Category: Vehicles

MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Minister Calls on China and Germany to Deepen Mutually Beneficial Cooperation, Jointly Oppose Unilateralism and Protectionism

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

BEIJING, May 19 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday called on China and Germany to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and jointly oppose unilateralism and protectionism.

Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, made the statement during a telephone conversation with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul.

The Chinese diplomat congratulated his colleague on taking office, noting that Chinese-German relations go beyond bilateral relations in their significance and have an important impact on economic development and strategic stability throughout the world.

Stressing that China and Germany enjoy a comprehensive strategic partnership, Wang Yi expressed hope that the new German government will remain committed to this status of bilateral relations and pursue a rational and pragmatic policy towards China.

Wang Yi pointed out that the Taiwan issue is a matter of China’s fundamental interests. He expressed his belief that the German side will firmly adhere to the one-China principle, just as China once supported the reunification of Germany.

Deepening mutually beneficial cooperation is a natural choice for China and Germany, whose economies are highly complementary, whose industries are deeply interconnected and whose interests are closely integrated, Wang said, stressing that both sides should not allow normal bilateral cooperation to be undermined in the interests of so-called risk reduction.

As the Chinese Foreign Minister noted, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union, which is an important milestone connecting the past and the future. In this regard, Wang Yi expressed hope that Germany will play an active role as a key member state of the European Union and give new impetus to the development of relations between China and the EU through high-quality Sino-German cooperation.

According to him, the Chinese side also expects the European Union to move towards China, promptly and properly resolve the anti-subsidy case against Chinese electric vehicles, and promote qualitative improvement of cooperation between China and the EU.

Wang Yi added that China and Germany should shoulder their responsibilities as major countries, jointly advocate and adhere to free trade, oppose unilateralism and protectionism, ensure the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains, practice genuine multilateralism, and uphold the international system with the UN at its core. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Foreign Minister Calls on China and Germany to Deepen Mutually Beneficial Cooperation, Jointly Oppose Unilateralism and Protectionism /more details/

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

BEIJING, May 19 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday called on China and Germany to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and jointly oppose unilateralism and protectionism.

Wang Yi, also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, made the statement during a telephone conversation with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul.

The Chinese diplomat congratulated his colleague on taking office, noting that Chinese-German relations go beyond bilateral relations in their significance and have an important impact on economic development and strategic stability throughout the world.

Stressing that China and Germany enjoy a comprehensive strategic partnership, Wang Yi expressed hope that the new German government will remain committed to this status of bilateral relations and pursue a rational and pragmatic policy towards China.

Wang Yi pointed out that the Taiwan issue is a matter of China’s fundamental interests. He expressed his belief that the German side will firmly adhere to the one-China principle, just as China once supported the reunification of Germany.

Deepening mutually beneficial cooperation is a natural choice for China and Germany, whose economies are highly complementary, whose industries are deeply interconnected and whose interests are closely integrated, Wang said, stressing that both sides should not allow normal bilateral cooperation to be undermined in the interests of so-called risk reduction.

As the Chinese Foreign Minister noted, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union, which is an important milestone connecting the past and the future. In this regard, Wang Yi expressed hope that Germany will play an active role as a key member state of the European Union and give new impetus to the development of relations between China and the EU through high-quality Sino-German cooperation.

According to him, the Chinese side also expects the European Union to move towards China, promptly and properly resolve the anti-subsidy case against Chinese electric vehicles, and promote qualitative improvement of cooperation between China and the EU.

Wang added that China and Germany should shoulder their responsibilities as major countries, jointly advocate and adhere to free trade, oppose unilateralism and protectionism, ensure the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains, practice genuine multilateralism, and uphold the international system with the UN at its core.

J. Wadephul, for his part, stated that German-Chinese relations are of great importance for the development of the world economy and for the future of the international community. He pointed out that the new German government pays close attention to relations with China and intends to pursue an active policy towards the PRC.

As J. Wadephul emphasized, Germany has firmly adhered to the one-China policy in the past and will continue to do so in the future, wishing to be a reliable and predictable partner for the Chinese side.

As a leading member of the European Union, Germany intends to make efforts to resolve differences through dialogue and consultation and supports the EU and China in resolving issues such as the anti-subsidy case against Chinese electric vehicles through negotiations, the German diplomat assured.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukrainian crisis. Wang Yi said China has made continuous efforts to advance peace talks and supports achieving a fair, lasting and legally binding peace agreement through direct dialogue.

J. Wadeful, in turn, expressed hope that China will use its influence to promote a ceasefire and a speedy end to the crisis in Ukraine. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 20, 2025

MIL-OSI: GraniteShares Announces Change in ETF Lineup

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NEW YORK, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GraniteShares announced today that it will close and liquidate the following ETF:

Ticker	Fund Name	Commencement of investment operations
TSLI	GraniteShares 1x Short AMD Daily ETF	08/23/2023

On May 09, 2025, the board of GraniteShares ETF Trust approved the liquidation of the GraniteShares 1x Short AMD Daily ETF (the “ETF”). The last day of trading for the ETF on NASDAQ Stock Market will be June 20, 2025. The last day creation orders will be accepted for the ETF will be June 18, 2025. Investors may sell their shares of the ETF until market close on June 20, 2025. Shares of the ETF will no longer trade on NASDAQ Stock Market after market close on June 20, 2025, and will be subsequently delisted. The final distribution to shareholders of the ETF is expected to occur on or about June 23, 2025.

When the ETF commences the liquidation of its portfolio, it may hold cash and securities that may not be consistent with the ETF’s investment objectives and strategies.

At the time the liquidation of the ETF is complete, the ETF shares will be individually redeemed. For shareholders that still hold shares of the ETF as of June 20, 2025, shares will be automatically redeemed for cash at the net asset value as of close of business on that date, which will reflect the costs of closing the ETF. Shareholders will generally recognize a capital gain or loss on the redemptions. The ETF may or may not pay one or more dividends or other distributions prior to or along with the redemption payments.

About GraniteShares

GraniteShares is an independent ETF issuer headquartered in New York City. GraniteShares will continue to offer the following leveraged single stock ETFs:

ETF NAME	TICKER	UNDERLYING STOCK	MANAGEMENT FEE/TOTAL EXPENSES

GraniteShares 2x Long AAPL Daily ETF	AAPB	Apple	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long AMD Daily ETF	AMDL	AMD	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long AMZN Daily ETF	AMZZ	Amazon.com	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long BABA Daily ETF	BABX	Alibaba	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long COIN Daily ETF	CONL	Coinbase	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Short COIN Daily ETF	CONI	Coinbase	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long CRWD Daily ETF	CRWL	CrowdStrike	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 2x Long DELL Daily ETF	DLLL	Dell Technologies	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 2x Long INTC Daily ETF	INTW	Intel	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 2x Long IONQ Daily ETF	IONL	IONQ	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 2x Long LCID Daily ETF	LCDL	Lucid	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long MARA Daily ETF	MRAL	MARA Holding	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 2x Long META Daily ETF	FBL	Meta Platform	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long MRVL Daily ETF	MVLL	Marvell Technology	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 2x Long MSFT Daily ETF	MSFL	Microsoft	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long MU Daily ETF	MULL	Micron Technology	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 2x Long NVDA Daily ETF	NVDL	NVIDIA	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Short NVDA Daily ETF	NVD	NVIDIA	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long PLTR Daily ETF	PTIR	Palantir	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long QCOM Daily ETF	QCML	Qualcomm	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 2x Long RDDT Daily ETF	RDTL	Reddit	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 2x Long RIVN Daily ETF	RVNL	Rivian	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long SMCI Daily ETF	SMCL	Super Micro Computer	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 1.25x Long TSLA Daily ETF	TSL	Tesla	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long TSLA Daily ETF	TSLR	Tesla	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Short TSLA Daily ETF	TSDD	Tesla	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long TSM Daily ETF	TSML	Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing	1.30%/1.50%
GraniteShares 2x Long Uber Daily ETF	UBRL	Uber	0.99%/1.15%
GraniteShares 2x Long VRT Daily ETF	VRTL	Vertiv	1.30%/1.50%

In addition, GraniteShares’ ETF suite includes the following ETFs:

Contact Information:
William Rhind, CEO
GraniteShares Inc
+1 646 876 5049
william.rhind@graniteshares.com

Important Information

Investors should consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the GraniteShares funds (the “Funds”) carefully before investing. For a prospectus or summary prospectus with this and other information about the Funds, please call (844) 476 8747, or visit the website at www.graniteshares.com. Read the prospectus or summary prospectus carefully before investing.

To obtain a prospectus for BAR, please visit
https://www.graniteshares.com/Documents/25/Prospectus-GraniteShares-Gold-Trust.pdf
To obtain a prospectus for PLTM, please visit
https://graniteshares.com/media/gwrbh3ah/pltm_prospectus.pdf
To obtain a prospectus for COMB, please visit
https://graniteshares.com/media/4crf2x4e/graniteshares-etf-trust-comb-summary-prospectus.pdf

Except as described above regarding the liquidation of the ETFs, shares of the Funds may be sold during trading hours on the exchange through any brokerage account, shares are not individually redeemable, and shares may only be redeemed directly from a Fund by Authorized Participants. There can be no assurance that an active trading market for shares in a Fund will develop or be maintained. Shares may trade above or below NAV. Brokerage commissions will apply.

Fund Risks

Multiple funds have a limited operating history of less than a year and risks associated with a new fund. The Leveraged and Daily Inverse Funds are not suitable for all investors. The investment program of the funds is speculative, entails substantial risks and include asset classes and investment techniques not employed by most ETFs and mutual funds. Investments in the ETFs are not bank deposits and are not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. The Fund is designed to be utilized only by knowledgeable investors who understand the potential consequences of seeking daily leveraged (2X) or daily inverse (-1X and -2X) investment results, understand the risks associated with the use of leverage and are willing to monitor their portfolios frequently. For periods longer than a single day, the Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat, and it is possible that the Fund will lose money even if the Underlying Stock’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day. An investor could lose the full principal value of his/her investment within a single day. The funds do not directly invest in the underlying stock.

The Funds seek daily inverse or leveraged investment results and are intended to be used as short-term trading vehicles. Each Fund with “Long” in its name attempts to provide daily investment results that correspond to the respective long leveraged multiple of the performance of an underlying stock (each a Leveraged Long Fund). Each Fund with “Short” in its name attempts to provide daily investment results that correspond to the inverse (or opposite) multiple of the performance of an underlying stock (each an Inverse Fund).

Investors should note that the Long Leveraged Funds and the Daily Inverse Funds pursue daily leveraged investment objectives and daily inverse investment objectives (respectively), which means that the fund is riskier than alternatives that do not use leverage and inverse strategies because the fund magnifies the performance of their underlying security. The volatility of the underlying security may affect a Funds’ return as much as, or more than, the return of the underlying security.

For the Leveraged Long Funds because of daily rebalancing and the compounding of each day’s return over time, the return of the Fund for periods longer than a single day will be the result of each day’s returns compounded over the period, which will very likely differ from 200% of the return of the Underlying Stock over the same period. The Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat over time, and as a result of daily rebalancing, the Underlying Stock volatility and the effects of compounding, it is even possible that the Fund will lose money over time while the Underlying Stock’s performance increases over a period longer than a single day.

For the Daily Inverse Funds because of daily rebalancing and the compounding of each day’s return over time, the return of the Fund for periods longer than a single day will be the result of each day’s returns compounded over the period, which will very likely differ from -100% and 200% of the return of the Underlying Stock over the same period. The Fund will lose money if the Underlying Stock’s performance is flat over time, and as a result of daily rebalancing, the Underlying Stock volatility and the effects of compounding, it is even possible that the Fund will lose money over time while the Underlying Stock’s performance decreases over a period longer than a single day.

Shares are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the ETF. There can be no guarantee that an active trading market for ETF shares will develop or be maintained, or that their listing will continue or remain unchanged. Buying or selling ETF shares on an exchange may require the payment of brokerage commissions and frequent trading may incur brokerage costs that detract significantly from investment returns.

An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. The Fund is non-diversified and includes risks associated with the Fund concentrating its investments in a particular industry, sector, or geographic region which can result in increased volatility. The use of derivatives such as futures contracts and swaps are subject to market risks that may cause their price to fluctuate over time. Risks of the Fund include Effects of Compounding and Market Volatility Risk, Inverse Risk, Market Risk, Counterparty Risk, Rebalancing Risk, Intra-Day Investment Risk, Daily Index Correlation Risk, Other Investment Companies (including ETFs) Risk, and risks specific to the securities of the Underlying Stock and the sector in which it operates. These and other risks can be found in the prospectus.

Investing in physical commodities, including through commodity-linked derivative instruments such as Commodity Futures, Commodity Swaps, as well as other commodity-linked instruments, is speculative and can be extremely volatile and may not be suitable for all investors. Market prices of commodities may fluctuate rapidly based on numerous factors, including: changes in supply and demand relationships (whether actual, perceived, anticipated, unanticipated or unrealized); weather; agriculture; trade; domestic and foreign political and economic events and policies; diseases; pestilence; technological developments; currency exchange rate fluctuations; and monetary and other governmental policies, action and inaction.

A liquid secondary market may not exist for the types of commodity-linked derivative instruments the Fund buys, which may make it difficult for the Fund to sell them at an acceptable price. The Fund is new with no operating history. As a result, there can be no assurance that the Fund will grow to or maintain an economically viable size, in which case it could ultimately liquidate.

Derivatives may be more sensitive to changes in market conditions and may amplify risks and losses.

This information is not an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of any Funds to any person in any jurisdiction in which an offer, solicitation, purchase or sale would be unlawful under the securities laws of such jurisdiction. Please consult your tax advisor about the tax consequences of an investment in Fund shares, including the possible application of foreign, state, and local tax laws. You could lose money by investing in the ETFs. There can be no assurance that the investment objective of the Funds will be achieved. None of the Funds should be relied upon as a complete investment program.

The Fund is distributed by ALPS Distributors, Inc, which is not affiliated with GraniteShares or any of its affiliates ©2025 GraniteShares Inc. All rights reserved. GraniteShares, GraniteShares Trusts, and the GraniteShares logo are registered and unregistered trademarks of GraniteShares Inc., in the United States and elsewhere. All other marks are the property of their respective owners

The MIL Network –

May 20, 2025

MIL-Evening Report: Fish driving cars and chimps doing maths: what teaching animals ‘irrelevant’ skills reveals about our own minds

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Scarlett Howard, Research Fellow, School of Biological Sciences, Monash University

VixtorPhoto / Shutterstock

Did you know goldfish can learn to drive cars? Have you heard bumblebees can learn to pull on a string? Would you believe some primates can perform calculations with Arabic numerals?

These tasks seem completely irrelevant to these animals in their natural environment, so why are researchers interested in them?

As someone who studies the intelligence of insects, much of my own research has been labelled as “ecologically irrelevant”.

However, as I have argued in Trends in Cognitive Sciences, there are plenty of reasons to study this kind of animal intelligence.

Finding relevance in irrelevance

The study of animal intelligence often seeks to form a better understanding of the animal’s ecology. However, there are also many studies that aim to push the limits of animal cognition beyond what we would expect in their everyday life.

This honeybee has been trained to find sugar water where there are an even number of shapes.

Ecologically irrelevant research can help us understand the limits of animal intelligence and develop bio-inspired technology. It can also help us explore behavioural responses to environmental change, and advance our understanding of the evolution of intelligence.

Understanding how animals respond to ecologically irrelevant tasks sheds light on how our own intelligence has evolved. We frequently use comparisons between humans and non-human primates to understand whether a cognitive capacity has evolved in modern humans, or if we observe similar abilities in other primates and animals.

For example, children as young as 24 months old can find a hidden object in a room when its location is pointed out to them in a photograph. This ability is known as representational insight.

Some chimpanzees can also pass this test. Do these results mean a chimpanzee has the same level of intelligence as a two-year-old child?

Furthermore, this test may allow us to estimate when representational insight evolved. It may have been before humans and chimpanzees split into different lineages.

Researchers trained goldfish to steer a tank on wheels.

Imitating nature, comparing species

Biologically inspired (bio-inspired) solutions to modern computing problems use technology based on biology. Some bio-inspired technologies can cope well with uncertainty by using brain-like computations to process and solve real-world problems. Many animals are considered models for bio-inspired technologies based on their vision, behaviour and movement.

For example, the flight mechanics of dragonflies have been studied to build micro aerial vehicles. Since bio-inspired technology will undoubtedly be used in unnatural situations, it is useful to know how animals would respond in these same scenarios to build more accurate technology.

Comparing the behaviour and intelligence of different species can pose a huge challenge to scientists. To enable accurate comparisons we need to have a task of equal difficulty for both species.

If we use a task that animals perform regularly in their natural environments, we run the risk that one species may have an advantage from performing the task more frequently. However, if we use a task that neither animal is likely to ever need to perform, we can “level the playing field” for an accurate comparison.

Animals must often adapt to new and unfamiliar situations. Environmental changes such as urbanisation, climate change, habitat loss and invasive species introductions cause animals to encounter new challenges that may have previously been ecologically irrelevant.

A puzzle box may be seem irrelevant to many animals. However, cockatoos in Australia have learned how to open rubbish bins to forage. The cockatoos have then adapted to solve new puzzles as humans attempt to make bins harder to open.

This “innovation arms race” between humans and cockatoos shows how an initially ecologically irrelevant task may become relevant to an animal.

Does a true test of ecologically irrelevant intelligence exist?

One major question is whether we have been able to create a truly ecologically irrelevant task for animals to complete.

For example, bees have been trained to recognise images of human faces. This task may appear ecologically irrelevant to a bee.

However, to the bee, an image of a human face may actually represent an unfamiliar but rewarding flower, particularly when the correct option is paired with a reward of sugar water, which imitates a flower’s nectar. Is this task relevant or irrelevant to a bee? The answer is: it depends.

Many experiments provide food rewards. Therefore, animals may interpret these experiments as a foraging task, thus making even the most complex and arbitrary tasks during tests of intelligence still somewhat ecologically relevant to the animal. Other rewards for animals participating in experiments include shelter, social interactions, and play.

While the task itself may appear ecologically irrelevant, the reward may be highly relevant to animals looking for food, mating opportunities, safety, or fun. This leads us to question if any task we give animals is completely bereft of ecological relevance.

Scarlett Howard currently has funding from the Australian Research Council and the Hermon Slade Foundation.

– ref. Fish driving cars and chimps doing maths: what teaching animals ‘irrelevant’ skills reveals about our own minds – https://theconversation.com/fish-driving-cars-and-chimps-doing-maths-what-teaching-animals-irrelevant-skills-reveals-about-our-own-minds-253938

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: A Defining Era: NASA Stennis and Space Shuttle Main Engine Testing

Source: NASA

The numbers are notable – 34 years of testing space shuttle main engines at NASA’s Stennis Space Center near Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, 3,244 individual tests, more than 820,000 seconds (totaling more than nine days) of cumulative hot fire.
The story behind the numbers is unforgettable.
“It is hard to describe the full impact of the space shuttle main engine test campaign on NASA Stennis,” Center Director John Bailey said. “It is hundreds of stories, affecting all areas of center life, within one great story of team achievement and accomplishment.”
NASA Stennis tested space shuttle main engines from May 19, 1975, to July 29, 2009. The testing made history, enabling 135 shuttle missions and notable space milestones, like deployment of the Hubble Space Telescope and construction of the International Space Station.
The testing also:

Established NASA Stennis as the center of excellence for large propulsion testing.
Broadened and deepened the expertise of the NASA Stennis test team.
Demonstrated and expanded the propulsion test capabilities of NASA Stennis.
Ensured the future of the Mississippi site.

NASA Stennis was not the immediate choice to test space shuttle main engines. Two other sites also sought the assignment – NASA’s Marshall Flight Center in Alabama and Edwards Air Force Base in California. However, following presentations and evaluations, NASA announced March 1, 1971, that the test campaign would take place in south Mississippi.
“(NASA Stennis) was now assured of a future in propulsion testing for decades,” summarized Way Station to Space, a history of the center’s first decades.
Testing did not begin immediately. First, NASA Stennis had to complete an ambitious project to convert stands built the previous decade for rocket stage testing to facilities supporting single-engine hot fire.
Propellant run tanks were installed and calibrated. A system was fashioned to measure and verify engine thrust. A gimbaling capability was developed on the Fred Haise Test Stand to allow operators to move engines as they must pivot in flight to control rocket trajectory. Likewise, engineers designed a diffuser capability for the A-2 Test Stand to allow operators to test at simulated altitudes up to 60,000 feet.
NASA Stennis teams also had to learn how to handle cryogenic propellants in a new way. For Apollo testing, propellants were loaded into stage tanks to support hot fires. For space shuttle, propellants had to be provided by the stand to the engine. New stand run tanks were not large enough to support a full-duration (500 seconds) hot fire, so teams had to provide real-time transfer of propellants from barges, to the run tanks, to the engine.
The process required careful engineering and calibration. “There was a lot to learn to manage real-time operations,” said Maury Vander, chief of NASA Stennis test operations. “Teams had to develop a way to accurately measure propellant levels in the tanks and to control the flow from barges to the tanks and from the tanks to the engine. It is a very precise process.”

The biggest challenge was operation of the engine itself. Not only was it the most sophisticated ever developed, but teams would be testing a full engine from the outset. Typically, individual components are developed and tested prior to assembling a full engine. Shuttle testing began on full-scale engines, although several initial tests did feature a trimmed down thrust chamber assembly.
The initial test on May 19, 1975, provided an evaluation of team and engine. The so-called “burp” test did not feature full ignition, but it set the stage for moving forward.
“The first test was a monstrous milestone,” Vander said. “Teams had to overcome all sorts of challenges, and I can only imagine what it must have felt like to go from a mostly theoretical engine to seeing it almost light. It is the kind of moment engineers love – fruits-of-all-your-hard-labor moment.”
NASA Stennis teams conducted another five tests in quick succession. On June 23/24, with a complete engine thrust chamber assembly in place, teams achieved full ignition. By year’s end, teams had conducted 27 tests. In the next five years, they recorded more than 100 annual hot fires, a challenging pace. By the close of 1980, NASA Stennis had accumulated over 28 hours of hot fire.
The learning curve remained steep as teams developed a defined engine start, power up, power down, and shutdown sequences. They also identified anomalies and experienced various engine failures.
“Each test is a semi-controlled explosion,” Vander said. “And every test is like a work of art because of all that goes on behind the scenes to make it happen, and no two tests are exactly the same. There were a lot of knowledge and lessons learned that we continue to build on today.”

Teams took a giant step forward in 1978 to 1981 with testing of the Main Propulsion Test Article, which involved installing three engines (configured as during an actual launch), with a space shuttle external tank and a mock orbiter, on the B-2 side of the Thad Cochran Test Stand.
Teams conducted 18 tests of the article, proving conclusively that the shuttle configuration would fly as needed. On April 12, 1981, shuttle Columbia launched on the maiden STS-1 mission of the new era. Unlike previous vehicles, this one had no uncrewed test flight. The first launch of shuttle carried astronauts John Young and Bob Crippen.
“The effort that you contributed made it possible for us to sit back and ride,” Crippen told NASA Stennis employees during a post-test visit to the site. “We couldn’t even make it look hard.”
Testing proceeded steadily for the next 28 years. Engine anomalies, upgrades, system changes – all were tested at NASA Stennis. Limits of the engine were tested and proven. Site teams gained tremendous testing experience and expertise. NASA Stennis personnel became experts in handling cryogenics.
Following the loss of shuttles Challenger and Columbia, NASA Stennis teams completed rigorous test campaigns to ensure future mission safety. The space shuttle main engine arguably became the most tested, and best understood, large rocket engine in the world – and NASA Stennis teams were among those at the forefront of knowledge.

NASA recognized the effort of the NASA Stennis team, establishing the site as the center of excellence for large propulsion test work. In the meanwhile, NASA Stennis moved to solidify its future, growing as a federal city, home to more than 50 resident agencies, organizations, and companies.
Shuttle testing opened the door for the variety of commercial aerospace test projects the site now supports. It also established and solidified the test team’s unique capabilities and gave all of Mississippi a sense of prideful ownership in the Space Shuttle Program – and its defining missions.
No one can say what would have happened to NASA Stennis without the space shuttle main engine test campaign. However, everything NASA Stennis now is rests squarely on the record and work of that history-making campaign.
“Everyone knows NASA Stennis as the site that tested the Apollo rockets that took humans to the Moon – but space shuttle main engine testing really built this site,” said Joe Schuyler, director of NASA Stennis engineering and test operations. “We are what we are because of that test campaign – and all that we become is built on that foundation.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Teen Charged with Reckless Endangerment Who Was on Bond for Previous Attempted Murder, Reckless Endangerment Charges

Source: US Marshals Service

Henderson County, TN – On May 19, 2025, the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) arrested Dawson Maness for Felony Reckless Endangerment against a law enforcement officer.

On May 16, 2025, a State Trooper with the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) met a white Chevrolet truck traveling left of center of the roadway in Henderson County, TN. The Trooper was forced to run off the road to avoid a collision with the truck. When the Trooper activated his emergency equipment, the truck fled the scene in a reckless manner, endangering the lives of others. An investigation by the THP determined that Dawson Maness was the driver.

The USMS Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force in Jackson was asked to assist in finding and apprehending Maness. This morning, deputy marshals and task force officers went to Maness’ residence on Bargerton Road in Lexington, TN and took him into custody.

This was not the task force’s first encounter with Maness. He was released from jail on bond for a December 2024, incident where he is alleged to have shot and struck a FedEx delivery truck during a road rage incident in Jackson, TN. The Jackson Police Department charged him with Attempted First-Degree Murder and Felony Reckless Endangerment. The USMS subsequently arrested him at his home on January 22, 2025, for those charges.

The U.S. Marshals Service Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force is a multi-agency task force within Western Tennessee. The TRVFTF has offices in Memphis and Jackson, and its membership is primarily composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals, Shelby, Fayette, Tipton, and Gibson County Sheriff’s Deputies, Memphis and Jackson Police Officers, Tennessee Department of Correction Special Agents and the Tennessee Highway Patrol. Since 2021, the TRVFTF has captured over 3,000 violent offenders and sexual predators.

MIL Security OSI –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI: No Credit Check Loans – Credit Clock is the Number 1 Pick for US Customers
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Memphis, May 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

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Top US No Credit Check Loan Lenders
1. Credit Clock: Longer loan repayment periods
Credit Clock is a top selection for borrowers with bad credit and no credit history looking to obtain no credit check loans in the US in 2025. The company is best known for its longer repayment periods, which give the borrower ample time to repay the loan. The loan amounts start from $100 to $5,000. This amount range ensures that you meet your financial needs. On top of that, no extra charges or costs are added to the loan.

Below are some of the benefits of using Credit Clock as your preferred lender:
- Flexible repayment periods of up to 24 months.
- Fast approval processes.
- Flexible lending amounts.
- Reputable lenders.
- Soft credit checks.
- No hidden charges or costs.
Credit Clock ensures that you get your loans in time through same-day approvals, helping your financials meet your needs.

What Is a No Credit Check Loan?

A no credit check loan is a type of loan that does not require the lender to perform credit checks on the borrower. As such, credit history and credit score are not important factors to consider when approving such loans. This fact makes no credit check loans a suitable borrowing option for individuals who have poor credit scores or bad credit histories and have no chance of being granted loans by financial institutions.

These loans do not require any security as collateral and are usually accompanied by interest rates that are relatively higher than those offered by conventional financial institutions. Therefore, it is highly advised that you thoroughly examine the fees, rates, and terms before taking them.

What Are the Examples of No Credit Check Loans

Several types of loans can be extended to borrowers without having hard credit checks performed. They include:
1. Payday loans – These are short-term loans that are taken to be repaid on the borrower’s next payday. They are taken in small amounts that could range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars and are meant to cover unexpected expenses before payday.
2. Car title loans – These are secured loans that use the vehicle as collateral. The lenders of car title loans tend to hold onto the title of the vehicle until the loan is paid back in full. It is key to note that they have high-interest rates and fees.
3. Cash advance – A cash advance is a type of short-term loan that allows you to borrow money against your future paycheck. Cash advances can be obtained through your credit card or a payday lender.
4. No credit check installment loans – An installment loan is a type of loan that is repaid over time through a series of scheduled payments or, better yet, installments. They can be used for various purposes, such as home repairs, medical bills, or car purchases, and are available through a variety of lenders.
5. Personal lines of credit – A personal line of credit is a flexible borrowing option that allows you to access funds as needed, up to a predetermined credit limit. These are similar to credit cards, but instead of a revolving credit limit, you are given a line of credit that you can draw from as needed.
What to Look at to Get the Best No Credit Check Loan

When obtaining a no credit check loan, there are important aspects that must be considered to ensure you not only get the best lenders and offers but also make an informed decision. Some of those factors include:
1. Interest rates – The interest rate, being the amount that the lender charges on the loan has to be compared between various lenders to ensure that you get the lowest rates available.
2. Fees – It is important to read carefully the terms of the loans and understand all the fees associated with the loan before agreeing to it. These fees may include origination fees and late repayment fees among others.
3. Online reviews – It is of the essence to take a sneak peek at the online reviews of the possible lenders to have a glimpse of what previous borrowers have to say. This will give you an idea of the lender’s reputation and customer service.
4. Licensing – Laws regarding no credit check loans are not similar in all states. As such, it is important to ensure that the lender you choose is licensed to operate in your state and is compliant with all state laws. Licensed lenders tend to follow the regulations on fee limits, interest rates, and loan terms.
5. Terms – Understand the loan terms and conditions, such as the repayment period, payment frequency, and any penalties for early or late repayment. Ensure that the terms are favorable and suit your financial needs.
Alternatives to No Credit Check Loans

When you need quick cash, you may consider getting a no credit check loan. However, it is important to note that there are several alternatives to no credit check loans. Here are some options, especially if you have a good credit score:
1. Personal loans – If you have a good credit score, you may be able to qualify for a personal loan from a bank, credit union, or online lender. Personal loans typically have lower interest rates than no credit check loans and may have more flexible repayment terms.
2. Co-signer loans – Getting a co-signer with good credit to apply for a loan gives you a higher chance of approval and getting a favorable interest rate. However, it is important to repay the loan on time to improve your credit and avoid leaving the co-signer responsible for the payments.
3. Credit unions – Unlike banks, credit unions offer loans at lower interest rates than most traditional lenders. They often provide flexible repayment terms and lower fees.
4. Secured loans – Secured loans require collateral, such as a car or property, to secure the loan. They have lower interest rates than unsecured loans as the collateral reduces the risks associated.
5. Bad credit loan lenders – These are lenders who are specifically designed for borrowers with poor credit scores. These lenders offer loans with higher interest rates and fees, but they are more willing to lend a helping hand if you have a low credit score.
Eligibility Criteria for No Credit Check Loans

Even though no credit checks are performed for no credit check loans, there are several other background checks that lenders perform to ensure eligibility. They are:
- A US citizenship.
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- A verifiable source of income.
- An active bank account.
- Functional contact details.
The above qualifications are easily met by a fair share of applicants and as a result, high approval rates are attributed to no credit check loans.

In addition, the application processes are easy to follow, and the cash payouts are almost instantaneous, as they are instantly approved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to visit a physical store to apply for a no credit check loan?

No, most lenders offering no credit check loans have online applications. You can apply for the loan online and receive the funds directly deposited to your bank account.

How much can I borrow?

The amount you can borrow depends on the lender’s policies. The maximum amount you can get from a no credit check loan is $50,000.

Do I have to pay fees?

Not necessarily. Most lenders do not charge prior or extra fees for loans. Nonetheless, some charge application fees, processing fees, and late payment fees. The fees vary by lender, and you should review the terms and conditions carefully before accepting a loan offer.

Are no credit check loans a good idea?

No credit check loans are a good option for people with bad credit or no credit history who need quick cash. However, it is vital to ensure that you can adhere to the loan’s terms and policies.

What happens if I miss a loan repayment?

If you miss a loan repayment for a no credit check loan, you will likely face additional fees and interest charges. In addition, your credit score may be negatively impacted, making it harder for you to obtain credit in the future. Some lenders may also report late payments to credit bureaus, which can lower your credit score. It’s important to contact your lender as soon as possible if you think you may miss a payment and work out a plan to avoid any negative consequences.

Company Name:Payday Ventures Ltd (trading as Credit Clock)
Email:business@paydayventures.com
Phone:+44 208 064 1293

Disclaimer & Affiliate Disclosure

The information presented in this press release is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, lending advice, or legal guidance. Credit Clock is not a lender, does not make credit decisions, and does not issue any loan or financial product directly. All loans are subject to the approval criteria and underwriting processes of independent third-party lenders or lending networks, which may include additional checks and verification of eligibility.

Loans facilitated through the Credit Clock platform are available to individuals aged 18 and over, contingent upon status, state of residence, and the criteria set by lending partners. Availability of products and services may vary by jurisdiction and may not be accessible to residents of all U.S. states. Services are explicitly unavailable in the following states: Arkansas, Connecticut, New Hampshire, New York, Montana, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, Indiana, and Minnesota.

This press release may contain references to third-party offers, services, or products. Any representations, benefits, rates, or terms mentioned are subject to change at the sole discretion of the respective provider. No guarantees are made regarding loan approval, loan amounts, or funding timelines. While some lenders may offer loans up to $5,000, this amount is not guaranteed and will depend on individual qualifications and lender policies. Some lenders may conduct soft or hard credit checks with credit bureaus such as Experian, Equifax, or TransUnion, or use alternative credit reporting systems.

No Guarantee of Loan Approval or Terms

Completing the online form does not constitute a loan application and does not guarantee approval, qualification, or receipt of funds. Credit Clock uses a proprietary algorithm to connect users with potential lenders based on the borrower’s profile and the available lending options within its network. Not all lenders or loan products are accessible through this service, and users are encouraged to independently evaluate all available financial solutions to determine what best suits their individual needs.

Funding Model and Compensation Disclosure

This website does not charge users any fees for submitting loan requests. The operator of this website is a broker, not a direct lender. Compensation is received from lenders, lender networks, and other marketers in the network when a user is matched and offered a financial product or alternative lending option through this platform.

Annual Percentage Rates (APR) and Terms

Representative APRs for installment loans accessed through this service may range from 5.99% to 35.99%. The minimum repayment term is 61 days. Actual APRs and loan terms may vary depending on the borrower’s creditworthiness, financial history, state of residence, and lender assessment. APR disclosures are based on historical lender data and are illustrative only; they do not reflect a guarantee of rates. Not all users will qualify for the lowest advertised rates.

Tribal Lender Disclosures

Some lending partners may operate under tribal jurisdiction and are governed by federal and tribal laws, not state law. As such, rates, fees, and loan terms may differ substantially from those offered by state-licensed lenders and may be higher in certain cases. Consumers should review all loan agreements thoroughly before accepting terms.

Publisher & Syndication Partner Disclaimer

The content herein is distributed for informational purposes only and reflects the opinions of the original source at the time of publication. All facts, figures, representations, and claims regarding loan services or benefits are provided by Credit Clock and are subject to change without notice. Neither the publisher of this press release nor any affiliated distribution or syndication network shall be held liable for errors, inaccuracies, outdated information, or omissions contained herein. This release may contain typographical errors or inadvertent misstatements.

Parties interested in financial products described herein are strongly advised to conduct independent due diligence, verify terms directly with lenders, and seek appropriate legal or financial counsel prior to entering any agreement.

The MIL Network –
May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China is transforming from the world’s factory into a global innovation center – Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

Moscow, May 19 /Xinhua/ — China has demonstrated impressive success in scientific research and technological development in recent years, turning from the world’s factory into a global innovation center, said Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui.

“The prototype of the quantum computer “Zu Chongzhi 3.0” on superconductors set a new world record for quantum advantage performance. In the global AI industry, the DeepSeek model proved that size does not always matter, refuting the principle of “the bigger, the better.” Yushu Technology has become a leader in the production of four-legged robots, occupying about 70 percent of the world market. All these achievements testify to the high level of technological development of China,” the ambassador noted in an article published on Monday in the Russian newspaper “Trud.”

“There are 26 scientific and technological innovation clusters in the country, which are among the top 100 in the world, confirming China’s status as one of the economies with the fastest growth in innovation activity over the past decade,” the diplomat writes, citing data on funding for research and development (R&D). In this indicator, China has moved into second place in the world: its share of R&D expenditure has reached 2.68 percent of GDP. China occupies a leading position both in the number of international patent applications filed through the PCT (Patent Cooperation Treaty) procedure and in the number of applications to the Hague System for the Registration of Industrial Designs.

“In the field of strategic high technologies, significant results have been achieved: the Chang’e-6 mission collected samples from the far side of the Moon for the first time in the world; the Earth’s Crust 1 drilling rig drilled a hole 10,000 meters deep; the Fendouzhe manned deep-sea vehicle dived more than 10,000 meters underwater; and the world’s first fourth-generation nuclear power plant was put into operation,” the ambassador lists.

According to him, China has formed a “comprehensive ecosystem of the AI industry, covering all levels: from basic technologies and infrastructure to models and application solutions.” In the field of AI, there are more than 400 “small giants” – fast-growing innovative companies, which is about 10 percent of their total number in the world.

“The success of companies like Huawei, BYD and DeepSeek proves that China is transforming from the world’s factory into a global innovation hub,” Zhang Hanhui emphasizes in his article. –0–

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Video: UN Chief Honors Victims of 2003 Baghdad Bombing | United Nations

Source: United Nations (Video News)

UN Secretary-General António Guterres commemorated the victims of the 2003 Canal Hotel bombing in Baghdad today (May 18), calling it “the worst terrorist attack in the history of our organization” and paying tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

“Almost 22 years ago, the United Nations families suffered the worst terrorist attack in the history of our organization,” Guterres said during a ceremony at the site of the bombing. “Twenty-two years is a long time, but we will never forget.”

On August 19, 2003, a truck bomb struck the UN headquarters in Baghdad, killing 22 people, including Sergio Vieira de Mello, the then-UN Special Representative for Iraq. Dozens of others were injured. The attack marked a turning point in the UN’s engagement in Iraq and led to the designation of 19 August as World Humanitarian Day.

“They were sons, daughters, mothers, fathers and friends who are, to this day, mourned by those they knew and loved,” Guterres said. “We’ll always remember their leader, Sergio Vieira de Mello, was also killed in the attack.”

The Secretary-General also paid tribute to the survivors, acknowledging their pain and perseverance. “We will stand with the survivors whose lives was changed forever,” he said, noting the bravery of those who rushed to help in the aftermath, “showing us the very best of humanitarian spirit.”

Standing before the memorial at the Canal Hotel site, Guterres emphasized the progress Iraq has made in the years since, as well as the UN’s enduring commitment to the Iraqi people. “This memorial stands as a tribute to their lives and their contributions to the people of Iraq,” he said. “It also stands as a reminder of how far Iraq has come since 2003.”

The ceremony included a wreath-laying and flag-raising by the UN Guard Unit, honoring both the fallen and those continuing humanitarian efforts worldwide.

“Above all, this memorial is as a clear reminder, a reminder of the vital work that organization does around the world and the dangers our people face in carrying out that work,” said Guterres. “Their bravery, dedication and belief that a better future is possible will always inspire us.”

He concluded, “Their sacrifices and contributions to our world and to our vital cause of peace will never be forgotten.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gArWfVc2JPA

MIL OSI Video –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Violation of European law on political party financing in Greece – E-001784/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001784/2025/rev.1
to the Commission
Rule 144
Nikolas Farantouris (The Left)

International[1] and Greek[2] publications reveal that the ruling New Democracy party has used the company Blue Skies as a vehicle for financing party executives, the production of propaganda content and targeted defamation,[3] with funding from public bodies (in fact financed by European funds). This constitutes a violation of European rules and, in particular, Article 2 TEU on the rule of law, democracy and equality, Article 20 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014 on the registration, monitoring and funding of European political parties, which prohibits indirect or undeclared funding of parties by third parties, and the recommendations of GRECO and the OECD on transparency and effective control of political funding at national level.

Furthermore, the Commission’s report on the rule of law in Greece (2024)[4] identifies delays in the submission of financial data by parties, insufficient disclosure of data and a lack of transparency in political financing, as well as a lack of publication of statistics, breach of commitments and an overall ‘weak oversight mechanism’.

On the basis of the above:

1.Does the Commission intend to open an investigation into the above allegations of circumvention of Article 20 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 1141/2014 on the control of political financing involving Government officials?

2.Does the Commission intend to request explanations from the Greek authorities on the ‘State – Blue Skies – Party’ triangular financing relationship?

3.What measures could the Commission recommend to ensure a level playing field for political competition?

Submitted: 2.5.2025

[1] https://www.politico.eu/article/financing-scandal-rocks-greece-ruling-party-new-democracy/

[2] https://insidestory.gr/article/poia-einai-i-etaireia-poy-stegazei-kentrika-prosopa-toy-mihanismoy-propagandas-tis-nd

[3] https://www.documentonews.gr/article/skandalo-xrimatodotisis-prokalei-trigmoys-sti-nd-politico-gia-omada-alitheias-kai-blue-skies/

[4] https://commission.europa.eu/publications/2024-rule-law-report-communication-and-country-chapters_en
Last updated: 19 May 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Need for a European strategy for sustainable road tourism and parking infrastructure for camper vans and caravans – E-001876/2025
Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001876/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Elena Kountoura (The Left)

A recent law in Greece[1] has extended the existing ban on parking for camper vans and caravans to areas including archaeological sites, coastlines, beaches, forest edges and public spaces[2]. Despite referring to Article 34 of the Greek Highway Code[3], this extension of scope has not been accompanied by the corresponding development of necessary infrastructure set out for municipal, fenced and equipped parking areas.

However, despite the existence of the legal framework, the lack of infrastructure such as camper stops and organised municipal sites makes it practically impossible for camper vans and caravans to park or stay anywhere legally. This has left European citizens with camper vans or caravans facing confusion and uncertainty and unable to comply with requirements, especially in areas lacking signs, information or infrastructure provision[4].

Given that Greece is still struggling to attract caravanners, owing to its lack of adequate infrastructure and policies, and given that in the EU the sector generates EUR 120 billion a year, will the Commission say:

1.Does it intend to include objectives for developing parking and service infrastructure for camper vans and caravans in the Member States in the upcoming European sustainable tourism strategy, with a view to strengthening the EU’s road tourism policy?

2.Will it consider establishing a European framework of guidelines or common minimum standards for such infrastructure in the context of free movement and European tourism policy?

3.Does it intend to finance, through the European structural funds or other instruments, the development of appropriate infrastructure in Greek tourist destinations?

Submitted: 12.5.2025

[1] Law 5170/2025 (Government Gazette A 6/20-01-2025), https://www.taxheaven.gr/law/5170/2025.

[2] This amendment also includes a ban on private landowners hosting more than one camping vehicle for free.

[3] Specifically, Article 34 of the Greek Highway Code establishes the possibility of parking camping vehicles in appropriate fenced areas designated by the relevant municipalities or communities, which also ensure their security, while a joint decision of the ministers for the interior, public administration and decentralisation, transport and communications, public order and the environment, spatial planning and public works lays down detailed rules for implementation and makes provision for costs relating to security, maintenance, etc.

[4] The absence of an organised strategy to promote road tourism compromises this alternative form of tourism, which is systematically supported in other EU countries, where there are more than 30 000 camper stops.
Last updated: 19 May 2025
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: PM remarks at business reception: 19 May 2025

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Speech

PM remarks at business reception: 19 May 2025

Prime Minister’s remarks from the business reception in Downing Street.

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen.

Commissioner Sefcovic.

It’s fantastic to welcome you all to mark the strategic partnership that we have agreed today with the EU.

Trade deals are much talked about.

People tried for a long time to get a trade deal with India, and it didn’t happen for eight years. We came along and did that deal with India.

People tried and talked about a deal with the US, we came along and did that deal with the US.

Nobody believed we could do a better deal with the EU, and we’ve just done a better deal with the EU.

I always said, I’m not particularly keen on the performance side of politics. I think it’s the delivery that matters.

And this has happened because of the serious, pragmatic way that we’ve gone around our negotiations, and when I met Ursula and Antonio at the beginning of the exercise, we committed to each other that we wouldn’t do it by megaphone diplomacy.

We would do the hard yards of real diplomacy and negotiation, and that’s the base on which we got this deal today.

And so, in the space of just under two weeks, three trade deals.

That tells you something about serious pragmatism.

It tells you something about our commitment to growth, but it also tells you something about the country, because others only want to do trade deals with businesses and economies that they want to tie themselves to going forward.

It reflects the strength of all those that are represented here and many, many others, because we have dramatically improved our trading ties with the largest economy in the world, the US, the fastest growing economy in the world, India, and the largest trading bloc in the world, the EU.

And that is, as I say, a vote of confidence in this country.

We’re living in a different world. It’s a different era, and notwithstanding that instability, that uncertainty, the decisions that we’ve taken to stabilize the economy and lead the way internationally have made Britain a place that people want to do business with once again.

And I’m really proud to be leading a government and a country where others are telling me that they’re very pleased to see the UK back leading on the world stage, whether it’s defense and security, whether it’s trade or the economy or many of the other global issues that face us.

And to underline that Britain is a place where people want to do business. Once again, I’m delighted that we’re announcing major new European investments into Britain today.

Rheinmetall investing £60 million in Telford.

Knauf Insulation…

Investing £170 million in North Wales.

And NewCold investing £235 million in Corby.

Together, creating hundreds of new jobs across the UK.

We also have news today of great British companies – like Octopus energy – expanding in Europe.

So I want to say a huge thank you to everyone here…

For backing Britain.

And let’s just take a closer look at the deal we’ve struck today.

It gives us unprecedented access to the EU market –

The best of any country outside the EU or EFTA.

All while sticking to our red lines.

It’s good for bills, good for jobs, good for borders…

Good for businesses large and small.

By 2040 it will increase Britain’s GDP by around £9 billion.

Our SPS agreement will make food and agriculture trade cheaper and easier…

Cutting admin costs that can reach thousands for a single lorry…

Opening up EU markets for British food exporters…

Lifting the de facto ban on British burgers, bangers and shellfish…

And bringing down prices for British consumers.

Our new Defence and Security Partnership…

Will strengthen our security…

And open the door to working with the EU’s new defence fund –

Boosting Britain’s defence industry.

By increasing our co-operation on emissions trading…

We’re saving UK businesses…

From having to pay £800 million in EU carbon taxes.

By increasing cooperation on energy…

We’re bringing down bills over the long term,

And boosting our renewables industry in the North Sea.

The deal also protects our steel exports from new EU tariffs,

Saving the industry £25 million each year.

And it puts the fishing industry on a stable footing…

Protecting our access, rights and fishing areas…

With no increase in the amount that EU vessels can catch in our waters.

And our fishing industry will also benefit from that new SPS agreement, slashing costs and red tape.

So this a new deal for a new era…

One that will bring huge benefits to the British people.

And by the way –

For business travellers – and tourists –

We confirmed today…

That you’ll be able be able to use e-Gates in Europe –

Ending those huge queues at passport control.

That really is something to celebrate!

You know, when I became Prime Minister…

Almost a year ago…

I said I would deliver in the national interest.

And I think we’ve shown today, once again –

That I meant it.

So thank for you for your support –

Now let’s build on this progress…

Let’s keep showing that Britain is open for business…

And working with all our partners –

To deliver for the British people.

Thank you all.

Updates to this page

Published 19 May 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Salesman Who Defrauded Women and Older Adults Denied Bankruptcy Discharge

Source: United States Attorneys General

The U.S. Trustee Program (USTP) recently obtained a judgment denying a bankruptcy discharge to a door-to-door salesman who concealed his business interests and lied in his bankruptcy case to evade his creditors, including women and older adults whom he defrauded.

On April 18, the Bankruptcy Court for the District of Oregon entered a default judgment denying a discharge to chapter 7 debtor Jason Gillis. Gillis — who sold vacuums, air filters, and related products — crafted fraudulent schemes generally targeting women he pursued as romantic partners and their elderly parents. In one such scheme, he solicited investments in his businesses but used the money primarily for personal expenses. His victims included a 79-year-old woman recovering from a stroke. In addition to running up debts using the identities of the woman and her daughter without their knowledge or consent, Gillis arranged for the older woman to take out a mortgage on her home, purportedly under duress. In total, he persuaded her to transfer more than $100,000 to a business bank account that he controlled, then diverted a significant amount of the funds to pay for personal expenses.

Gillis also used some of those funds to lease a recreational vehicle valued at about $150,000 from another woman in her seventies, whose daughter he briefly dated. After taking possession of the RV, which he then lived in, Gillis stopped making lease payments and refused to disclose the vehicle’s location.

Gillis filed a chapter 7 bankruptcy petition in August 2024 amid several lawsuits and judgments based on claims of breach of contract, fraud, and theft by deception. An investigation by the USTP’s Portland office revealed that to avoid collection efforts, Gillis concealed his interests in several businesses by transferring nominal ownership to victims while he retained full control and by forging signatures on forms filed with the Oregon Secretary of State. He also made several false statements in his bankruptcy case about his assets and financial affairs, including his multiple business interests; the transfers of nominal ownership; deposits to undisclosed financial accounts; and a wrongful death settlement related to his mother’s estate.

Gillis did not respond to or defend against the USTP’s complaint to deny his bankruptcy discharge, leading to a default judgment in the USTP’s favor. As a result, Gillis remains personally liable for his debts — including more than $1.7 million in unsecured debts listed in his bankruptcy schedules — and creditors may continue collections on claims against him.

“Bankruptcy is not a safe haven for fraudsters,” said Acting U.S. Trustee Jonas V. Anderson for Region 18, which includes the District of Oregon. “The U.S. Trustee Program, as the watchdog of the bankruptcy system, is committed to rooting out deceptive schemes that harm innocent victims.”

One of the USTP’s core functions is to combat bankruptcy fraud and abuse through civil enforcement actions against debtors who engage in fraud or otherwise abuse the bankruptcy system. When circumstances warrant, the USTP takes action to deny those debtors a discharge. Generally, under the Bankruptcy Code, debtors are not entitled to a discharge if they conceal property with intent to hinder, delay or defraud a creditor or an officer of the bankruptcy estate, such as the private trustee administering the estate. The Code also prevents a discharge if the debtor knowingly and fraudulently made a false oath or account in or in connection with the bankruptcy case.

The USTP’s mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public. The USTP consists of 21 regions with 89 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the USTP at www.justice.gov/ust.

MIL Security OSI –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Mexican National Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison for Role in Smuggling and Labor Trafficking Scheme, Illegally Reentering U.S.

Source: Office of United States Attorneys

David X. Sullivan, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that APOLINAR FRANCISCO PAREDES ESPINOZA, also known as “Pancho,” 58, a citizen of Mexico last residing in Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 40 months of imprisonment, for illegally reentering the U.S. and his involvement in a scheme to smuggle aliens into the U.S., harbor them at Hartford area residences, force them to work, and threaten to harm them in various ways if they failed to pay exorbitant fees, interest, and other living expenses.

According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning in September 2022, the FBI and Hartford Police interviewed several Mexican nationals who disclosed that they were smuggled from Mexico into the U.S. and transported to Hartford. The investigation revealed that victims typically arranged with Maria Del Carmen Sanchez Potrero and others in Connecticut and Mexico to cross the border into the U.S. in exchange for a fee of between $15,000 and $20,000 that each would need to pay once they were in the U.S. In most cases, the victims were required to turn over a property deed as collateral before leaving Mexico. They were then smuggled across the border and transported to Hartford area residences, including Sanchez’s and Paredes’ residence on Madison Street in Hartford, often at a substantial risk of bodily injury or death.

After the victims arrived in Connecticut, they were told that they would have to pay approximately $30,000, with interest, and that they would have to pay Sanchez and her co-coconspirators for rent, food, gas and utilities. Sanchez, Paredes, and their co-conspirators created false documents for the victims, including Permanent Residence cards and Social Security cards, and helped the victims find employment in the Hartford area. In addition to their own jobs, some victims were required to perform housework and yardwork, or to assist Paredes in his job responsibilities, without compensation and without having their debt reduced.

Victims were rarely provided with an accounting of their debt. If victims failed to make regular payments, or in amounts that Sanchez, Paredes, and their co-conspirators expected, they were sometimes threatened, including with threats to harm family members in Mexico, to take property in Mexico that had been secured as collateral, to reveal victims’ immigration status to U.S. authorities, and to raise their interest payments.

To date, investigators have identified 19 victims of this scheme. Multiple victims were minors, and at least two were smuggled into the U.S. unaccompanied by a relative or legal guardian.

In November 2014, Paredes was encountered in the U.S. and removed the same day via foot at Hildago, Texas. He illegally reentered the U.S. and, in December 2018, was arrested by East Hartford Police and charged with various motor vehicle offenses. He was again removed to Mexico in February 2019, and subsequently illegally reentered the U.S.

Paredes has been detained since his arrest on March 1, 2023. On November 22, 2024, he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to encourage and induce, bring in, transport, and harbor aliens, and to illegal reentry of a removed alien.

Sanchez and her daughter, Porfiria Maribel Ramos Sanchez, previously pleaded guilty to related charges. On April 11, 2025, Sanchez was sentenced to 51 months of imprisonment, and on March 7, 2025, Ramos was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment.

Judge Dooley ordered Paredes to pay, jointly and severally with his codefendants, restitution of $574,608.

Paredes, Sanchez, and Ramos face immigration proceedings when they complete their prison terms.

This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Hartford Police Department, U.S. Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Angel Krull and Shan Patel.

MIL Security OSI –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Salesman Who Defrauded Women and Older Adults Denied Bankruptcy Discharge

Source: US State of Vermont

The U.S. Trustee Program (USTP) recently obtained a judgment denying a bankruptcy discharge to a door-to-door salesman who concealed his business interests and lied in his bankruptcy case to evade his creditors, including women and older adults whom he defrauded.

On April 18, the Bankruptcy Court for the District of Oregon entered a default judgment denying a discharge to chapter 7 debtor Jason Gillis. Gillis — who sold vacuums, air filters, and related products — crafted fraudulent schemes generally targeting women he pursued as romantic partners and their elderly parents. In one such scheme, he solicited investments in his businesses but used the money primarily for personal expenses. His victims included a 79-year-old woman recovering from a stroke. In addition to running up debts using the identities of the woman and her daughter without their knowledge or consent, Gillis arranged for the older woman to take out a mortgage on her home, purportedly under duress. In total, he persuaded her to transfer more than $100,000 to a business bank account that he controlled, then diverted a significant amount of the funds to pay for personal expenses.

Gillis also used some of those funds to lease a recreational vehicle valued at about $150,000 from another woman in her seventies, whose daughter he briefly dated. After taking possession of the RV, which he then lived in, Gillis stopped making lease payments and refused to disclose the vehicle’s location.

Gillis filed a chapter 7 bankruptcy petition in August 2024 amid several lawsuits and judgments based on claims of breach of contract, fraud, and theft by deception. An investigation by the USTP’s Portland office revealed that to avoid collection efforts, Gillis concealed his interests in several businesses by transferring nominal ownership to victims while he retained full control and by forging signatures on forms filed with the Oregon Secretary of State. He also made several false statements in his bankruptcy case about his assets and financial affairs, including his multiple business interests; the transfers of nominal ownership; deposits to undisclosed financial accounts; and a wrongful death settlement related to his mother’s estate.

Gillis did not respond to or defend against the USTP’s complaint to deny his bankruptcy discharge, leading to a default judgment in the USTP’s favor. As a result, Gillis remains personally liable for his debts — including more than $1.7 million in unsecured debts listed in his bankruptcy schedules — and creditors may continue collections on claims against him.

“Bankruptcy is not a safe haven for fraudsters,” said Acting U.S. Trustee Jonas V. Anderson for Region 18, which includes the District of Oregon. “The U.S. Trustee Program, as the watchdog of the bankruptcy system, is committed to rooting out deceptive schemes that harm innocent victims.”

One of the USTP’s core functions is to combat bankruptcy fraud and abuse through civil enforcement actions against debtors who engage in fraud or otherwise abuse the bankruptcy system. When circumstances warrant, the USTP takes action to deny those debtors a discharge. Generally, under the Bankruptcy Code, debtors are not entitled to a discharge if they conceal property with intent to hinder, delay or defraud a creditor or an officer of the bankruptcy estate, such as the private trustee administering the estate. The Code also prevents a discharge if the debtor knowingly and fraudulently made a false oath or account in or in connection with the bankruptcy case.

The USTP’s mission is to promote the integrity and efficiency of the bankruptcy system for the benefit of all stakeholders — debtors, creditors and the public. The USTP consists of 21 regions with 89 field offices nationwide and an Executive Office in Washington, D.C. Learn more about the USTP at www.justice.gov/ust.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Batteries that absorb carbon emissions move a step closer to reality – new study

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Daniel Commandeur, Surrey Future Fellow, School of Chemistry & Chemical Engineering, University of Surrey

Future power. Sweetie Khatun

What if there were a battery that could release energy while trapping carbon dioxide? This isn’t science fiction; it’s the promise of lithium-carbon dioxide (Li-CO₂) batteries, which are currently a hot research topic.

Lithium-carbon dioxide (Li-CO₂) batteries could be a two-in-one solution to the current problems of storing renewable energy and taking carbon emissions out of the air. They absorb carbon dioxide and convert it into a white powder called lithium carbonate while discharging energy.

These batteries could have profound implications for cutting emissions from vehicles and industry – and might even enable long-duration missions on Mars, where the atmosphere is 95% CO₂.

To make these batteries commercially viable, researchers have mainly been wrestling with problems related to recharging them. Now, our team at the University of Surrey has come up with a promising way forward. So how close are these “CO₂-breathing” batteries to becoming a practical reality?

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Like many great scientific breakthroughs, Li-CO₂ batteries were a happy accident. Slightly over a decade ago, a US-French team of researchers were trying to address problems with lithium air batteries, another frontier energy-storage technology. Whereas today’s lithium-ion batteries generate power by moving and storing lithium ions within electrodes, lithium air batteries work by creating a chemical reaction between lithium and oxygen.

The problem has been the “air” part, since even the tiny (0.04%) volume of CO₂ found in air is enough to disrupt this careful chemistry, producing unwanted lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃). As many battery scientists will tell you, the presence of Li₂CO₃ can also be a real pain in regular lithium-ion batteries, causing unhelpful side reactions and electrical resistance.

Nonetheless the scientists noticed something interesting about this CO₂ contamination: it improved the battery’s amount of charge. From this point on, work began on intentionally adding CO₂ gas to batteries to take advantage of this, and the lithium-CO₂ battery was born.

How it works

Their great potential relates to the chemical reaction at the positive side of the battery, where small holes are cut in the casing to allow CO₂ gas in. There it dissolves in the liquid electrolyte (which allows the charge to move between the two electrodes) and reacts with lithium that has already been dissolved there. During this reaction, it’s believed that four electrons are exchanged between lithium ions and carbon dioxide.

This electron transfer determines the theoretical charge that can be stored in the battery. In a normal lithium-ion battery, the positive electrode exchanges just one electron per reaction (in lithium air batteries, it’s two to four electrons). The greater exchange of electrons in the lithium-carbon dioxide battery, combined with the high voltage of the reaction, explains their potential to greatly outperform today’s lithium-ion batteries.

In terms of the benefits to carbon emissions, by our rough calculations, 1kg of catalyst could absorb around 18.5kg of CO₂. Since a car driving 100 miles emits around 18kg-20kg of CO₂, that means such a battery could potentially offset a day’s drive.

However, the technology has a few issues. The batteries don’t last very long. Commercial lithium-ion packs routinely survive 1,000–10,000 charging cycles; most LiCO₂ prototypes fade after fewer than 100.

They’re also difficult to recharge. This requires breaking down the lithium carbonate to release lithium and CO₂, which can be energy intensive. This energy requirement is a little like a hill that must be cycled up before the reaction can coast, and is known as overpotential.

You can reduce this requirement by printing the right catalyst material on the porous positive electrode. Yet these catalysts are typically expensive and rare noble metals, such as ruthenium and platinum, which is a significant barrier to commercial viability.

Our team has found an alternative catalyst, caesium phosphomolybdate, which is far cheaper and easy to manufacture at room temperature. This material made the batteries stable for 107 cycles, while also storing 2.5 times as much charge as a lithium-ion. And we significantly reduced the energy cost involved in breaking down lithium carbonate, for an overpotential of 0.67 volts, which is only about double what would be necessary in a commercial product.

Our research team is now working to further reduce the cost of this technology by developing a catalyst that replaces caesium, since it’s the phosphomolybdate that is key. This could make the system more economically viable and scalable for widespread deployment.

We also plan to study how the battery charges and discharges in real time. This will provide a clearer understanding of the internal mechanisms at work, helping to optimise performance and durability.

Lithium-carbon dioxide batteries could help humans to colonise Mars.
Forelse Stock

A major focus of upcoming tests will be to evaluate how the battery performs under different CO₂ pressures. So far, the system has only been tested under idealised conditions (1 bar). If it can work at 0.1 bar of pressure, it will be feasible for car exhausts and gas boiler flues, meaning you could capture CO₂ while you drive or heat your home. Demonstrating that this works will be an important confirmation of commercial viability, albeit we would expect the battery’s charge capacity to reduce at this pressure.

If the batteries work at 0.006 bar, the pressure on the Martian atmosphere, they could power anything from an exploration rover to a colony. At 0.0004 bar, Earth’s ambient air pressure, they could capture CO₂ from our atmosphere and store power anywhere. In all cases, the key question will be how it affects the battery’s charge capacity.

Meanwhile, to improve the battery’s number of recharge cycles, we need to address the fact that the electrolyte dries out. We’re currently investigating solutions, which probably involve developing casings that only CO₂ can move into. As for reducing the energy required for the catalyst to work, it’s likely to require optimising the battery’s geometry to maximise the reaction rate – and to introduce a flow of CO₂, comparable to how fuel cells work (typically by feeding in hydrogen and oxygen).

If this continued work can push the battery’s cycle life above 1,000 cycles, cut overpotential below 0.3 V, and replace scarce elements entirely, commercial Li-CO₂ packs could become reality. Our experiments will determine just how versatile and far-reaching the battery’s applications might be, from carbon capture on Earth to powering missions on Mars.

Daniel Commandeur receives funding from the Royal Society. He is a member of the Royal Society of Chemistry and Christians in Science.

Siddharth Gadkari receives funding from UKRI.

Mahsa Masoudi 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. Batteries that absorb carbon emissions move a step closer to reality – new study – https://theconversation.com/batteries-that-absorb-carbon-emissions-move-a-step-closer-to-reality-new-study-256915

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Disaster authoritarianism: how autocratic regimes deal with earthquakes

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nimesh Dhungana, Lecturer in Disasters and Global Health, Humanitarian and Conflict Response Institute, University of Manchester

An earthquake that struck south-east Asia in late March is thought to have killed more than 3,000 people in Myanmar, a country ruled by a military junta that has blocked humanitarian aid and continued waging war on quake-ravaged rebel territory.

I am interested in how authoritarian regimes handle disasters and whether they disrupt or reinforce the ruling elite’s agenda. My research has led me to Tibet, which has endured Chinese occupation since 1951 and suffered a 7.1-magnitude earthquake in early January 2025.

Beijing controls the access of independent media and international observers in Tibet. What we know about the disaster’s impact is largely based on initial reporting by the Chinese media, which has claimed the loss of 126 lives and damage to roads and communication networks.

Tibetan sources have, however, contended that there has been much greater destruction, including to a number of monasteries and nunneries across the region.

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Following the earthquake, the Chinese president, Xi Jinping, ordered “all-out search and rescue efforts” and pledged a rapid recovery. The constrained political environment has meant that Chinese relief agencies and the Chinese state-run media have controlled the narrative, praising Beijing’s capacity for “speed and compassion” in mobilising rescue efforts while using the disaster to highlight China’s record of “good governance and putting people and their lives first”.

These accounts not only fail to report on the civic responses to disaster, such as mutual aid networks organised by Tibetans both locally and internationally, but they tend to overlook the immediate concerns of the affected communities.

Survivors and activists using social media to challenge Chinese media narratives of purported success in rescue and relief efforts have faced censorship and outright hostility from the Chinese authorities. A previous study, looking at the 2008 Sichuan earthquake, found that communities that were considered a challenge to Chinese authority had their demands for relief suppressed.

Firefighters shift rubble in Shigatse on January 7 2025.
China News Service, CC BY-SA

The earthquake has sparked further concerns among Tibetans that Chinese authorities will use the disaster to tighten their grip on the region.

The situation is reminiscent of the April 2010 earthquake that struck Tibet’s Yushu region, claiming more than 2,600 lives and causing significant disruption to local life. The earthquake enabled China to push its vision of modernity and development in Tibet amid allegations of corruption in relief distribution and forced relocations.

The aftermath revealed a divergence between the Chinese interpretation of recovery and what many Tibetans saw as essential for preserving and promoting their unique cultural identity.

In their study of the Zimbabwean state’s response to tropical cyclone Idai in 2019, anthropologist Denboy Kudejira described this phenomenon as “disaster authoritarianism”: when an authoritarian regime exploits a disaster to reassert its power. Akin to China’s model, the Zimbabwean government restricted the involvement of non-state groups in longer-term recovery efforts.

The relative lack of attention journalists and politicians abroad pay to Tibet makes this problem more acute. For instance, the wildfires in Los Angeles erupted at the same time as the earthquake, but garnered greater and more sustained media attention that mounted scrutiny on responsible agencies. By contrast, the Tibet earthquake quickly faded from the news.

‘Confrontational politics emerging’

For Tibetans, challenging disaster authoritarianism is part of a delicate political struggle. Tibet’s spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, called the disaster “a natural phenomenon and not the result of human activities”, while urging Tibetans not to be “angry with the Chinese”. This appears to reflect his long-held wisdom that antagonising Chinese authorities will invite further hardship for communities enduring political marginalisation.

Others are more sceptical. Some people inside Tibet have questioned the official number of casualties reported by Beijing and pushed Chinese authorities to clarify the scale of the tragedy.

There are signs of more confrontational politics emerging. The International Campaign for Tibet, which lobbies for self-determination for Tibetans, has labelled the disaster “the silent earthquake” and accused Chinese authorities of censoring the true nature of suffering.

Another rights group, the Tibetan Rights Collective, has highlighted China’s interventions in Tibet that have made the region more geologically unstable, including the building of hydropower dams and roads. Recent research shows that China’s push to build infrastructure in the region has increased the risk of disasters, such as floods and landslides, for downstream communities in south Asia.

Research a colleague and I conducted during the pandemic showed that community groups can compensate for gaps in state-led disaster responses, and alert where help is needed. But this depends on public participation and grassroots organising that, in authoritarian contexts such as Tibet and Myanmar, is heavily restricted.

The climate crisis is increasing the risk of disasters at the same time as there is widespread fear of increasing authoritarianism globally. We should all worry about how these two trends might interact.

Nimesh Dhungana 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. Disaster authoritarianism: how autocratic regimes deal with earthquakes – https://theconversation.com/disaster-authoritarianism-how-autocratic-regimes-deal-with-earthquakes-248188

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Do we see colour the same way? What scientists can learn from artists

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Sasha Rakovich, Senior Lecturer in Physics, King’s College London

TSViPhoto/Shutterstock

As many people sit at the wheel of their car, they are certain they know what colour is. It’s the red traffic light in front of them, the garish yellow hatchback in the next lane, or the green verge banking to their right.

Colour, as many people understand it, is the property of a thing. That light is green. The sky is blue. But scientifically, that’s not quite true. No one can experience the exact same colour as you do. Colour is a perceptual experience created by our brains.

It’s the interaction between a material, light and the mind. The way a material absorbs and scatters light affects what reaches our eyes. And colour needs to be processed by the brain.

The shape of objects and the context in which you encounter them can also shape the way you perceive colour. If you’ve ever picked a paint colour that looked perfect in the shop but turned into something entirely difference once on your walls, you’ve already encountered this phenomenon.

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This notion of colour as experience was recently shown in a study by researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, who used lasers to manipulate participants’ eyes into seeing a new colour – a blue-green they call olo.

To achieve this, the scientists used lasers to activate specific photoreceptor cells in the retina that detect green wavelengths of light, called M cones. We also have S and L cones, types of photoreceptors that detect short blue, and longer red wavelengths of light respectively. Everyone has slight variations in the number and sensitivity of these cones, so we each experience colour a little differently.

Outside the lab, the reflected light that comes into our eyes illuminates large areas of the retina, which stimulates multiple cone types. The wavelengths perceived by the M and L cones overlap by over 85%. This means that under natural conditions, the two are always activated together, but in varying degrees.

By targeting just the M cones, the scientists at Berkeley have in essence created a pure colour. Olo doesn’t have context or material conditions. It will look the same to different people.

But this isn’t the only example which shows the place of the brain in colour perception.

The most common type of red-green colour blindness, deuteranomaly, occurs when the M and L cones overlap more than they should. This reduces people’s ability to distinguish between colours in that range, without affecting sharpness or brightness.

Language may play a role in colour perception, influencing how easily or accurately we discriminate between colours, especially when languages differ in how they categorise or label colour distinctions. This highlights the gulf between an objective property and the processing of the brain.

The difference between the subjective experience of colour and the fixed, physical means of producing it means that most artists’ search for “pure” paint will fail. British artist Stuart Semple recently claimed he’d recreated olo in paint form. He called the paint yolo. But when people look at it, M and L cones will be activated at the same time. A “pure” paint is still impossible.

Semple’s Black 3.0, along with other ultra-black materials, is marketed as a “pure” black paint. It absorbs nearly all light, using a high concentration of light-absorbing pigments and a matte binder to minimise reflections. But instead of offering a pure colour, it removes colour altogether – delivering a universal experience of “black” by eliminating visual stimulus.

Colour is never static.
gkkhjn/Shutterstock

In truth, artists have known colour is a matter of perception for quite some time. The modernist artist Mark Rothko was notoriously meticulous about how his work was displayed. Rothko insisted that his work be hung low, with as little white wall visible as possible, in dim light.

He was shaping the experience of colour his work presented to the onlooker by controlling brightness, contrast and the surroundings. Rothko, like the scientists at Berkeley, recognised that colour is an interaction between material, light and observer. It is not just about manipulating what we don’t see, but about engineering what we do.

I have been running a public engagement programme, Transcending the Invisible, which brings together scientists and artists to explore scientific ideas through art. What I’ve been struck by most is that scientists and artists

– ref. Do we see colour the same way? What scientists can learn from artists – https://theconversation.com/do-we-see-colour-the-same-way-what-scientists-can-learn-from-artists-256142

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Kansas City Man in Murder-for-Hire Conspiracy

Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (b)

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was convicted in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire.

Thomas D. Clegg, 42, was found guilty by a jury of participating in a conspiracy to commit murder for hire.

Clegg and others conspired from Aug. 19, 2021, to June 13, 2022, to murder a victim identified as “J.C.” and his family members for payment in cash and marijuana.

The conspiracy included two occasions when Clegg shot J.C. On Aug. 19, 2021, Clegg shot J.C. in the leg and back in the parking lot of Ugly Joe’s bar in Kansas City, Mo. On May 25, 2022, Clegg shot J.C. in the back in the parking lot of a strip mall located at 4010 Sterling Avenue, Kansas City, Mo. The businesses in and near the strip mall included an accounting firm, daycare, and fitness center. One witness had just picked two of her children up from the daycare when her vehicle was struck by the gunfire. One of her windows was shot out, but no one in her vehicle was injured.

Investigators seized Clegg’s cell phone when he was arrested. Investigators also obtained search warrants for Clegg’s cell phone. Text messages between Clegg and co-conspirators indicated that Clegg was hired to murder J.C.

Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., deliberated for approximately two and a half hours before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips, ending a trial that began Monday, May 12.

Clegg pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm utilized in the May 2022 shooting on Tuesday, May 6.

Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Clegg has two prior felony convictions for possession of a controlled substance, as well as prior felony convictions for unlawful use of a weapon, trafficking in drugs, voluntary manslaughter, discharging a firearm from a motor vehicle, assault, armed criminal action, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Under federal statutes, Clegg is subject to a sentence of up to 30 years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashleigh A. Ragner and Heather Siegele. It was investigated by the FBI, the Kansas City, Mo. Police Department, the Independence, Mo. Police Department, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Project Safe Neighborhoods

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

MIL Security OSI –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI—Hagerty Joins Squawk Box on CNBC to Discuss GENIUS Act, Budget Reconciliation, Tariffs

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Tennessee Bill Hagerty
NEW YORK CITY—Today, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN), a member of the Senate Appropriations, Banking, and Foreign Relations Committees and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, joined Squawk Box on CNBC live in-studio to discuss the GENIUS Act vote in the Senate, the budget reconciliation package, and President Donald Trump’s ongoing trade negotiations.

*Click the photo above or here to watch*
Partial Transcript
Hagerty on the GENIUS Act: “It’s actually born from a great deal of frustration. We started working on the bill in earnest back in the fall, but we’ve watched what’s happened with the absence of any type of regulatory framework here in America. And what we see is this type of innovative technology moving offshore. The last thing I want to see is that I don’t want to see innovation leaving America. It’s all happening here right now. But what we saw was a lack of regulatory framework, which means a lack of certainty. And if you’re using enforcement actions from the [Securities and Exchange Commission], which was what has been happening for the past four years, to regulate the markets, it creates massive amounts of uncertainty. This will fix it […] It basically establishes a legal and regulatory framework to issue stablecoins here in America. Stablecoin is stable, meaning it’s backed by a certain currency. In this case it’s tied to the U.S dollar, but also, it’s backed either by cash or by short-term U.S. treasury securities. So, it’s entirely safe having that type of regulatory framework and disclosure around it so we know exactly what’s backing up these digital dollars, if you will, is going to be great.”
Hagerty on the difference between stablecoins and typical cryptocurrency:“This is a payment mechanism, and not to be confused with Bitcoin or something that has a speculative component. This puts us into a digital payment framework. The fastest rails available, much better than the system developed in the seventies and eighties, which is slow. It takes days to clear […] It’s not going to be [backed by] equities. It’s going to be high quality, short-term assets, either short-term U.S. treasuries or cash. I think the majority of it’ll be U.S. treasuries. In fact, what this will do, and the projections are by 2030, this is according to Citibank, stablecoin issuers will be the largest holders of U.S. treasuries in the world.”
Hagerty on opposition to the GENIUS Act: “No one in the industry is [opposing this legislation] and has to do with my colleagues. And basically, it’s gotten to be a question; we’ll find out tonight. We have broad policy agreement, Democrats and Republicans. The question is, can we get past the partisan politics and allow us to actually have a victory? I would enjoy having a bipartisan victory […] It’s politicians that want to see centralized control. And centralized control, if you want that, buy the digital yuan. I don’t want to see that happen here in America. I think it would be devastating for the dollar’s value as the reserve currency. This will actually perpetuate the dollar’s value as a reserve currency. It will extend that momentum. It’s going to extend demand for U.S. treasuries. There’s a lot to like about this.”
Hagerty on Moody’s U.S. credit downgrade highlighting the need to pass the budget reconciliation package: “I think it puts more pressure on us as well, over the next couple of weeks, to get this reconciliation bill done in a way that’s responsible and shows real progress against the deficit […] I’d certainly like to see [the bill passed] sooner, and so would my colleagues in the Senate […] [Treasury Secretary] Scott [Bessent’s] perspective on the market is born from his experience. I’ll just say the immediate impact is real, but I think the market’s going to digest this. The other rating agencies [have] already put us at this place, but what I want to see is the reconciliation package come through stimulation of capital investment. That capital investment will be at more jobs, more economic activity, that’s going to be good for revenue growth […] My colleagues in the Senate want to see significant cuts.”
Hagerty on the ongoing trade negotiations: “I think it’s coming much more clear. What we have is a system that’s a result of—you go back to the post World War II era, we put in place very favorable terms of trade. Countries like those in Europe, Japan, their economies were devastated. But we should have put a GDP-per-capita or a time limit on those. We didn’t. So, we wind up with these gross imbalances. For example, you build a car here in America, sell to Europe, ten percent tariff. They build one there, sell to us, two and a half percent. We’d never do that deal today. So, this sort of reciprocity is sorting itself out. We’ve had a deal struck with the UK; we’re in a good place with China.”
Hagerty on tariff impacts: “To the extent there is an increase, you’ve got the producer, you’ve got the shipper, you’ve got the middleman, the retailer, and you’ve got the consumer. All of them may bear some of that. But it’s not certain to me at all, that that’s where we’re going to head. We could head to lower tariffs around the board […] The president’s been working very hard with China to make sure we get this thing addressed as quickly as possible.”

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Senate Passes Peters, Ernst Bipartisan Resolution Designating May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Michigan Gary Peters
Published: 05.19.2025
Resolution Promotes Safe Roadway Practices for Motorcyclists & Motorists

WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate passed a bipartisan resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), co-chairs of the Senate Motorcycle Caucus, to designate May as “Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month.” The resolution promotes safe practices for the millions of motorcycle riders across America.
“I’ve always said there’s no better way to get from point A to point B than on a motorcycle. But we must ensure that our roads are safe for both drivers and riders,” said Senator Peters. “With summer around the corner and more riders hitting the open road, I’m proud the Senate has once again passed this bipartisan resolution to promote best practices that will keep folks safe and informed.”
“From delivering messages as a young girl to my dad while he was working out in the fields to riding through the rolling hills of Northeast Iowa with family and friends, some of my most cherished memories include motorcycles so I’m proud to designate May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month,” said Senator Ernst. “As the weather warms up and folks hit the road, I’m excited to share my love of riding while highlighting safety and rider education.”
“Senators Peters and Ernst have long been champions of the motorcycle industry and we thank them for highlighting Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month by authoring this resolution,” said Scott Schloegel, Senior Vice President of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, and the Motorcycle Industry Council. “As riders themselves, the Senators have surely encountered instances of car & truck drivers encroaching on motorcycles when changing lanes or vehicles turning in front of motorcyclists due to a lack of attention. May is a time when many riders are returning to the roads after the winter season and it is the perfect time to remind all road users to lookout for motorcycles as we share the roads.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in 2023, accounting for 15 percent of all traffic fatalities. This is the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities on record since the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) began data collection in 1975. Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month aims to address these safety concerns by promoting roadway education, safety training opportunities, and the use of proper gear for motorcycle operation.
The text of the resolution can be found here.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Minister ‘seeks to cause alarm’ over online abuse

Source: Anglia Ruskin University

Minister for Safeguarding and Violence against Women and Girls, Jess Phillips, speaking at the IPPPRI25 conference on 19 May. Photograph by Richard Cranefield

The Minister for Safeguarding and Violence against Women and Girls, Jess Phillips, says she “seeks to cause alarm” to ensure the public understand the damage to society being caused by increasing levels of online child sexual abuse.

Speaking today [19 May] at the annual conference of Anglia Ruskin University’s International Policing and Public Protection Research Institute (IPPPRI), Phillips said that political change often reflects public opinion.

Referencing the young average age of perpetrators of child-on-child abuse, Phillips said: “I don’t think we’ve scared people about this enough. What I know as a politician is that politics reacts to what the public genuinely ask it to. On child sexual abuse, we need to do quite a lot of work to take the public on a journey with this. Getting the public onside is a really important thing.

“I want to cause alarm. I seek to cause alarm on this subject. It is dangerous and it is frightening. We have a lot to do.”

Phillips also stressed that domestic legislation will “never be enough” to tackle a global issue, but believes the UK’s new online safety act “will improve the global conversations more than anything else”.

Phillips added: “The online safety act is not the end of the conversation, it is the foundation. We will not hesitate to strengthen the law further to ensure the safety our children and the British public. Tech companies should hear, loud and clear, that if their technology hides child abuse, that is on them and it has to change.

“I think [technology companies] can manage to find child abuse that is being shared secretly, and should put as much investment into that as into the algorithms that pop up on my children’s phone.”

Phillips also said work needs to be done to improve the systems in place to protect victims: “I have worked for years with adults who were abused as children and children who were being directly abused themselves. I have seen how systems failed them, I have seen how systems continue to fail them and are not designed with them at the heart.

“Abuse of power against those who are most vulnerable leaves lifelong trauma and scars at huge cost both to the exchequer and society. Almost all of the most problematic cases I have ever handled stem from somebody being abused as a child and having nowhere to turn.”

The three-day Anglia Ruskin University conference features an array of international speakers covering areas such as deepfakes, the dark web, gaming platforms, and threats posed by artificial intelligence.

This year’s event, the largest of its kind in the UK, places particular emphasis on prevention, early intervention and the vital role of education in safeguarding, and brings together academics, law enforcement, policymakers and advocates united by the common goal of protecting children online.

“As our world becomes ever more connected, the digital landscape presents new risks for children – risks that require urgent attention, innovative thinking and sustained collaboration. At IPPPRI, we are proud to be at the forefront of research and action in this critical space.”

Professor Samantha Lundrigan, Director of IPPPRI at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Governor Kehoe Provides Update on May 16 Severe Storms and Tornadoes
Source: US State of Missouri

MAY 19, 2025

Jefferson City — JEFFERSON CITY – Today, Governor Mike Kehoe provided an update on the recovery efforts following the devastating severe storms and tornadoes that struck on May 16, leaving widespread destruction in St. Louis and the southeast Missouri region. Governor Kehoe and state officials spent Saturday with local officials in St. Louis surveying some of the hardest-hit areas. All levels of government are fully engaged, and recovery efforts continue across the region.

Ahead of the storm, Governor Kehoe extended the Missouri State of Emergency declaration, which has allowed first responders, road crews, and emergency management officials to move quickly. The Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan remains in effect.
- Damage Assessments and Local Support: State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) regional coordinators continue working swiftly with local emergency managers to make initial damage assessments in preparation for a federal major disaster declaration request. SEMA staff are coordinating resource requests from local emergency managers for needed supplies, materials, and support services with sheltering, debris clearance, damage assessments, and other needs. For more information on the federal disaster declaration process, visit this link.
- White House Coordination and Federal Support: Governor Kehoe has been in direct contact with President Donald Trump, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Acting Administrator David Richardson, and Missouri’s Congressional delegation on the situation and discussed state efforts and federal assistance.
Today, Governor Mike Kehoe also took two actions to expedite federal assistance to Missouri following the severe storms and tornadoes that struck the state on May 16, causing seven deaths and widespread damage in the St. Louis region and areas of southeast Missouri:
- Governor Kehoe requested that President Donald Trump issue a federal Emergency Declaration for the State of Missouri in response to the May 16 tornadoes and severe storms, which, if approved, would authorize Direct Federal Assistance (DFA) and up to $5 million in immediate funding to the state to support emergency protective measures and debris removal.
- The Governor also requested that FEMA participate in joint Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDA) of damage to homes and personal property in the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County along with Cape Girardeau, Iron, New Madrid, Scott, Stoddard, and Wayne counties in southeast Missouri, in preparation for a request by the Governor for a federal Major Disaster Declaration for these areas.
“Friday’s severe storms and tornadoes caused devastation in the St. Louis region and areas of southeast Missouri, took the lives of seven people, resulted in thousands of homes, businesses, and public infrastructure being damaged or destroyed, and left tens of thousands without power,” Governor Kehoe said. “Local first responders, officials, businesses, and volunteer groups are working around the clock to recover, but the task before us is tremendously large and recovery will not be easy. A federal Emergency Declaration will provide an immediate infusion of needed funds while the joint preliminary damage assessments will allow the normal federal Major Disaster Declaration process to move forward. We appreciate President Trump, Secretary Noem, FEMA Acting Administrator Richardson, and Trump Administration officials for their quick communication and responsiveness to the situation.”

A federal Emergency Declaration provides federal resources to support state response operations to protect lives, safeguard public health and provide for public safety. It does not delay or affect the process of pursuing a federal Major Disaster Declaration, which would provide Individual Assistance to help homeowners and renters, and Public Assistance, which would reimburse local governments for emergency response costs, debris removal, and repair and replacement of damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure. Individual Assistance and Public Assistance require joint preliminary damage assessments by teams made up of representatives from FEMA, SEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and local emergency management officials, extensive documentation, and a federal review process that can take weeks to complete.

Beginning Wednesday, May 21, six teams will survey and verify documented damage in Cape Girardeau, Iron, New Madrid, St. Louis, Scott, Stoddard, and Wayne counties and the City of St. Louis to determine if Individual Assistance can be requested through FEMA. Individual Assistance allows eligible residents to seek federal assistance for temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles, and other qualifying expenses. Initial damage assessments for roads, bridges and other public infrastructure are ongoing, potentially resulting in a request for PDAs for Public Assistance in the future.

SEMA continues to coordinate with local officials and volunteer and faith-based partners to identify needs and assist impacted families and individuals. Missourians with unmet needs are encouraged to contact United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or www.211helps.org or the American Red Cross at 1-800-733-2767.

For additional resources and information about disaster recovery in Missouri, including general clean-up information, housing assistance, and mental health services, visit recovery.mo.gov.

###

MIL OSI USA News –
May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Capito, Barrasso Introduce Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for West Virginia Shelley Moore Capito
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) recently introduced pro-growth legislation to boost investment in American manufacturing and help small businesses, farmers, and ranchers purchase the equipment and supplies they need to build their operations and support their employees.
The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act will reduce tax bills for business owners looking to purchase equipment—including machinery, farming equipment, energy infrastructure, building upgrades, commercial vehicles, mining equipment, and more. This will free up resources to go toward employee salaries, materials, and other critical business expenditures.
“West Virginia’s manufacturers and small business owners are the backbone of our economy,” Senator Capito said. “The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act will give them the tools they need to compete, grow, and hire. By allowing greater investment in equipment and operations, this bill strengthens our global competitiveness and supports the hardworking Americans driving innovation and economic growth across the country.”
“Wyoming’s small businesses are what keeps our economy going strong. We want to make sure they have every opportunity to succeed,” Senator Barrasso said. “Right now, they face an uphill battle with high prices and a mountain of new regulations. The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act will go a long way in helping Wyoming’s farmers, ranchers and small businesses expand their operations, better compete and hire more workers.”
“Manufacturers are driving the economy by investing in job-creating projects and cutting-edge equipment and machinery. The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act would incentivize and support these important investments by reducing the cost of capital equipment purchases and the debt financing that makes them possible. Manufacturers commend Sens. Barrasso and Capito for their leadership in introducing this bill, and we encourage Congress to include these policies in comprehensive legislation that preserves and extends pro-manufacturing tax provisions from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act,” Charles Crain, Managing Vice President of Policy, National Association of Manufacturers (NAM), said.
“Doubling the small business expensing threshold (Section 179) will be a huge win for small employers. This will allow small businesses to make significant capital investments which will help to grow the Main Street economy. NFIB applauds Senators Barrasso and Capito for introducing this important legislation,” Jeff Brabant, Vice President, Federal Government Relations, National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), said.
“America’s economic security relies on a strong manufacturing sector and small business growth. The “Restore American Investment Now” (RAIN) Coalition applauds Senators John Barrasso (R-WY) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) for introducing the Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act, which restores the EBITDA standard for business interest deductibility. Restoring the EBITDA standard will help businesses to invest, grow, and create jobs. We thank the Senators championing this pro-growth legislation to strengthen American manufacturing, support small business expansion, and create more opportunity for American workers,” Michael O’Rielly, Spokesman, RAIN Coalition, said.
“Tax policy plays a critical role in the restaurant industry’s success. Pro-growth policies ensure that restaurant owners can continue investing in their businesses – upgrading equipment, expanding dining rooms, and creating jobs. With economic uncertainty beginning to slow spending, restoration of the critical interest expense deductions and small-business expensing are top priorities for our members. We appreciate Sens. Barrasso and Capito’s continued support of restaurant operators and small business owners and hope that Congress will include these important policies in any tax package they pass this year,” Sean Kennedy, Executive Vice President, National Restaurant Association, said.
BACKGROUND:
The Growing America’s Small Businesses and Manufacturing Act delivers two pro-growth tax proposals that will boost investment in capital-intensive industries like manufacturing, energy production, and agriculture.
Expanded Business Interest Deduction:
The bill revises the limitation from 30% of a business’s Earnings Before Interest and Taxes (EBIT), back to 30% of Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, Amortization, and depletion (EBITDA).
This protects businesses from being punished for investments in machinery, capital equipment, mining, drilling, and research and development (R&D).
Enhanced Small Business Expensing:
The second provision expands Section 179, which allows taxpayers to deduct the cost of certain business assets in the year they are purchased rather than depreciating them over time.
Under the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the maximum deduction amount was increased to $1 million from $500,000, helping small businesses acquire the equipment needed to expand operations.
The bill builds on this success by lifting the deduction cap to $2.5 million, accelerating small businesses’ access to capital.
The provision covers a wide range of eligible expenses, including machinery, mining tools, farming implements, energy production equipment, commercial vehicles, building upgrades, and other critical investments.
Full text of the legislation can be found here.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA News: The Inaugural Address

Source: The White House

U.S. Capitol
Washington, D.C.

12:10 P.M. EST

THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Thank you very much, everybody. (Applause.) Wow. Thank you very, very much.

Vice President Vance, Speaker Johnson, Senator Thune, Chief Justice Roberts, justices of the Supreme Court of the United States, President Clinton, President Bush, President Obama, President Biden, Vice President Harris, and my fellow citizens, the golden age of America begins right now. (Applause.)

From this day forward, our country will flourish and be respected again all over the world. We will be the envy of every nation, and we will not allow ourselves to be taken advantage of any longer. During every single day of the Trump administration, I will, very simply, put America first. (Applause.)

Our sovereignty will be reclaimed. Our safety will be restored. The scales of justice will be rebalanced. The vicious, violent, and unfair weaponization of the Justice Department and our government will end. (Applause.)

And our top priority will be to create a nation that is proud, prosperous, and free. (Applause.)

America will soon be greater, stronger, and far more exceptional than ever before. (Applause.)

I return to the presidency confident and optimistic that we are at the start of a thrilling new era of national success. A tide of change is sweeping the country, sunlight is pouring over the entire world, and America has the chance to seize this opportunity like never before.

But first, we must be honest about the challenges we face. While they are plentiful, they will be annihilated by this great momentum that the world is now witnessing in the United States of America.

As we gather today, our government confronts a crisis of trust. For many years, a radical and corrupt establishment has extracted power and wealth from our citizens while the pillars of our society lay broken and seemingly in complete disrepair.

We now have a government that cannot manage even a simple crisis at home while, at the same time, stumbling into a continuing catalogue of catastrophic events abroad.

It fails to protect our magnificent, law-abiding American citizens but provides sanctuary and protection for dangerous criminals, many from prisons and mental institutions, that have illegally entered our country from all over the world.

We have a government that has given unlimited funding to the defense of foreign borders but refuses to defend American borders or, more importantly, its own people.

Our country can no longer deliver basic services in times of emergency, as recently shown by the wonderful people of North Carolina — who have been treated so badly — (applause) — and other states who are still suffering from a hurricane that took place many months ago or, more recently, Los Angeles, where we are watching fires still tragically burn from weeks ago without even a token of defense. They’re raging through the houses and communities, even affecting some of the wealthiest and most powerful individuals in our country — some of whom are sitting here right now. They don’t have a home any longer. That’s interesting. But we can’t let this happen. Everyone is unable to do anything about it. That’s going to change.

We have a public health system that does not deliver in times of disaster, yet more money is spent on it than any country anywhere in the world.

And we have an education system that teaches our children to be ashamed of themselves — in many cases, to hate our country despite the love that we try so desperately to provide to them. All of this will change starting today, and it will change very quickly. (Applause.)

My recent election is a mandate to completely and totally reverse a horrible betrayal and all of these many betrayals that have taken place and to give the people back their faith, their wealth, their democracy, and, indeed, their freedom. From this moment on, America’s decline is over. (Applause.)

Our liberties and our nation’s glorious destiny will no longer be denied. And we will immediately restore the integrity, competency, and loyalty of America’s government.

Over the past eight years, I have been tested and challenged more than any president in our 250-year history, and I’ve learned a lot along the way.

The journey to reclaim our republic has not been an easy one — that, I can tell you. Those who wish to stop our cause have tried to take my freedom and, indeed, to take my life.

Just a few months ago, in a beautiful Pennsylvania field, an assassin’s bullet ripped through my ear. But I felt then and believe even more so now that my life was saved for a reason. I was saved by God to make America great again. (Applause.)

Thank you. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you very much. (Applause.)

That is why each day under our administration of American patriots, we will be working to meet every crisis with dignity and power and strength. We will move with purpose and speed to bring back hope, prosperity, safety, and peace for citizens of every race, religion, color, and creed.

For American citizens, January 20th, 2025, is Liberation Day. (Applause.) It is my hope that our recent presidential election will be remembered as the greatest and most consequential election in the history of our country.

As our victory showed, the entire nation is rapidly unifying behind our agenda with dramatic increases in support from virtually every element of our society: young and old, men and women, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, urban, suburban, rural. And very importantly, we had a powerful win in all seven swing states — (applause) — and the popular vote, we won by millions of people. (Applause.)

To the Black and Hispanic communities, I want to thank you for the tremendous outpouring of love and trust that you have shown me with your vote. We set records, and I will not forget it. I’ve heard your voices in the campaign, and I look forward to working with you in the years to come.

Today is Martin Luther King Day. And his honor — this will be a great honor. But in his honor, we will strive together to make his dream a reality. We will make his dream come true. (Applause.)

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. (Applause.)

National unity is now returning to America, and confidence and pride is soaring like never before. In everything we do, my administration will be inspired by a strong pursuit of excellence and unrelenting success. We will not forget our country, we will not forget our Constitution, and we will not forget our God. Can’t do that. (Applause.)

Today, I will sign a series of historic executive orders. With these actions, we will begin the complete restoration of America and the revolution of common sense. It’s all about common sense. (Applause.)

First, I will declare a national emergency at our southern border. (Applause.)

All illegal entry will immediately be halted, and we will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back to the places from which they came. We will reinstate my Remain in Mexico policy. (Applause.)

I will end the practice of catch and release. (Applause.)

And I will send troops to the southern border to repel the disastrous invasion of our country. (Applause.)

Under the orders I sign today, we will also be designating the cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. (Applause.)

And by invoking the Alien Enemies Act of 1798, I will direct our government to use the full and immense power of federal and state law enforcement to eliminate the presence of all foreign gangs and criminal networks bringing devastating crime to U.S. soil, including our cities and inner cities. (Applause.)

As commander in chief, I have no higher responsibility than to defend our country from threats and invasions, and that is exactly what I am going to do. We will do it at a level that nobody has ever seen before.

Next, I will direct all members of my cabinet to marshal the vast powers at their disposal to defeat what was record inflation and rapidly bring down costs and prices. (Applause.)

The inflation crisis was caused by massive overspending and escalating energy prices, and that is why today I will also declare a national energy emergency. We will drill, baby, drill. (Applause.)

America will be a manufacturing nation once again, and we have something that no other manufacturing nation will ever have — the largest amount of oil and gas of any country on earth — and we are going to use it. We’ll use it. (Applause.)

We will bring prices down, fill our strategic reserves up again right to the top, and export American energy all over the world. (Applause.)

We will be a rich nation again, and it is that liquid gold under our feet that will help to do it.

With my actions today, we will end the Green New Deal, and we will revoke the electric vehicle mandate, saving our auto industry and keeping my sacred pledge to our great American autoworkers. (Applause.)

In other words, you’ll be able to buy the car of your choice.

We will build automobiles in America again at a rate that nobody could have dreamt possible just a few years ago. And thank you to the autoworkers of our nation for your inspiring vote of confidence. We did tremendously with their vote. (Applause.)

I will immediately begin the overhaul of our trade system to protect American workers and families. Instead of taxing our citizens to enrich other countries, we will tariff and tax foreign countries to enrich our citizens. (Applause.)

For this purpose, we are establishing the External Revenue Service to collect all tariffs, duties, and revenues. It will be massive amounts of money pouring into our Treasury, coming from foreign sources.

The American dream will soon be back and thriving like never before.

To restore competence and effectiveness to our federal government, my administration will establish the brand-new Department of Government Efficiency. (Applause.)

After years and years of illegal and unconstitutional federal efforts to restrict free expression, I also will sign an executive order to immediately stop all government censorship and bring back free speech to America. (Applause.)

Never again will the immense power of the state be weaponized to persecute political opponents — something I know something about. (Laughter.) We will not allow that to happen. It will not happen again.

Under my leadership, we will restore fair, equal, and impartial justice under the constitutional rule of law. (Applause.)

And we are going to bring law and order back to our cities. (Applause.)

This week, I will also end the government policy of trying to socially engineer race and gender into every aspect of public and private life. (Applause.) We will forge a society that is colorblind and merit-based. (Applause.)

As of today, it will henceforth be the official policy of the United States government that there are only two genders: male and female. (Applause.)

This week, I will reinstate any service members who were unjustly expelled from our military for objecting to the COVID vaccine mandate with full back pay. (Applause.)

And I will sign an order to stop our warriors from being subjected to radical political theories and social experiments while on duty. It’s going to end immediately. (Applause.) Our armed forces will be freed to focus on their sole mission: defeating America’s enemies. (Applause.)

Like in 2017, we will again build the strongest military the world has ever seen. We will measure our success not only by the battles we win but also by the wars that we end — and perhaps most importantly, the wars we never get into. (Applause.)

My proudest legacy will be that of a peacemaker and unifier. That’s what I want to be: a peacemaker and a unifier.

I’m pleased to say that as of yesterday, one day before I assumed office, the hostages in the Middle East are coming back home to their families. (Applause.)

Thank you.

America will reclaim its rightful place as the greatest, most powerful, most respected nation on earth, inspiring the awe and admiration of the entire world.

A short time from now, we are going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America — (applause) — and we will restore the name of a great president, William McKinley, to Mount McKinley, where it should be and where it belongs. (Applause.)

President McKinley made our country very rich through tariffs and through talent — he was a natural businessman — and gave Teddy Roosevelt the money for many of the great things he did, including the Panama Canal, which has foolishly been given to the country of Panama after the United Spates — the United States — I mean, think of this — spent more money than ever spent on a project before and lost 38,000 lives in the building of the Panama Canal.

We have been treated very badly from this foolish gift that should have never been made, and Panama’s promise to us has been broken.

The purpose of our deal and the spirit of our treaty has been totally violated. American ships are being severely overcharged and not treated fairly in any way, shape, or form. And that includes the United States Navy.

And above all, China is operating the Panama Canal. And we didn’t give it to China. We gave it to Panama, and we’re taking it back. (Applause.)

Above all, my message to Americans today is that it is time for us to once again act with courage, vigor, and the vitality of history’s greatest civilization.

So, as we liberate our nation, we will lead it to new heights of victory and success. We will not be deterred. Together, we will end the chronic disease epidemic and keep our children safe, healthy, and disease-free.

The United States will once again consider itself a growing nation — one that increases our wealth, expands our territory, builds our cities, raises our expectations, and carries our flag into new and beautiful horizons.

And we will pursue our manifest destiny into the stars, launching American astronauts to plant the Stars and Stripes on the planet Mars. (Applause.)

Ambition is the lifeblood of a great nation, and, right now, our nation is more ambitious than any other. There’s no nation like our nation.

Americans are explorers, builders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and pioneers. The spirit of the frontier is written into our hearts. The call of the next great adventure resounds from within our souls.

Our American ancestors turned a small group of colonies on the edge of a vast continent into a mighty republic of the most extraordinary citizens on Earth. No one comes close.

Americans pushed thousands of miles through a rugged land of untamed wilderness. They crossed deserts, scaled mountains, braved untold dangers, won the Wild West, ended slavery, rescued millions from tyranny, lifted billions from poverty, harnessed electricity, split the atom, launched mankind into the heavens, and put the universe of human knowledge into the palm of the human hand. If we work together, there is nothing we cannot do and no dream we cannot achieve.

Many people thought it was impossible for me to stage such a historic political comeback. But as you see today, here I am. The American people have spoken. (Applause.)

I stand before you now as proof that you should never believe that something is impossible to do. In America, the impossible is what we do best. (Applause.)

From New York to Los Angeles, from Philadelphia to Phoenix, from Chicago to Miami, from Houston to right here in Washington, D.C., our country was forged and built by the generations of patriots who gave everything they had for our rights and for our freedom.

They were farmers and soldiers, cowboys and factory workers, steelworkers and coal miners, police officers and pioneers who pushed onward, marched forward, and let no obstacle defeat their spirit or their pride.

Together, they laid down the railroads, raised up the skyscrapers, built great highways, won two world wars, defeated fascism and communism, and triumphed over every single challenge that they faced.

After all we have been through together, we stand on the verge of the four greatest years in American history. With your help, we will restore America promise and we will rebuild the nation that we love — and we love it so much.

We are one people, one family, and one glorious nation under God. So, to every parent who dreams for their child and every child who dreams for their future, I am with you, I will fight for you, and I will win for you. We’re going to win like never before. (Applause.)

Thank you. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you. Thank you. (Applause.)

In recent years, our nation has suffered greatly. But we are going to bring it back and make it great again, greater than ever before.

We will be a nation like no other, full of compassion, courage, and exceptionalism. Our power will stop all wars and bring a new spirit of unity to a world that has been angry, violent, and totally unpredictable.

America will be respected again and admired again, including by people of religion, faith, and goodwill. We will be prosperous, we will be proud, we will be strong, and we will win like never before.

We will not be conquered, we will not be intimidated, we will not be broken, and we will not fail. From this day on, the United States of America will be a free, sovereign, and independent nation.

We will stand bravely, we will live proudly, we will dream boldly, and nothing will stand in our way because we are Americans. The future is ours, and our golden age has just begun.

Thank you. God bless America. Thank you all. Thank you. (Applause.) Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Thank you. (Applause.)

Thank you. (Applause.)

END 12:40 P.M. EST

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: UK and EU sign new trade, fishing and defence deal – what do economists think?

Source: The Conversation – UK – By Maria Garcia, Senior Lecturer in International Relations, University of Bath

The UK and EU have announced a range of historic and wide-ranging new agreements touching on trade, defence and borders.

Since the 2016 Brexit vote, COVID and conflict have changed the global economic landscape dramatically – with consumers feeling the effects every day. So the time could be ripe for a “reset” of relations between the UK and its largest trading partner.

Beyond trade, the two sides have agreed to negotiate further on a youth mobility scheme. And in future, travellers with UK passports will be able to use e-gates and avoid lengthy queues in some European countries.

But the agreement is also fraught with political risk, as opposition parties circle to capitalise on the vexxed question of tighter UK-EU relations. We asked a panel of experts for their analysis of the announcements.

Fisheries agreement unlocks path to ‘reset’

Maria Garcia, Senior Lecturer in International Relations, University of Bath

These were the first steps towards the much-vaunted Labour UK-EU “reset”. The announcement of agreements between the UK and EU covered security, energy and fisheries.

But the announcement falls short of key UK priorities for the reset, which includes a series of measures to facilitate trade with what is still the UK’s largest trade partner and market. The bloc represented 48% of UK goods exports, 36% of services exports, and 51% of goods imports in 2024.

Fisheries represent roughly 5% of UK agriculture, fisheries and forestry exports, and 0.03% of the UK economy. That may be a smaller slice of GDP than many people might think. But given the regional concentration of the fishing industry, it is vitally important to those communities. The situation is the same in EU countries.

Fisheries was a difficult issue to tackle in the negotiations for the 2021 UK-EU trade and cooperation agreement (TCA). Under the TCA, the EU agreed to phase out 25% of its catch share in British waters.

And there was an understanding on permits to fish species subject to fishing quotas that would allow fleets to fish in each others’ waters. The terms of this were due to expire in June 2026.

French president Emmanuel Macron insisted that without a deal on fisheries he would not accept other areas of the reset. And North Sea countries joined the call to negotiate a deal on fish. This represented a difficult ask for the UK government, given fierce criticism from opposition parties.

This agreement settles access to fisheries for the next 12 years. Despite its limited economic impact in absolute terms, the political significance should not be underestimated. It is a clear signal of the Starmer government’s commitment to move forward in the relationship with the EU – particularly relevant at a time of complicated global trading relations.

Other proposed measures include waiving the requirement to submit safety declarations, agreement on sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures and a veterinary agreement to facilitate agricultural trade. These matters are included in the newly published memo in which the UK and EU commit to work towards agreement on SPS. However, there is no announcement as to when this might be finalised.

But the settlement on fisheries means an important hurdle has been overcome on the path towards the reset.

Big boost for the UK’s top food export

Mausam Budhathoki, PhD Researcher, Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling

This UK-EU agreement has major implications for the Scottish salmon industry, a vital part of Scotland’s economy. In 2024, salmon exports hit a record £844 million, with France accounting for 55% of the total. Salmon is the UK’s top food export, and as such stands to benefit from the reduced customs checks and paperwork outlined in the deal. This will ease access to EU markets.

Since Brexit, the industry has faced export delays, higher costs and an estimated loss of £80 million–£100 million in EU sales due to new regulatory hurdles. The UK government projects the agreement could add £9 billion to the economy by 2040, with agrifood sectors like salmon farming gaining. Yet, the deal extends EU fishing rights in UK waters until 2038, which may disrupt marine ecosystems essential to salmon farming.

Although salmon are farmed in sea pens, they rely on clean, stable marine environments that could be affected by increased fishing activity. The agreement also remains politically sensitive. Future UK-EU disputes or changes could bring revisions, creating uncertainty for long-term planning and investment. While the deal offers clear trade benefits, the industry must balance growth opportunities with environmental and political risks.

The agreement will ease the export process for UK goods to Europe.
john abrams/Shutterstock

Defence deal could boost UK economy as well as security

Conor O’Kane, Senior Lecturer in Economics, Bournemouth University

The deal looks like the beginning of a path to closer economic ties between the UK and EU, reversing a trend of UK disengagement from Europe following Brexit.

Growth in the UK economy has been sluggish in recent years, and exporters are facing uncertainty as a result of recent US trade policies. So any opportunity for UK firms to have easier access to EU markets has to be seen as a positive for economic growth.

Faster economic growth will be absolutely key for UK chancellor Rachael Reeves to meet her “fiscal rules” (reducing national debt and only borrowing money for investment). It will also help to avoid further cuts to government spending. UK borrowing is currently above what the Office for Budget Responsibility was projecting only a year ago.

The agreement on security and defence is one area of particular interest where growth is concerned. According to the UK government, the agreement “paves the way” for the participation of UK firms in the EU’s €150 billion (£126 billion) joint procurement programme to rearm Europe.

The EU is stepping up its security spending in light of the Trump administration’s desire to reduce its support for Nato, and there is real potential for the UK defence industry to benefit.

Mausam Budhathoki receives funding from the EATFISH project, funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme (Grant 956697)..

Conor O’Kane and Maria Garcia do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. UK and EU sign new trade, fishing and defence deal – what do economists think? – https://theconversation.com/uk-and-eu-sign-new-trade-fishing-and-defence-deal-what-do-economists-think-257052

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Bergman Supports Whitmer’s Request for Presidential Disaster Declaration Following Devastating March Ice Storm

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-1)

This week, Rep. Jack Bergman expressed his full support for Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration in response to the devastating ice storm that struck Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula in March.

In a letter to President Donald J. Trump, Rep. Jack Bergman urged the President to swiftly approve the disaster declaration to provide urgently needed federal support and ensure the full recovery of impacted communities across Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.

The letter stated in part, “I write to offer my full support for Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s May 16, 2025, request for a Major Disaster Declaration under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act) in response to the severe ice storm that struck Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula from March 28-30, 2025.”

“I firmly believe the severity and scope of this storm exceed the ability of the State of Michigan and local governments to respond without federal support. I respectfully urge you to approve Governor Whitmer’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration without delay. The people of Northern Michigan are among the toughest and most resilient in our Nation, but they should not be left to shoulder the burden of this disaster alone.”

The storm brought historic levels of freezing rain across thirteen counties – Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego, Presque Isle, Kalkaska, and Mackinac. The resulting ice caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, knocking out power and heat for tens of thousands of residents. In the hardest-hit areas, outages persisted for more than two weeks.

Rep. Bergman commended the rapid and coordinated response by local emergency personnel, volunteers, the Michigan National Guard, and thousands of utility workers.

“These men and women worked around the clock in freezing, hazardous conditions to clear debris, conduct wellness checks, restore communications, deliver food and medical supplies, and reconnect entire communities to critical services.”

“While no lives were lost to the storm, the absence of fatalities should not be viewed as a reflection of the storm’s intensity – it is rather a testament to the tireless and heroic efforts of all those who responded when their communities needed them the most,” said Bergman.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Summer Jamm Festival set to transform Strabane into hub of family fun

Source: Northern Ireland – City of Derry

Summer Jamm Festival set to transform Strabane into hub of family fun

19 May 2025

The highly anticipated Summer Jamm Festival is set to return to Strabane town centre on Saturday, June 7^th from 12-late, promising a day filled with entertainment, family activities, and community celebration.

This vibrant event will transform the heart of Strabane into a hub of creativity and excitement, featuring an impressive lineup of attractions designed to appeal to visitors of all ages.

New to this year’s event will be the Street Art Festival which features interactive selfie murals and live street art demonstrations throughout the town. Artists will showcase their talents, offering visitors a chance to engage with the art and even try their hand at creating their own masterpieces.

The popular Bear Run 74 Supercar event returns to this year’s Summer Jamm. Featuring an impressive display of supercars, the Bear Run will also raise funds for the Mayor’s chosen charity.

Families will find plenty to enjoy with the Kidz Farm petting zoo, dinosaur encounters, urban sports activities, an interactive drumming circle, and face painting. Street performers, including magicians, dancers, and musicians, will entertain crowds throughout the town centre. Scheduled performances will take place at various locations, ensuring entertainment is always just around the corner.

The Arts and Crafts and Food Quarter will have a variety of crafts stalls to explore along with a diverse range of culinary cuisine and delicious treats to satisfy everyone’s appetite.

The Alley Theatre will host additional family-friendly entertainment, including the FizzWizzPop Magic Show at 12noon (tickets £2), this is an interactive magical experience designed to delight children and parents alike. The Alley will also offer face painting, Barry McGowan Art exhibition, and Arts and Crafts Workshops from 12noon.

As the sun sets on the Summer Jamm, get ready to follow the Music Trail – enjoy a musical journey around Strabane’s local bars where you can experience a different performance from a talented local musician/band in each venue. The perfect end to the perfect day.

Adding to the festivities, Cullens Fun Fair will be in town from June 5-8, offering traditional fairground rides and games for all ages.

Encouraging everyone to put the date for Summer Jamm in their diary now, the Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Lilian Seenoi Barr said: “Summer Jamm has become a cornerstone of our community calendar, bringing together residents and visitors alike to celebrate the best of Strabane. This year’s festival showcases our town’s creative spirit, local talent, and warm hospitality. This is a great day for families to come out and enjoy a wonderful summer event together, and of course the additional visitors to the town bring a welcome boost to local business owners. Make sure you get along to this year’s Summer Jamm and enjoy an unforgettable day of fun with your family and neighbours. I look forward to seeing you all there!”

Keep an eye on the Summer Jamm website: www.derrystrabane.com/summerjamm and Whats On Derry Strabane and The Alley Theatre Facebook pages for further updates.

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICE arrests illegally present Guatemalan national for assaulting a federal agent

Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

PROVIDENCE, R.I. – U.S Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested a previously deported Guatemalan national illegally present in the United States on a charge of assault, resisting, and impeding a law enforcement officer in the performance of official duties.

It is alleged that on April 30, Miguel Tamup-Tamup, aka Miguel Us-Tamup, 28, struggled with an ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations officer and ICE Homeland Security Investigations special agents as they attempted to apprehend him for being illegally present in the United States as authorized by a warrant for arrest of alien and an HSI special agent suffered serious injury.

“This individual’s aggressive actions during a lawful arrest led to serious injury to our special agents. The safety of our special agents and officers is paramount and those who resist and commit assault will find themselves facing serious criminal consequences,” said ICE HSI Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol.

According to the criminal complaint, an ICE ERO officer and HSI special agents stopped a car that Tamup was operating. After he refused to exit, law enforcement guided him out of the vehicle. While the agents attempted to place Tamup in handcuffs, he resisted, threw his upper body and shoulders against the agents, flailed his arms, and broke an agent’s hold. During the encounter, one of the HSI special agents fell to the ground and suffered a serious leg injury. Tamup fled as the injured agent was attended to by the other agents. The special agent received medical treatment and is expected to fully recover.

Charging documents show that Tamup came to ICE’s attention after his arrest on April 19 by the Providence Police Department on a charge of driving under the influence after his car allegedly collided with another vehicle. He was subsequently arraigned and released. Tamup’s fingerprints matched ICE fingerprint records associated with a person flagged as being in the United States illegally.

On May 15, ICE located Tamup at a Providence residence and took him into custody. He made an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and has been ordered detained.

A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 20, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: 1 in 5 Gazans face starvation. Can the law force Israel to act?

Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Donald Rothwell, Professor of International Law, Australian National University

As Israel continues to pound Gaza with airstrikes, killing scores of people a day, the two-month ceasefire that brought a halt to the violence earlier this year feels like a distant memory.

Israel’s overall military and political objective in Gaza hasn’t changed after 19 months of war: it is still seeking the absolute defeat of Hamas and return of the remaining Israeli hostages.

But it is unclear how Hamas will ever be militarily defeated unless there is a complete and unconditional surrender and the laying down of all arms. This appears unlikely, despite the success of Israel’s so-called “decapitation strategy” targeting the Hamas leadership.

And Hamas continues to hold an estimated 57 Israeli hostages in Gaza, of which up to 24 are believed to still be alive. The group is insisting on guarantees that Israel will end the war before releasing any more hostages.

An ongoing blockade for 18 years

Israel announced Sunday it will allow a “basic” amount of food to enter Gaza after a nearly three-month blockade of the strip. It was not clear when or how the aid would resume amid “extensive” new ground operations the military said Sunday it had also just begun.

Israel first imposed a land, sea and air blockade of Gaza in 2007 after Hamas came to power. These restrictions have severely limited the movement of people and vehicles across the border, as well as the amount of food, medicine and other goods that have been permitted to go into and out of Gaza.

These controls increased significantly after Hamas’ attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023. They’ve been maintained at heightened levels ever since.

The January ceasefire temporarily increased the flow of food, medical aid and other support into Gaza. However, this came to an end in early March when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cut off aid again to pressure Hamas to extend the ceasefire and release more hostages. Hostilities resumed soon after.

The United Nations’ humanitarian efforts in Gaza have now come to a “near-standstill”. On May 13, Tom Fletcher, the UN emergency relief coordinator, addressed the UN Security Council, stating:

For more than 10 weeks, nothing has entered Gaza – no food, medicine, water or tents. […] Every single one of the 2.1 million Palestinians in the Gaza Strip face the risk of famine. One in five faces starvation.

Israel denies there are food shortages in Gaza. It has said it wouldn’t permit any trucks to enter the strip until a new system is in place to prevent Hamas from siphoning supplies.

International law is clear

Both the 1949 Geneva Conventions and customary international law make clear:

The use of starvation of the civilian population as a method of warfare is prohibited.

In addition, the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC) makes starvation of civilians a war crime.

Under international humanitarian law, Fletcher noted, Israel has the responsibility to ensure aid reaches people in territory it occupies. However, Israel’s method of distributing aid, he said, “makes aid conditional on political and military aims” and “makes starvation a bargaining chip”.

What have the courts found?

International courts have not ignored Israel’s obligations on this front.

In November 2024, the ICC issued arrest warrants for Hamas leader Mohammed Deif (one of the masterminds of the October 7 attack), in addition to Netanyahu and former Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant.

In relation Netanyahu and Gallant, the ICC’s pre-trial chamber found:

there are reasonable grounds to believe that both individuals intentionally and knowingly deprived the civilian population in Gaza of objects indispensable to their survival, including food, water, and medicine and medical supplies.

As Israel is not a party to the Rome Statute, there is no obligation on the government to act on the arrest warrants. Both men remain free to travel as long as they do not enter the territory of a Rome Statute party. (Even then, their arrest is not guaranteed.)

The ICC warrants will remain in effect unless withdrawn by the court. The arrest in March of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte highlighted that while ICC investigations may take time, those accused of crimes can eventually be brought before the court to face justice.

This is especially so if there is a change in political leadership in a country that allows an arrest to go ahead.

Meanwhile, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) is hearing another case in which South Africa alleges Israel has committed genocide against the Palestinian population in Gaza.

The case began with high-profile hearings last year when the court issued provisional measures, or orders, requiring Israel to refrain from engaging in any genocidal acts.

The most recent of those orders, issued last May, called on Israel to immediately halt its offensive in Rafah (in southern Gaza) and maintain the opening of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt to allow “unhindered provision at scale of urgently needed basic services and humanitarian assistance”.

These orders remain in effect. Yet, Rafah today is a “no-go zone” that Gazans have been ordered to evacuate. And Israel’s blockade of the strip and restrictions on aid and food entering the territory have clearly been in defiance of the court.

Late last month, the ICJ began hearings to form an opinion on Israel’s duties to allow aid to enter Gaza. Israel’s foreign minister, Gideon Saar, criticised the ICJ’s hearings as “another attempt to politicise and abuse the legal process in order to persecute Israel”.

The court’s advisory opinion on this issue is not expected for several months. A final decision on South Africa’s broader case may take years.

So, what can be done?

Reflecting on the situation in Gaza, Fletcher observed at the UN:

This degradation of international law is corrosive and infectious. It is undermining decades of progress on rules to protect civilians from inhumanity and the violent and lawless among us who act with impunity. Humanity, the law and reason must prevail.

Yet, while the Security Council continues to have the situation in Gaza under review, it has proven incapable of acting decisively because of US support for Israel.

The Biden Administration was prepared to use its veto power to block binding Security Council resolutions forcing Israel to respond to the humanitarian crisis. The Trump Administration would no doubt do the same.

However, as Duterte’s arrest shows, international law sometimes does result in action. The finding by another UN body last week that Russia was responsible for the 2014 downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 over Ukraine in 2014 is another case in point.

As the Dutch foreign minister pointed out in that case, the finding sends a message that “states cannot violate international law with impunity”.

Donald Rothwell receives funding from Australian Research Council

– ref. 1 in 5 Gazans face starvation. Can the law force Israel to act? – https://theconversation.com/1-in-5-gazans-face-starvation-can-the-law-force-israel-to-act-256695

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 20, 2025

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Updates to this page

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Summer Jamm Festival set to transform Strabane into hub of family fun

An ongoing blockade for 18 years

International law is clear

What have the courts found?

So, what can be done?