mr President,

    The UN Charter – the sovereign equality of all states, the peaceful settlement of disputes, the prohibition of the threat or use of force against any state – is being challenged. We must stand by the Charter.

    Sweden’s strong defence of international law, including the UN Charter, is based on the understanding that both our own security and that of other countries depends on it.

    Ensuring respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of all states – both large and small – is in our common interest. At its core lies the need for a global system that is open, predictable and applies equally to all.

    In too many places around the world, including in Sweden’s immediate neighbourhood, we are witnessing the consequences of violations of the rules and principles we have all agreed to.

    Since the start of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine in 2014, and with the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has brutally invaded the territory of another UN Member State. This Assembly has strongly and repeatedly condemned Russia’s aggression against Ukraine as a blatant violation of international law, including the UN Charter.

    If a member of the Security Council is allowed to reap the fruits of aggression, the harmful impact will not stop with Ukraine. Russia’s leadership will continue its attempts to impose its rule on neighbouring countries.

    The territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states must serve as a basis for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine. This was confirmed at the Peace Summit in Switzerland in June, which gathered some 100 delegations from all continents.

    Ukraine has made clear from the start that it wants a peaceful settlement based on the UN Charter. As President Zelensky rightfully said in his speech before this assembly yesterday: “There can be no just peace without Ukraine.” Sweden’s steadfast support for Ukraine’s efforts to restore its sovereignty and territorial integrity will continue for as long as it takes.

    As a direct response to Russia’s full-scale invasion, Sweden and Finland chose to join NATO. For Sweden’s part, this represents a truly historic change, ending 200 years of military non-alignment. This was our decision to take, because it is the right of each state to choose its own security policy path.

    Sweden’s NATO membership gives us a new, crucial platform to defend the fundamental values of our foreign and security policy. We will apply the same principled approach in NATO as we do in the UN, the EU, the OSCE and the Council of Europe. In other words, we will continue to defend international law, democracy, individual freedoms, human rights and gender equality.

    Mr President,

    Sweden has always defended the universal principles of sovereignty and the right to self-determination. In fact, Sweden has consistently supported countries struggling for liberty, independence and democracy – not least in Africa. And we continue to be an engaged partner of African countries. 
    To take just one example, I am deeply concerned about the situation in Sudan. More than 10 million people have been displaced, which roughly corresponds to the entire population of my own country. Safe, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access, an immediate ceasefire and negotiations ensuring a return to civilian rule are urgently required.

    Therefore, Sudan is among the countries receiving the most humanitarian support from Sweden this year. Sweden remains a key partner and donor of UN humanitarian assistance, as well as of peacekeeping and peacebuilding efforts.

    Similarly, Sweden supports the ongoing peace efforts by the United Nations in Yemen, where we will continue to work with our partners for a principled and inclusive humanitarian response. The people of Yemen are looking to the international community for hope, for a way out of humanitarian despair. We must answer that call.

    Mr President,

    We are also faced with the threat of a regional war, the consequences of which no one can predict. My country’s longstanding commitment to peace efforts in the Middle East dates back to 1948 and the efforts of UN mediator Folke Bernadotte. Today, Sweden is one of the largest core donors to UN agencies and other organisations working to mitigate the immense suffering of the civilian population in Gaza. At the same time, Sweden stands up for Israel’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law and demands that the hostages be released.

    Israel is being threatened by Iran and its allies simultaneously on several fronts. Hezbollah’s repeated attacks since October 8th has led to a dangerous military escalation. Sweden fully supports the efforts by the United States, France and others to reach a diplomatic solution. A ceasefire would provide space for reaching a diplomatic settlement consistent with UN Security Council resolution 1701 as well as the implementation of UN Security Council 2735 on a ceasefire in Gaza.

    In the longer term, Sweden – like the EU and the United States – believes in the idea of a two-state solution in which Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in peace, freedom and democracy.

    Mr President,

    In order to address global challenges, we need to ensure that our aid helps to mobilise additional resources, not least private capital.
    Development assistance alone is not enough to build long-term wealth and welfare.

    It must go hand in hand with democracy, the rule of law, market development, trade, investments and technology transfer. We see that clearly in the countries now leaving poverty behind.

    We must also redouble our efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda. Sweden is one of the world’s most generous donors of development assistance. Through our development assistance, we are accelerating the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals. To achieve this, strong national ownership in partner countries and a broader approach to development cooperation among donors is needed.

    We must also step up the fight against corruption so that economic growth benefits the whole of society, not just the few.

    Mr President,

    I can only note that women have been underrepresented as speakers this week at the General Debate. Women make up 50 percent of the world’s population, yet less than 10 percent of speakers this week are women. There is a lot of room for improvement in this regard.

    I agree with the Secretary-General that global opposition to gender equality is on the rise. That is why gender equality is a core value in Sweden’s foreign policy.

    So let me say this: countries that stand up for women’s and girls’ rights are not only champions of freedom and human rights. They also benefit from broad labour market participation and economic growth.

    Respect for human rights, providing sexual and reproductive health and rights services, and empowering young girls and women are tangible contributions to advancing gender equality. This is what I want for the future of my daughter and for the daughters of others, too.

    Simply put, our free society must stand up against those who wish to exploit our freedom to restrict the freedom of others. Everyone must be able to live safely and freely, regardless of religious beliefs or personal convictions, regardless of skin colour and regardless of whom they love. To my government, this is of such importance that we have begun work on an action plan for equal rights and opportunities for LGBTQI people.

    The green and digital transition offers vast opportunities in terms of new jobs, increased growth and improved livelihoods. Sweden aims to become climate-neutral by 2045, at the latest. As early movers, we want to show that it is possible to reduce emissions while maintaining economic growth. At the same time, global ambitions on climate action and climate financing must be raised. Here as well, we are increasing our support even further and enhancing its effect, advancing innovative financial models to mobilise more private capital.

    Mr President,

    The many crises in our world today have shed a harsh light on the need for reforms of our multilateral system. We need global governance structures that can withstand the challenges of our time and that are resilient against malevolent attempts to undermine the UN Charter.

    Action – implementation and follow-up – must be our approach as we look forward and take stock of the Summit of the Future and the Pact adopted there.

    The UN Security Council – the body entrusted with the ultimate responsibility to maintain international peace and security – must be effective, transparent and accountable.

    Sweden supports a balanced expansion of the Security Council to better reflect current global political and economic realities. This can be achieved by such means as adding new permanent and non-permanent seats, including for African countries.

    Sweden also supports the ongoing reform processes in multilateral development banks to increase the effectiveness and scale of financing to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and implement the Paris Agreement.

    Another area where strengthened global governance is essential is outer space. Modern societies are becoming more and more dependent on space services and the space environment is becoming increasingly congested and contested.

    Sweden is strongly committed to preventing an arms race in outer space and safeguarding the use of space for peaceful purposes. This includes all states’ full compliance with existing international law, including the Outer Space Treaty. We will continue to promote the development of norms and rules for responsible behaviour in space.

    Together with Zambia, Sweden is proud to have co-facilitated the Global Digital Compact. Through this framework, all Member States have committed to strengthen international cooperation to close digital divides between and within countries and to establish the governance required for a sustainable digital future, including on Artificial Intelligence.

    Rest assured, Sweden will continue to fulfil its responsibility and be an active, engaged and constructive multilateral actor. We will continue to be a close – and demanding – partner to the UN. We will constructively demand more.

    More efficiency, more coherence, more impact, more innovation. This is how we will achieve our shared ambitions for the future, together.

    Mr President,

    This is a moment of major existential challenges. But we must not allow anything to stop us from defending the fundamental principles that form the foundation of this organisation.

    It is true that there are areas where international law needs to be developed to meet new challenges. However, it is equally true that hundreds of millions of people have been lifted out of poverty based on the norms, purposes and principles enshrined in the UN Charter.

    Global health and well-being have reached unprecedented levels. People across the globe are enjoying justice, peace, freedom and prosperity at levels unimaginable to previous generations.

    It is a legacy to be proud of. One that we must all do everything we can to uphold.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Joint Statement on Ukraine Energy Sector Support

    Source: Government of Sweden

    We, the G7+ Ministerial Group, met on the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly to reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russia’s brutal and unjust attacks on Ukraine and it’s energy infrastructure.

    We reaffirm our strong commitment to the territorial integrity, independence, and sovereignty of Ukraine within its internationally recognized borders and to focus on the key priorities needed to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace based on international law, including the UN Charter and its principles.

    We strongly condemn Russia’s continuous missile and drone strikes against Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and cities across Ukraine, which have escalated since March 2024 and severely threaten Ukraine’s energy security and the Ukrainian people’s access to critical services including electricity, heat, and water during the cold winter months, which could be the harshest for Ukraine since at least its independence. We highlight the regional implications of such attacks, notably on the Republic of Moldova’s energy security. Russia must end its war of aggression and pay for the damage it has caused.

    We recommit to supporting Ukraine’s immediate, medium, and long-term recovery and reconstruction in line with its path towards the EU and to work to involve our private sectors and local governments in the sustainable economic and social recovery of Ukraine. We welcome and underscore the significance of Ukraine’s commitment to business-enabling reforms that will establish a level playing field for investment in the energy sector. We stress the importance of the implementation of the National Energy and Climate Plan and the monitoring of this process. We will continue to support efforts of the Ukrainian government and people in these endeavors.

    We stress the importance of implementation of energy sector reforms in line with the EU accession path and fulfilling obligations under the Energy Community Treaty, including OECD-compliant corporate governance standards. This is especially crucial ahead of the winter, given the scale of repairs and new energy infrastructure needs.

    We acknowledge the need for international assistance to protect energy infrastructure from attacks, including through the strengthening of Ukraine’s air defense capabilities by the committed countries, and reaffirm our readiness to continue providing such assistance.

    We condemn Russia’s seizure and continued control and militarization of Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which threatens energy security. We emphasize that any use of nuclear energy and nuclear installations must be safe, secured, safe-guarded, and environmentally sound. With reference to the UNGA resolution from 11 July on “Safety and security of nuclear facilities of Ukraine, including the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant” we stress that Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant must return to the full sovereign control of Ukraine in line with IAEA principles and under its independent supervision.

    We are convinced that rebuilding Ukraine’s energy system in the short and long term is in the interest of enhancing global energy security and sustainability.

    We welcome further commitments to provide funding and in-kind support to address the Ukrainian energy sector’s most urgent needs, including repairs of damaged power plants and district heating systems, deployment of new, distributed power generation, emergency backup power for critical services, and passive protection for energy infrastructure. We call on the global community to urgently strengthen efforts in that regard and provide Ukraine with all assistance needed.

    We underline the important work of international partners, banks, and the Energy Community’s “Ukraine Energy Support Fund” in this regard. We call upon international partners to elevate their financial contributions, in particular to the latter fund in order to improve Ukraine’s resilience next winter.

    Based on the work of the Working Group on Energy Security and the outcomes of the First Global Peace Summit held on 15-16 June 2024 in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, as well as the results of a productive and constructive dialogue at the Energy Security Conference held on 22 August 2024, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to achieving a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace for Ukraine.

    Based upon the Japan-Ukraine Conference for the Promotion of Economic Growth and Reconstruction in Tokyo, the 2024 Ukraine Recovery Conference (URC) in Berlin and looking ahead to the November 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) and the 2025 URC in Italy, we are committed to continue supporting immediate needs and Ukraine’s vision of a more decentralized, diversified, resilient, and renewable/sustainable energy system that is fully integrated with Europe.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI China: Friendly cooperation main theme of China-Estonian ties: Wang Yi

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday met with Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session in New York.

    Estonia is an important cooperation partner for China in the Baltic region. Friendly cooperation is the main theme of bilateral relations, which aligns with the shared expectations of both peoples and represents the direction that both sides should continue to pursue, said Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

    While China and Estonia have different histories, cultures, environments, and face different challenges, this does not hinder the two countries from strengthening mutually beneficial cooperation to serve the well-being of their people, Wang said, adding it also does not affect their joint efforts to safeguard international peace and security based on respect for the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

    China is willing to continuously enhance mutual trust with Estonia, continue to respect each other’s legitimate concerns on core interests, and lay a solid political foundation and inject vitality in improving bilateral relations, said Wang.

    Estonia, as an important member of the European Union, is expected to promote the EU institutions’ adherence to free trade, resolve differences through dialogue and consultation, and promote the healthy and stable development of China-EU relations, he said.

    Tsahkna said Estonia has a long history of exchanges with China and has maintained pragmatic cooperation, clearly upholding the One-China policy. Estonia appreciates China’s emphasis on respecting the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter.

    For a small country like Estonia, international law and international order are as important as nuclear weapons. Estonia pays close attention to the Ukraine crisis, values China’s position, and hopes that China will play a constructive role, said Tsahkna.

    Wang pointed out that China is not a party to the Ukraine crisis, but has always been committed to peace, actively mediating and promoting negotiations to facilitate a political resolution. China’s diplomacy is guided by the principles of upholding justice, maintaining fairness, and pursuing peace. For all hotspot issues, China advocates seeking political solutions through dialogue and consultation.

    The immediate priority in the Ukraine crisis is to de-escalate the situation and prevent the conflict from further expanding, which aligns with the interests of European countries. China will faithfully fulfill its responsibilities as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and continue to contribute to peace, said Wang.

    MIL OSI China News

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh Holds a News Briefing

    Source: United States Department of Defense

    SABRINA SINGH:  All right. Good afternoon, everyone. Okay. Just a few things at the top and then happy to take your questions. This morning, Secretary Austin departed for London to attend the AUKUS defense ministerial meeting. The AUKUS DMM is the third of its kind, marking three years of enhanced security partnership and provides an opportunity for Secretary Austin to meet with his UK and Australian counterparts to review progress and outline steps for continued work under pillar one and pillar two of AUKUS.

    We’ll have more to share in the coming days, but under pillar one, you can expect the secretary to reaffirm the United States’ commitment to supporting Australia’s acquisition of a conventionally armed nuclear powered submarine capability. Under pillar two, Secretary Austin and his counterparts will discuss plans to further enhance collaboration and harmonize acquisition processes over the next two years to accelerate the delivery of advanced capabilities to our defense forces.

    AUKUS presents a unique opportunity for our nations to collectively enhance our military capabilities, improve interoperability and advance a shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. The department looks forward to continuing to work with our UK and Australian partners to implement this important work. Earlier this week, the navy announced that USS Harry S. Truman carrier strike group departed naval station Norfolk, Virginia for a regularly scheduled deployment to the US naval forces Europe Africa US six fleet area of operations, demonstrating the commitment and power projection capability of the navy’s globally deployed force.

    The strike group will operate in the US European command area of responsibility in support of our maritime partners and NATO allies. Switching gears, the department continues to monitor tropical storm Helene, as it is forecasted to intensify into a hurricane as it approaches the northeastern Gulf coast on Thursday. Florida and Georgia have both declared states of emergency and the governor of Florida has activated more than 3,300 national guardsmen and 12 rotary wing aviation assets in state active duty status.

    These guardsmen are prepositioned around the state to provide responsive sustained support including high wheeled vehicle rescues, aerial support, route clearance and commodities distribution. Additionally, in the next 24 to 48 hours, the States of Georgia, Alabama and North Carolina are expected to activate the National Guard as well. For more information, I would encourage you to reach out to National Guard Bureau of Public Affairs.

    And to close, last night, the Senate confirmed more than 6000 of our highly qualified military nominees in the Air Force, Army Marine Corps, Navy and Space Force. These confirmations include Lieutenant General Nordhaus to be Chief of the National Guard Bureau, Vice Admiral Halsey to be Commander of US Southern Command. Lieutenant General Reed to be Commander of US Transportation Command and Lieutenant General Brunson to be Commander of US Forces Korea. We’re very glad that the Senate has confirmed these officers for critical positions during this time and for our national security and with that, I’d be happy to take your questions.

    Tara?

    Q:  Thanks, Sabrina. So later this week, we’re possibly expecting an agreement on the withdrawal or transition of US troops in Iraq. What still needs to be done in that agreement? It seems from the Iraqi perspective that this decision has been made and the details are set.

    SABRINA SINGH:  So thanks Tara, I appreciate the question. I think as you alluded to, we’ll probably have more details to share later this week. What we’ve said from the beginning is that we know that the global coalition and that international coalition is going to transition into a bilateral security relationship with the Iraqis. And this has been worked through the US Iraq Higher Military Commission working groups.

    So again, we should have more to share later this week, but at this time, I don’t want to get ahead of that process.

    Q:  Is it safe to assume that this means a reduction in the forces that are there from the 2,500?

    SABRINA SINGH:  I think we’ll have more to share this week.

    Q:  OK. Secondly, the status of the refueler that’s been damaged, and do you know anything else about what caused it to either run aground or run into something?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Sorry, I was just trying to find some more for you on that. The ship that you’re referring to was damaged when it was, I believe, in the fifth fleet AOR. Currently under investigation to what exactly caused that damage, but that oil tanker refueler has been towed to a port and there was no leakage from the ship. But in terms of impacts to operations, no impacts there. But for more information, I’d have to refer you to the navy.

    Q:  And so you don’t know what caused the damaged?

    SABRINA SINGH:  That’s right, we’re investigating the incident. Great. OK. Idrees and welcome back.

    Q:  Israel’s military chief, I think earlier today said that strikes in Lebanon would continue in order to not only destroy Hezbollah’s infrastructure but also prepare for a possible ground invasion. Just a general comment and do you see a ground invasion as likely or even imminent?

    SABRINA SINGH:  So in terms of a ground incursion or a ground invasion, that’s really for the Israelis to speak to. We certainly don’t want to see any action taken that could lead to further escalation in the region. We still believe that there is time and space for diplomacy. We want to see a diplomatic resolution and a solution to prevent an all-out war. But in terms of the Israeli operations, I’d have to refer to them to speak to that.

    Q:  And just to follow up, last week, I think the secretary had near daily calls with his Israeli counterpart, he hasn’t spoken with them since the 22nd. Is there any reason for that? And should we expect any conversations between the two of them in the coming days?

    SABRINA SINGH:  I think you can expect them to continue to engage. Just because they haven’t spoken every day, doesn’t mean that our teams haven’t been in communication. Again, he engages with Minister Gallant on a pretty regular basis and when we have more to share on when the next call happens, we’ll certainly read it out. But just because he hasn’t had one every single day this week doesn’t mean that we’re not engaging with the Israelis.

    You’ve seen, maybe not from this building, but other agencies part of this administration engaging their Israeli counterparts, so we’re continuing that dialogue. Fadi?

    Q:  Thank you, Sabrina. Is there any support that the Pentagon is providing to the Israeli military in the current situation in Lebanon?

    SABRINA SINGH: In terms of any like ground support or air support?

    Q:  Any support, even in terms of intelligence?

    SABRINA SINGH:  No, no support.

    Q:  Not even intelligence sharing?

    SABRINA SINGH:  No.

    Q:  So up until, I guess unless there’s some changes, you’ve been describing what’s happening as defensive operations. I believe in the first day, almost 500 civilians were killed, including women and Children in Lebanon. Civilian infrastructure has been damaged severely, almost 1,300 airstrikes. Today, up until 3:00 pm Beirut time, more than 50,000 villages have been hit by Israelis.

    International organizations are describing what happened the first day as the highest death toll in Lebanon since the end of the Civil War. So I’m just curious, what criteria are you using to describe what’s happening as defensive operations?

    SABRINA SINGH: 

    Well, Fadi, I think I’d have to point you back to October 8th when Lebanese Hezbollah attacked Israel following the brutal attack that Hamas launched on October 7th. So these are still defensive operations. We understand the threat that Israel faces.

    We are not supporting their operations when it comes to Lebanon. The support that you’re seeing or what you’re seeing when it comes to US forces in the region is for our own force protection. And should we need to come to the defense of Israel like saw from that large scale attack from Iran, we’ve positioned forces to do that. But when it comes to Lebanon, the US military has no involvement in Israel’s operation. So I just want to lay that flat.

    In terms of some of what you just referenced, this is exactly why we’re pushing for a diplomatic solution. We don’t want to see innocent civilians lose their lives. We want to see a deescalating happen. And you’re seeing engagement from all parts of this administration, including at UNGA right now. We’re calling for a deescalated and we believe that a diplomatic off ramp is the best way to resolve what’s happening on that northern border.

    Q:  And last question, did any official in the Pentagon communicate any concerns about the high death toll among Lebanese civilians? I mean, I know, and we know in Gaza that was a constant conversation. Has anyone raised that issue in relation to Lebanon?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Without getting into more details of the secretary’s calls with Minister Gallant, we are of course always concerned of civilian casualties. We’re seeing some of these strikes take place in areas where there are civilians. We’re also seeing Israel notify populations to clear those areas. Our focus, and you’re seeing a full court press here from the United States government and this administration, we want to see a diplomatic solution and we want to see it urgently.

    And that’s why you’re seeing engagement, whether it be at UNGA, or in calls that the secretary is doing with Minister Gallant, and not just at his level, but at other levels as well, we don’t want to see any action taken on either side that would lead to further escalation. We want to see this deescalate and the best off ramp for that to prevent an all-out war is through diplomatic means.

    Q:  Thank you.

    SABRINA SINGH:  Tom?

    Q:  Thanks, Sabrina.

    SABRINA SINGH:  Yeah.

    Q:  How confident are you that you can achieve a diplomatic offramp, especially given the past nearly 12 months where the US has been unable to broker any kind of sustained ceasefire in Gaza. So, for the situation with Hezbollah and Israel, how confident are you that we’re not going to see a full scale conflict?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Well, I’d, you know, push back on that respectfully. You know, we have seen periods where there has been a ceasefire put in place, and we have seen, you know, the ability to get — we were talking, you know, months earlier about humanitarian aid being able to get in. That was something that this administration brokered to make sure that we could get humanitarian aid and supplies in.

    So, look, you’re — and not to reiterate just what I said to Fadi, but you’re seeing a full court press from this administration at all levels for a diplomatic solution. Nothing is off the table. We don’t assess that either side wants a larger scale, wider regional conflict, but we’re doing everything that we can to prevent that from happening. And that’s why you’re seeing the engagements that the president is doing, from the secretary, and then on down in the building.

    Q:  And while I appreciate that you don’t want to speak for Israel, are you able to share anything in terms of what you’ve seen along the Lebanon-Israel border in terms of movement either side of it? Does it look like there’s a ramp up towards some kind of a incursion?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Right now it doesn’t. You know, well, you know, without characterizing Israeli operations and letting them speak to them for themselves, you know, it doesn’t look like anything is imminent. What we’re seeing on that northern border is an increase in, you know, the tit for tat, going back and forth strikes between Israel and Lebanese Hezbollah, and that is our concern.

    We — you know, we are concerned about a miscalculation. We don’t want to see a wider regional conflict. And that’s why, in every conversation that we have, in the conversations that are happening in New York, we’re — we are continuing to press for a diplomatic resolve.

    Jesse?

    Q:  Thank you so much.

    SABRINA SINGH:  Yeah.

    Q:  We all know that Secretary Austin is always in contact with his Israeli counterpart. Does the secretary have any objections to the way Israel is conducting its operations inside Lebanon?

    SABRINA SINGH: 

    In terms of?

    Q:  In terms of, as you may know, targeting civilians, maybe carpet bombing to the villages along the border.

    SABRINA SINGH:  Well, I mean, something that we’ve raised is we don’t want to see this escalate. And any time that there is a — actions taken that could further escalate the war that’s — or, like, a broader conflict, that we want to avoid a regional war. The secretary, in all of his conversations, urges restraint and urges, you know, the Israelis to consider civilian casualties. And that’s something that we’ve said from the very beginning.

    Look, I’m not going to get into more details on their private conversations. But of course, it’s something that the secretary discusses with his counterpart and will continue to raise.

    Q:  I mean, could you confirm if the secretary told Gallant that they need to avoid the infrastructure in Lebanon?

    SABRINA SINGH:  I think what I can tell you is what I was — what I reiterated earlier, is that of course we are always concerned where there are strikes in areas where there are — is a — is a concentrated civilian population. That’s something that the secretary raises on his calls with Minister Gallant. It’s something that, you know, at different levels in this building we also raise with our Israeli counterparts. But I’m just not going to be able to go beyond that.

    Liz?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Thanks, Sabrina. On China’s ICBM test launch, a US defense official said earlier today that China gave the US warning it was going to do this launch. Was that through military channels or diplomatic channels?

    I don’t have more specifics to provide on the channels. But we were given some advance notice, but I’m just not going to get into more specifics of that. I will say that that is a good thing and that is moving in the right direction in terms of, you know, getting that advanced notification, and that further reduces the risks of any misperception and miscalculation. So, we certainly welcome that.

    Q:  Were any US citizens, like, at harm by this test in any way, during it or following it?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Not to my knowledge.

    Yeah, Oren?

    Q:  Just a quick question. Israeli officials have said their strategy with Lebanon is escalate to deescalate. Does the Pentagon think that’s a viable strategy for how to conduct operations with Lebanon?

    SABRINA SINGH:  So, I’m not going to, you know, characterize the Israelis’ operations. What I can tell you is only, you know, our view. And our perception is that any type of escalation that — that could lead to a miscalculation we don’t want to see We want to see steps that lead to de-escalation and, frankly, steps that lead to a diplomatic offramp, which we believe is the best solution here.

    That’s what we’re pushing for. That’s what you’re seeing happen at UNGA. That’s also what you’re seeing the secretary, you know continue to emphasize in his calls with Minister Gallant. And when he has the next call, you know, that will be something that, you know, I’m sure he would reiterate as well.

    Ok.

    Q:  Just more clarity [Off mic].

    SABRINA SINGH:  Uh-huh. Sure.

    Q:  In response to Tom’s question, you said it doesn’t look like anything is imminent. Was that in reference to a Israeli incursion into Lebanon?

    SABRINA SINGH:  I believe the context was in terms of a ground incursion. So, I was saying, in that context, it doesn’t look like something is imminent. But again, I’d refer you to the Israelis to speak to their own operations.

    Q:  Thank you. I have a follow up question on Chinese ICBM launch.

    SABRINA SINGH:  Of course.

    Q:  So, what’s your assessment of this unusual ICBM launch into the Pacific Ocean? And do you think this is a provocative action? And especially, do you think they want to send a message to the US?

    SABRINA SINGH:  In terms of, you know, the whys, I’d refer you to the PRC to speak to that. You know, we monitored the ICBM test, to Liz’s question. You know, again, we did receive some advance notification of this ICBM test, and we believe that that was a good thing. That was a step in the right direction. And it does lead, you know, to preventing any misperception or miscalculation.

    What we can do here from the department is continue to press for a more regularized notification arrangement when it comes to ballistic missile and space launches. And this is something that we’ve proposed with the PRC. And it represents, you know, a common sense confidence building measure. So, we want to see these types of notifications continue.

    Yes?

    Q:  A question about presidential drawdown authority with regard to Ukraine Could you tell us what the department’s plan is to keep using that after September 30th? We’ve seen reports that there is, like, a workaround that the department can notify Congress and then that is legal. Could you tell us what that workaround is? But also, could you tell us why that workaround is needed? You got some criticism today from Senator Wicker, saying that the department should have spent this money already — or used this authority, I should say, since April.

    SABRINA SINGH:  Sure. So, on your — on your first question on how we’re going to use the authority, I don’t have anything to announce right now. But what I can tell you is that we’re committed to making sure Ukraine gets the resources Congress approved by the end of the president’s term.

    Again, I don’t have more to announce right now, but we’re committed to making sure that Ukraine gets what it — what it has been allotted by Congress. And we are working with the interagency to do just that. So, you know, bear with us and we’ll have more to share soon.

    Q:  And —

    SABRINA SINGH:  —In terms of your follow on question on the criticism, look, I’d have to point you back to the fact that for six months we didn’t have a supplemental so we weren’t able to refill our own shelves. So, therefore, when you’re not able to backfill and refill our own stocks, we’re not able to send out PDA’s.

    So, you have to remember during that time we still had some existing authority, but we weren’t able to send equipment, capability, systems out to Ukraine because we didn’t have it on our stocks. During that time, during that six months lag, because we weren’t able to do that, that also impacts packages going down the road.

    So, we’re going to find — we’re going to make sure Ukraine gets what it needs, you know, in the future. But to push back on that criticism, I would say that, when you don’t have what you need on your shelves, it makes it hard to send out that equipment, you know, in the timetable that Congress gave us when it — when it was authorized.

    Q:  So, is the plan now to move at a more — at a faster rate than you’ve been moving so you can get it done before President Biden ends his term?

    SABRINA SINGH:  I think we’ll have more to share in the coming days. I just don’t have more for you right now.

    Noah?

    Q:  Just to ask a follow up on that —

    SABRINA SINGH:  Sure.

    Q:  Because of the issues in getting the supplemental approved and certainly the issues in replenishing stocks because of that, all of that was known when the supplemental was passed in April. Is there a reason that the funding or the authority wasn’t extended beyond the fiscal year?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Well, I think also, Noah, you have to remember that we’re talking about also working with the defense industrial base that has to backfill our own shelves. So, there — you know, there’s a lot of coordination and timing here. We did ask Congress for that authority to extend, and, you know, that did not happen so now we are in a different place.

    So, I can’t, you know, go back and answer questions of, like, what if this happened and when. All I can tell you is that we’re committed to making sure Ukraine has what it needs, and we’re going to do it. And that’s a commitment that this president has made. And when we have more to share, we will.

    Jared?

    Q:  Sabrina, how comfortable is the department with the — with the department’s understanding of what the Israeli military’s intentions and near, midterm plans are in Lebanon operationally? Has — have the Israelis briefed you on what they intend to do?

    SABRINA SINGH:  So, I’m not going to go into more details of the conversations between the secretary and Minister Gallant, but it’s something that the — that, you know, has — and discussed and it’s something that the Secretary continues to, you know, in all of his conversations, I think you’ve seen the readouts, it’s something that he asked about and that they discussed, but I’m just not going to go beyond the readout. Yeah, in the back.

    Q:  It’s been reported that 60 additional US troops are being deployed to Cyprus to help with potential mass evacuations of US citizens from Lebanon. Can you confirm that?

    SABRINA SINGH:  I cannot confirm the number, but what I can tell you is that we are sending a small number of additional US military personnel forward to augment forces that are already in the region. I’m just not going to be able to provide you more specifics. I know I’ve seen the reporting. I know it’s frustrating, but I’m just not going to be able to confirm more.

    Q:  And just to follow up on a story from last week, is it the Pentagon’s view that it is an acceptable — it’s acceptable under the laws of war to booby trap civilian objects and place them amongst civilian populations? Is that — is that acceptable for any nation to do?

    SABRINA SINGH:  That’s something that — well, one without commenting on an operation that the US military had no involvement in, it’s hard for me to get into the hypotheticals. I’m not a lawyer. I’m not going to try and go down and explain, you know, legalese from here, so. I just can’t comment further on that operation for us. Yeah.

    Q:  [inaudible] US, the affecting supply chains or intercepting supply chains in order to place explosive items within normal consumer objects, right?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Yeah, I’m not going to comment on a hypothetical or an operation that we had no part of. Yeah?

    Q:  Thank you, Sabrina. Secretary Austin on Sunday told his Israeli counterpart to give time for diplomacy to work. And on Monday, we saw that Israel started to bomb Lebanon. And today, the Israel Defense Force has announced that they call up and deployment of two reserve brigades to the border with Lebanon. So where is the time that that Secretary Austin asked Israel for diplomacy? And do you still believe that Israel listening to you? Thank you.

    SABRINA SINGH:  We do believe that we have — that Israel is listening. I mean, just the fact that they’re listening by the amount of calls that the secretary has had with Minister Galant. I think that shows their willingness to hear our views, our concerns and our — you know, to hear from the secretary. So I think that’s important to note.

    In terms of, you know, I think your question was getting to — are we writing off, you know, diplomatic measures, and we’re not. Diplomacy is still the best path forward. There’s always a way for diplomacy. There’s always a way for both sides to, you know, to come to the table and — to have this resolved in diplomatic measures.

    From the very beginning, I mean since October 7th and then, you know, October 8th when we’ve moved additional assets to the region, the whole focus of this administration has been to not only deescalate, but you know to send a message of deterrence. I think we have been successful in that.

    You know, this — we know tensions are high, but we also don’t — we also see that there is a path forward for diplomacy. And that’s why you’re seeing this administration push so hard to get this done. And you’re going to continue to. We’re not going to give up on that. So we’re going to continue to engage.

    Q:  There is some media reports out saying that the US is now working with the France about a ceasefire, maybe a deal or a plan for Lebanon. Does anyone from the DOD have evolved or involved in this negotiation that — that’s happening right now in the United Nations during the UN Summit in New York.

    SABRINA SINGH:  I don’t have anything on those reports. I mean, I’ve been pretty public in telling you that we’re pushing for, you know, diplomatic measures to resolve what’s happening on that northern border. But I just don’t have more to add on that report. I’m sorry I haven’t seen it. Louis?

    Q:  Hi, Sabrina. Is the shipment of 2,000 pound bombs for Israel, is that still on hold?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Still paused.

    Q:  So, the rationale behind that from what I understand was when Israel was preparing to go into Rafah, you know, to protect civilian lives, limited operations. Are there any concerns given the current ongoing air operations that Israel has been conducting striking in civilian neighborhoods?

    And you know, I know that we’re seeing secondary effects, so it appears that there are — they are striking the targets they’re hitting, but are there concerns that the use of these bombs again presumably American bombs could be putting civilians at risk?

    SABRINA SINGH:  So, you first asked about the 2,000 pound bomb shipment, so that is still paused. So I don’t — you know, I don’t know what they’re using in their operations, so I’d refer you to them to speak to that. There is always a concern about civilian casualties and that is something that the secretary has addressed, you know, really from the beginning whether it be in Gaza or elsewhere.

    That’s a conversation that we continue to have. I think, you know, in that same vein we’re also concerned about escalation. And that’s why we don’t want to see any action taken by, you know, either side that could lead to further escalation. And that’s what the secretary continues to emphasize along with always talking about the need to protect civilians.

    And you are seeing, I mean, you know, I’m citing public sourcing here, but you know, the Israelis, notifying communities and towns on that northern border to clear that area because they will be conducting operations. You know, we have to protect civilians in the battle space. That’s something the secretary has said. I know you’ve heard him say that before as well.

    Our focus, of course, is that. But the best way to protect civilians is, of course, through diplomatic means and for this to be resolved through diplomacy. And that’s why we continue to push for that.

    Q:  Is the secretary in the future planning to meet or travel to Israel in the future?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Yeah, you know, I’m not — I don’t have any announcements to make in terms of travel, but when we do, I’m — you’ll be the first to know. Yes, in the back.

    Q:  Thanks, Sabrina. You emphasized that the?

    SABRINA SINGH:  I just — I’m sorry. I just committed to giving Louis an exclusive on the secretary’s travel. So yeah, yeah, sorry. And you know, we’ll discuss — we’ll discuss later — sorry, go ahead.

    Q:  Thanks. You emphasized that the administration’s position is that you don’t want to see further escalation and you don’t want to see an all-out war. Where do you draw the line, you know, especially with regards to a possible ground operation that may be imminent?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Well, like I said, I mean, I don’t know that it is imminent. And what we continue to push for and I’m not trying to use a tired talking point here. It’s actually just, you know, the fact is that we do continue to push for a diplomatic resolution here. From the secretary to, you know, the interagency, that’s something that we continue to engage on.

    And you know, in terms of the conflict itself, we still believe — like right now, the conflict has been contained to Gaza. There’s no question that there are higher tensions in the region. There’s no question that there’s been an increase in border clashes on that northern border.

    But we believe that in order to avert an all-out regional war, it’s through diplomatic means. And so, we’re going to continue to push for that. And you’re seeing that happen in New York and you’re seeing that happen here as well. Last one.

    Q:  Just to follow though, how has the conflict been contained to Gaza? You have civilians being killed in Lebanon.

    SABRINA SINGH:  Sure. But what I would tell you is that it’s not how we would characterize, you know, an all-out full scale regional war. What you’re seeing is a trade of fires back and forth on that northern border. I’d point you to October 8th when Hezbollah started launching those. We’re not seeing this widen out to a regional conflict. And that’s what we are concerned about.

    And that’s why, you know, the secretary from the beginning, whether it be the Ford, the IHC, you know, the 26 MEU that was in the region. And now you have the Lincoln there. You know, we continue to position assets in the region to send a message of deterrence because we don’t want it to scale out. Yes, we acknowledge that, you know, there have been, you know, innocent people that have been killed and we don’t want to see that happen. And that’s why we continue to press for diplomatic means.

    Q:  Can you take one more?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Sure, one more and then I’ve got one in the back and then we’ll —

    Q:  I know this is a planning organization, that’s not the answer I’m looking for.

    SABRINA SINGH:  That’s the answer you’re getting.

    Q:  Yeah. In — in regards to Lebanon, did the Pentagon put together any NIO plans in case there’s the need for it?

    SABRINA SINGH:  You’re so going to hate my answer, but we are a planning organization. We plan for a wide range of contingencies. I will point you back though to, you know, early on last year — or sorry, late last year, but early on after October 7th when I think I was up here, General Ryder was up here getting a lot of questions about NIO. I will say we are always a planning organization prepared for any contingency and we never had to use those plans.

    We will always have plans on the shelves that we can dust off at any time. And that is the amazing thing of our military is we are able to search capabilities to the region. And the secretary did just that. And we have, you know, incredible firepower in the region right now. So again, I’m not going to get ahead of anything. That’s also a State Department decision to make. But Fadi, to answer your own question, we are planning organization. All right, Mike, and then I’ll wrap up.

    Q:  Yeah, you — the Pentagon always talk or often talks about deterrence and giving Israel enough to defend themselves. Does this administration, would they like Israel to actually win their battle, win their war against Hamas, win their war against Hezbollah? Is it — do you have a position on that one way or the other?

    SABRINA SINGH:  Well, I think we’ve said time and again that we support Israel’s right to self-defense. You know, what a — what a win looks like is really for Israel to define, but we are supporting them and their right to self-defense. And of course, you know, we understand and, you know, know the threats that they’re facing from these terrorist organizations and that’s why we are supporting them in their fight against, you know, what, you know the threats that they face on their borders. But beyond that I just don’t have more to add. OK, thanks, everyone.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK to speed up military kit deliveries to support Ukraine’s fight

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The Government is set to surpass its commitment to deliver 12 AS90 artillery guns within 100 days of taking office, with 16 units now on course to be delivered

    The UK has provided AS90 artillery guns to Ukraine

    The UK will send more vital artillery guns to support Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s illegal invasion after the UK recommits to £3 billion a year of military support for Ukraine until 2030/31 and for as long as it takes.

    The announcement comes as the UK speeds up the delivery of vital military support, with the new government set to surpass its pledge of delivering 12 AS90 artillery guns within 100 days of taking office.

    A total of 16 units are now on course to be delivered, with 10 already delivered and six more to follow in the coming weeks. Artillery has played a vital role in providing cover for Ukrainian troops and destroying key Russian targets.

    The government have also announced a new joint MOD and FCDO Ukraine unit – led by Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Defence Secretary John Healey –which will integrate expertise and help drive a new whole-of-government approach to Ukraine.

    Alongside this, defence is creating a new direct cyber pathway to help boost the UK’s cyber resilience, with different tailored selection and basic training requirements.

    This scheme would create direct entry paths into cyber careers in Defence and provide routes for lateral entry for specialists who are mid-way through their cyber careers, expanding Defence’s appeal, increasing workforce diversity, and in turn complementing other trades in the services, rather than acting in competition.

    The Government has also announced that more than 100 outdated policies have been scrapped or updated since July. These include measures blocking recruitment within the Armed Forces of some sufferers of hay fever, eczema and acne, and some injuries that have fully healed, with work ongoing at pace to modernise recruitment.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ministerial event Feminist Foreign Policy Plus (FFP+) group Address by Jean-Noël Barrot Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs (25.09.24)

    Source: Republic of France in English
    The Republic of France has issued the following statement:

    Ministers,

    Representatives of the United Nations agencies, international organizations and civil society organizations,

    Executive Director of UN Women,

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Our countries have chosen to officially adopt feminist foreign policy.

    By doing so, they pledged to make the rights of women and gender equality a priority.

    Because feminist foreign policy is a political commitment: to combat violence against women and girls all over the world; to defend and, as decided in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, make gender equality effective; and to reaffirm and promote the universality of the rights of women and girls everywhere that they are under threat.

    And it is on the basis of these principles that I will have the honour and pleasure of welcoming you to France in 2025 as agreed for the next Feminist Foreign Policy Conference.

    2025 will also mark the 30th anniversary of two key documents in the advancement of the rights of women and girls around the world: the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. We must continue to enforce this reference framework and go even further.

    That is why France enshrined the freedom to choose an abortion in its Constitution on 8 March 2024. Guaranteeing sexual and reproductive health and rights means respecting women’s right to control over their own bodies. We must protect that right from any regression, and it must remain an absolute priority for our group. We invite all States to give the right to abortion the highest level of legal protection.

    Going further also means taking into account the challenges presented by the rapid development of new digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence.

    In 2023, France launched the Laboratory for Women’s Rights Online, an international platform created to fight online violence against women and girls. By doing so, we are building the first forum of this kind, which will be both a space for dialogue and an incubator for projects.

    The upcoming AI Action Summit, set to take place in Paris in February 2025, will also be an opportunity to address gender bias and barriers to the rights of women and girls online.

    This autumn, France – with the Netherlands – will present a draft resolution to combat online violence against women and girls to the General Assembly. They are the primary victims, and it is time that the international community tackles this issue.

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    Violence is also perpetrated against women and girls in the context of war. We cannot resign ourselves to what is happening in Afghanistan, where the Taliban’s policy of segregation is erasing women from society. We have made respect for the rights of women a clear condition for political dialogue to resume. That condition must be met. We should not, cannot, abandon Afghan women and girls. It would be a moral failure.

    Nor can we omit to condemn in the strongest terms the barbaric sexual violence committed by Hamas and other terrorist groups on 7 October last year.

    And we cannot forget the lives of Yazidi women, shattered by the genocidal terrorism of Daesh.

    Relentlessly fighting sexual and gender-based violence and impunity will remain central to our work. France was the first to support the fund launched by Nadia Murad and Doctor Mukwege, and supported the first International Conference of Prosecutors on Accountability for Conflict-Related Sexual Violence at The Hague in March. We will continue to work to support female victims of sexual violence, as we are doing in Ukraine for the victims of Russian atrocities, and in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Central African Republic.

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    The international community should not limit its understanding of feminism to the protection of victims. I mentioned the upcoming anniversary of the Beijing Declaration next year; I now want to highlight the role of women as drivers of change for peace, sustainable development and prosperity. Involving women and girls in decision-making processes is both a moral imperative and a condition for our prosperity.

    We therefore support the draft general recommendation No. 4 of the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) on the equal and inclusive representation of women in decision-making systems. It is a major step forward. I also commend the work of the Committee and thank Minister Nicole Ameline for her enlightening presentation.

    As we know, women play a crucial role in responding to crises and, together, ensuring peace and security. With this in mind, I hope to one day address a female Secretary-General of the United Nations, as well as her envoy for the political participation of women and the Women, Peace and Security Agenda.

    I would like to reiterate that France supports the voices of those who defend these rights, often risking their lives, all over the world. The Support Fund for Feminist Organizations, a French initiative, is the world’s leading fund in terms of financing and geographic scope. I am committed to enshrining it in the long term.

    Ladies and gentlemen,

    In conclusion, I would like to express France’s support for all women and girls whose voices have been stifled and silenced, and whose freedoms and rights have been denied and trampled. France stands with you, and with them.

    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI: Westhaven Receives Commitment for Strategic Investment from Rob McEwen of C$1.5 Million as Part of Previously Announced Brokered Private Placement Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Sept. 26, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westhaven Gold Corp. (TSX-V:WHN) (“Westhaven” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce, further to its press release dated September 25, 2024 announcing a $5,000,000 brokered best efforts offering (the “ Marketed Offering”) with Red Cloud Securities Inc. (the “Agent”) acting as agent, the Agent has received overnight a commitment from Rob McEwen for participation in the Marketed Offering as a subscriber.

    As previously announced, the Company entered into on September 25, 2024, an agreement with the Agent to act as sole agent and bookrunner in connection with the Marketed Offering to raise gross proceeds of C$5,000,0000 from the sale of the following:

    • 10,000,000 units of the Company (each, a “Unit”) at a price of C$0.15 per Unit for gross proceeds of up to C$1,500,000 from the sale of Units; and
    • gross proceeds of up to C$3,500,000 from the sale of any combination of (i) common shares of the Company that will quality as “flow-through shares” within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each, a “Traditional FT Share”) at a price of C$0.175 per Traditional FT Share and (ii) flow-through units of the Company to be sold to charitable purchasers (each, a “Charity FT Unit”, and collectively with the Units and Traditional FT Shares, the “Offered Securities”) at a price of C$0.22 per Charity FT Unit.

    Rob McEwen has agreed to make a strategic investment of C$1.5 million in Offered Securities, through his private holding company Evanachan Ltd. Mr. McEwen is the founder and former Chairman of Goldcorp, is currently the Executive Chairman and largest shareholder of McEwen Mining Inc. and is a member of the Mining Hall of Fame.

    Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with National Instrument 45-106 – Prospectus Exemptions (“NI 45-106”), the Offered Securities will be offered for sale to purchasers in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan (the “Canadian Selling Jurisdictions”) pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of NI 45-106 (the “Listed Issuer Financing Exemption”). The Offered Securities are expected to be immediately freely tradeable under applicable Canadian securities legislation if sold to purchasers resident in Canada.

    The Agent was granted the option, exercisable in full or in part, up to 48 hours prior to the closing of the Marketed Offering, to sell up to an additional C$1,000,000 in any combination of Units, Traditional FT Shares and Charity FT Units at their respective offering prices (the “Agents’ Option” and together with the Marketed Offering, the “Offering”).

    Any Units and Charity FT Units sold in excess of gross proceeds of C$5,000,000 as well as the Traditional FT Shares (collectively, the “Non-LIFE Securities”) will be offered by way of the “accredited investor” and “minimum amount investment” exemptions under NI 45-106 in the Canadian Selling Jurisdictions, or in the case of the Units, also in offshore jurisdictions and the United States on a private placement basis pursuant to one or more exemptions from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act. The Non-LIFE Securities will be subject to a hold period ending on the date that is four months plus one day following the closing date of the Offering under applicable Canadian securities laws.

    The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of Units for working capital and general corporate purposes. The gross proceeds from the issuance of the Traditional FT Shares and the Charity FT Units will be used for Canadian exploration expenses on the Company’s mineral projects in British Columbia and will qualify as “flow-through mining expenditures”, as defined in subsection 127(9) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the “Qualifying Expenditures”), which will be incurred on or before December 31, 2025 and renounced to the subscribers with an effective date no later than December 31, 2024 in an aggregate amount not less than the gross proceeds raised from the issue of the Traditional FT Shares and Charity FT Units.

    The Offering is scheduled to close on or around October 15, 2024, or such other date as the Company and the Agent may agree, and is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, receipt of all necessary approvals including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange.

    The Company will pay to the Agent a cash commission of 6% of the gross proceeds raised in respect of the Offering (the “Agents’ Commission”). In addition, the Company will issue to the Agent warrants of the Company (each warrant, a “Broker Warrant”), exercisable for a period of 24 months following the Closing Date, to acquire in aggregate that number of common shares of the Company which is equal to 6% of the number of Offered Securities sold under the Offering at an exercise price equal to C$0.15 per Common Share.

    There is an amended offering document related to the Offering that can be accessed under the Company’s profile at http://www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at http://www.westhavengold.com. Prospective investors should read this amended offering document before making an investment decision.

    On behalf of the Board of Directors
    WESTHAVEN GOLD CORP.

    “Gareth Thomas”

    Gareth Thomas, President, CEO & Director

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    About Westhaven Gold Corp.

    Westhaven is a gold-focused exploration company advancing the high-grade discovery on the Shovelnose project in Canada’s newest gold district, the Spences Bridge Gold Belt. Westhaven controls ~60,950 hectares (609.5 square kilometres) with four gold properties spread along this underexplored belt. The Shovelnose property is situated off a major highway, near power, rail, large producing mines, and within commuting distance from the city of Merritt, which translates into low-cost exploration. Westhaven trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol WHN. For further information, please call 604-681-5558 or visit Westhaven’s website at http://www.westhavengold.com

    Forward Looking Statements:

    This press release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities laws, which is based upon the Company’s current internal expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions and beliefs. The forward-looking information included in this press release are made only as of the date of this press release. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the Company’s expectations with respect to the Offering, including the proposed participation by Mr. McEwen and the size of that participation; the use of proceeds of the Offering; completion of the Offering and the date of such completion. Forward-looking statements or forward-looking information relate to future events and future performance and include statements regarding the expectations and beliefs of management based on information currently available to the Company. Such forward-looking statements and forward-looking information often, but not always, can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “potential”, “is expected”, “anticipated”, “is targeted”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes” or the negatives thereof or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved.

    Forward-looking information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such risks and other factors include, among others, and without limitation: that the Offering may not close within the timeframe anticipated or at all or may not close on the terms and conditions currently anticipated by the Company for a number of reasons including, without limitation, as a result of the occurrence of a material adverse change, disaster, change of law or other failure to satisfy the conditions to closing of the Offering; the Company will not be able to raise sufficient funds to complete its planned exploration program; that the Company will not derive the expected benefits from its current program; the Company may not use the proceeds of the Offering as currently contemplated; the Company may fail to find a commercially viable deposit at any of its mineral properties; the Company’s plans may be adversely affected by the Company’s reliance on historical data compiled by previous parties involved with its mineral properties; mineral exploration and development are inherently risky industries; the mineral exploration industry is intensely competitive; additional financing may not be available to the Company when required or, if available, the terms of such financing may not be favourable to the Company; fluctuations in the demand for gold or gold prices generally; the Company may not be able to identify, negotiate or finance any future acquisitions successfully, or to integrate such acquisitions with its current business; the Company’s exploration activities are dependent upon the grant of appropriate licenses, concessions, leases, permits and regulatory consents, which may be withdrawn or not granted; the Company’s operations could be adversely affected by possible future government legislation, policies and controls or by changes in applicable laws and regulations; there is no guarantee that title to the properties in which the Company has a material interest will not be challenged or impugned; the Company faces various risks associated with mining exploration that are not insurable or may be the subject of insurance which is not commercially feasible for the Company; the volatility of global capital markets over the past several years has generally made the raising of capital more difficult; inflationary cost pressures may escalate the Company’s operating costs; compliance with environmental regulations can be costly; social and environmental activism can negatively impact exploration, development and mining activities; the success of the Company is largely dependent on the performance of its directors and officers; the Company’s operations may be adversely affected by First Nations land claims; the Company and/or its directors and officers may be subject to a variety of legal proceedings, the results of which may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business; the Company may be adversely affected if potential conflicts of interests involving its directors and officers are not resolved in favour of the Company; the Company’s future profitability may depend upon the world market prices of gold; dilution from future equity financing could negatively impact holders of the Company’s securities; failure to adequately meet infrastructure requirements could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business; the Company’s projects now or in the future may be adversely affected by risks outside the control of the Company; the Company is subject to various risks associated with climate change, the Company is subject to general global risks arising from epidemic diseases, the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, rising inflation and interest rates and the impact they will have on the Company’s operations, supply chains, ability to access mining projects or procure equipment, supplies, contractors and other personnel on a timely basis or at all is uncertain; as well as other risk factors in the Company’s other public filings available at http://www.sedarplus.ca. Readers are cautioned that this list of risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. The Company cannot guarantee future results, performance, or achievements. Consequently, there is no representation that the actual results achieved will be the same, in whole or in part, as those set out in the forward-looking information. The Company undertakes no duty to update any of the forward-looking information to conform such information to actual results or to changes in the Company’s expectations, except as otherwise required by applicable securities legislation. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. The forward-looking information contained in this offering document is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK constrains Russia’s future LNG plans 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    The UK has sanctioned 5 ships and 2 entities involved in the Russian Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) sector. 

    • The UK has sanctioned 5 ships and 2 entities involved in the Russian Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) sector. 

    • This is the first time the UK is using its new ship specification power to target LNG vessels directly. 

    • Today’s action builds on efforts alongside allies to bear down on Russia’s attempts to bolster its future energy revenues – the most critical source of funding for Putin’s war in Ukraine. 

    The UK has today, 26 September, taken decisive action to sanction 5 vessels and 2 associated entities involved in the shipping of Russian LNG, including from Russia’s flagship Arctic LNG 2 project. 

    LNG is an important source of funding for Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine. Russia has plans to expand its LNG revenues, aiming to grow their global LNG market share from 8% to 20%.  

    Earlier this year, the UK sanctioned Arctic LNG 2, alongside our allies in the US and EU. Since then, the project has been forced to slash production. Today’s action builds on this by targeting ships and entities involved in the Russian LNG sector, which engage with projects important to Russia’s future energy production. 

    The UK has now sanctioned 15 vessels and entities involved in the Russian LNG sector and we will continue to bear down on this important source of funding for Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine.   

    The vessels sanctioned today are: 

    • PIONEER (IMO 9256602) 

    • ASYA ENERGY (IMO 9216298) 

    • NOVA ENERGY (IMO 9324277) 

    • NORTH SKY (IMO 9953523) 

    • SCF LA PEROUSE (IMO 9849887)  

    We are also sanctioning the following entities associated with the vessels: 

    • OCEAN SPEEDSTAR SOLUTIONS OPC – The operator and manager of PIONEER and ASYA ENERGY. 

    • WHITE FOX SHIP MANAGEMENT – The operator and manager of NORTH SKY  

    Notes to Editors  

    • Ships specified under the Russia (Sanctions) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 are prohibited from entering a port in the UK, may be given a movement or a port entry direction, can be detained, and will be refused permission to register on the UK Ship Register or have its existing registration terminated.

    Media enquiries

    Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

    Telephone 020 7008 3100

    Contact the FCDO Communication Team via email (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI USA: Statement from President Joe  Biden on U.S. Support for  Ukraine

    US Senate News:

    Source: The White House
    I am proud to welcome President Zelenskyy back to the White House today. For nearly three years, the United States has rallied the world to stand with the people of Ukraine as they defend their freedom from Russian aggression, and it has been a top priority of my Administration to provide Ukraine with the support it needs to prevail. In that time, Ukraine has won the battle of Kyiv, reclaimed more than half the territory that Russia seized at the start of the war, and safeguarded its sovereignty and independence. But there is more work to do. That is why, today, I am announcing a surge in security assistance for Ukraine and a series of additional actions to help Ukraine win this war. 
    Today, I am announcing that: 
    I have directed the Department of Defense to allocate all of its remaining security assistance funding that has been appropriated for Ukraine by the end of my term in office. As part of this effort, the Department of Defense will allocate the remaining Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative funds by the end of this year. I also have authorized $5.5 billion in Presidential Drawdown Authority to ensure this authority does not expire, so that my Administration can fully utilize the funding appropriated by Congress to support the drawdown of U.S. equipment for Ukraine and then replenish U.S. stockpiles.
    The Department of Defense is announcing $2.4 billion in security assistance through the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative, which will provide Ukraine with additional air defense, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and air-to-ground munitions, as well as strengthen Ukraine’s defense industrial base and support its maintenance and sustainment requirements.
    To enhance Ukraine’s long-range strike capabilities, I have decided to provide Ukraine with the Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW) long-range munition.
    To further strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses, I have directed the Department of Defense to refurbish and provide Ukraine with an additional Patriot air defense battery and to provide Ukraine with additional Patriot missiles. This builds on my decision earlier this year to divert U.S. air defense exports to Ukraine, which will provide Ukraine with hundreds of additional Patriot and AMRAAM missiles over the next year and will help Ukraine defend its cities and its people. 
    To build the capacity of Ukraine’s air force, I have directed the Department of Defense to expand training for Ukrainian F-16 pilots, including by supporting the training of an additional 18 pilots next year.
    To counter Russian sanctions evasion and money laundering, the Department of Justice, the Department of the Treasury, and the U.S. Secret Service have taken action today to disrupt a global cryptocurrency network, in coordination with international partners. The United States will continue to raise the costs on Russia for its war in Ukraine and to deprive the Russian defense industrial base of resources.
    I will convene a leader-level meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in Germany next month to coordinate the efforts of the more than 50 countries supporting Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression.
    Through these actions, my message is clear: The United States will provide Ukraine with the support it needs to win this war. 

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Briefing – Security of energy supply – 26-09-2024

    Source: European Parliament

    Energy supply security is often defined as the availability of an adequate supply of energy at a reasonable cost. Even a partial supply disruption can have severe consequences, which the European Union has experienced on several occasions. Over the years, energy market developments have affected the EU’s economic situation time and again, from the 1970s oil crisis to the 2009 gas crisis and 2022 energy price crisis following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. With the exception of coal, the EU’s energy resources are limited, leaving it particularly vulnerable to disruption, particularly for oil and gas supplies. The EU has a relatively high dependency on energy imports (62.5 % in 2022) and this rate has been increasing since 1990. The EU has built a legislative framework to ensure the security of its energy supplies. The electricity sector is subject to a regulation on risk-preparedness that mandates Member States to implement tools for preventing and managing potential electricity crises – and to work together once such crises occur. The Oil Stocks Directive requires Member States to hold a minimum reserve and inform the European Commission about the stock they hold. The EU Regulation concerning measures to safeguard the security of gas supply (‘Security of Gas Supply Regulation’) introduces a solidarity mechanism between Member States and a supply standard ensuring continuous gas supply to protected customers. Despite this comprehensive framework, significant challenges remain on the road towards a fully-fledged EU energy security strategy. The planned revision of the EU regulation, expected for 2025, could provide the impetus to adapt the existing security framework to new challenges resulting from the decarbonisation of the energy market and new import patterns. The security framework could be broadened to reflect a new way of perceiving energy supply security, based not only on energy sources, but also on the ability to produce energy domestically (including through renewable energy). The issue of energy security will likely remain a long-term challenge for the EU. Scope remains for stronger coordination between Member States and legislative intervention to complete the framework.

    MIL OSI Europe News

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Children get creative with plants and poetry to illustrate their hopes as child rights mark 100 years

    Source: Save The Children

    Photo: Oksana Parafeniuk/Save the Children
    LONDON/GENEVA, 26 September 2024 – Using flowers, shells, leaves, and paper clips, children from Indonesia, Syria and Ukraine have created photo montages and written poems to show what is most important to them to mark 100 years of the global recognition of child rights.
     
    Working with three award-winning photographers, children were encouraged to get creative by combining photos of themselves with everyday items for mixed media projects that celebrate their optimism and hopes for the future but also risks if progress on their rights stalls or is reversed.  

    The montages and poems are being used to commemorate the agreement on 26 September 1924 of the Geneva Declaration on the Rights of the Child, the groundbreaking document drafted by Save the Children founder Eglantyne Jebb that affirmed for the first time the existence of rights specific to children.  

    Elin, 15 from Sumba, Indonesia, said she was passionate about protecting the ocean but worried about the impact of climate change. She collected sand and shells while swimming and combined them with her photo portrait, writing the following poem. “In this scorching world, I have the right to be happy. I have the right to breathe fresh air. I have the right to access clean water, because my study time is not to fetch water. Together, we can protect the nature, because I am human, you are human, we are human.”

    Anjar,18, from Indonesia tackles the lack of access to clean water in his friend Sandi’s village. Together, they designed a borehole that brought running water to the village for the first time. Anjar is worried about the impact of deforestation and used his artwork to portray himself as a warrior protecting the trees that he loves, using rocks and plants he has gathered. 

    “We have to learn and guard our nature, so it won’t be destroyed”, said Anjar, who was supported by Save the Children’s Inclusive Incubator for Young Changemakers (i2Change) programme which gives young people the chance to learn how to create a project that will change their community. 

    In Romania, eight-year-old Marko* is trying to rebuild his life and make new friends after he fled Ukraine with mother when the war broke out.  

    It took him months to settle into school, but with support from Save the Children’s hub in Romania, he is now more at ease. He made a collage by decorating his printed portrait with colourful clips and pegs. His montage represents his personality, his big dreams for the future and how important his homeland and school are to him.

    “I want to be a captain because I would like to travel all over the world”, he said. 

    Shehab*, 16, is living in Za’atari, Jordan, the world’s largest camp for displaced Syrian refugees. She was born with a disability and bullied at school which made her drop out. At the Adolescent Girls Empowerment Centre, run by Save the Children and the United Nations Population Fund, Jordan  is learning self-defence, art and yoga which is helping her find her inner strength. 

    Her portrait shows the importance to her of the rights to education and protection and includes a caption saying, “Women of the world, unite!” 

    “I was destroyed before I came to the centre, now I have more self-esteem and confidence” she said. “When I came here, I learned what children’s rights are and I started raising awareness for others and the younger ones. It’s a very good feeling because I felt like I was doing something for society, I was changing something. I felt like I was a leader for those children.”

    The project that ran over three months involves the photographers Ulet Ifansasti from Indonesia, Kate Stanworth from the UK and Oksana Parafeniuk from Ukraine. 

    Despite much progress over the last century, children’s rights are today at risk of being eroded and inequality is growing.

    One in five children globally is growing up in a conflict zone [1] and one in 50 is forcibly displaced- twice the number a decade ago, according to Save the Children analysis. [2] Thirty-three children were born into hunger each minute last year [3], while every year, extreme weather events interrupt learning for about 40 million children, a figure likely to rise as the intensity and frequency increase due to climate change [4]. 

    Inger Ashing, Save the Children International’s Chief Executive Officer said:
     “So much has changed for children in 100 years. Most children now live to see their fifth birthday. Almost nine in 10 primary and six in 10 secondary-age school children complete their education. The vast majority are no longer forced to engage in the kind of work that deprives them of their childhood and harms their development.  “Today, every child has rights – including the right to health, to education, to protection, and to security. They have the right to be themselves, to have their voices heard and to design their futures.  “But this wasn’t always accepted or supported – and still isn’t in many places around the world.  Children currently face a world in crisis where their rights are systematically undermined and violated. The vital progress made over the past 100 years is being reversed with catastrophic conflicts for children while children also experience all-too-frequent climate disasters, poverty and inequality. “Standing up for children’s rights is our history, present, and future. Our work to support children to claim their rights is just as urgent and relevant today as it was 100 years ago and we will not stop until children’s rights are respected, supported, and protected worldwide.”Save the Children is calling on leaders to listen to children and to provide safe, meaningful, child-friendly spaces where children can speak freely and their ideas are respected.  
    The child rights organisation is also calling for: 
    •  States to hold perpetrators of crimes against children in conflict to account and ensure adherence to international humanitarian and human rights law.  
    • At the upcoming Ministerial Conference to Ending Violence against Children, states should  make concrete, ambitious and funded commitments to protect children and end all forms of violence against them 
    • Children’s rights and views to be prioritised in climate policy and financing, including climate loss and damage and adaptation, 
    • Leaders to put children’s rights and the Sustainable Development Goals at the centre of policy and financing decisions to create a safer, greener and more sustainable world.  
    For further enquiries please contact:  
    Our media out of hours (BST) contact is media@savethechildren.org.uk / +44(0)7831 650409. Please also check our Twitter account @Save_GlobalNews for news alerts, quotes, statements and location Vlogs. 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News

  • MIL-OSI Video: Peace is Never Automatic: UN Chief on Leadership for peace | Security Council | United Nations

    Source: United Nations (Video News)

    Briefing by United Nations Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, on Leadership for peace: united in respect of the UN Charter, in search of a secure future – Security Council, 9732nd meeting.

    ———————————–

    Mr. President, Excellencies,

    I thank the government of Slovenia for convening this high-level debate on Leadership for Peace.

    The topic is rooted in a fundamental truth: Peace is never automatic.

    Peace demands action.

    And peace demands leadership.

    Instead, we’re seeing deepening geo-political divisions and mistrust.

    Impunity is spreading, with repeated violations of international law and the UN Charter.

    Conflicts are multiplying, becoming more complex and deadlier.

    All regions are affected.

    And civilians are paying the steepest price.

    From Gaza to Ukraine to Sudan and beyond — wars grind on, suffering grows, hunger deepens, lives are upended, and the legitimacy and effectiveness of the United Nations, and this Council, are undermined.

    Mr. President, Excellencies,
    Leadership for peace requires action in at least two key areas.

    First — leadership for peace means all Member States living up to their commitments in the UN Charter, in international law and in recent agreements such as the Pact for the Future.

    Among other things, the Pact calls for strengthening tools and frameworks to prevent conflict, sustain peace and advance sustainable development, with the full, equal and meaningful participation of women.

    It calls for updating our tools for peace operations to allow for more agile, tailored responses to existing, emerging and future challenges.

    It reinforces the commitment to all human rights — civil, political, economic, social and cultural.

    It includes initiatives around disarmament, peacebuilding, and managing threats posed by lethal autonomous weapons and artificial intelligence and in new domains, including outer space and cyberspace.

    It calls for measures to quickly address complex global shocks.

    And it contains a new push to reform key institutions of global governance, including the global financial architecture and this very Council.

    The Pact is a down-payment on these reforms.

    But we will need strong political will to implement them, and rebuild the legitimacy and effectiveness of this Council.

    Which brings me to my second point about leadership for peace.

    Leadership for peace means ensuring that the UN Security Council acts in a meaningful way to ease global tensions and help address the conflicts that are inflicting so much suffering around the world.

    Geopolitical divisions continue to block effective solutions.

    A united Council can make a tremendous difference for peace.

    A divided Council cannot.

    It is imperative that Council Members spare no effort to work together to find common ground.

    And it has proven capable of doing so in some key areas.

    From currently overseeing 11 peacekeeping operations on three continents, involving nearly 70,000 uniformed peacekeeping personnel…

    To resolutions that help keep vital humanitarian aid flowing to the world’s hotspots…

    To the landmark Resolution 2719, which provides for African-Union led peace support operations authorized by the Council to have access to UN assessed contributions…

    To the groundbreaking Resolutions that recognized the clear implications of peace and security challenges on the lives of women and youth…

    To this Council’s growing ties to regional and sub-regional organizations to foster consensus and peace.

    These examples — and more — prove that forging peace is possible.

    When we consider the most difficult and intractable conflicts on this Council’s agenda, peace can seem an impossible dream.

    But I strongly believe that peace is possible if we stick to principles.

    Peace in Ukraine is possible.

    By following the UN Charter and abiding by international law.

    Peace in Gaza is possible.

    By sparing no effort for an immediate ceasefire, the immediate release of all hostages, and the beginning of an irreversible process towards a two-State solution.

    Peace in Sudan is possible.
    By sending a clear message to the warring parties that all Members of this Council — including the five permanent Members — will not tolerate the horrific violence and desperate humanitarian crisis being unleashed on innocent civilians.

    Mr. President, Excellencies,

    The situations on this Council’s agenda are complex and do not have quick fixes.

    But the scale of the challenge should not deter us.

    Our only hope for progress on peace is active collaboration and unity among Council Members.

    Today, I call on all Members to live up to this great responsibility, and to the promise of the UN Charter.

    Contribute to this Council’s success — not its diminishment.

    Let’s ensure that this Council serves as an effective and representative forum for peace — today and in the years to come.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=goPuYslcQ-E

    MIL OSI Video

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Trafficking of cultural property: UK statement to the OSCE

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Emma Logan, UK Delegation to the OSCE, says that by disrupting cultural property trafficking, we can also disrupt broader Serious Organised Criminal activity.

    Thank you Chair for bringing together a set of very interesting speakers today.

    The trafficking of cultural property, be it an antiquity or modern artwork, can be an enabling element to conflict, non-state threats and can facilitate money laundering for Serious Organised Crime (SOC). As today’s panel has illustrated, the protection of cultural property from intentional destruction, looting and trafficking becomes far more complex during times of war.

    I will pick up on three points that have been mentioned today. Firstly, the need for continued cooperation of international organisations, agencies and bodies was recently reaffirmed at the G7 in Naples; with Minister Bryant, Minister for Creative Industries, Arts and- Tourism, representing the UK. Today, we thank the OSCE for continuing the dialogue in this critical area.

    Secondly, I want to add the UK voice to underline the importance of the OSCE’s Heritage Crime Taskforce. The UK Government has invested specifically in the OSCE project establishing the new national Heritage Crime Task Force in Ukraine. We plan to continue this partnership with the OSCE, and invest in the Taskforce beyond this project, as recognition of the critical role that cross-border cooperation plays in combating transnational crime, including the illicit trafficking of cultural property.

    UK organisations are part of that cross-border cooperation. As an example, the Metropolitan Police recently assisted Homeland Security in investigations which revealed new evidence of money laundering by proscribed terrorist organisations through the UK and US art markets.

    We agree with what many of other speakers have said: that by enhancing a collective understanding of the linkages between cultural property trafficking and wider Serious Organised Crime, and by demonstrating opportunities to disrupt broader harms through the cultural property lens, we can expose the harms of cultural property trafficking to a wider group of stakeholders. For example, the UK Department for Culture Media and Sport’s International Cultural Heritage Protection Programme has funded investigations into artefacts known to have been looted from Syria and trafficked through pre-existing networks. Providing information and assistance to law enforcement and prosecutorial authorities, namely the Met Police, OSCE and INTERPOL was integral to this project. Additionally the UK Government is a founding member of the Atrocity Crimes Advisory (ACA) Group, which supports Ukraine against Russia’s war of aggression through its own domestic criminal justice system. Over the last year, ACA has made concerted efforts to engage with national-level officials on issues relating to heritage crime.

    The Met Police plays an important role in tackling the illicit trade in cultural property, with the support of expertise from the museum and antiquities sectors. Earlier this month, the Met played a pivotal role in repatriating the largest antiquity back to Iraq, a stone relief carving depicting a winged genie from the Palace of Nimrud, looted from Iraq after the first gulf war.

    Lastly, every panellist has mentioned recommendations of what more needs to be done. For the UK, we recognise that our museums and art market businesses need to undertake more provenance research and engage more actively in the identification and authentication of looted items. And in cases where looted and illicitly-traded objects cannot be seized, we need to find effective ways within existing legal systems and by cooperating with the trade, so that they can be returned to the country or community to which they belong.

    In conclusion, we should continue making the point that by disrupting cultural property trafficking, wider SOC activity can also be disrupted. This may stimulate engagement and a more effective response across operational, policy, programming, and diplomatic partners. The UK remains committed to being part of this network to combat illicit trade in times of war and peace.

    Thank you, Chair.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 September 2024

    MIL OSI United Kingdom