During RSA Week 2025, I interviewed Phil Venables, a prominent figure in security who previously served as CISO at Google Cloud and Goldman Sachs, and is now at Ballistic Ventures. We explored various essential topics in security management, including scaling security measures from artisanal to industrial processes, emphasizing the challenges of managing dependencies across systems. Venables highlighted the importance of shifting from lagging to leading indicators, where metrics like reproducible builds can enhance both security and operational efficiency. He also introduced the concept of “shifting down,” advocating for integrating security measures into existing platforms and frameworks. The conversation touched on the transformative role of AI in security, showcasing its application in malware analysis and automating workflows. Venables emphasized the need for organizations to proactively engage with AI, encourage experimentation, and collaborate in the community to foster a safer digital landscape. For deeper insights, the full video is available on YouTube.
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Shifting Focus: 4 Innovative Ways Google Leverages AI for Enhanced Security (Featuring Phil Venables)
Kyivstar Partners with Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation
On June 17, 2025, VEON Ltd. announced its collaboration with Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation to develop the country’s first national large language model (LLM) trained on Ukrainian-language data. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to invest USD 1 billion in rebuilding Ukraine’s digital infrastructure by 2027. The LLM will reflect the diversity of Ukrainian dialects, culture, and terminology, while ensuring secure processing of sensitive national data for critical sectors such as government and healthcare. Expected to launch by December 2025, this model aims to provide accurate AI-powered tools for various fields, including education and finance. VEON CEO Kaan Terzioglu highlighted the project as essential for empowering Ukrainians through culturally relevant AI solutions. The initiative also aligns with VEON’s efforts to address language gaps in tech across its operations globally, including similar projects in Kazakhstan and Pakistan.
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Discover HN: Anime AI Gen – Effortlessly Create Anime Art Online with Leading Models!
The Anime AI Generator is a browser-based tool that enables users to create high-quality anime art instantly without the need for technical skills or expensive hardware. Key features include preloaded AI models like Pony Diffusion and Animagine, allowing for diverse artistic styles, and a quick text-to-anime functionality where users can simply describe their desired idea—such as “cyberpunk samurai with neon katana.” The tool requires no local setup, running entirely in the browser, and offers a free trial for users to test the functionality before upgrading. The creator aimed to provide an accessible and user-friendly solution for anyone interested in generating anime art, whether for fun, prototyping, or professional projects. Additionally, the generator is optimized for mobile use. The creator is open to feedback and feature requests from users.
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Kyivstar Unveils Ukraine’s First National AI: Introducing a Ukrainian Language Model
On June 17, 2025, VEON Ltd. announced a partnership between its Ukrainian operator, Kyivstar, and Ukraine’s Ministry of Digital Transformation to create the country’s first large language model (LLM) tailored to the Ukrainian language. This initiative is part of a broader investment commitment of USD 1 billion to rebuild Ukraine’s digital infrastructure by 2027. The LLM will be developed using open-source architectures and exclusively trained on Ukrainian data to ensure cultural relevance and security, particularly for sensitive sectors like government and healthcare. The project aims to enhance AI-powered services, providing tools for legal, regulatory, and specialized applications in education, finance, and health. The LLM is expected to deliver more accurate insights compared to general models. The first version is slated for release by December 2025, with VEON positioning it as a key element in supporting Ukraine’s digital transformation and economic growth.
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Discover HN: Founders Match – The Revolutionary AI-Driven Co-Founder Matching Platform
I just launched FoundersMatch.ai, a tool designed to address a significant startup challenge: finding a compatible co-founder. Unlike typical matching methods that focus on interests or skills, our platform utilizes AI-driven compatibility analysis, behavioral science frameworks, and proven models of startup psychology. This is crucial since 65% of startups fail due to co-founder conflicts, often after lengthy searches for potential partners. Founders Match streamlines the process by helping you avoid mismatches early, provides detailed insights before any discussions, and enables matching based on essential factors like values and equity expectations. Users can save 80% of the time spent searching for co-founders. The service is free, taking just three minutes to create a profile, and for a limited time, everyone receives 10 complimentary AI Compatibility Reports. Your thoughts and feedback are welcome!
OpenAI Lands $200M AI Contract with U.S. Department of Defense Amid Ukraine Developments
OpenAI has secured a $200 million contract with the U.S. Department of Defense to develop artificial intelligence tools aimed at tackling significant national security challenges. The Pentagon press service highlighted that the technologies will enhance both military applications and the Department’s internal management systems. This initiative is expected to foster innovative AI solutions that address critical needs. The project is slated for completion by July 2026 and was formalized through the Department of Defense’s Office of Digital and Artificial Intelligence Technologies.
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Exploring Search in the Age of AI: A Conversation with Don MacKinnon
In this discussion, Don McKinnon, co-founder and CTO of Searchcraft, highlights the significant shifts in content discovery and search, particularly due to AI’s rise. Many companies are experiencing a decline in referral traffic from platforms like Google, prompting them to reassess their information discovery strategies. Don shares his journey from the tech world, detailing his extensive background in consulting and media, which informed his decision to build Searchcraft as a user-friendly alternative to traditional search systems. He emphasizes the importance of memory-safe programming languages like Rust for developing efficient search solutions while maintaining user-focused design. Don notes that while AI integration is growing, Searchcraft allows customers to opt in or out of AI features based on their needs. The conversation also touches on the dual nature of their agency work and product development, aiming for a close relationship with clients to enhance their search experience.
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OpenAI Wins $200 Million Contract with Pentagon to Provide AI Solutions for U.S. Defense Department – Seeking Alpha
OpenAI has been awarded a $200 million contract by the U.S. Department of Defense to provide advanced AI solutions. This partnership aims to enhance various defense capabilities through innovative artificial intelligence applications. The project highlights the increasing role of AI in military operations, focusing on improving decision-making processes and operational efficiency. OpenAI’s expertise in machine learning and natural language processing positions it well to support the Pentagon’s evolving technological needs. The contract signifies a significant investment in AI technology within the defense sector, reflecting a broader trend of integrating cutting-edge solutions to enhance national security and military readiness. This collaboration marks a pivotal step in leveraging AI to address complex challenges in defense, potentially leading to impactful advancements in military operations and strategic planning.
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“AI Is Falling Short: Time for It to Step Back” • The Register
At Gartner’s Data & Analytics Summit, Erick Brethenoux criticized current AI capabilities, stating that AI fails to automate tedious tasks and often only generates meeting summaries that still require human action. He emphasized the need for AI, termed “Empathy AI,” to simplify workflows by directly handling repetitive chores. Citing examples from Vizient and a real estate firm, Brethenoux illustrated how companies successfully automated disliked tasks, leading to high employee adoption. He expressed skepticism about vendors’ promises regarding AI agents, underscoring that these technologies are not new and have been limited in handling complex tasks. Brethenoux warned against misconceptions arising from blending the concepts of “AI agents” and “generative AI.” He insisted that effective deployment of AI agents entails careful engineering to ensure seamless communication and coordination, highlighting that simply promoting these technologies without addressing their complexities could lead to misunderstandings and unfulfilled expectations.
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Reddit Stock Soars Following Launch of Innovative AI Advertising Tools
Reddit shares rose about 5% following the launch of new AI-driven advertising tools during the Cannes Lions festival. The tools, powered by the Reddit Community Intelligence engine, aim to enhance how brands engage with users by analyzing discussions on the platform. The first tool, Reddit Insights, provides marketers with real-time insights to identify trends, while the second, Conversation Summary Add-ons, highlights positive user content alongside ads. Reddit emphasized that these innovations mark a new era in community marketing, leveraging the platform’s authenticity to connect with engaged communities globally. Publicis was the exclusive alpha tester for Reddit Insights, with Lucid and Jackbox Games testing the Add-ons. As brands explore AI to enhance advertising, the industry faces challenges from a volatile macroeconomic landscape, particularly due to the U.S.-China trade tensions. However, Reddit recently reported strong sales and optimistic forecasts, aided by improved user engagement strategies.
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