Radio Free Haven [News Thread]

[Akimonad]

Akimonad leases base on Klorex Island


The new Akimonadi naval facility on Klorex Island

KENT, Akimonad - The Division of External Affairs and Division of Defence jointly announced today that they had reached an agreement to lease a joint naval-air-land facility on Klorex Island from the Minnysotans. Klorex Island is Minnysotan territory. The government will pay a yearly lease of $60 million for the base, which was previous used by Minnysotan forces. The facility will be known as Klorex Joint Overseas Base.

"This is a great step forward for increased Akimonado-Minnysotan defence cooperation," Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer said.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Stephen Lutvik stated that Akimonad "plan[s] to conduct many training and readiness exercises in the area of Klorex Joint Overseas Base in concert with Minnysotan forces."

"We hope to use this expanded presence to continue to be a force for good in the world," Bremer added. "We can now serve the people of Minnysota and Judea more effectively."

The Fourteenth Fleet was created specifically to be dispatched to Klorex Island. It will constitute one of the largest fleets in the Akimonadi Navy, and includes the AMS Skua, a ship that recently gained notoriety for apparently going rogue during the blockade of Gholgoth. Some observers speculated that the Skua was given this assignment to keep it far from the mainland.

[Akimonad]

MPs ask: Where are Luziycan elections?


Elections in Luziyca have yet to occur, and there has been no word on them since the announcement of the coup.

KENT, Akimonad - President Jonathan S. Quigley received a strong grilling from the Parliament today during Question Time. Many MPs from his own party and others brought up the issue of elections in Luziyca. After acoup in that nation deposed the previous ruler, Breuvi Shjoraski, the new leader, Heinrich Shorvak, promised "free and fair elections to be held in two weeks." That deadline has now passed, and many MPs wanted answers.

"It is quite clear to me," Rt. Hon. Michael Young (Pickerington North, LP) said, "that elections are not forthcoming. The circumstances of this coup are extremely sketchy. For a mandate like the Luziycan legislature to accept and deliberate on such a heinous piece of legislation, and then get arrested and deposed en masse by a man who claims to have the support of the people, smells to me like subterfuge and autocracy."

"It is simply unacceptable that you, Mr. President, have let this deadline expire with no comment or action. This administration must act to restore democracy in Luziyca and prevent tyranny from taking hold. This includes the removal of all ACA influence from the nation," Rt. Hon. Cheri Agosti (Canvatica Northeast, MLP) stated.

President Quigley was mostly conciliatory in return, saying "I promise this august body that we shall act to prevent the establishment of a tyrannical regime in Luziyca should it appear that one is being created. Democracy will be restored to Luziyca in due course."

The circumstances of the coup in Luziyca are considered by many to be questionable. The presence of notable ACA dignitaries at the press conference where the new Luziycan leader was introduced, as well as the ACA's noted displeasure with the previous Luziycan regime, have led many to conclude that the coup was orchestrated by the ACA. Most interestingly, the communique announcing the coup was sent to Akimonad by the nation of Prussia-Steinbach, not the Luziycan government itself.

"I think there can be no doubt that this was an ACA-orchestrated coup. Whatever 'state-building' they might have in mind won't be pretty for the populace," Rt. Hon. David Wallace (Chester South, CP) said. "I am disappointed that this administration has not yet acted to depose this regime. I demand that you do so, Mr. Quigley."

[Akimonad]

Akimonad offers to buy the IASM
IASM deeply impoverished, Akimonad looks to statebuild

Kent, Akimonad - The Division for External Affairs announced today that it had tendered an offer to purchase the entire nation of the IASM. The DEA has not made an official monetary offer, but has offered to begin the process of bidding to the nation of the IASM.

"We are quite willing to make provisions to have appraisers value the entire country, after which we will make reasonable offers to the government of the IASM," Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer said at a press conference.

"The IASM is a deeply impoverished country, with a largely irrelevant government. We aim to change that completely. Upon buying the country, we will immediately embark upon a program of statebuilding such as the ones we have previously and successfully ran in the territories of The Far Echo Islands and Deva Victrix [editor's note: i.e., the former British Londinium]."

Some members of Parliament and the public reacted negatively to the news, claiming that this was "repugnant imperialism" on the part of the Quigley administration. Bremer took a different view.

"We believe that the citizens of the IASM should be empowered with the same opportunities that we ourselves enjoy. We aim to allow them to lift themselves out of poverty--something they presently have no chance of doing."

The IASM had not responded to the Division for External Affairs' offer at press time.

[Akimonad]

Akimonad defends purchase offer
Nation tenders offer to the IASM for island territory

Kent, Akimonad - In response to criticism from the nation of Elcric Kcalb, a constituent member of the Anti-Communism Alliance, the Division for External Affairs moved quickly to defend Akimonad's offer to purchase territory of the IASM.

"Should the government of the IASM accept our offer, we will be fully prepared to enforce our rightful claim to that territory. Any attempt by a foreign nation to prevent the exercise of the lawful Akimonadi government over the territory will be met with force of arms."

At Question Time in the Parliament, President Jonathan S. Quigley told MPs that Akimonad had made an opening offer of $1.2 billion to purchase an island currently belonging to the IASM.

"We are fully prepared to increase this offer, if the government of the IASM does not find it satisfactory," Quigley said to the assembly. When asked by an MP regarding the possibility of Elcric Kcalb also becoming involved in the purchase, and creating a bidding war, Quigley replied by saying, "I don't believe we would lose. Our nation is quite prosperous and certainly has the financial chops necessary. We could even pull in private investors if need be."

Regarding threats by the government of Elcric Kcalb, Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer noted that "Akimonad will defend its rights. We are certainly not scared by the threats of the Kcalbites. These threats are really just manifestations of the Kcalbite nation's aversion to liberty and freedom."

[Akimonad]

Quigley: IASM U-turn "shows fragility of autocratic states"
Nation rebuffed after apparent revolt in IASM legislative body

Kent, Akimonad - The leader of the IASM, Ditor J. Lazin, announced today that he was effectively withdrawing the offer to sell territory to Akimonad that had been previously passed by that nation's legislative body.

"It appears the Ditor can't even keep a grasp on his own bureaucrats," President Quigley said during Question Time. "Considering this apparent instability, I have ordered the Division of Defence to prepare a report exploring the possibility of a military mission to stabilize the country, which I shall report dutifully to the Parliament when I have received and reviewed it."

Asked to interpret the statements from the United World Order against the proposed sale, Quigley said, "They appear to be threatening to prevent any vessels from Akimonad from entering Tyrrhenia. Whether this threat applied specifically to the possible sale of territory, it's difficult to say, but I would like to let the Orderians know that, not only would such an action be a massive violation of the freedom of the seas, which we would be compelled to respond to, it would also be a great folly, as Akimonadi vessels regularly enter Tyrrhenia to conduct commerce with the nations of Fictions and Waldenburg, or to simply pass through on the way to some other place. If the UWO wishes to throw down the gauntlet with regards to Akimonadi vessels in the Tyrrhenian region, I shall be more than happy to pick it up. Naval forces in Fitzrovia could be in Tyrrhenia in less than a day, if necessary."

In summing up the entire affair, which Quigley admits "has effectively concluded without a sale", he said that "It appears the ACA, which has a large presence in Tyrrhenia, has once again forced a nation into complying with its particular point of view. This is just another incident of the ACA spreading tyranny and fear to other nations, and I condemn it totally."

[Akimonad]

Dienstadi states face off against slavery
Nations rally to defend state invaded by slavers

Morrdun, Morrdh - It is now well into the third day of full-scale war which has engulfed the Dienstadi region of the world. Just five days ago, the government of Morrdh issued an ultimatum to the government of Tehver, a known slaver state that had claimed territory in the Dienstadi region. The Morridane government declared a blockade on Tehver's territory in Dienstad, known as New Tehver, and also demanded the withdrawal of Tehverite forces from Dienstad. The nations of Independent Hitmen, Mokastana, and New Licentia joined in with Morrdh.

The Tehverites responded to the ultimatum by invading their neighbor in the area, New Licentia. As a result, the government of Morrdh has declared war and rushed to the defence of New Licentia, and has been joined by Coltarin, Stevid, Mokastana, Rosetta, Independent Hitmen, and Lamoni in this action. While this coalition of nations is large, two other large nations, Lyras and The Macabees, have been disconcertingly quiet on the issue. Neither nation is particularly known for tolerating slave states, so their silence in this conflict is surprising to many.

Akimonadi Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer said in a statement released to the press that "We are monitoring the situation, but do not feel it is necessary to get involved at this time. Akimonad has not had notable involvement in the Dienstadi region since the return of the former colony of Fillosankiavo to the Macabees, but we are allied to the nation of Lamoni, and certainly find a like-minded governmental philosophy in many of the Dienstadi states."

He also stated that "Akimonad remains deeply disturbed by the practise of slavery and remains committed to its eradication. Naval anti-slavery patrols are still being conducted regularly in Maredoratica and around the world, and I plan to discuss with the cabinet the possibility of expanding these patrols further."

"Most importantly, I congratulate the Dienstadi nations for standing up to oppression and violence to ensure freedom for all men and prevent the expansion of this terrible flavour of tyranny."

[Akimonad]

Fleet deployed to Pardes to 'ensure continuation of ceasefire'


Several fleets of the Akimonadi Navy are moving out to Pardes to monitor the current ceasefire during peace negotiations.

Kent, Akimonad - The Division of Defence and the Division of External Affairs announced today that a naval task force had been dispatched to the region of Pardes to 'monitor the current state of ceasefire with Hippostania.' At a press conference, Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer said he "wishes to make it clear to the Hippostanians and the other nations in Pardes that we have no hostile intentions against any of you, or Hippostania in particular. We are specifically concerned with the threat of hostile nations which have no recognised the ceasefire or pledged to join negotiations. The potential actions of these rogue nations is deeply troubling, and we wish to prevent the outbreak of violence." Bremer also courted other nations from Pardes and those participating in peace negotiations to help out. "I invite all interested nations to contribute to this operation, so that we can maintain a peaceful atmosphere for a productive dialogue without undue interruption.

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Fleet Admiral Stephen Lutvik was also categorical in his statement. "We have absolutely no interest in invading any of the nations of Pardes, especially Hippostania. Our hope with our declaration was to bring Hippostania to the negotiating table and get them to reverse their short-sighted decisions, which they have done. We are very pleased by this. However, regional security is still threatened, which is something we simply can't abide."

The task force, which is facilitating what is being called Operation Shield, is set to take up positions approximately 250 nautical miles off the coast of Hippostania. Reaction from Hippostania or other nations from the region of Pardes have yet to be seen.

After the press conference, it was reported that Bremer had boarded a plane to the nation of Deamonopolis, the location for negotiations between the countries involved in the Hippostanian Diplomatic Crisis.

[Akimonad]

Navy deployed to Deva Victrix
Division of External Affairs: Nation 'monitoring the situation in Tyrrhenia'

Fitzrovia, Deva Victrix, Akimonad - Observers noted this week that large amount of naval ships had recently docked at the naval base at Fitzrovia. This movement of naval forces had not been publicly announced, but the Division of External Affairs later acknowledged the actions. At a press conference, the Division's Communications Manager stated that "the government is monitoring the situation in Tyrrhenia".

Deva Victrix, which is located just south of the Tyrrhenian region, is one of Akimonad's few remaining colonial outposts, and is its most prosperous and well-fortified. Pundits have noted that the government may be concerned about the conflicts engulfing Tyrrhenia potentially spilling out to nearby regions. While there has been no indication from the government that it would intervene in the war between Ralkovia, the ICE, and various others, some analysts have said that this possibility should not be ruled out in the face of an ever-increasing number of Akimonadi allies and friendly nations joining the conflict.

Some have also raised the possibility of action in the nation of the IASM, an unstable regime whose land the government had offered to purchase, but was rebuffed. The IASM's failed invasion of Afalia in the wake of the ICE-Ralkovia conflict appears to have further destablised the nation, causing concern. For its part, the government has categorically stated that it has no intention of ever again dealing with the IASM.

For now, however, the government simply appears to be watching and waiting.

[Akimonad]

ACA splinters, ejecting one of its own


The ACA has ejected one of its most fervently anti-communist members

In a surprise announcement, the Anti-Communism Alliance announced today that it was ejecting the nation of Hippostania from its ranks. This came just days after Hippostania had been re-elected to remain in the Alliance's so-called Grand Council. This U-turn, which was announced by the ACA's Board of Founders, its executive body above the Grand Council, was brought about after Hippostania's disastrous response to a condemnation by the World Assembly, wherein it kidnapped all ambassadors and other emissaries in its territories, prompting the nation of Yohannes to declare war, with Akimonad following suit. Though hostilities never broke out, the Hippostanian regime backpedaled and appeared to have recognised its mistakes, but the damage was apparently already done.

With Hippostania, one of the more extreme and staunchly anti-Communist states, out of the ACA, it remains to be seen what will occur to the global anti-Communism movement as a whole. President Quigley, who has derided the ACA as a "crypto-fascist" organization with a tyrannical bent, welcomed the news. "The less fascistic states there are organized together, the better for the free peoples of the world," he said at Question Time. "The fact that ACA and Hippostania are no longer friendly towards one another bodes poorly for the imperialistic aims of the world's so-called anti-communist movement, which is far too often a collection of fascistic and far-right regimes clamoring to oppress the free peoples of the world. I welcome any weakening of this tyrannical movement."

Asked whether this move could mean improved relations with the ACA, President Quigley was categorical in denial. "Not a chance. If they can't get along with someone who agrees with their own views, why should they agree with us? Besides, they still pose a threat to liberty, albeit a weakened one at this point."

Later in the day, Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer announced that "opposing the ACA, its actions, and any expansion thereof" would be made official policy of the Republic and Commonwealth, in what was quickly termed the "Bremer Corollary". The move is largely symbolic, as this has been the unofficial policy of the government for some time, backed up by the Quigley Doctrine.

International reaction to the ACA's move has yet to be seen.

[Akimonad]

Navy to conduct freedom of navigation exercises in Tyrrhenia


Several ships of the Akimonadi Navy at sea last week.

Kent, Akimonad - The Division of Defence announced today that a naval task force would be making its way from its present berth in Fitzrovia, Deva Victrix, into the Tyrrhenian region, to conduct freedom of navigation exercises. These exercises are meant to enforce the "customary international traditions regarding territorial water boundaries", said Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Fleet Admiral Stephen Lutvik, at a press briefing. "This exercise is intended to reinforce the principle of innocent passage through territorial waters, which some Tyrrhenian nations likely do not respect." In response to a question about whether this action could be construed as inflammatory, Lutvik said that "the task force in question has no intention of attacking any nation or its ships, in accordance with the principle of innocent passage. However, as is standard with all vessels conducting operations at sea, the task force is under rules of engagement that will allow it to defend itself if attacked."

The Division of Defence did not specify a route or any specific nations that the task force will sail past, with Fleet Admiral Lutvik simply stating that "the itinerary of the task force has been determined, but is confidential at this time."

[Akimonad]

Maltropia joining Akimonadi naval exercises
Nations undertaking joint exercises to strengthen relations

Fitzrovia, Deva Victrix - Speaking at the naval base in Fitzrovia, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Fleet Admiral Stephen Lutvik announced today that a contingent of the Maltropian navy would be taking part in Akimonad's previously announced freedom of navigation exercises in Tyrrhenia. Against a backdrop that included many ships flying the Maltropian flag interspersed among Akimonadi ships, Lutvik said that the day "marks the beginning of a new era in the relationship between the Royal Kingdom and the Republic and Commonwealth," and also stated that the joint exercise "will help both of our nations learn how to collectively respond to the dynamic threats present in this harsh world."

Relations have lately been warming with Maltropia, which was recently accepted as a member of the Commonwealth of Free and Democratic States, making it an official ally of the Republic and Commonwealth. In addition, it has been reported that a separate alliance between Maltropia and Akimonad is in the works, which signals a change in Maltropian priorities, which has previously been focused primarily on its home region of Paradoxia.

In discussing what was expected for the joint exercise, Lutvik said, "We will work with our Maltropian allies to prepare them for the possibility of international conflict on the high seas, as well as acquaint them with Akimonad's style of anti-slave trade policing."

[Akimonad]

Air Force dispatching contingent to Emmeria


Two Blackburn Blackadders of the Air Force during maneuvers.

Kent, Akimonad - It was announced today that a contingent of Blackburn Blackadder maritime strike aircraft, and associated support aircraft, would be dispatched to the nation of Emmeria this week, as part of what the Division of Defence termed a "joint maritime-security exercise". Analysts believe that the deployment is a response to the Belhavian announcement that they would send a fleet through the Pardes region.

Relations between the Republic and Commonwealth and Emmeria have been strengthening as of late, with both countries increasingly opposed to the Anti-Communism Alliance. Emmeria recently clarified its stance on organizations such as the ACA in the "Burns Amendment", a document resembling Akimonad's own Quigley Doctrine and Bremer Corollary, which won praise from Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer at a press conference earlier this week.

[Akimonad]

Akimonadi ships spotted near Emmeria
Ships redeployed from Hippostania?

Oured, Emmeria - RFH has learned from sources that several fleets of the Akimonadi Navy have been spotted in and around the coast of Emmeria. These ships are believed to be part of the fleet that was previously dispatched to Hippostania during and after the Hippostanian Crisis, wherein the nation of Hippostania illegally detained all foreign diplomats within its borders. As a result of this action, the nation of Yohannes declared war, which was followed in turn by a declaration of war from the Republic and Commonwealth.

Hostilities never broke out, and, following a peace conference in Deamonopolis during which the Hippostanians admitted their mistake, before being interrupted by terrorist attacks, Akimonad effectively returned to status quo ante bellum, but there has been no statement from the Division of Defence regarding withdrawing the naval forces sent to Hippostania. Those forces have been under a ceasefire order since peace negotiations were first agreed to. Plans for a second set of negotiations fell through, leaving the conflict officially unresolved, although no belligerents appear to have any interest in starting hostilities, and the Hippostanian nation has reversed its actions.

It now appears that naval forces in the Pardes region have been ordered to move to the United Republic of Emmeria, in what analysts suggest is a response to aggressive moves by both New Belhavia and Transnapastain to deploy forces around Pardes, and near Emmeria specifically. Both of those nations are members of the Anti-Communism Alliance, opposition to which Akimonad and Emmeria both share. Many believe that this move by the Navy is a show of force against the ACA forces, and also a show of solidarity together with the Emmerian government in particular and the region of Pardes in general. The nation of Tarsas, also located in Pardes, has called for a naval exclusion zone to be established, and has harshly criticized the actions of New Belhavia in destabilising regional peace.

In addition, contingent of maritime strike and air superiority aircraft normally based at Pickerington on the Akimonadi mainland was conspicuously absent from its base today, while observers in Emmeria monitoring the previously-announced deployment of Akimonadi Air Force Blackburn Blackadders to Emmeria have noted the arrival of several new aircraft that had not been seen before.

The Division of Defence had not responded to a request for comment at the time of publication.

[Akimonad]

Tyranny spreads to Pardes
Pardesian nation of Premislyd joins ACA

Kent, Akimonad - In a move that upset the stability of the region of Pardes, the nation of Premislyd officially petitioned for, and gained admission into, the Anti-Communism Alliance. The nation of Premislyd, which was previously socialist in nature, appears to have bent starkly fascist in joining the ACA. This disturbing and upsetting decision by the government of Premislyd has caused concern in Emmeria, which has lately emerged as Akimonad's key partner in the Pardesian region. The news of Premislyd's admission comes just months after the Pardesian region was made safer for liberty by the ejection of Hippostanian from the ACA, thus ridding Pardes of ACA presence, until now.

In response to the ACA's expansion, which Akimonad had previously pledged to oppose under the Bremer Corollary, the Division for External Affairs announced that it was beginning dialogue with the Emmerian government with aims to strengthen relations and beef up regional security. With the concern that ACA forces would now be based in Premislyd, Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer said that forces currently stationed in Emmeria would remain there until further notice. Observers noted that the aerial contingent in Emmeria had been rebased to a base closer to Premislyd.

"Emmeria is the beacon of liberty in the Pardesian region, and we intend to make sure Emmeria stays that way," Bremer said. "We will be continuing with joint exercises to strengthen cooperation and coordination between our nations."

When pressed about the possibility of an Akimonadi alliance with Emmeria, Bremer said that he had "nothing to report at this time."

[Akimonad]

Election season in Akimonad


Campaigns are gearing up for elections later this year

Kent, Akimonad - Citizens of Akimonad are beginning to be bombarded by political advertisements as the election season starts up. Many campaigns have already begun running ads on television, radio, online, and in print. With elections beginning in just nine months, all the major parties represented in the Parliament are angling to get their nominee in front of Akimonadis.

President Jonathan Quigley, who is running for a second five-year term, has already released a television advert prominently featuring his administration's accomplishments, while outlining the goals for his next term. The leading Conservative Party candidate, David Silverton, is featured in an ad where he attacks Quigley's liberal views on social issues. Meanwhile, the Left Party, Green Party, and Social Democratic Party have nominated Kevin Hodges as their joint candidate, in an attempt to garner broader support. Hodges has announced his plan to institute comprehensive social welfare and healthcare programs in Akimonad if elected.

Current polls show Quigley's Market Liberal Party with a considerable lead of nearly 68%, an increase of 2% over their current Parliamentary position. The Conservative Party has 10.5%, with the Left-Green-SDP alliance polling at 19.5%, and the Union of Fascists and Marxist-Leninist Alliance both polling at just 1%. The Market Liberal Party is expected to increase its majority hold on the Parliament after this election, after the Conservative Party's attempt to critique President Quigley's foreign policy as ineffectual and infeasible was discredited by decisive actions against ACA states. Similarly, the newly-created alliance of leftist parties is expected to rally voters around a unified front, standing to gain an extra 2-3% of the popular vote.

RFH will be following the candidates and reporting regularly about the upcoming elections.

[Akimonad]

Akimonad tears up Mariana Accord
Quigley: No reason to retain 'useless scrap of paper', peace in New Heathera 'a mistake'.

Kent, Akimonad - President Jonathan Quigley told reporters today that the government would no longer abide by the Mariana Accord, and had scrapped its official copy of the Accord. The Mariana Accord brought an end to the New Heatheran Civil War, and split the country into thirds, with two-thirds remaining free and democratic, and the other third essentially becoming a fascist puppet state of the nation of Prussia-Steinbach. At a press scrum, the President said that "the document is now completely useless due to the lack of any foreign forces of any kind of Heatheran soil, and the fact that the Heatheran region seems to have retreated from the world's stage."

The Accord's provisions mostly dealt with the affairs and arrangements of foreign occupation of the two Heatheran nations, which have since come to an end. The only provisions that remain in force are those that obligate the signatories to non-aggression. "The only remaining actionable provisions in the Mariana Accord would prohibit the government and armed forces from taking action where appropriate, due to their overarching scope. Myself and the cabinet have decided that this is unacceptable, and unneeded, and there is no reason for us to retain a useless scrap of paper," Quigley said.

In attempt to temper the response to this move, Quigley noted that "the Republic and Commonwealth takes its treaty obligations seriously, and does not withdraw from treaties on a whim. This action was carefully considered by many key experts before a final determination was made."

Finishing his remarks, Quigley addressed the conflict that resulted in the Mariana Accord. "The New Heathera conflict was Akimonad's first experience with the ACA. We were optimistic, but that optimism has proven extremely foolish. Compromising in New Heathera was a mistake I deeply regret."

[Akimonad]

Government denounces Belhavian exercises in Pardes
DoD: Exercises 'inflammatory and provocative', will be 'closely monitored'.

Canvatica, Akimonad - After a meeting of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Chairman, Fleet Admiral Stephen Lutvik, released a statement regarding the Belhavian (and Transnapastaini) naval exercises taking place in the Pardesian region. The Belhavian and Transnapastaini regimes recently announced the continuation of their naval exercises, causing great concern among various Pardesian nations. These actions opened the newest phase of what is now being called the "Pardesian Crisis". Fleet Admiral Lutvik responded angrily to this announcement, saying that the exercises "are clearly intended to be inflammatory and provocative, in line with the ACA's apparent policy of harassing free, democratic regimes that oppose their imperialistic influence."

"These actions by the Transnapastaini and Belhavian governments are an unacceptable escalation of tensions in Pardes that will be particularly disruptive to the peace of the region. Akimonadi forces in Emmeria will be closely monitoring these exercises, both to learn the tactics of the Belhavian and Transnapastainis, and to ensure that such exercises are not a ruse of war designed to cover for an invasion," Lutvik wrote.

The Belhavian announcement came after weeks of continuing tensions between Akimonad and Emmeria and the ACA. The ACA's recent expansion into Pardes in admitting the nation of Premislyd has caused concern in the Akimonad and Emmerian governments. Akimonad has already guaranteed the independence and territorial integrity of Emmeria, and, in a continuation of warming relations between the two powers, Emmeria was invited to negotiations to establish an alliance with Akimonad. Such an alliance would solidify relations between the two nations.

Lutvik also referred to the announcement of the Belhavian company Roth Industries that it would be dispatching privately-funded and staffed warships to the Central Ocean. "Private Belhavian vessels will be boarded and seized by any Akimonadi vessels they may come across, and any sailors therein will be detained as pirates. The Republic and Commonwealth does not recognize the rights of private navies and, as such, they are considered to be practising piracy on the high seas."

Lutvik closed his statement with categorical support of the Emmerian government. "Let me be clear," he wrote. "Akimonad will vigourously defend the sovereignty and independence of Emmeria against all threats. Any incursion to the territorial waters of Emmeria will be dealt with most severely."

[Akimonad]

Noctur in diplomatic crisis

An attack on Radiatia's embassy in Segland and Radiatia's reprisal have sharply divided the nations in Noctur.

Xerconia, Radiatia - A crisis is brewing in the region of Noctur, with the possibility of boiling over into full-blown war.

The trouble began when the Radiatian embassy to the nation of Segland was attacked. The bombing killed 41 people, most Radiatians. While Seglandic media reported that a terrorist group had carried out the attack, a Radiatian investigation concluded that the attack was the work of the Seglandic government. Consequently, the President of Radiatia, Keldon Silviu, ordered a retaliatory missile attack on the Seglandic Parliament and Secret Intelligence Service buildings. As Silviu stated in an address, "The Seglandic Republic is a nation known to commit state-sanctioned acts of terror against its own citizens, including children, a nation where those who dissent from the government are brutally killed or tortured and a nation which harbours and protects terrorist groups[...]"

This retaliatory attack brought sharp criticism from the array of tinpot dictatorships and tyrannical regimes that inhabit Noctur. The Chancellor of Segland, Karl van Hooft announced the deportation of all Radiatians from Segland. The nation of Adwest also condemned the Radiatian response.

The crisis deepened when the nation of Ossoria announced its support for the actions of Radiatia, with Ossoria's High Queen "strongly condemning" Segland. In response to this, the Seglandic chancellor declared a 'state of emergency', seizing dictatorial powers for himself. The Chancellor also issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Ossoria, demanding it cease and desist from its 'blatant acts of aggression'. The Paradise of Light and Shadow issued a statement in solidarity with Segland, and Adwest has severed relations with Ossoria and Radiatia.

The crisis has now come to a head, as Ossoria has rejected the Seglandic ultimatum, and mobilized its navy. Meanwhile, the nations of ArghNeedAName and Tuthina have called for a de-escalation. These calls went unheeded, however, as Segland has now mobilized its own navy, and sent it to Ossorian waters, an action that is sure to provoke a response.

The Division of External Affairs issued a statement in response to the crisis, which noted that "the nations of Segland and Adwest are ACA members, which means that such anti-democratic bullying is to be expected from them." The Division of External Affairs affirmed "Akimonad's solidarity with the nations of Radiatia and Ossoria in the face of threats and posturing from tyrannies", and also stated that "Akimonad will be closely monitoring the events unfolding in Noctur, and will take action if necessary to defend our Radiatian friends." Asked about his personal opinon on the crisis, President Jonathan Quigley said he believed that Segland and Adwest were "full of hot air about their threats, and are likely to step back to avoid open conflict" but also noted that "we are preparing for every eventuality, and will act to aid the democratic nations of Noctur and prevent the expansion of the ACA member states in Noctur." Quigley also reported that he was "making our allies in other parts of the globe aware of the situation."

[Akimonad]

Radio Free Haven @RFHnews
Breaking news and reports from Radio Free Haven as it happens.


#BreakingNews: Emmerian @UnitedPress reporting #IASM dictator #Lazin captured alive. @PresQuiqley: "Incredible victory for the forces of freedom."

---

Radio Free Haven @RFHnews
Breaking news and reports from Radio Free Haven as it happens.


#Castillan chancellor assassinated, government suspects #Emmeria to blame. @PresQuiqley: Accusations against Emmeria "grave, hasty, inappropriate, and incorrect."

[Akimonad]

War declared in Noctur crisis
Segland declares war on Ossoria

Xerconia, Radiatia - The diplomatic crisis that has been engulfing the region of Noctur has escalated into war. Late yesterday evening, the nation of Segland officially declared war on the nation of Ossoria. While the existence of the declaration and state of war were made public, the actual contents of the declaration were not, leading many to speculate about Segland's casus belli.

Said one Radiatian: "I think they're doing it to prove a point. It's not going to be very efficient, though."

David Tompkins, a national security and geopolitics analyst for an Akimonadi firm, explained his take on the Seglander's motivations. "They probably feel that they are under threat from the free nations around them. I would also not doubt the presence of some imperialistic intent. Basically, they think they're doing it in self-defence, but there's the added bonus of land and resources."

President Jonathan Quigley also released a statement regarding the government's stance, calling the Seglandic declaration "a clear and unjustifiable act of aggression against a free and democratic state, fitting with the modus operandi of the Anti-Communism Alliance in seeking the subjugation of free nations for exploitation and profit."

"I call for an immediate ceasefire and the initiation of negotiations," Quigley also said. "Should the conflict continue," he concluded, "Akimonad may see fit to provide material support to Ossoria to repel the Seglandic threat."

[Akimonad]

Akimonad denounces arrest of Radiatian minister
Bremer: "A blow to human rights"

Kent, Akimonad - Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer officially denounced the recent arrest of a Radiatian minister by authorities for what they described as hateful speech.

"The fact that a minister has been arrested for preaching his beliefs is quite upsetting, and a blow to human rights," Bremer said. "You do not defeat speech you disagree with by silencing it. You fight speech with more speech. This is one of the hallmarks of a free society."

The minister who was arrested was described by Radiatian RPNN news as Pastor Kristoffer Reid, who ran "Faith and Hope Ministries". The minister has called for abortion, prostitution, pornography and gay marriage to be banned in Radiatia, counter to the prevailing opinion in the country.

Radiatia is still a state atheist state, a holdover from its time under Communist rule. Religious groups are regulated and may not preach 'non-scientific' beliefs or 'discrimination'. New religious groups must be 'approved' before being allowed to enter and practice their faith within Radiatia. Religious groups are also heavily taxed, with 30% of proceeds being taxed by the federal government on top of local taxation.

This rather strict policy runs counter to that of Akimonad, which is constitutionally a secular state that endorses no specific religion or lack of religion, but does not regulate religious groups. Religious groups in Akimonad are generally set up as non-profit entities or charities, and are usually exempt from taxation. This policy regularly comes under fire from militant atheists, but given Akimonad's strong Christian majority (67% of the population identified as Christian during a recent census) the policy is unlikely to change.

One minister, the Rev. Dr. Lucas Tompkins, Pastor of the Kent Methodist Cathedral, said he found Radiatia's strict religious policies "disturbing".

"Akimonad's religious groups are, taken together, the largest source of charity in the country," he said. "The government doesn't provide for the poor. It's the churches that do it. Our soup kitchen draws large numbers every night. We couldn't afford it if we weren't tax-exempt, and that would mean that people would starve."

Archbishop Joseph York, the Archbishop of Kent for the Catholic Church, also expressed concern. "Societies that don't recognise the fundamental human right to freedom of religion tend to eventually back-slide into tyranny," he said. "Just because people say or preach things you don't like, doesn't mean you can throw them in jail. Living in a free society means putting up with things you disagree with. You suck it up and move on."

Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer noted that the arrest had given the Division for External Affairs pause. "We are seriously re-evaluating relations with Radiatia at this point in time," he said. "The lack, in Radiatia, of religious freedom, a fundamental human right, is unacceptable."

Analysts believe that this portends a cooling of Akimonado-Radiatian relations, which had previously been warming to the point of a proposed alliance. That proposal is now likely to be scrapped, sources familiar with the matter told RFH.

[Akimonad]

EMMERIAN PRESIDENT CASTILLA ASSASSINATED
Quigley: "We will stand by our friends in this time of crisis"

Split, Premislyd - During a speech in Split, the capital of Premislyd, the President of the United Republic of Emmeria, Luis Castilla, was shot and wounded. He was immediately taken to Presveto Trojstva Hospital and was pronounced dead. Emmerian media has reported that there are currently no suspects in the assassination.

Akimonad reacted quickly to the attacks, with security in Kent, the capital, being reinforced, and tours of the Presidential Home cancelled for the day. Sources also reported that the military's alert level had been raised.

Speaking at an emergency press conference, President Jonathan S. Quigley expressed condolences. "The people of Akimonad grieve with the Emmerians. We will stand by and support our friends in this time of crisis." He also urged restraint, saying "It would be improper to jump to conclusions without all of the facts. This is a chaotic time, and we must let the criminal justice system do its work. Rest assured, however, that Akimonad will support Emmeria in bringing the perpetrator or perpetrators of this heinous act to justice."

Tributes to Emmeria were arranged across the country. In Kent, the Army Band played the Emmerian national anthem during the Changing of the Guard at the Parliament, causing traffic along Parliament Avenue to come to a standstill. The Parliament itself quickly abandoned its schedule for the day, passing a unanimous resolution declaring support for the Emmerian people and directing President Quigley to order forces already in Emmeria to assist wherever possible. A moment of silence was held, and afterwards Parliament recessed for the day.

Meanwhile, nations from the ACA have already used the incident as another example of the region of Pardes being 'unstable'. They point to the current conflicts which are engulfing the region. Director for External Affairs had strong words about this theory, saying "Pardes is 'unstable' largely because of the ACA's presence. If the ACA would leave Pardes completely--as they should, because they no longer have any business being there--the nations of Pardes would calm right down. The presence of the ACA is destabilizing Pardes, and yet the ACA willfully ignores this. It is completely ridiculous and must stop."

Reaction from other parts of the globe was not immediately discernible.

[Akimonad]

Akimonad calls for ACA withdrawal from Pardes
Bremer: Pardes crisis "entirely of the ACA's own making"

Kent, Akimonad - In the wake of statements from ACA nations reaffirming their presence in Pardes, the Republic and Commonwealth officially called for the ACA nations to withdraw all forces from Pardes.

"The so-called 'Pardes crisis' is a crisis entirely of the ACA's own making--it is the proper response of the sovereign Pardesi nations to brazen brinksmanship and threats against their sovereignty," Director for External Affairs Frederick Bremer stated at a news conference.

The statement from the government breaks a period of silence, during which the nation of New Belhavia pledged to defend sea lanes in Pardes against threats from Pardesi nations. The nations of Castille de Italia and the German Empire also stated support for New Belhavia.

"The fact of the matter," Bremer said, "Is that the ACA has no business in Pardes any longer, and is simply loitering and being a bloody lout. Every nation in Pardes wants the ACA to go. It's time for this ridiculous charade to end."

When asked about Akimonad's current deployments to Emmeria, Bremer acknowledged that there was still a naval fleet in Emmeria, saying that "It shall leave Pardes as soon as, but not before, the ACA does. Akimonad is eager to let the Pardesi nations get on with their own affairs in peace, but we cannot, in good conscience, depart while the ACA is still present in the region."

[Akimonad]

Navy task force pulled out of Pardes


The task force after setting out from Emmeria.

Oured, Emmeria - It was announced that the naval task force that has been stationed in Pardes since the Hippostanian Crisis, and was deployed to Emmeria during the duration of the so-called 'War of Words', would be withdrawn from Pardes today. The task force will reportedly be redeployed to Lamoni in the Greater Dienstad region to take part in exercises with the Lamonian Navy. Shortly after the announcement, the vessels of the task force were spotted departing Emmerian waters towards the general direction of Greater Dienstad.

President Jonathan S. Quigley announced the redeployment during Question Time, saying that the exercises "will strengthen Akimonado-Lamonian relations, and ensure the preparedness of Greater Dienstad to respond to armed threats". He did note, however, that a contingent of of Air Force maritime strike aircraft would remain in Emmeria "for the time being". Defence analyst Paul Jurgensen, a fellow at the Heusen Institution for Foreign and Defence Policy, said that he believed the deployment of aircraft was a precautionary measure given the continuing presence of Belhavian ships in the region. The Belhavian fleet was recently welcomed by the nation of Belfras, but, said Jurgensen, the government is likely to keep the aircraft in Emmeria for at least as long as the Belhavian ships remain in Pardes. "The Division of Defence is unlikely to let a key ally like Emmeria go 'undefended'. Even if this is just a token force, it is still a sign that the government means business," Jurgensen said.

Jurgensen also said that the deployment to Lamoni was likely a response to the aggressive statements and actions of the nation of Castille de Italia. "Castille de Italia appears to be growing more aggressive and unstable. The presence of a haughty theocracy in Greater Dienstad is not really acceptable to our government, or to the Lamonian government." Despite this, the possibility of conflict is considered to be small. Said Jurgensen, "The Quigley administration isn't really looking to invade Castille and rebuild the state, but the administration is looking to 'put them in their place', as it were."

"This is also an opportunity for the Quigley administration to get to know Greater Dienstad better, and possibly make more friends. Morrdh and United Gordonopia are nations that seem to fit the bill for Akimonadi friendship. In fact, Akimonad is already acquainted with Morrdh due to joint participation in the Hippostanian Crisis. With the exception of Lamoni, Greater Dienstad is not a region that Akimonad has many relations with."

President Quigley seemed to confirm this theory, remarking during Question Time, "We are looking forward to these exercises as a way to strengthen relations between Akimonad and the nation of Greater Dienstad, which is home to many freedom-loving nations that share common values and goals with Akimonad."

International reaction was not widely available at press time.

[Akimonad]

Quigley decries Belhavian "dilly-dallying" in Pardes
President condemns continued presence of ACA vessels

Kent, Akimonad - President Jonathan Quigley held another of his "fireside chats" today in the Sable Room of the Presidential House. The Sable Room is notable for being one of the rooms in the Presidential House that does not actually have any fireplaces. The chat was held there owing to restoration work in the usual venue for the chats, the Heusen Ballroom. During the chat, the President took up the topic of the recent situation in the region of Pardes. His comments were frank and uncompromising, and are likely to ruffle feathers with the Belhavian government.

"The Belhavians are dilly-dallying," the President said, referring to the Belhavian fleet in Pardes, which was recently sent to Belfras after that country offered to accommodate the Belhavian ships. "There's absolutely no reason for them to remain in Pardes. Their ships don't need protecting, especially when there's plenty of other Pardesians nations, for example, Emmeria, which are more than willing to protect international trade in Pardes if it's threatened. I think this speaks to some latent imperialistic desires in the Belhavians, who are likely eager to establish a military foothold in the region. Such an act would only reignite tensions with the countries in Pardes."

President Quigley also expressed disappointment regarding the decision by the Belfrasian government to allow the Belhavian fleet to make port at its base in Portsdown. "I believe it was a critical lapse of judgment for an otherwise liberal nation to make such a gesture of support to a member of the ACA. I believe it goes against the best interests of Belfras, and its relations with its allies." Belfras is allied to Emmeria, an Akimonadi ally and key partner in Pardes, through the Central Defence Initiative.

Finally, Quigley referred to the government's previous demand for Belhavian ships to leave Pardes, which has so far been ignored. Addressing the President of New Belhavia, Eli Goldman, Quigley was blunt. "Look here, Goldman," he said, "Our ships have left Pardes. Now it's your turn. It's ridiculous that this charade has gone on for so long, and it's time to leave Pardes to the Pardesi."

The Belhavian fleet wasoriginally deployed to Pardes some time ago to conduct 'exercises' with a Transnapastaini naval contingent, which was later withdrawn. Since then, the fleet has been the focus of a recent diplomatic spat between Akimonad and the nations of Pardes on the one side and the nations of the Anti-Communism Alliance on the other. Nations such as Emmeria, Rodarion, and Pravengria alleged that the presence of Belhavian vessels was destabilizing to the region. Members of the Anti-Communism Alliance, of which New Belhavia is a member, reacted aggressively, with Germany and Castille de Italia initiating shows of force and threatening to get involved. Castille de Italia later backed down after facing an extremely strong reaction from many Pardesian nations. All of this took place against the backdrop of Premislyd, an Islamic nation in Pardes, rather ignominiously leaving the ACA. The Premislydic departure from the ACA formally removed any connections the alliance had with Pardes, which formerly included the nation of Hippostania, which was ejected from the ACA after initiating a diplomatic crisis by arresting all foreign diplomats within its borders. Hippostania was noticeably silent during the Pardesian crisis.

Many in the government are concerned that the Belhavians may be using their improved relations with nations like Emmeria and Belfras to establish a military outpost of some sort in Pardes. Though no official from the government has spoken on the record about this possibility, one source, who declined to be named, said that such an outpost would be "completely unacceptable" and that the government would "seek cooperation with other Pardesi nations to remove it". However, the source said, "the government is at this time more interested in the exercises currently taking place in Tyrrhenia and Greater Dienstad."