Den Konstitution - A Reliable Newspaper from Luziyca

[Luziyca]

Shooting in Oteki

Kovdor, Oteki, where the shooting occurred

GUSEV, OTEKI - Earlier this morning, at one am local time, a man, Feliks Oleg was shot and killed by a Namorese police officer whilst walking with his friend, Viktor Evgeni. The reasons as of yet are unclear, with various conflicting accounts by witnesses and the Kovdor Police Department.

"The officer was a Kannei, and he was staring at us," said Viktor. "It was late night, so he thought we were going to do something really wrong, so he called us over and wanted us to show our IDs. I showed mine, but Oleg refused. Then the officer said, 'Why the hell do you not want to show your ID?' and Oleg said, 'Because you can't make me. This is ridiculous.' They got into a quarrel, but Oleg was not doing anything. Then Oleg said 'You know what, f__k you, I'm off,' and tugged me by the shoulder telling me to leave the officer. The officer said, 'Hey, don't leave, it's not over yet.' When we refused he continued, 'Hey, don't leave, or else I'm going to shoot you dead!' And he did. Oleg wasn't doing anything. I'm shocked, how the hell did they shoot my friend like this?"

However, the police chief begged to differ: Kai Long stated that it occurred due to a physical clash. Other eyewitnesses gave contradictory accounts: a drunken witness said that Feliks was digging into his pockets as if he is looking for a weapon, and the sanitation worker saw him turn slowly and surrender, but when the back was turned, the police fired at him.

Such reports sparked outrage: an opinion poll shows that 72% of respondents believe that the shooting was racially motivated, 8% say it is not, and 21% are unsure. When news of the shooting broke out, protests have broken out in many cities, such as Bethlehem, Yerevan, Firenze, Jerusalem, Vesterhag, and even Kenyen, demanding justice and a "Namorese withdrawal."

For the Otekian expat community, the response is higher: 86% feel the shooting is racially motivated, 2% feel it is not, and the rest are uncertain.

Chief Executive Mikhail Shumev of the Otekian People's Association said, "We feel the pain of the relatives of Feliks Oleg, but we need to wait for further information before we judge this (the shooting) as racially motivated, or whether it is not. To say one way or the other is at this point of time is just pure speculation, because we do not have the full story about what occurred in Kovdor."

More as the story develops.

[Luziyca]

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Riots in Kovdor, Shjoraski issues statement related to the riots

Kovdor, Oteki, where the shooting occurred

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - With news of the situation in Kovdor deteriorating, President Breuvi Shjoraski has issued an official statement relating to the shooting death of Feliks Oleg, graduate of the Kovdor Community College. Rioting has broken out, with Namorese-owned shops in the town being looted and demanding "justice now" for the death of this young man. Classes have been cancelled at the schools in the town, and threats have been made against the region by rogue elements of the Otekian People's Association.

Shjoraski has stated that "we are concerned about the rioting that is going on within the town, because of the fact that despite calls of peace from both sides, violence has been widespread, and we fear that if it is not controlled, this could be at the very least, a diplomatic crisis between our two nations, and at worst, this situation could spiral into a Fourth Namo-Luziycan War. Thus, all travel to Oteki has been closed: flights to Gusev have been suspended except those taking Luziycan citizens back home, the Jung To Port of Entry shall be closed for the time being, all Luziycan citizens are being evacuated from the region, and we are doing everything we can to prevent the violence from spilling over the border."

Shjoraski has also contacted Fu Wen via the hotline, proposing joint border patrols along the Oteki section of the border with Namor to keep militants from illegally entering Namor, as threatened by rogue elements of the Otekian People's Association, who are identified as remnants of the Knights, and also proposed "talks regarding Nantai."

Mikhail Shumev declared that "any member of the OPA (Otekian People's Association) wishing to partake in the riots and disrupt the functioning of the prefectural administration shall be summarily expelled, and that those who threatened an attack on Oteki have not received any approval. We also wish to see order restored in Kovdor, and hope that the police can do so effectively, provided that no racist measures be implemented afterwards."
Shumev also said in regards to the autonomy granted to Khao that "the commonwealth idea with Khao is a great idea, and I feel that while all autonomous republics, such as Oteki should receive it, it is best to wait and see for a while to measure its effects and determine whether it is a good choice to give Khao such powers, or not at all."

In the rest of the country, "Justicia Nu!" (Justice now!) was a common slogan, as well as "OTEKI LIBRA!" (Free Oteki!). Many of the Otekian expat community organized peaceful marches, waving the flag of the Otekian Republic (1901-1950 and 1966-1970), others carrying a neutral flag (white banner with a blue outline of Oteki filled in with blue), and some carrying the Namorese flag in support for solidarity.

In Kenyen, 15,000 Namorese organized a protest march, demonstrating against "racial inequality in the Oteki region" and demanding that both sides come to the negotiating table and not resort to violence.

More as the story develops.

[Luziyca]

Oteki: is it becoming a powder-keg?

Building set on fire by rioters

FRONTIERSBURG, UPPER YORK - Recent reports from Oteki have shown that the violence has not died down: as a matter of fact, it has spread throughout the region and the release by the Kovdor Police Department of a video of Oleks singing the anthem of Luziyca and using the video as "evidence" that he has either official or unofficial ties to Bethlehem.

Despite promises by the local authorities to use this plus all other evidence to see whether he had ties with Luziyca, protesters asking for the perpetrator of the tragedy to come clean were angered by the police release and the Oleg video. Many went on local social media to spill the fury out, and many Luziycans have made Oteki a trending topic on both Facebook and Twitter, expressing sympathy and support for the protesters, but many condemned the rioters, with some extremists supporting them.

Rioters have attacked Txoist temples, the town hall, countless businesses and buildings, and according to local authorities, nearly a thousand have been arrested due to the riots. Many Luziycans and Otekians in exile feel that the authorities are being too harsh and that there is a "clear racial motivation."

During Question Period, Rep. Arnold Khosedov of Stockholm-North, leader of the National Luziycan Party asked the government "whether we will send in the troops on the ground to help defuse the situation and liberate Oteki to prevent Namorese atrocities?"
President Breuvi Shjoraski responded instantly, declaring that "we are not going to compromise ties with the Namorese government, but we are closely monitoring the situation, and we condemn the actions of the rioters. However, the fact that the authorities claim that singing the anthem of another country is evidence that the shooting is rightly just is a sign of a cover-up. If the situation does continue to deteriorate, we will strongly encourage peacekeepers from Geadland and Vyvland to intervene in the region." He also stated that any Luziycan citizen wishing to fight and partake in the rioting will have his or her passport revoked, and also noted the possibility of the usage of agents-provocateur on both sides to provoke rioting.

Shjoraski has also ordered the Luziycan Armed Forces to increase their readiness in the eastern states from DEFCON 4 to DEFCON 3 as a precaution. The border police has also strengthened and increased the frequency of their patrols and with all border crossings to and from Oteki closed, it will be "easier to monitor suspicious activity along the border zone in Oteki."

In Nantai, Chief Executive Kung Alicia has stated that "the fact the authorities are trying to encourage such a reaction; to try and frame all Otekians as terrorists is just a symptom of Liberationism at it's worst. Fu Wen claims to be a rightist and a moderate, yet, he's closer to Kiang Ssxu than say, Azurite of Pavonistade. As a Kannei and a Nantainese, I strongly urge a prompt investigation by an independent authority, not by the prefecture, not by the Namorese government, let alone our government."

It is said that about half a million to a million people are participating in protests all across the country demanding an independent investigation to the situation, restoration of order without racism, and condemning both the rioters and the Kovdor Police Department, the largest being in (no particular order) Frontiersburg, Vesterhag, Bethlehem, Jerusalem, Gijirokastra, Yerevan, and Kenyen. In Bethlehem, a candlelight vigil has been held outside the Congressional Palace, one candle per injured or dead person in this crisis. So far, 121 candles are at the area: 30 for the police officers and 90 for the protesters. On top of a crate in the middle is a single candle symbolizing Feliks Oleg.

More as the story develops.

[Luziyca]

The President visits Lana

Shjoraski inside the courthouse for a tour prior to speech

LANA, PUSTINIA - Today, Shjoraski visited the city, the only true enclave in Luziyca (part of Pustinia, surrounded on three sides by Namorese territory and one by the state of Lazar) to discuss various issues, but a nationwide address was scheduled outside the Lana County Courthouse to discuss the present situation Oteki and the former Luziycan colony of Jarkvensa.

Shjoraski said that "the situation in Oteki is while under control for now, it is worrisome for everyone on all sides: for the Geads who fear that the unrest may spread to their country, the Luziycans because of the plight of the Otekians for nearly half-a-century, the Namorese for fear of losing control, and the Otekians because of what may happen next to them."

He said that "our statement to encourage Geadland and Vyvland to send peacekeepers was only if things got to a severe crisis, such as the situation prior to the Third Namo-Luziycan War which resulted in the brief occupation of Lana by Namorese troops. That was why we heightened our military, in case of a conflict between Namor and Luziyca, which while low right now may increase if the local authorities from Gusev don't control it."

As for the claim that it is a domestic issue, Shjoraski has replied, "The issue of police brutality is a global problem. Not only in Kovdor, but in various areas around the world, from New Zepuha to, admittedly, some cities in Luziyca, but the death of Feliks Oleg also has an added element: it shows the inequalities that the Otekians face. While I am not saying the shooting is racially motivated, the Otekians have suffered a bit under Namorese rule, albeit in recent years, equality is starting to occur, but there is a long way to go."

Shjoraski then concluded, "What we need is stability, equality, and liberty. Only then shall terrorism die out."

He then moved on to the Jarkvensa Islands, where he simply said "These are old men and women who are protesting and nostalgic for the days when Jarkvensa was under our administration. If they want to return home and die as Luziycan citizens, they have the right to do so, provided they haven't renounced their citizenship. But we feel that this nostalgia for our rule will die out along with the protesters."

Finally, he said for Sudalto, "Our downsizing plan is slowly taking hold. At the end of the month, on D-Day, at midnight on Oct. 1, Sudalto will drive on the left. All border restrictions between the community and mainland Vyvland shall be lifted, and new signs have been set up, albeit covered. Thus, beginning 7 pm Eastern Time on Sept. 30, all roads within the city of Sudalto under military jurisdiction shall be closed save for essential vehicles to begin the switchover. At midnight, all essential vehicles will switch to the right, and by 6 am, normal traffic will resume on the left-hand side of the road."

Shjoraski says, "As well, the silos are being dismantled, and much of the area that we plan on giving to the city from the base properties itself have been decontaminated and will be safe to link to Syfsdop. As well, on Oct. 1, the airport shall be transferred to the Vyvlander air authorities for civic traffic. Military traffic will remain under Luziycan control though we will request clearance from Vyvland."

He then concludes the speech with "May Luziyca prosper and thrive in this century."

[Luziyca]

Situation in Oteki stabilizing

Armed police officers in Kovdor patrolling

GUSEV, OTEKI - Earlier today, Vang Jun declared that the situation in Oteki had become controllable, and that the region units of the armed police will no longer monitor the unrest, instead letting local police monitor the situation. Despite an assassination attempt on Jun, he gave the announcement in the Gusev City Hall that in Kovdor, protests are 70% peaceful.

"The autonomous republic government determined that the situation in recent days has cooled a bit, and no longer warrants intervention from our armed police, let alone direct intervention from the central government," Vang said. "Rioting, looting and other illegal activities have decreased, although they are still present. But the local police has the capability to take care of that problem, and keeping the armed police will only inflame tensions."

He then went on to announce "Starting 18 hours (6:00 pm local time) this evening, all armed police units deployed to unrest-affected areas will return to their posts, their positions will be replaced by local police. Armed vehicles belonging to the armed police will no longer be present to take care of the unrest. I feel like we won't need the armed police for another few days, if we are optimistic and the hooligans do not escalate their acts. But we are still wary of everything that's going on, and will respond to any sudden occurrence promptly."

President-General Fu Wen said that the unrest and the official response showed the "excellent amount of restraint exercised by all levels of the government," and stated that "This is the first situation in Txotai (Oteki) where no direct action from the central government was taken, and everything was handled with care by the AR government. Txotai (Oteki) is now self-manageable, and that is a good thing. I will not intervene with Head of State Vang's withdrawal of the armed police. He knows what he is doing, and he will bring the region back together from violence and unrest."

Fu Wen then said that "Everything is under control. The government of Txotai has all capabilities to take care of this, and resolve differences between all conflicting parties. The autonomous government serves as the perfect mediator to reaching a compromise between both sides---ethnic Otekians demanding a full investigation and Kannei who disagree. It's not an ethnic group vs. government thing, it's just a civil affair. The government is no belligerent, but the mediator."

In a sharp jab against its western neighbor, he then said "There are many reasons to question Luziyca's intentions in intervening in the region. Heaven knows what they mean by 'severe crisis?' 'Situation deteriorate?' The crisis is severe only when we say so, and the situation deteriorates only when we say so. And naturally, so-called 'peacekeepers' can enter Namorese soil if we say so. One cannot allow Luziyca to consider something like this and do something about it. It's our country, not theirs'. Txotai is nothing the should be playing around with. It's our territory and they've got to respect that. Has Bethlehem ever heard or known about territorial integrity?"

Fu Wen concluded with ""I find it overly hilarious that Mr. Shjoraski thinks he can use a cane to pull other countries and interfere in our affairs. Well, be glad that it's not working," responding to Da Hegner's statement and a massive campaign to sympathize with the Otekians in the region.

With Oteki becoming more stable, the military's threat level was lowered from DEFCON 3 back to DEFCON 4, and plans are underway to reopen the border crossings to Oteki and allow Luziycan citizens to visit Oteki.

However, Simon Jozef Bloom's recent opinion piece in the Geadish National Daily Post has received lots of attention. He pointed out that "The Namorese government and media constantly accuse the Luziycan CIA of supporting violent and rebellious activities of the Otekian independence movement in Oteki. These accusations are not unfounded. The CIA has helped the violent terrorist activities of groups like the Knights of Saint Luther, including some attacks against Geadish people too. Yet these terrorist groups were not invented by the CIA."

He continues, "They would have existed without the CIA's covert assistance. They existed because of two factors. Firstly, there was the failure of the Namorese to respect the rights of the Otekians, angering them in the first place. Secondly, there was the presence of fanatical political and religious ideology among many Otekians that provided a vehicle for this anger."

Simon points out the grievances that Namor's government refuses to listen to: "Namor has never shown respect for the Otekians' right to self-determination. They have never been allowed to democratically debate forming their own state or joining Luziyca. Even democratic and secular independence movements in Oteki have been suppressed in the past, alongside the violent ones. The Namorese government has repeatedly made attempts to stamp out Otekian culture and their religion."

"The Namorese government encouraged Kannei Namorese to settle the area, turning a region that was formerly dominates by Otekians into a region where 70% of the population are Kannei (although recently, many Otekians in Luziyca are returning to their homeland). A simple referendum on the status of Oteki would not solve the tension now, because of the population implanted by Namor. Meanwhile, Otekians continue to be subject to discrimination by both the government and many ordinary Kannei Namorese residents of the region."

"Where has Geadland been when Namor needed criticising? We were once too worried about geopolitics - too worried that we would be surrounded by East Luziyca. We had leaders like Muinten and Abilo who wanted Namor as a strong ally and thus became complacent as Oteki was "Namorised". Even today, the Geadish left continue to preach racial tolerance in Geadland yet defend Namor's treatment of the Otekians. Ridiculous. I believe that we as a nation owe the Otekian people an apology for our complacency in a series of human rights violations," Simon said.

However, he states towards the end that "It is likely that the Namorese will eventually succeed in restoring order in Oteki. So let me tell you what they can't do. They cannot make the Otekians love the Namorese state. They cannot make the Otekians forget the injustice and discrimination they have faced. Many Otekians want independence and no heavy-handed Namorese response can change their minds. But they can change our minds. Geadland now has a conservative government, while Luziyca is becoming less hostile. In this week's pro-Oteki protests, we saw not just Luziycans taking part, but also left-wing university students too."

He then concludes the piece with "The new generation of lefties in Geadland are waking up to the fact that the Namorese government does not share their values."

The full piece can be viewed here.

In Luziyca, Simon Bloom's piece has been very popular, with the Otekian Government-in-Exile led by President Yorskov Lhego formally granted Simon Bloom the highest honor of the Republic of Oteki, officially from 1915 to 1950, and again from 1966 to 1970: the "Order of the Mountain," for his piece outlining the grievances: it was never given since Oteki was invaded in 1970 by Namor, and inviting him to a ceremony in Frontiersburg for him to receive the honor.

Estimates say that the piece has about ten million views from Luziyca alone, many from other sites. It has been shared countless times on Twitter and even famed actor Rybak Chelovek endorsed Simon Bloom's opinion piece.

The government refused to say anything about Simon Bloom's opinion piece yet.

[Luziyca]

President to visit Namor, discuss Nantai and issues of mutual concern

City of Po'ai as viewed from the Namorese part

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - Shjoraski has officially accepted the invitation to head to Namor to discuss matters of international concern with President-General Fu Wen. Shjoraski has said that "the settlement of the status of Nantai is the top priority on the agenda," as well as a "potential free trade agreement with Namor or at least opening some more border crossings."

Shjoraski has stated that "What we want in Nantai is not that Namor drop their claims, but what we want is to recognize that Luziycan control over Nantai is in the best interests of the population and to recognize as the administrating power over Nantai. We also want to potentially unite West and East Po'ai into a city similar to the situation with Halvelo and Loxi in Geadland and Oteki respectively, with a single civic administration like it was prior to 1950 and special privileges like in those two towns."

For his second proposal, "A free trade agreement between Namor and Luziyca will bring enormous benefits to both of our economies, or at the very least, some more border crossings, especially east of Kenyen so trade volumes can improve and Namorese GDP especially can rise: in the past few years, trade with Namor has risen from virtually nil to being the 3rd largest trading partner, behind Geadland and Katranjiev, and we feel that by next year, Namor may become the largest trading partner. We need to ensure that both sides benefit from any free trade agreement."

As for the Eastern Sea, he states that "Peace is desirable, but the hardest part is how we should come to terms with peace when lawlessness practically abounds there."

The President will leave Bethlehem for Namo in the next few days for a summit to meet President-General Fu Wen.

[Luziyca]

Albert II of Geadland has passed away at the age of 90

King Albert II of Geadland, viewed by some to be Emperor Albert II of Inleda

DA HEGNER, GEADLAND - Two days ago, His Majesty, Albert II of the Kingdom of Geadland and recognized by some as Emperor of Inleda, who served from 1970 to 2002 has passed away at the age of 90 years, 1 month and 7 days at the King Albert I Hospital.

"It is with great sadness that I must announce the death of my father," said Queen Sofja II in an official statement. "He passed away peacefully in his sleep last night at the King Albert I Hospital. I hope that he will regarded by the people just as he was during his 32-year reign and in his retirement, as one of Geadland's most beloved monarchs. For me, I shall always remember him first as a great kindly father, and for the rest of the Royal Family, a great kindly husband, grandfather and great-grandfather. His greatest achievement was to bring the monarchy closer to the people and to keep it connected to the people in an ever-changing world. It is for this reason that we called him 'the People's King'."

News of his death shocked many in Luziyca, particularly most in Inleda and West Geadland. In Jerusalem, Chief Executive Embla Borghild has issued a statement, stating "we mourn the loss of a great person, who during his reign oversaw the normalization of relations between Geadland and East Luziyca, the reunification of Luziyca, and was worthy of being treated as an Emperor when he visited Inleda." Borghild will recall the chambers of Congress tomorrow so they can pay condolences.

In Vesterhag, the West Geadish government has declared a week of mourning. The government has issued a statement: "We, the Geadish people in Luziyca mourn the loss of a King who during his reign made significant strides to bring us closer together with the Geads back in Geadland. He is a man who was strong and powerful, who influenced the people and made the monarchy better. Thus, we find it in the best interests to declare a week of mourning." Schools and republican government offices will be closed for the week. Federal offices will remain open.

In both republics, their flags were ordered to be flown at half-mast, and the federal government has ordered all Luziycan flags in West Geadland and Inleda to be lowered to half-mast as well. Many people, Geads, Inledans, and Luziycans are mourning the loss of a great King.

Vice-President Nikolai Serhoskav stated "We stand with the Geadish people in a time where they have lost their King," and announced that he will attend the funeral to represent Luziyca in place of the President who is currently in Namor.

[Luziyca]

Hell freezes over: Shjoraski visits Fu in Namor

President Breuvi Shjoraski visits President-General Fu Wen in Namo

NAMO, NAMOR - For generations, this was seen as an impossibility: if the President were to come to Namor in the late 1960s or early 1970s, he would've not lasted long in Namor before he was executed a mock trial. No President of Luziyca at any time in history since unification of Luziyca in 1863 except Erov Haclav of West Luziyca has set foot on Namorese soil. Today, Mr. Shjoraski is meeting with Fu Wen in the capital.

The main issues on the agenda are definitely the Nantai situation: people in Nantai, while they speak Namorese and practice some Namorese customs, have been becoming more part of the Luziycan mainstream culture, especially by adopting their styles of fashion, technology, and a stronger identification with Luziyca than for Namor. Namor still claims Nantai after Luziyca took it from the Antelopian Dynasty back in 1898 by the Treaty of Tatra (technically 1897 if you use the Battle of Kenyen as the starting point).

Another issue that will likely get discussed is trade, especially due to Shjoraski's declaration that by "this time next year," Namor will become the largest trading partner of Luziyca, which some Namorese and Luziycans have greeted with skepticism. Thus, that is a driving force for Shjoraski wishing for a free trade agreement with the People's Republic, and improved diplomatic ties with Namo.

In Nantai, Chief Executive Kung Alicia has commented, "Our future lies within the settlement of the question regarding Nantai. Many Nantainese strongly support continued Luziycan rule, but they don't mind Namor, provided that the Namorese do not administer the Republic. If the two leaders (Shjoraski and Fu) come to an agreement, Kenyen will definitely benefit as the center of trade."

She went on to say, "It is the stopover of all flights from Namor to Luziyca and vice-versa, with Namorese law forbidding direct flights to other cities, so we do have quite a bit of revenue. In the city of Po'ai, the Central Avenue Port of Entry is actually now the second busiest border crossing in the whole country, behind the Vesterhag-Sofjastad crossing between us and Geadland, while ours near Kenyen is a bit low right now, with mainly tourist traffic going through. If they settle the Nantai question, even if flights between the two nations are no longer required to stop in Kenyen, Nantai will bear a lot of fruit in economic opportunities due to the cross-border trade going on here.

She then said that "If it (the territorial dispute) is settled, trade between the two nations will increase substantially, and we have reason to believe that they will go to Nantai for the following reason: It is that we are closer to the coast, so therefore, it makes more sense for trade to go through Nantai than say, through Txotai (Oteki), since it is the shortest route to Namo and nearby cities like Esquarian City by land from Luziycans without going through another country, like Katranjiev. Thus, if they settle the question soon, we will expect massive economic growth, since more be willing to trade through us and invest in us, especially the Kenyen Stock Exchange. We may very well become a key center of the national economy, like what Gijirokastra and Bethlehem currently are."

Elsewhere, former President William Bush has said that "I am amazed that nearly twenty years after the war, Shjoraski has begun to heal the scars that have characterized Namo-Luziycan relations. The war back in 1996 was terrifying, and while we have won since we got them out of the country, in the end, nobody won. Except," before he chuckled, "those that built the Namo-Luziycan barrier. I've heard the reception was very warm, I expected them to be less hospitable to what they call the imperialists. If they can treat a Luziycan with this much honor so soon, it shows that detente is working."

However, Shjoraski's approval rating has fallen from 70% approval before he left to 66%, most of the loss coming from the Bible Belt who are strongly anti-communist and perceive Namor to be a communist state. Major protests have broken out in Greenwich, though it is expected to dissipate in days.

Some Namorese and Otekians in Luziyca have protested the detente, but 65% approve of detente, 30% disapprove, and 5% are neutral and/or have no opinion on detente. But for the summit, it falls to 60% approving, 25% disapproving, and 15% having no opinion or are neutral on the summit in Namo.

One thing is for sure: Shjoraski has said that "I sincerely hope the best for the nation, and I will make sure that detente will eventually blossom into friendly relations, maybe not in this lifetime, but in my children's lifetime." It is going to be very likely the case.

[Luziyca]

Serhoskav extends condolences, outlines new policy to Qianrong

VP Nikolai Serhoskav at a conference

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - After his return from the funeral of King Albert II of Geadland, in light of recent terrorist attacks by the ASQ, Vice-President Nikolai Serhoskav has issued a statement, extending condolences to the families of the 168 victims and also announced a new policy directed against them, as a result of the summit between President-General Fu Wen of Namor and President Breuvi Shjoraski.

Mr. Serhoskav has said, "We extend our sincere condolences for the victims of the recent terrorist attacks in the areas of Angkapalaran, Thong Nhat, and Caifan, and we apologize to all Qianrongese for having ignored their plight in the past few months. While we are certain that many won't forgive us for having betrayed them, we will try to mend the relations as soon as possible."

"However," Serhoskav went on to say, "we will activate LAFB Yucheng and send soldiers to help find Chancellor Song Li-Chao under one condition: that the Qianrongese government refuses any more aid from New Zepuha and ends any existing aid from that country. If the Qianrongese refuse to do so, we will reduce our role within the country, and not provide them with much of the assistance that they have relied upon for the past half-century. But if the authorities in Yucheng do accept our offer, we will send a division of 3,500 troops to help search the area and find the Chancellor and increase our role to prevent terrorist attacks, as well as give twenty five million lira (50 million lira) per year to be spent on improved security measures to prevent terrorism."

"It is their crossroads, they can stick with us," Serhoskav said, "or they can switch to New Zepuha. It is their decision, and if they make that choice, we will respect the decision, but the latter will bring some harm in the long run."

[Luziyca]

Qianrongese government ends alliance with the Christian Republic, Congress to vote on sanctions

Acting Chancellor Hsieh Jiang-De inspecting troops in Hai Nang

YUCHENG, QIANRONG - Earlier today, the Acting Chancellor, Hsieh Jiang-de of Qianrong has announced an official end to the Qianrongese-Luziycan alliance, and has declared that all Luziycan forces must leave LAFB (Luziycan Armed Forces Base) Yucheng in 48 hours and transfer it to Qianrongese control.

The Acting Chancellor, according to state media stated that "Luziyca is to remove all forces and equipment from Yucheng LAFB by this upcoming Monday, November the Third... the Luziycan Armed Forces no longer have permission to conduct any operations on Qianrongese soil, nor will we allow them to stay in the FDRQ following Luziyca's betrayal. This is the official conclusion of the dishonored alliance between our nations."

Hsieh went on to say, "Yucheng LAFB was meant to be a guarantee that Luziyca would stand beside Qianrong, a guarantee that, when we needed our allies, they would stand beside us. Luziyca has broken this guarantee every day since June 3rd. We will no longer allow them to remain on our soil, seeing that their promise has been broken. There are some that believe that, now that Luziyca is offering the bare minimum of aid possible, they have repaired this damage. They have not. In fact, they have proved themselves totally untrustworthy by doing this."

He continues, "By placing draconian restrictions on Qianrong obtaining their meager 'assistance', they have proved that they have no will to actually aid Qianrong. They are simply using us as pawns. Hundreds of Qianrongese men, women, and children have died, and the Luziycans have proved that they are incapable of caring. They have degraded us to statistics and left us to die. We want none of Luziyca's feeble attempts to make us their slaves. They must go, and their useless troops will be the first to leave."

Hsieh then informed the press that this marks the "official conclusion" of the Qianrongese-Luziycan alliance, statingg that "Luziyca's betrayals have caused the destruction of this alliance; we cannot go on pretending that Luziyca can be trusted. This must be ended, now, before any more Qianrongese civilians die."

However, Hsieh only stated that LAFB Yucheng will be handed over to a "responsible military force," and that has helped spawn anti-Luziycan protests.

In response, President Breuvi Shjoraski announced from the Presidential Palace, "For a long time, Qianrong and Luziyca had very close relations, especially when both of us perceived Namor as a threat to our national security and wanted to contain it. Of course, it has all changed: with the fact that no major power threatens our shores like prior to the normalization of relations with Namo, combined with the deteriorating condition of Qianrong in recent months with a threat of civil war, our government feels that it is in the best interests of both the Luziycan and Qianrongese peoples to end the alliance. Thus, effective immediately, LAFB Yucheng's equipment and soldiers shall be evacuated, and be reassigned to facilities within Luziyca, as well as in other foreign Luziycan bases. Personally, I hope that even if the alliance ends, we shall remain trading partners."

However, in the House of Representatives, Representative Chen Yi of the Liberal Party from the constituency of Po'ai-West has proposed sanctions on Qianrong on all "non-essential goods" and forbidding Luziycan companies from exporting non-essential goods to Qianrong. This motion is to be put to vote on November 4th.

[Luziyca]

Editorial: Who shall win the third Chaska i Esquarium?

Friendly between two teams, date unknown

WILEY, MASSEAU - This sport has formed an integral part of our national identity. It is as Luziycan as pumpkin pie, democracy, and of course, it unites our country. No matter which team we support (personally, I like FC Gijirokastra East, but that's just me), there is one thing that we agree on: football is a way of life. And thus, I've decided to compile a hypothetical listing of the results as we win over Francilie.

As things stand right now on the third day, the group leaders who are first on the leaderboards for their respective groups are Oddisia, Namor, Masseau, Vilska, Vespia, and Luziyca. Of those six, only three nations have had three consecutive wins thus far: Masseau, Luziyca, and Odissia. The nations who lost all three games are the Unolians, the Koy, and the Britannese. They have an ice cube's chance of hell of succeeding.

However, assuming all the positions remain the same by the time of the playoffs, beginning on the tenth of November, we shall most likely witness Luziyca, Masseau, and Odissia advance into the quarter-finals and semi-finals. Of these three, two in particular are singled out for dominating and potentially reaching the finals.

• Masseau - this country is the host of the current Chaska i Esquarium. Many people in Masseau have had experience playing football, so thus, it is not a surprise that with how strong their team has been performing, they have a high chance of winning their first Chaska i Esquarium and taking home the trophy for their nation, making it the first instance a CdE host nation wins the trophy on their own term.
• Luziyca- I admit, I am a tad biased since I'm from there, but unlike the second CdE, we have been doing much better. As far as I know, the new batch from Jerusalem has been doing quite well, especially since they're using 2-2-6 instead of 1-1-8. Notably, we have an advantage because we have won once, in the inaugural CdE, and assuming our record holds up, we have a reasonably high chance of winning.

As for the two nations who will most likely be eliminated from the Chaska i Esquarium, I have selected these two teams, although it is mostly not for ability, and more because I hate them.

• Koy team - Let's face it. The Koy are terrible at everything when it comes to football. They don't know how to score properly, they don't bother defending their own pitch, it is almost as if they are spitting on Ohanka for some odd reason. If they somehow make it to the Round of 12, hell will most definitely freeze over. And if they win, I'll seriously sell my soul to Satan.
• Qianrongese team - Yucheng may have been skilled at stunning us politically, but perhaps they could've better invested their money spent on criticizing Bethlehem for our betrayal by investing the cash in their football team. They seem to be improving a tad, but their initial performance against the Emperors was a mockery, and should they face us again in the stadium, I feel confident we can defeat them as easily as Peter van Houten can discard his "fan mail."

So, yeah. There you go, here are my predictions for who wins the Chaska i Esquarium. And remember, start betting.

Pierre Haberdasher is a sports editor for The Constitution, and was once a player in FC Alatyr from 1980-1986 before retiring and transferring over to journalism.

[Luziyca]

The dominance of the Luziycans

Group F              Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Luziyca                6   6  0  0   26   3 +23   18
2 Francillie             6   2  1  3    7  13  −6    7
3 Sassau                 6   1  1  4    3  10  −7    4
4 Qianrong               5   0  2  3    4  13  −9    2

MILLBOURNE, MASSEAU - We have won every single match. No matter what God threw at us, we dominated and cleared every foe. In the final group match, we won four to one against Francillie, enabling us to get a bye and jump straight to the quarter-finals. So, let us look back at our score record from the first match all the way to the last match yesterday.

While the list does give an obvious explanation on our victory streak, one must note that now, we cannot lose: if we just lose once, we are officially out of the running, and we would have disappointed our own national team.

Now, for the scores...

• Luziyca-Qianrong 4-1
• Luziyca-Sassau 2-0
• Francille-Luziyca 0-5
• Qianrong-Luziyca 1-6
• Sassau-Luziyca 1-5
• Francille-Luziyca 1-4

All along the way, we have shown our record and determination firm in obtaining that trophy. And now, it is it. Masseau in its previous game managed to draw 1-1 with the Sjal national football team, ending their winning streak. We are now the only one to have 6-0-0, and we feel that we will almost definitely win.

However, we now need to look at the quarter-finals. The Luziycans are likely to face either Namor or Odissia tomorrow, so while we have a bye today, and our team has been practicing hard for a good portion of the day at their turf in Milbourne, we need to face the probabilities.

Namor has had two wins, three draws, and zero losses, whilst Odissia has 3 wins, 2 draws, and a single loss. Namor is tied at the top with Atlantia Creek of their group, whilst Odissia is a clear second. Should we face Namor, we have pretty good odds of at the very least obtaining a draw, but we are most likely going to win. As in regards to television viewing figures, the Namo-Luziycan match would probably witness a very large audience that may exceed that of the finals, even if we make it that far. If we do face Odissia, we have some good odds of victory, but they are probably not going to achieve a victory of significant note.

Thus, I believe that we are going to win the Chaska i Esquarium, or at least make it onto second or third place. If we can win this time, we will be the first national team to win two titles in the Chaska i Esquarium, and then pray Vyvland doesn't get a second title either.

Good luck, Emperors!

[Luziyca]

[quote="Luziyca";p="22331040"]

President declares "we wish to see peace in SE Esquarium."

Shjoraski a while ago

BETHLEHEM, LUZIYCA - Today, in response to rising tensions between the two nations of Cata Larga and Ocidenia, President Breuvi Shjoraski has made a speech to the Senate floor regarding the rising tensions and the potential for war.

Shjoraski said that "In the light of recent tensions between the nations of Ocidenia and Cata Larga, we wish to see peace in southeastern Esquarium. We wish to realize that such aggressive acts are futile on either side, and that they are counterproductive to the ideals that were set in Namo regarding peace in southeastern Esquarium."

"Peace cannot be achieved by the barrel of a gun, but rather, through time and concerted efforts to ensure that peace is achieved," he continued. "We condemn the violation of territorial integrity of Ocidenia by the Cata Largan government and their allies, but we feel that Ocidenia needs stability. Thus, we invite all parties to head to Krasimir, Katranjiev, or some neutral country, for a summit to discuss the situation in southeastern Esquarium and to try and stop this situation from deteriorating into a full-fledged war before it is too late."

"Should the situation deteriorate into a full-fledged war, we will do everything we can to make sure that peace reigns in the region, and to promote stability. Let us note that the west and the north shall never abandon the east and the south. We will continue to help those in dire need, and we shall do so," Shjoraski declared.

"Thus," he concluded, "we need to stay neutral for the time being and have a peace summit in a neutral country!"

[Luziyca]

Silver medal performance

All's well that end's well in this CdE.

MILBOURNE, MASSEAU - We were so close to achieving victory. The only team we have needed to face in the Chaska i Esquarium before we got the trophy was Masseau, but in this final match, the Emperors have stopped short. Quite short, in fact, with a 0-2 score against Masseau.

In Milbourne, the Luziycans were all prepared to win, but almost immediately, we were stalemated. Using total football, we were fluid, but the defense of Masseau adapted and seemed to foresee any movements. 21 minutes in, a phantom goal was scored by Aníbal Vázquez and the linesman declared it a goal, even though television footage saw the ball not cross the line. The first half ended nought points for Luziyca, one point for Masseau.

In the second half, the stalemate continued, but there was no phantom goal, nor did the opposition really break through our defense, though we couldn't break through their defenses either. 70 minutes in, an own goal was scored by Bosse Dahl when a pass was intercepted by an opponent. The game ended nought points for the Luzzies, two points for Massau.

Despite the disappointing result, many still supported the Luzzies, since they managed to get 2nd place, and get onto the top three.

"I was disappointed by the loss, but we did much better than the last Chaska. I think we will have a shot at winning next edition," said a civilian from Gijirokastra.
"The Emperors have done well, and I know that even though they lost, they will probably still be honored by us," said an Inledan from Jerusalem, where the Emperors came from.
"We did pretty well. I think that our team is at the standard of which we expect them to perform at for the Chaska i Esquarium," said a Bethlehemite.

[Luziyca]

Kuusk family killed by extremists

The Kuusk family prior to their kidnapping

KUNINGLINN, JARKVENSA - Yesterday, the Liberate Kunninglinn movement issued a graphic video, showing the brutal execution of the native Jarkvensan family who were kidnapped on the fifth of October. The 15 minute video began with a montage of the group's activities, including militants in combat and training, before showing four members of the terrorist group, each standing behind one of the family.

To quote TVLNews, "Marko Kuusk was then held at gunpoint while reading a statement by LK. In the statement, it criticized Lyonsland's performance in post-Luziycan Jarkvensa as well as denouncing Masseau as 'scum,' presumably following their triumphant win over Luziyca in the Coupe d' Esquarium final. The group then proceeded to behead Marko while forcing his children to lie in his blood. His wife, Birgit, was shown to be naked and was then raped and later shot. The two children, Feliks and Kaarin, were then dismembered." It went on to say that "Marko Kuusk was just 41 years of age. Birgit was 38 years of age, Feliks was 11 years old while Kaarin had just turned nine years old whilist in LK captivity."

The news was received with outrage. In Jerusalem, Chief Executive of the Inledan Republic, Embla Borghild stated that "this tragedy shows the futility of terrorism and holding hostages. We express our sympathies to the relatives of the victims, and condemn those who took the lives of the Kuusk's away."

A prominent Luziycan-Jarkvensan currently living in Dudyev, Andrei Tereshkov stated that "I personally am angered by the Liberate Kuninglinn extremists who sought to use terrorism to achieve separation. I personally feel that it is in the best interests of the Jarkvensan community to secede and be their own country, or be an Associated Free State, but this is not how to leave Lyonsland." He continued, "However, the Lyonese government, was in a way responsible, since we requested help to Lyonsland, since if there were CIA agents in Jarkvensa, especially if they were involved in LK, we could use those folks to locate the Kuusks and rescue the Kuusk's and avoid this situation in the first place."

A vigil was held in Jerusalem with 300 people holding candles at the main square in the city, while in Gijirokastra, 600 held a candlelight vigil at the Square of Nations. More information will come over the next few days.

[Luziyca]

Reghalsa program to end on January 1, 2015

Logo of Reghalsa or the Government Health Agency

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - Today, Director-General of Reghalsa, or the Government Health Agency, Dimo Adjaniev and Secretary of State, Danielle Varanken has announced an end to Reghalsa, to take effect by the end of the year, due to the low numbers using it, low funding, and the fact that it outlived its original purpose.

Adjaniev said that "in light of budget cuts over the years, the fact that we only serve 40,000 people within the country out of a nation of over four hundred million souls, and the fact that Reghalsa has outlived its purpose in helping the poorest of the poor have adequate healthcare, Reghalsa shall terminate its operations by the end of the year."

Danielle Varanken announced that "For nearly a century, Reghalsa has provided assistance to those who needed them the most. We have helped ensure the poorest of the poor at their lowest receive help and turn themselves around. However, dwindling usage and concerns of the inefficiency have prompted us at the Department of State to decide that it is in the best interests of the users and the government to end Reghalsa. We are not closing the door on an assistance program, but we want to make sure it is effective, and minimizes costs."

Adjaniev then declared that "effective immediately, Reghalsa shall refuse any new applications, nor consider any applicants that are in our backlog. However, for all current recipients of Reghalsa services, until December 6th, we will accept applications for monetary assistance, and we will fund treatments up until June 6, 2015. After December 6th, there will be no applications permitted for any services from Reghalsa except referral and information services, but after Christmas Eve, only informational services shall be provided until January 1st, when except for paying those whose claims are pending or occurring, all operations shall come to a close."

The decision to close Reghalsa has been supported by many people, with a Gallup poll saying that 77% of Luziycans approve, 1% disapproves, and 22% are neutral. However, there is a clear division: 40% of respondents want to have new programs to help assist lower income patients, 38% feel that Reghalsa should not be replaced with new programs at all, 14% support vouchers for lower-income citizens to receive discounts from medical treatment, and 8% are neutral.

One who supports new programs to replace Reghalsa is one of the 600,000 people whose applications were pending when the announcement was made, Janet Rosenfeldt, mother of three. She said that "the end of a program which I sought to get into because of my struggles with poverty is a bad thing. Without a replacement, I fear that if I were to be injured, or my children, I will declare bankruptcy. If Reghalsa must be closed, I want a more fair and comprehensive system."

An opponent of new programs, Todor Borovets said that "It is a good riddance to Reghalsa: they have been supporting the dregs of society who do not do anything and are just lazy bums. I do not want any new programs, especially socialized medicine. They ought to sink or swim, and be freed of the government teat."

Lastly, a supporter of vouchers is Jarrod Lancaster, who said that, "I think an acceptable solution to all sides is health vouchers, to basically receive discounts for treatments that are deemed necessary, with the government paying for the rest or maybe having it as a loan that they pay back over time."

However, rumors are afloat that Liberal representative from Irinushka in the overhang seat, Peter Lehoi from Askatasuna plans to table a bill forcing 'socialized medicine,' or in Liberal jargon, 'universal healthcare' in the coming days. More information to come.

[Luziyca]

Could Luziycans have socialized medicine shoved down our throats?

Rep. Peter Lehoi

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - Today, Liberal Representative Lehoi from Askatasuna in the overhang seat tabled legislation to establish a new healthcare assistance program, except that it plans to cover every Luziycan citizen and cover essential treatments and regular checkups, but not the costs of medication (except if need be), dentistry, and non-essential treatments like plastic surgery.

As Lehoi explained his position on the law that would shove this so-called "universal healthcare," some representatives began to heckle, but Lehoi kept on speaking with a determined attitude, and reassuring people that "private healthcare shall remain legal, should they choose to use them."

Finally, the Whig representative from Gijirokastra-Central, Gora Antonov, who served since the mid-term elections said that "this proposed legislation would destroy the healthcare system which for years has been ranked the best in the region. This legislation seeks to impose Haclav-style socialized medicine back on us, and as one who grew up under communism, the West Luziycans shouldn't be a way to replace Reghalsa." Most Whigs, including the President applauded.

Lehoi shot back stating that "Firstly, Whig representative from Gijirokastra-Central, only about three-quarters of the population are covered with insurance. We want to reduce medical costs and help the uninsured. Secondly, it has been proven time and time again that nations with universal healthcare spend less on health costs than us, and yet, they have better healthcare than us. Thirdly, there are no reliable sources that prove that Luziyca has the best healthcare system in all of Esquarium, let alone Western Esquarium." The Liberals including the Leader of the Official Opposition from the Liberals, Sera Svensson applauded after Lehoi's speech.

Despite the determined efforts of the Liberals, the Whigs still have a plurality in the House of Representatives, and if the National Luziycan Party sides with the Whigs, that proposal may be stopped at the gate, but if they side with the Liberals alongside the CLP, which has already done so, it will go onto the Senate floor, and it will most likely fail due to the strong majority the Whig Party holds in the Senate.

More information as the story develops.

[Luziyca]

National Healthcare Act passes House of Representatives, 258 to 256

Rep. Peter Lehoi

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - After alterations made in committee, the National Healthcare Act proposed by Peter Lehoi passed Congress by only a single vote: 258 ayes to 256 nays, with one abstention. All the representatives from the Liberal Party, the Christian Luziycan Party, the National Luziycan Party, and 8 representatives of the Whig Party voted in favor of the bill, while 256 representatives, all from the Whig Party voted against the bill. One representative from the Whig Party abstained due to a family emergency back in his riding.

Representative Peter Lehoi said that "the passage of the bill through the House is great news, and I sincerely hope that Luziyca shall experience universal health coverage among all Luziycan citizens, to reduce healthcare costs within this great nation and help assist the poor and downtrodden of society."

However, Representative Gora Antonov said that "I am fairly disappointed that such an abomination has been passed by the House of Representatives, but I am quite confident in the abilities for the Senate to halt the passage of the bill, or at the very least, reduce the coverage and benefits so that my constituents would approve."

In the Square of Nations in Gijirokastra, demonstrators protested against the bill, most of whom are middle-aged people who grew up during communism, declaring the bill "communist" and "destroying the efficient healthcare system." Protesters were cordoned off to a section of the square so to not affect normal activities. However, elsewhere in the city, at Kulikov Park, demonstrators, mainly young people from the city and the old who came demonstrated in support of the law.

James Hope who helped organized the anti-NHA protests said that "My family grew up in a time where our healthcare system was stagnating. We used clandestine hospitals and clinics which were much better than that the state provided us. Nationalizing healthcare like Haclav had done is a terrible idea and will only increase healthcare costs. Besides, why should I pay for the mistakes of some of the citizens here?"

However, Diana Keslov who helped organize the pro-NHA protests remarked that "Universal healthcare in many countries has resulted in lower costs in treatment, but they have much better outcomes than we, the Luziycans do. I think we should take a page from what others, especially Geadland and Katranjiev use and adopt it."

More as the story develops.

[Chadtonia]

IC:

The Federal Council has recently adopted The Constitution as its first Federally approved Foreign newspaper to be sold at news-stands in The Great Royal City of Chadtonia.

[Luziyca]

National Healthcare Act passes the Senate, 42-39, Shjoraski vetoes it

President Shjoraski

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - After alterations made in committee, the National Healthcare Act was passed 42-39 by the Senate, with all twelve Liberal senators and twenty-two Nationalist senators approving the legislation, as well as eight Whig senators. 39 senators, all from the Whig Party voted against the legislation, and one abstained.

The alterations made by Whig senator Andrew Berlusconi from Lombardia reduced the coverage, by removing check-ups and listing circumcision, whether for medical or non-medical reasons as a comestic procedure, but maintaining the rest of the coverage. The alterations however went very far: it removed restarting the Department of Health and placed it under the jurisdiction of the Department of State, like Reghalsa had been.

Despite the changes made in the House and the Senate, the President vetoed the bill, saying that "In each house, this legislation was only passed by a single vote. We are not sure if Congress truly wants to have socialized medicine shoved down our throats, or if they do not. Thus, it is in the best interest of this free nation to veto this legislation and determine whether it actually has support."

With this, the bill will be returned to the House of Representatives, where it needs to achieve a 2/3rds majority to override the veto. If it passes again, it must come to the Senate, where it has to pass with a 2/3rds majority, before it can become law. Considering how slim that would be, this legislation is essentially dead.

When news of the veto came out, supporters of the NHA protested against the decision, with one protester saying that "His reasoning is faulty: he sees this bill pass with one vote in each house, and a majority of people want it! He wants to keep healthcare a privilege, not a right!"
An opponent of the NHA said that "This bill is complete communism. It threatens our God-given liberties, it threatens to impose a healthcare system that is inefficient and ultimately shall lead us to communism."

As of right now, opinion polls indicate that 52% support the NHA, 47% oppose it, and 1% is neutral.

[Luziyca]

Shjoraski comments on the Roubao situation

Roubanese "navy"

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - Earlier today, Prime Minister Tung Shau of the Roubanese autonomous region announced his intention to join NOSDO, resulting in the authorities from Unolia to threaten a blockade on the island of Roubao. As war between Unolia and Roubao seem imminent, Shjroaski made an announcement regarding the situation.

Shjoraski announced that "the deteriorating security situation within the northern sea is an issue of great concern, especially a time when NOSDO has been suffering internal disputes. As such, we strongly urge all parties to refrain from going to war and negotiate a lasting treaty that satisfies the interest of all parties involved, namely Roubao and Unolia, in a neutral country."

"Until such time has come," Shjoraski continued "Roubao has no legislative initiative regarding joining any military alliances such as NOSDO, let alone conduct foreign relations except for cultural ties because the federal authorities of the Jahistic Union are in charge of these affairs, while Roubao is in charge of internal affairs, like the other members of the Union."

"However, the attitude of the Jahistic Union is not helping matters," he warned. "This places the security of the Haddock Sea and its surroundings in jeopardy, and threatens the peace which has come within the area. If both sides don't cease their threats, this may snowball into a situation which will devastate Esquarium in the long term."

Later on, he declared that "due to the circumstances, all plans to reduce the capabilities and size of LAFB [Luziycan Armed Forces Base] Sudalto in Vyvland shall be suspended, except those that have already been implemented." Sudalto drives on the left now, and only two silos remain, but he said that "most of the area transferred for residential use shall occur sometime soon."

More as the story develops.

[Luziyca]

Shjoraski comments on the Nevan situation, healthcare reform

Embassy of Michillies after the terrorist attacks

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - As news of the terrorist attack against the Michillian embassy in Namo spreads around the world, conducted by the "Knights of the Blessed Sapphire" (not to be confused with the former Knights of St. Luther) which conducts terrorist attacks in Odissia and Michillies, rumors of either CIA involvement or Nevan involvement have been circulating, especially the latter, though the former is commonplace within Namor.

Shjoraski said that "This barbaric attack on Namorese soil is a tragedy on all fronts. Violence undermines and removes any support their support can have internationally, and considering how the Odissian and Michillian states have existed for almost a century in their present form, supporting this organization is like living in the 1900s. We extend our sympathies and condolences to the families of those who have perished and injured in these attacks, and we hope that these perpetrators receive their justice by the Namorese government."

He then issued an Executive Order, declaring that "all Luziycan embassies and consulates in the world until the funeral of the Michillian ambassador shall have their flag at half-mast."

"As for allegations of the CIA being involvement," Shjoraski remarked, "I can say with 100% certainty that the CIA has had no role in funding this terrorist organization. Personally, I believe the Nevans may have played a role, but I'd refrain from officially doing so until the evidence is clear to prove Nevan involvement, for all we know, this group could have no links to Nevanlinna."

The next topic was healthcare reform: the National Healthcare Act went through the House of Representatives, and out of the 515 representatives, 15 Whigs abstained, 166 Whigs voted against, and 334 representatives (147 Liberals, 99 Whigs, 57 National Luziycans, and 31 Christian Luziycans) voted in favor.

When asked about this, Shjoraski stated that "with 53% supporting socialized medicine, and growing, they have managed to persuade a good majority of our representatives into voting in favor for this legislation that threatens to impose a West Luziycan-style healthcare system. I feel a bit disappointed that people want an inefficient healthcare system that in the 1980s was the worst in the region... well, outside of the SW, that is, and want to end our tradition of having the best healthcare in the region."

As the bill goes up to vote tomorrow, the nation holds its breath over the National Healthcare Act.

[Luziyca]

As Senate vote looms, many for-profit hospitals plan on closing their doors

Doctors walking down a hospital corridor

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - With the Senate planning to vote on the National Healthcare Act soon, the largest for-profit healthcare corporation, the Hospital Corporation of Luziyca announced that "in the event that the National Healthcare Act passes, we will lock out our workers and close all hospitals owned by our organization down."

CEO Brad Cook said that "this bill threatens our sustainable and sound business model. Since the 1950s, we have given generous standards and when the communists ended, we expanded our operations to West Luziyca. However, this attempt to impose West Luziycan-style healthcare can only bring doom and gloom to this robust health system: if this bill passes, our healthcare standards shall deteriorate perilously, and what was once the best healthcare system in all of Esquarium will turn into the worst healthcare system in all of Esquarium."

The Chief Financial Officer, Grigor Pitt said that "If this bill passes, with everything that is going to be covered by the government, we have no choice but to shutter all of our hospital operations. All patients regardless of condition would have to be discharged and all personnel save for security and janitorial will have to leave. If we do this, we will leave about 30 towns and cities without a hospital and forcing people to travel further to get treatment: this is exactly what the bill wants us to do, to cut all services outside of Bethlehem and Gijirokastra, and we want to make sure that this cannot happen."

For more information, click here.

In other news

• Qianrong - Travel notice issued after news of coup against the Acting Chancellor, two contenders emerge
• Nevanmaa - Attempts to alleviate backlash after Deputy Minister praised the attack against the Michillian embassy
• Ocidenia - PM Brozhav to hold press conference in the near future
• Pavonistade - Pavons try to apply to NOSDO and Triumvirate.

[Luziyca]

National Healthcare Act passes the Senate, 56-25, Luziyca enters the ranks of nations with socialized medicine

The Senate

BETHLEHEM, F.C. - This morning, the National Healthcare Act finally returned to the Senate floor after having been vetoed and returned to the House of Representatives where it passed with a 2/3rds majority. During the past few days, the bill had been hotly debated by those in the Senate, whilst the people waited anxiously for the results of the vote on this pivotal act which would bring Luziyca to the ranks of those with socialized medicine.
Despite the threat of a lockout by the Hospital Corporation of Luziyca which had been "poorly phrased," said the secretary of CEO Brad Cook, and plans by some organizations within the country to file a lawsuit against the government due to this "unconstitutional" law, supporters of the law convinced many politicians to place their support on the National Healthcare Act.

When the vote began, the nation held its breath anxiously, but after the vote ended, supporters were relieved: all twelve Liberal senators and twenty-two National Luziycan senators, as well as twenty-two Whig senators approved the National Healthcare Act. Twenty five Whig senators voted against the bill, while one Whig senator was absent due to a broken hip after he slipped on some ice outside the Congressional Palace.

After the results were tallied and released, parties were thrown all over the country by those who supported the National Healthcare Act.

Janet Rosenfeldt stated in excitement, "I'm thankful to Peter Lehoi for proposing that legislation and enabling it to go through! This is a great thing, not just for me, but for the whole country as well, for everyone can finally get at least some universal healthcare!"

Gora Antonov who opposed the bill said that "With the passage of this bill, our best healthcare system has joined the choir invisible: it is only going to get worse from here on out. Haclav will certainly be smiling from the grave, and laughing as he sees our once-great healthcare system tumble."

Shjoraski announced that he was a "bit disappointed with the passage of the bill," but that "the will of the people wanted socialized medicine, and who could say no to that?"

As of right now, opinion polls indicate that 55% support the NHA, 40% oppose it, and 5% are neutral.

In other news

• Esquarian Union - parties ramp up their efforts for campaigning for elections on Dec. 6th
• Qianrong - Bureau of the Ministry of Information shuttered by NSF, NSF allegedly kills at least a hundred people
• Namor - Election race between Fu, Shohai, and Kuo heating up, debate to occur
• Vyvland - Parliament votes to pressure the administration to support removing Nevanmaa from NOSDO

[Luziyca]

The Nevans are blind to the "winds of change"

Bruevi Shjoraski in Jerusalem before the speech

JERUSALEM, INLEDA - Today, at the Inledan Legislature, Shjoraski made a speech related to Nevanmaa in the light of Geadland and Vyvland's support to expel the Nevans from NOSDO, and Vjaarland's support for the continued membership of the Nevan government. The reason why many have demanded the expulsion of the Nevans is due to the security risks and support of international terrorism.
Shjoraski began the speech with, "For many generations, our nation has generally seen the Nevan government at worst as slightly racist. The Nevans have had support because of their traditions were a counterweight to communism, which had threatened its shores, just like the communists threatened us Luziycans. At the time, we have appreciated it because we felt it was appropriately strategic enough."

"However," he said in a transition, "times are beginning to change. The Nevan society which was once indispensable in the fight against communist ideology has now been rotten, only held up by a tiny slither of support from the far-right and their past glories. I feel the Geads said it best: the real cause of the Rantala government's demise was not the government itself, but the system it existed in. The Nevan political system has one large right-wing party and a myriad leftist parties, which means the former can be dominant for long stretches of time, whilst the latter can only form unstable coalitions."

"This means that left wing coalitions, like Rantala's government can't exactly implement these promises," Shjoraski declared. "As the Geadish people said again, the Nevans were 'a deeply conservative society, its population would never have started believing in racial equality, women's rights and other liberal values just because the government told them it was a good idea. When the government showed signs of being slightly less racist than usual, public opinion turned against them. Its political allies took advantage and threatened to bring down the government if they weren't listened to.' Thus, we have strong cause to believe that the Nevans are blind to the wind of change."

"The Nevans still believe that racial superiority is acceptable, the refusal to grant all rights to women when virtually every other nation that is democratic does so, and worse of all, they support terrorism and Arnborg," Shjoraski remarked. "I feel that if Arnborg were to fall and the Nevans try to defend this island against the black majority, the Nevans will likely be cut off from the rest of the world."

That speech was met with a standing ovation in the Legislature.

In other news

• Sakatia - Government boldly proclaims that they are a leader in human rights, despite human rights violations
• Qianrong - Opposition groups organized massive protest, hundreds of thousands of people turned out
• Uguria - Naturalized Namorese citizen arrested for allegedly murdering Sindo, likely motivated by racism
• Algonie - Terrorists arrested for attempting to kill royal family