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by **Tippercommon** » Sun Dec 06, 2015 11:50 pm

UTR LAUNCHES AIR STRIKES IN NAZALI
The attacks targeted Islamist insurgents operating in Terinyi from bases within Nazalite borders
Patrick Sessions (@nothisispatrick) and Donna Montana (@DM1982)
^{6 December 2015 10:40 pm | Stortford, Terinyi}

General Nathan Ramsey, Chief of Staff of the UTR Grand Army and Chairman of the Office of Homeland Defense Operations Policy Committee, voicing concerns during a World Council crisis committee session regarding the Black Tide insurgency in Terinyi, October 2015.
(Courtesy of the World Council News Center)

STORTFORD — Tippercommoner aircraft stationed on the TNV Absolution in the Gulf of Alloquia began bombing what the Office of Homeland Defense has identified as "insurgent camps and headquarters" within Nazali tonight. The strikes were carried out by a number of UTR Naval and Marine Air Service fighters in conjunction with Air Fleet AWACS and ELINT reconnaissance aircraft based out of Amazonia.

Secretary Widmer announced, "Tonight, UTR air forces have executed 15 independent attacks on Black Tide insurgent camps and headquarters in the province of Daein just inside the Nazali border." He continued, "This comes after months of noncooperation from the Islamic Republic and their apparent failure to control the movement of extremists across their borders."

General Warkworth, Joint Chiefs of Staff, has reported that the majority of the UTR's fighter aircraft did not enter Nazali air space. He stated during the press conference that, "Our warplanes were in Terinyi air space when they fired their ordnance. . . . The fighters were armed with semi-autonomous air-to-ground missiles with a range of somewhere in the ballpark of 60 kilometers . . ."

We were targetting structures and roads that were confirmed to be frequented or operated by Islamist insurgents by our intelligence agencies. We took special care to make sure that no civilians or Nazali state workers were targetted."

Nazali was first accused of aiding Sunni Islamist insurgents waging a war against Coalition forces in Terinyi by the OHD back in April. The State Department and Office of Justice have cited numerous cases of Coalition forces discovering Black Tide safehouses with brand new UR dollar banknotes of the same batch, narcotics, heavy weapons, and other military equipment in use by Nazalite militia groups in close proximity to the border.

In addition, prior to Coalition forces securing the Northern Terinyi Pipeline in June, it was confirmed by Coalition intelligence that the Black Tide had been transporting - and likely selling - crude oil from oil fields in its territory to Nazali, although it never acknowledged these accusations.

With the UTR and Ulthrannic Empire's economic investment in Terinyi increasing rapidly, more and more grounds forces and private contractors are being deployed to the fragile state to ensure security. Last week, Chief Minister Hirsh announced the deployment of an additional 7,500 servicemen to Terinyi, bringing the total UTR deployment to 58,500 military personnel. Furthermore, it is estimated that some 25,000 Tippercommoner contractors have travelled to Terinyi in the past four months, both to support the UTR military in some aspects and to provide security for the assets of energy and mineral cooperations.

Operation Pegasus - the initial Coalition invasion of Terinyi - has transformed into Operation Merciful Shield; a full on geurilla war with the Black Tide and its allies in northern and central Terinyi. Since the capture of Stortford and the routing of the right-wing Ashizwe League from central Terinyi in July 2015, Coalition combat operations have shifted almost entirely to northwestern Terinyi along its 915 km long border with Nazali.

This course of action comes as no surprise to most lawmakers and analysts in Sussex. Many in the hawkish causes of the Parliamentarian and Unity Parties see this as a long time coming; just desserts for a theocracy that sponsors international terrorism and holds an atrocious human rights record in its own right. More liberal seats of Parliament - namely the bulk of the Nationals Party and the entirety of the Communist Party - see it as an overt breach of another nation's sovereignty and another example of the new administration's attempt to turn the UTR into an imperialist and interventionist powerhouse.

Deputy Hitzyana Velosa (N) of the Assembly Committees on Military Operations and Ways-and-Means has characterized the attacks as, "a blatant abuse of Ministerial power . . . bypassing the authority of Parliament to authorize an expansion of the Merciful Shield mission and further escalating hostilities in the region."

Hirsh's long (or short) con in Ashizwe?

Certainly there are strategic concerns with a hostile state harboring extremists willingly in close proximity to a developing ally and almost 60,000 UTR troops (and 18,000 Ulthrannian troops). But how does this play into the Hirsh administration's long-term strategy in Ashizwe?

Dr. Hugh Everett of the Evergreen School of International Relations chalks it up to good old fashioned realist school of thought. During an interview with a Journal reporter, Dr. Everett drew many of the same parallels that his colleagues in the field of political science have been making between the Albiyan and Terinyian conflicts.

Everett stated, "This situation is entirely in the same realm as the Tarsan and Ulthrannian invasions of Albiya earlier this year. The UTR swept in, wiped out its chief opponent, at the time anyways, and then brought democracy to the land and is now buying out the country with its vast wealth. What are the Tarsans doing in Albiya? Basically the same thing. Except, people pay more attention to the Albiya case. The international community is in an uproar . . . they are undoubtedly threatened by a power couple like the Tarsan and Ulthrannic Empires projecting their power conjointly in Ashizwe.

The chief divergence between these two cases is, then, that the UTR as a 'wealthy' and 'liberal' democracy is better able to mask its aggression in the international space by taking the moral high ground in its actions. The Tarsans are playing it off as though they've deposed a brutal dictator and have brought peace, stability, and democracy to Albiya. They may very well have done some of those things, but nobody on the side of liberal democracy believes it for a second, Anikatia has made them out to be the devil incarnate, and their RCO allies - who are for the most part 'illiberal' - are not willing to back them up to the extent that you'd expect in the past.

Sure, you could argue that the UTR went in with World Council sanction and probably did stop a genocide in progress, but it is playing the same power grab as everyone else. There was just as little independent oversight on the recent Terinyi elections as there was in Albiya. And, Tippercommon and Ulthrannia are now pillaging Terinyi of its natural resources and exchange a few hundred miles of asphalt for permanent influence.

Now, this power grabbing is spilling over into Nazali. How will the international community respond? You'll probably see the usual suspects decrying this as CDI-colored neoimperialism. But, what do we have here? A capitalist liberal well-established democracy going after authoritarian theocrats who probably support people who want to wipe the west off the map and establish and Islamic state? The Hirsh administration probably won't get as much push back as many may hope."

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by **Ulthrani** » Mon Dec 07, 2015 8:29 am

Octavio de Fey becomes Monarch Temporal
Miguel Nicodemez Reyeno| December 8th, 2015

The Vicar of the Grand Ulthrannic Empire

Octavio de Fey was crowned Monarch Temporal yesterday afternoon after it was reported that Emperor Carlos X had taken a momentary rest for reasons that until now have been elusive. De Fey's rise to power is due to the Veldaz Decree, which is an old decree dated to the 16th century, when Emperor Henrique I declared that the Grand Vizier (now Vicar) would take the responsibility and duties of the Emperor during his or her absence. The Court of Nobles, with the approval via an official letter from the Emperor himself, authorized the implementation of the Veldaz Decree. Due to the change in offices, the President of the Grand Assembly, Isabelle Perez Belmonte; will take the reins as Acting Vicar and her Deputy, Luis Rodriguez Castro, takes her current position.

A literal who's who of Ulthrannic politics was present at the ceremony for the Monarch Temporal, ranging from the entire Imperial Court, the Sultan of Agadir and his entourage and every Grand Councillor from all of the Empire's Administrative Councils. De Fey, escorted by a sizable military entourage, was sworn into power at 4:15pm after swearing loyalty to the Ulthrannic Empire and her people to the Emperor's Counsel and the insurance of unity to the Sultan of Agadir. It was, however, during his moment for speech that the new, albeit temporary Head of State showed both his charisma and his troubling views of the world.

De Fey clarified that the Emperor was taking a rest from Los Reyes to decide on a host of very critical decisions, referring to complaints by domestic media about the Emperor's conduct. "If you are looking for someone to blame for the failure of this government, then you must look to me for I did not do enough to bring in honest men and virtuous women to lead our great nation. It is those below the Emperor that have caused the rot, that have caused our prestige to dimmer and rust in the light of the sun." This was followed by statements about the necessity to move away from inaction and move to decisive acts that will, in de Fey's own words "rock the foundations of the world as we know it".

However, the most fiery moment of his speech came during a discussion about foreign affairs. He criticized foreign, specifically Belfrasian, media coverage of Seukutan as misinformed propaganda to blind the populations of the CDI nations about the good work being done to restore order and peace to the battered country. However, he did admit that the conduct of the private military contractors in Seukutan have been questionable and will be followed by swift action if any allegations of misconduct are true. This was followed up immediately by a criticism of Anikatian policy towards Ashizwe and its criticisms of the efforts in Albiya by Ulthrannia and Tarsas:

"These naive upstarts would have us believe that we [Ulthrannia and the RCO] are simply bloodthirsty conquerors going around nation to nation to devastate civilizations, rape their peoples and take their money. The amusing nature of the statements made by President Sui Anyi and her pet politicians show two things: Firstly, Anikatia is blind to the truth of the matter at hand in Ashizwe, that sometimes we do not have the option of delicate approaches to dealing with degenerate states. And Secondly, that Anikatia simply does not understand that we have the right to do what we had to in Albiya, President Ghazzaway allowed for violence and chaos on our border that could not, cannot not be tolerated by any civilized state." De Fey concluded the statement with a furious tone saying: "We will not bow to naive children who think themselves our equals."

The speech conducted with more rhetoric from the Monarch Temporal, with rousing applauds from the crowd and fearful looks from those who are now his underlings:

"By the Will of the Emperor, I will ensure the mandate that our beloved True Monarch gave when he took the throne: That we are coming to retake the mantle of responsibility on the world stage, that no longer shall we lay dormant or quiet or be trampled upon because of niceties. In short, I have come to complete my Emperor's mission of retaking what is ours by right."

A Mixed Reception

Massive crowds gathered in La Serena, the Capital of Nuevo Asturia and hometown of Octavio de Fey, to offer their support to the admission of the new Monarch Temporal. Crowds with signs that read. "The Emperor made the best decision of his life!" rally organizer and resident of La Serena, Maria Rodriguez said to reporters last night "This man, righteous and principled and just damn well honest, will represent the people who voted him in as he does the Emperor's job"

All the meanwhile, the Hijos del Oro Imperio Party celebrated with a large party on Isla del Gran Isador in Los Reyes' old city.

“There is a cancer that has infected our government” The Party’s Chairman, Jose Antonio Casales said during a press conference last night “That cancer is two-fold, firstly it is a corruption that has existed for many years and secondly, it is moral cowardice that has overcome many of the politicians and officials that hold respected and dignified titles. Octavio Magallanez de Fey, with the authority and will of the Emperor, will right those previous wrongs."

The Hijos del Oro Imperio Party, which has grown in size since the election of Octavio de Fey to the reins of leadership in 2010 and to Vicarship in 2014, has become enboldened by one of their own party becoming a Monarch Temporal that they have actively called for the resignations and in some cases the arrest of some forty different politicians from across twelve different parties that are represented in Los Reyes and in some of the Councils.

However, not all reception has been positive: There are protest marches growing in some cities within the Empire claiming that this move is just a ploy for power. Belfrasian Secretary of State, The Rt. Hon. Luciana Phillips was quoted as saying that the move to hand an ultranationalist power over the largest country on the planet "Dangerous with possibly dire consequences with ongoing tensions in the far east". Such sentiments were echoed in an open letter sent by the United Left Party, saying that de Fey's status as Monarch Temporal can: "Only bring more devastation and more woe to our already tired Empire". Popular satirist Mohammad Ahmed Najjar said on his talk show program last night that "I can only hope the actual Emperor finishes his day spa session quickly before we go to war with everyone east and west of the Golden Sea." There are reports of protests starting across the Empire in small numbers, the largest being in Santiago where signs reading "Usurper" were seen in the sea of people protesting the Monarch Temporal.

Corruption: The Number One Enemy

The theme of corruption was brought up by both de Fey and the Hijos Party throughout yesterday and this morning. Although more brazen and venomous than other statements, the Hijos believe that it is corruption that has caused the current crisis within the Ulthrannic state. They believe a united front, with the other parties and the executive branch. Most analysts believe that the lack of action done on the part of the Imperial government has been due to a very deep issue of corruption that stems across all branches of government. A recent Vedado poll revealed that over 85% of the population believe that corruption is widespread throughout Los Reyes. In addition, the poll revealed that the number one current job of the Emperor, as perceived by the public, should be to clean up the corrupted government and bureaucracy.

Octavio de Fey had called for a corruption inquiry within Los Reyes and the leaderships of many Imperial Councils across the Empire back in 2012. This proposal of inquiry even had the approval in writing by the Grand Councillors of Amaneceria and Agadir, Ferdinand Luiz del Bosque and Carlos Jorge Jimenez, respectively. It ultimately failed due to differing agreements between the parties who wanted to prosecute corrupt members of government and thus never reached the Emperor.

It is likely that we may see such a thing under the Monarch Temporal.
By RTVO Correspondent Miguel Nicodemez Reyeno

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by **Rodarion** » Fri Dec 11, 2015 1:07 pm

Ethnic Rodarians form regionalist movement in Torchland

Rallies were held across the Carnaro region of Torchland today, following the formal creation of the United Carnaro Front.

10 December 2015, 14.53pm

Former Congressmen in Torchland have formally established the United Carnaro Front (UCF), political movement that aims to secure a referendum for the Marcia (Carnaro is the Rodarian name for the region) region on reunification with the Papal Republic. Marcia, is 98% ethnically Rodarion and the 4.3 million inhabitants have for several months pressured their politically minded elites to push for reunification, in wake of both the transition of the former Western Confederal States to a ‘market state’ and the events in Bogoria. Former Senator Peter Cavallero has been appointed leader of the UCF and already has begun publically campaigning for a referendum.

On the steps of the Marcia District Administration Building, Peter Cavallero, Angela Ottivano, Garret Piovani and Giovanni Sabatelli addressed a crowd of at least 3,000 in which they formally declared the formation of the United Carnaro Front. “Today our democratic path to reunification and separation from this illiberal government system begins, through peaceful debate and loud cries we will secure our referendum and we will return to the fatherland. If the Market State chooses not to respect our democratic and majoritarian wishes, then we face a greater struggle, but one that will see peaceful victory” Peter Cavallero said. The crowds responded with chants of “We want out”, support for separatism is at an all-time high in Carnaro, with 55% of ethnic Rodarians supporting unification with the Papal Republic.

Cavallero was voted as party leader, whilst Ottivano, Piovani and Sabatelli were all elected as ‘Movement Executives’ and will sit at the movement’s Regional Executive Council. Already, the UCF has registered over 43,000 members and opened six county offices within the Marcia District alone within hours of the rally. Giovanni Sabatelli also addressed the crowd, calling the UCF’ the “vehicle for the dreams and aspirations of generations passed and generations yet to come”. The UCF however is not a single-issue movement, it will demand (should the Torchlander government refuse to cooperate on a referendum), increased autonomy for the region which will remain in place until a referendum can be held, whilst also permitting the region to adopt a parliamentary system for its autonomous government, a great contrast to the illiberal system in place in all of the former WCS.

The market state system appears to be the biggest factor in the rise of separatism within Carnaro, the business based political system which emerged in 2014 following the WCS default on its debts has little to no political accountability and all political power is vested in large corporations, with ordinary people having virtually no say in the political process, this remains the same despite the introduction of direct democracy last December in the same way that it was introduced in neighbouring South Lake. Garret Piovani, who served as a congressman prior to the default, said in an interview this afternoon,
“we had no say in the new political system, we had no say on whether we wanted it not, this is just a symptom of the continued marginalisation of the people and of course the Rodarian minority and rightly the people want to have a say but above all, they want out of this experiment and that is what all of the former Viridian Confederate States are, social experiments by big business.” Speaking furhter, Piovani revealed that the UCF aims to "democratically negotiate with central government about the nature of the referendum and of course the date of when it will be held, this will be done and the final referendum will be done, entirely in the realms of open debate and freedom of speech, there is no anomisty, a mere wish of 4.3 million people to express their will and desires" he said.

Criticism of the Torchlander government is increasing, not just in the Rodarian minority, although it is the Rodarian population that is most vocal. Torchland’s Catholic clergy have wasted no time in pledging their support to the UCF and the separatist cause, Archbishop of Drenova, Lewis Ponelli described the Market System as a “manifestation of corporate greed, affluence and self-interest” and will “lead to social ruin and spiritual annihilation”. He was also present at the Marica Administration Building Rally this morning, though being one of the crowd. Speaking afterwards to NTV reporters, the Cardinal said, “We need to escape this nightmare before it consumes us all, I support separatism both as a man of God and as an ordinary citizen of this country, which is being led to oblivion by bankers and corporate moguls who care nothing for the ordinary man, woman or child”.

The Consul’s Office has confirmed that Consul Ottavio Civitarese will address the Senate tomorrow on the Carnaro Question, a statement by a government spokesman this afternoon confirmed that the Papal Republic will “prepare and assist those who seek political solutions to questions of unification. In regards to the Carnaro movement, we will be in contact with them in order to ensure that their democratic aims are realised and maintained, the Papal Republic will do all it can to assist in the democratic process in Torchland, for a democratic solution is the ultimate success for both sides”.

Earlier, a senior unnamed National Catholic Party Senator informed a Times journalist that the “Papal Republic is going to assist any group that aims for unification through democratic means, of course we will never support armed efforts. But the United Carnaro Front will certainly be assisted by the Rodarian people in getting their democratic hopes to reality”. A group of cross-party Senators have reportedly approached the Praetor of the Senate to propose the formation of a Senate Select Committee that will cover issues related to external causes of unification, at least 18 NCP Senators, 16 NDP and three RSP Senators are believed to be involved with the efforts. The Senate did not comment on whether these reports were true or not, however according to messages sent to individual Senators, they will be required to vote on the formation of a new “special interests committee within two days”.

According to polls conducted by the Romulan Observer and the Vatican Daily, at least 61% of respondents support reunification with Torchland, whilst 27% said they would support it once the benefits became clear. Rodaria Irredenta, the political movement that aims to pressure government over irredentist claims, has already declared its intention to support the UCF financially and materially. RI. Leader, Constanzo D’Annunzio in a online video statement said, “Unredeemed Rodarion will do all it can to assist the United Carnaro Front in not only gaining its referendum from the unrepresentative and repressive market state in Palmerston, but ensure they have the means and resources to win that referendum”.

However no formal relationship has been established between the UCF, the Rodarian government or any Rodarian civil society group, and it is unlikely that the Rodarian government will permit ordinary Rodarians a means to donate money to the UCF, let alone allow large civil groups do the same, for risking the UCF’s nature and its negotiations with the Torchlander government.

Written by Mario Cesaro.

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by **Belfras** » Fri Dec 11, 2015 1:10 pm

BNN International
Torchland

PM Sentar in Torchland to discuss treaty
Director Barker "concerned" about Papal Republic aggression
^{11/DEC/2015 | Nathaniel Ridgewood (@RidgewoodNate) (BNN)}

PM Sentar is keen on stressing the relationship between the two countries following political upheaval.

Palmerston, Torchland - The Prime Minister has been in Palmerston today in a formal visit to the country that will last the weekend. The agenda of the meeting is simple; The discussion and agrement of several treaties that will further ties between the two countries. The move is seen by many as both obvious and necessary following what is considered a second defeat from the CDI by the RCO in Bogoria. Despite this, it is obvious in Torchland that tensions are high following that invasion, with many suspecting that they may be next. With recent political upheaval, primarily with the collapse of the former confederation and the invasion of nearby Bogoria by the Papal Republic, a lot of nerves have to be calmed during this meeting. Public opinion has swayed surprisingly to favour the new government of Torchland and for favourable ties with the Belfrasian government, who had been allies with the Confederation and joint founders for the Central Defence Initiative.

Following the rather grand and pompous ceremonies that followed the arrival of the Prime Minister who, with a beard he vowed to wear until Christmas day making him look the part, arrived in style with the new Royal airliner that will serve as the leader's own plane for journeys such as this. Cameras fluttered and he waved as always before coming down those steps. Limousines and armed guards in stylish uniforms awaited the leader of the country's southern and arguably friendliest neighbour before the meeting could begin. It was only when the day was coming to a close that we were able to finally see the Prime Minister, side-by-side with the director for Torchland in order to make their statements and field questions. Prior to answering questions, the Prime Minister made the following statement:

"Over the course of this weekend myself and Patricia Yates will be meeting with the board of directors for Torchland. Our meetings will be aimed toward the discussion and signing of agreements to better free trade between our two countries and to rights that'll be granted to citizens. In these agreements we're allowing a greater visitation duration along with special passes that will allow people crossing the border on business purposes to venture further into the country than they would've previously. Patricia is with me to talk to director Baker toward the possibilities surrounding nautical trade and fishing. As some would know the fisheries along the coast have been shared between companies for generations without a written basis, something we're hoping to correct and to place firm rules and regulations on. Chairman Walker and I have come to a mutual understanding in regards to the Papal Republic. He expressed to me concerns that following the Papal invasion of Bogoria this year that they would find a reason to do the same to Torchland. To this degree we've added discussions toward a possible defence agreement to the table along with the aforementioned economic and political agreements. This is a move supported by the rest of the board of directors and on our end by the Armed Forces and, of course, Parliament. We're all aware of Rodaria Irrendenta and claims made by our allies that it is this that forced the Papal Republic to both invade Bogoria and to spark it's move to take the entire country, rather than what was just held by the rebels. This is a factor also considered by the directors to be serious enough to warrant this meeting in regards to a defence treaty. The specifics have yet to be set in stone, but will be announced a the conclusion of our visit."

The Prime Minister went further to speak about the recently formed 'United Carnaro Front', or UFC. The political party's basis is for the secession of Marcia, or Carnaro as it's known in Rodarian, and for the integration of Marcia with the Papal Republic. Marcia, the location in question, is home to 4.3 million Rodarions and brings home a dangerous feeling of Déjà vu. Tensions rose quickly around the world when southern Bogoria mounted a similar effort which very nearly brought about a world war. Speaking on these events, Prime Minister Sentar said:

"The Belfrasian way is the celebration of politics and democracy. This new party seems steadfast in it's belief and it is my hope that they are as respectful of our views as we are of theirs. It's my hope that not only will these people respect the highly volatile climate we find ourselves in from recent events both within Torchland, the former Confederation and abroad, and are respectful of the Belfrasian lives that were lost during our intervention into the civil war that ripped apart this land in the early twentieth century. Just as we will be respectful of the Rodarian lives lost in eighteen-sixty-seven when the Confederation brought about the independence of Marcia and the absorption of it mere days later. I am aware that what these people are after is, basically, a mirror image of what had occurred in the eighteen hundreds. Whereas that incident was bloody, it is my hope that regardless of what happens that this will be a political party of peace. When the people petitioned and lobbied at the steps of the palace in seventeen-fity-five and won their independence from the Empire, they had been doing so for many years. Democracy is not just a system of votes and lobbying, it is a system of conversation and discussion where individuality is celebrated and arguments are made in constructive manners. I look forward to seeing their arguments for independence as much as any right-minded politician would."

Whilst the specifics of the defence treaty being discussed between the board of directors and the Prime Minister is certainly hidden from view, a lot of political commentators are keen to point out the obvious: The former Confederation was a member of the central Defence Initiative, a fact that hangs unanswered questions over the status of it's states following the dissolution. It is no doubt that this status will be a large part of discussions ahead of any formal treaty between the two countries being signed. But what is obvious is that any pro-Belfrasian result will likely anger the Papal Republic, who see almost half of Torchland as it's by right. Political and military analyst John Walcott was rather frank about relations. He stated that:

"-the relationship [between Belfras and Torchland] is one of necessity. People within the Papal Republic are already speaking about turning their attention toward the state and following the invasion of Bogoria, the board of directors know that they wont be bluffing when they come to the table. The Kingdom has already stated that it has a vested interest in maintaining good relations with Torchland and not allowing it to become another Papal-supporting nation. It's literally being stuck between a rock and a hard place, and I feel that Chairman Walker is fully aware that their current political environment supports a more Belfrasian-friendly approach. Whether or not he'll be feeling that the Kingdom would pause if an invasion occurred by the Papal Republic is another thing, of course, but in the end it's numbers. Torchland maintains a strict defence force whereas the Papal Republic has the second largest army on the planet."

We will be following the diplomatic meeting between Belfras and Torchland as it happens and will bring you constant updates.

Nathaniel Ridgewood reported on this with the assistance of his junior correspondence team.
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© Belfrasian News Network 2014

by **Rodarion** » Fri Dec 11, 2015 2:20 pm

Belfras' PM Aaron Sentar's visit to Torchland raises concerns

Consul Ottavio Civitarese awaiting to speak at the Senate this afternoon.

11 December 2015, 15.35pm

Consul Ottavio Civitarese has decried Prime Minister Sentar’s visit to Torchland, in an address to the Senate, he called the visit a “counter-productive to regional peace” whilst Foreign Minister Ciano accused the Prime Minister of “perpetuating Torchlander fears”. The newly created United Carnaro Front, a regionalist political movement in the ethnic Rodarian region of eastern Torchland called the visit a “real chance for success for our referendum demand”, the UCF has claimed that the meeting was a possible early breakthrough after Prime Minister Sentar backed a democratic solution. Consul Civitarese’s words come after he backed the formation of Senate Committee to represent irredentist claims.

Prime Minister Aaron Sentar arrived in Palmerston this morning starting a three day official visit. According to statements made by the Belfrasian and Torchlander governments and Prime Minister Sentar himself, the majority of the visit will be focusing on Torchlander fears of aggression from the Papal Republic, however efforts to boost trade and bi-lateral relations between Belfras and Torchland would also be made. Yet the moves to establish a defence agreement have appeared to have upset the government, with Consul Civitarese criticising Prime Minister Sentar’s comments on Bogoria and Torchlander fears as “detrimental to the peaceful environment in central Lusankya”.

During his address to the Senate this morning on the matter of the United Carnaro Front, Consul Civitarese criticised the nature of the visit, “if this visit by Prime Minister Sentar was merely about visa controls, trade and fishing, there would not be a word of discontent in this chamber or in the Papal Republic, but perpetuating Torchlander fears, rather confronting them as the baseless accusations that they are is deeply concerning. By not confronting the fact that we have no designs, plots or machinations aimed against Torchland, Prime Minister Sentar is presenting Belfras as a force of the defensive against an imaginary enemy, the basic line out of this is that by not presenting the facts he is demonising the Papal Republic” he said.

Speaking further, Consul Civitarese dismissed accusations of the Papal Republic supposedly turning its gaze to Torchland, “yet again, we hear the same line, that the Papal Republic invaded Bogoria with the intention of taking it all, like some 19th century imperialist power, this was not the case and Prime Minister
Sentar knows this too well. We entered Bogoria to ensure the ethnic Polish people secure their right to self-determination, which was denied to them for so long by their so called government in Utena and now he supports the false imaginations of Torchlander government officials. I believe that this government can say all it can, do all it can to allay the fears of neighbours but it will be undermined by a government that seeks to use these fears for geopolitical gain. But at what cost?” he said.

Whilst Foreign Minister Ciano who was visiting the newly independent Bogorian Christian Republic, said at a press conference that Prime Minister Sentar is clearly “perpetuating Torchlander fears for their own geopolitical gain, but as the Consul said earlier, at what cost? By demonising the Papal Republic through tacit support of their fears, he risks further eroding peaceful cohabitation in the region and that is not worth gaining a state of a former ally as one”.

His address to the full house session of the Senate today was over the United Carnaro Front’s aim to produce a referendum on the region’s unification with the Papal Republic. There are 4.3 million ethnic Rodarians in the Carnaro region of eastern Torchland, 59% of them reportedly support unification, polls following the formation of the movement indicate.

“In light of the creation of a formal movement that aims to secure a democratic solution to desires on unification, I whole heartedly support the motion to establish a Senate Select Committee that represent irredentist interests and issues for the Papal Republic, but in support of this motion, more importantly, I have formally authorised the creation of a sub-department of the Foreign Ministry that will be tasked with dealing with irredentist and unificationist movements based in neighbouring countries. This sub-department will arrange the legal, economic and political provisions in the event of a unification event and will also act as a communication channel between the government an representatives of the region in question.

“If a group or a people anywhere in neighbouring regions aim to reunify with the Papal Republic, through democratic means and I emphasise democratic, then the Papal Republic is obliged to support such efforts, if the case is strong, they should know that we will address and discuss the case region openly and fairly and will support them in spirit and in spoken word. Though for the sake of preserving a neighbouring country’s political sovereignty, we will not allow provisions for private or public donations to such groups, including the United Carnaro Front. I hope and I pray that the Torchlander government allows the Carnaro region to express their desires and wishes through a democratic referendum, which is the only viable solution to such situations. Since no government can truly deny its people’s right to voice their demands and wishes democratically, and I hope that Prime Minister Sentar can prove fruitful in that regard” he said.

Making one final note on the visit, Consul Civitarese said, “though of course we cannot deny Prime Minister Sentar his right to visit whom he pleases, we are within our right to expect him to realise that if there is to be peace in Lusankya after the tragic events in Bogoria, then we must work together, we must cooperate and attempt to exist peacefully as neighbours, and not play cold-war era games and pushing countries out of neutrality, there is no need and it only fuels the fire of mistrust, rivalry and discontent” he said.

Although Prime Minister Sentar claimed to be supportive of a democratic solution to the Carnaro Question, declaring “I look forward to seeing their arguments for independence as much as any right-minded politician would”, the UCF applauded his words.

UCF leader, Peter Cavallero said at a rally in the border town of San Gennaro Inferiore, “I hope, really hope that Prime Minister Sentar is being sincere and truthful because he may be the only one who can make sure we get our simple wish for a democratic referendum that will enable the entire Carnaro region to express its will. Because I do doubt, I have the greatest doubt of doubts that our government will not permit us this simple desire, they deny us a full parliamentary democracy, so why would they permit us a referendum?” he said. However other UCF leaders were more optimistic about their government’s intentions, Angela Ottivano, speaking at Drenova University said, “I truly think that after it becomes clear that many key powers abroad support democratic answers to our questions that they support the case for a referendum then the government will permit us to have one, because as much as they look to
Bogoria in fear it should also act as a reminder to when governments fail to hear the calls of their people”, whilst Giovanni Sabatelli, whilst addressing a meeting of the Carnaro Agrarian Party, said “Prime Minister Sentar has become the door to an early success to our movement and our cause, if the board of directors hear him and listen to us, as well as him, we are in a real chance of gaining our referendum”.

The UCF which was formed yesterday officially surpassed the 50,000 members mark, having registered 53,503 people as of 11am this morning, it is expected to reach 100,000 by next Tuesday and is quickly becoming the largest political movement in Carnaro.

Written by Mario Cesaro.

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by **Belfras** » Sun Dec 13, 2015 11:13 am

BNN International
Torchland

treaties signed in Torchland meeting
Move is "step forward" for UCF - PM Sentar
^{13/DEC/2015 | Nathaniel Ridgewood (@RidgewoodNate) (BNN)}

PM Sentar was quoted as being "reserved" in regards to his opinion on a referendum

Palmerston, Torchland - A meeting held between the Prime Minister and the government of Torchland has concluded this evening, with the Prime Minister himself stating that he was satisfied with the conclusion. The treaties that he arrived to sign had been successfully negotiated with one caveat - The addition and signing of a military agreement that will see the Armed Forces called into action to defend the country in the event of a terrorist incident or a foreign invasion. The agreement goes further to permit the military access to refinement facilities once controlled by the Confederate States that once permitted the country to gain it's nuclear deterrent. The meeting has been one point of many that is suspected to dispel theories of Prime Minister Sentar being "more of the same", with his predecessor refusing to utilize military force, despite several gestures of force during his leadership.

One thing has been apparent on this visit. The crowds with Belfrasian flags, the calls in favour of the Prime Minister and the awe demonstrated by people that stand outside the meeting place and the hotel that Prime Minister had been staying at all pointed to massive support for the political leader who only assumed his first office last year, having never stood for an election to any office previously. Calls against his Premiership mostly rally around his lack of a marriage or kids, a factor that is avidly defended by both the Prime Minister himself and his colleagues. Former Prime Minister and opposition leader Ian Davies has also surprisingly defended the leader, stating that a man's abilities to lead a country and the mark of who he is should not be reliant upon a marriage. A correspondent with the delegation was quoted as saying that the Prime Minister was "married to the country." Cheesy, but an important thing to state. Following the conclusion of the talks, the Prime Minister attended a press conference with Chairman Walker in which he made the following announcement:

"As you're all aware, their has been a meeting ongoing between the Kingdom of Belfras and the State of Torchland this weekend. This meeting was attended by myself, the Secretary of Commerce Patricia Yates, our aides and a military attache from the Armed Forces. The State of Torchland was represented by the entire board of directors which was chaired by Chairman Walker. The meeting was originally to discuss political and economical treaties to bring our relations back to the level of which they were at prior to the dissolution of the Confederation. Subjects such as the easing of taxation for goods transiting the borders, the increase in longevity for visitation and business visas for Torchlanders coming to the Kingdom and vise versa. We were happy to add an extradition agreement and a mutual beneficiary agreement that will guarantee medical attention for Belfrasians visiting the country, along with Torchlanders visiting the Kingdom that find themselves in need of medical attention. And, of course, the agreement of the usage of economic food harvesting areas between our countries will carry on as they had under the Belfrasian-Confederate agreement nineteen-seventy-eight.

"A defence agreement was requested to be added to the discussions by Chairman Walker. We found no reason politically or morally to refuse and thus agreed to formulate a proposal. It was to this that the military attache was brought into the meeting. We agreed that the State's military is insufficient to defend the country in the event of an attack or in the event of a major terrorist incident. We agreed that the standards of training within the defence force could be vastly improved and that a coordination agreement that will allow Torchlander personnel access to Belfrasian military facilities for training purposes only would be beneficial to the improvement of their training. As many would know, during the Cold War a vast majority of plutonium utilized in the nuclear weapons held by this country for the usage in it's nuclear deterrent was refined within Torchland. We argued successfully that these facilities should be rendered usable to the Kingdom once more. This morning Chairman Walker presented a final edition of the agreement that included satisfactory amendments. It, alongside several other treaties were signed at two o'clock this afternoon to be enforced with immediate effect.

"As many would expect, the subject of the United Carnaro Front was raised by ourselves to the board of directors during the course of negotiations. We reached a quick and mutual understanding that the weight of the topic, the amount of treaties we had to discuss, and the time in which we had was limited and constrained enough to not be able to provide the attention required to the idea of a referendum for the separation of Marcia and it's subsequent annexation by the Papal Republic. As such, myself and Chairman Walker have agreed to arrange a meeting on the matter back in this great city of Palmerston to discuss the matter with the attention it rightly deserves. At this time the meeting has been arranged for early January, but a solid date had yet to be reached. Everybody is, literally and metaphorically, looking into their diaries. It is my hope that this meeting will be attended by Mister Cavallero and during this we are able to mediate a peaceful solution to the demands for a referendum. It is my hope that this is viewed by the UCF as a step forward and that they realize that this is a process that will take time. For some it will, perhaps, be too long. I urge unto these individuals to be patient, to exercise restraint and their rights to peacefully carry out protests and marches to continue gathering support. I would also like to urge both parties, those for and against independence, to begin gathering their arguments for what I truly hope will be a staple of democracy."

Many at the conference were appeased by what was said, as was many people outside. A group of UCF protesters also appeared to be happy with what the PM said, stating that it was, indeed, a good move forward. As the motorcade arrived at the Prime Minister's personal airliner and the Royal Air Force cargo plane that would carry the motorcade, questions linger as to whether or not Chairman Walker intends to be amendable to any agreement the Prime Minister mediates. As those two planes took to the skies to return to the Kingdom, only time will tell.

Nathaniel Ridgewood reported on this with the assistance of his junior correspondence team.
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© Belfrasian News Network 2015

by **Western Confederation** » Sun Dec 13, 2015 2:19 pm

Walker: Our efforts to create unity will be in vain if we do not act properly
Walker during press conference Palmerston: "I am not here to make any false promises. I would like to make things clear for the people of this state. In these difficult times we must partner up with our allies and people that have the best interest for our people and every nationstate in this region. There are two things I wish to achieve; one is security and two is peace for us all."
Christine Ridgeway, cridgeway@lsj.com — (Liberty Square Journal)
^{December 13, 2015 | Palmerston, Torchland}

_{PICTURED: David T. Walker during a press conference with the Belfrasian Prime Minister.}

LSJ - Palmerston, Torchland - After prolonged talks between the Belfrasian and the Torchlander delegation several key agreements have been met that would revitalize economic relations framed in the 1978 Belfrasian-Confederate agreement. New trade agreements have been realized with the easing of taxes for goods and services crossing the southern Torchlander border, as well as the increase in visas longevity for both peoples and businesses.

David Thomas Walker, chairman of the board of directors now - is a multi-million dollar venture capitalist and owner of at least 150 public listed companies in both Torchland and South Lake. Famous for his startup Riddle, which held 30% of the railway system and infrastructure in Torchland pre-Confederate dissolution. Words he publicly associates himself with are sharp, enthusiastic and visionary, each is key to becoming a successful entrepreneur according to his bestseller "The right mind". His practical attitude made him favorable among the Torchlander public according to the poll conducted by Yippee Peoples, which just recently surveyed people in Torchland. "He is a hard-working man like one of us, he knows how to fix the problems, because he has overcome them in his own job. That's why he gets my support." One interviewed man in Unity said. Many people share the thought that political correctness and endless compromises - conducted by mainstream politicians - strains prosperity and thus seek change. They see this change in Walker.

The results of Yippee Peoples likewise shown another picture, one that encompasses distrust in the board. A majority of people in the Carnaro region for example show another side of the story. According to the report at least 55% of the people support unification with Rodarion, or at least distance itself from the regime and seek to increase ties with Romula. The United Carnaro Front, a Rodarian nationalist, regionalist and right-wing populist political movement in Torchland harvests these ideals and grows exponentially by the day. Following the talks between prime minister Sentar and chairman Walker a press conference was held where Walker voiced his thoughts on the ongoing quagmire.

"Prime minister, once again thank you for visiting our beautiful state, the state of fire and fiery people you can say. We have just concluded a series of talks and agreements that will strengthen the ties between our states even further. And I am looking forward to our next. You know, let me start by saying this, we as a people -- and I because I have lived here almost all my live -- are truly grateful for your coming here and sharing your thoughts on how to improve cooperation.

But let us not forget the main issue here, Torchland needs to become stable and -- as one of our major cities hints -- Unity. We could not be as prosperous as we are today if we were not united. I am not here to make any false promises. I would like to make things clear for the people of this state. In these difficult times we must partner up with our allies and people that have the best interest for Torchland and every nationstate in this region. There are two things I wish to achieve; one is security and two is peace for us all. Every state has the right of self defense, the Torchlander Defence Force has dramatically shrunk in size since last year. Under current conditions self defense is hard to achieve, therefore we much appreciate Belfrasian help in creating a defense agreement, which will be beneficial for both our nations.

Nationalist groups are spreading on a daily basis, unity of Torchland we have all worked so hard for will be in vain if we do not act properly. Prime minister, with all due respect, the people of Torchland wish to stay united. Now, I get along with everybody, this was my job for the past thirty five years and I'm good at it. But the problem remains that if radical groups have no ear for the democratic wishes of this nation and want to violate the integrity of this nation through the separation of peoples, it is my duty as head of state to stop those individuals. I am sure you understand..."

Contrarily to the appeasing gesture by the prime minister - the chairman seem to have a much more firm stance on the matter, despite having made compromises during the talks with the Belfrasian delegation earlier in relation to a possible referendum. During his talk it was unquestionably chilly in the room. We will keep you updated as soon as we know more pertaining to the situation.

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by **Belfras** » Mon Dec 14, 2015 7:54 am

BNN International
Torchland

PM appeals for calm after issuance of demands to Walker
Letter is "out-right attempt at blackmail" - Lawmakers
^{14/DEC/2014 | Nathaniel Ridgewood (@RidgewoodNate) (BNN)}

The Prime Minister, pictured being escorted to his plane yesterday in Torchland, was diplomatic in his speech.

Isn Deslen, Belfras - The Prime Minister has had to go on television to issue a statement and a speech calling for patience from the United Carnaro Front and it's leader Peter Cavallero. In his statement he denounces the letter as an ultimatum and states that the lawyer who wrote it is clearly "not a very good one". His body language, however, has spoken volumes. He is clearly disappointed with the UCF whom have ignored his calls yesterday and have only made things worse for themselves. His denouncement of the letter as a device meant to stir tensions further and that he wouldn't fault Chairman Walker for tearing it up on the spot indicates his own dissatisfaction with how quick the UCF was in trying to separate. His highlighting of the party's recent foundation and the lack of debate was a worrying factor and he appeared to insinuate that he was prepared to show full support to the board of directors if the reckless course of the UCF was to continue. He had appealed for calm and for the democratic process to happen, stating it would "take time". Unfortunately the party has, in it's own whirlwind, appeared to ignore that. He continued to insinuate that the UCF's desire to get a referendum prior to Sentar's return to discuss the matter was questionable and was, perhaps, clearly meant to try and isolate Belfras from the matter entirely.

To contrast the UCF's effort, a pro-Torchlander rally has begun this morning in Isn Deslen calling for Prime Minister Sentar to intervene in the matter, with banners calling Mister Cavallero a 'Rodarion Puppet' and compared the UCF to how the protests had begun in Bogoria, apparently in an attempt by rally members in Isn Deslen to insinuate that Rodarian spies are responsible for both calls for independence. One rally member was quoted as saying that "If you think about it, the Papal Republic has only worsened their case. A terrorist attack in Nos Callis happens, and then they have special forces disguise themselves as terrorists in Bogoria. Why isn't Sentar accusing the Papal Republic of being responsible for Nos Callis? He even stated at the time that the terrorists that killed those thousands of good Belfrasians had military training and were using tactics similar to those witnessed in use by the Papal Army." The same rally member appealed via the broadcaster to the Prime Minister, saying that "It is our duty to fight this tyranny at every step. Go in and arrest those idiots before Torchland becomes another Rodarian dominion!" As of one o'clock in the afternoon local time the rally had reached close to 5,000 members and is expected to carry on until dinner time.

Political and law-making figures have also been highly critical of the ultimatum issued to Chairman Walker. With a prevalent law maker insisting that such a thing was more an out-right attempt at blackmail than any kind of demand. Whilst he did not want to be named, he was quoted as saying "What is essentially being stated in this letter is 'If you dont give us our referendum now, we'll have one amongst ourselves with an obvious answer and then we'll sue you for it!'. I really have to doubt the credentials of the so-called lawyer who would write such a stupid thing. Their are laws, both international and domestic, against such things. Our law states that any populist demand for things of such caliber with the demand for it to take place with zero forum of debate is considered null. In fact, history tells us that such incidences like what has now happened in Torchland give the other argument more credibility. The UCF have responded to Chairman Walker's provocation and now they're backed into a corner. The Prime Minister himself is now saying that the UCF have taken a huge step backward and may have shown their hand too early. I have to pity the Prime Minister. He's doing what he can to help these people when he clearly has his own reservations and they have just about spat in his face and told him where to put his good intentions."

Despite the multiple views of the Prime Minister and what he had to say this morning, he was surprisingly reserved and - some day - almost diplomatic to a fault. Whilst others, such as the unnnamed law maker, highlight the clear reservations that Sentar has, he is clearly for a democratic debate on the issue. Whether or not he'll get his wish is, however, another matter. With the letter arriving with Chairman Walker today, it is likely that he will outright refuse the demands resulting in a chain of events that may spark violence in the east of Torchland. We managed to get a word with a military official who suggested a reluctance to allow more of Torchland to secede on a military basis, with the distance between Papal Army artillery and a prevalent Royal Air Force facility storing airborne nuclear weapons being drastically reduced in the event that the UCF get their way. The facility, which is a heavily classified secret and it's location only known to be 'somewhere' near the border, was installed to allow for a rapid movement of arms between the Confederate States and the kingdom at a moments notice during the cold war. It's future is now heavily in the balance.

The speech from Prime Minister Sentar is as follows and begins as he begins to speak about the UCF. For the full speech, please follow This Link.

"The 'Pro-UCF lawyer' is clearly not a very good one, all due respect to him. If this person truly is a lawyer, he'd recognize the need for patience, for the gathering of information and that you need to make your case before the jury goes to gain a verdict. What this letter is doing is, basically, demanding the verdict before making a case. And it isn't a letter of demands, it's an ultimatum. Either Walker holds a referendum in such a short amount of time nobody has had a chance to make an argument or they'll hold a private referendum on it's own with no jurisdictional body monitoring it. They were formed on Friday, made a few political rally, and are now demanding a referendum. Aside from the small group that attended, nobody else has heard their arguments. This letter is poorly thought up and meant to do one thing. Chairman Walker will see it and tear it up immediately as any national leader should for a letter that calls for a national referendum on separation in such a short period of time. The letter afford no forum for debate in either party's case and allows zero room for maneuverability. The only people who have been able to make their case are those in favour of separation. That is simply not the democratic way of doing things. The question that will be put to people has not been debated upon nor the method in which it will be conducted.

"I appeal to Mister Cavallero and his supporters to show the restraint and patience I had asked yesterday. This will take time. Nothing happens quickly in government or democracy and everybody is entitled to a fair say. I appeal to Mister Cavallero to do the opposite of what he feels is being done by Chairman Walker. He insists that the Chairman is a tyrant, but tries to enforce a referendum regardless of what is said. He insists that the country would welcome this, but allows the people no debate. He insists that this is in everybody's best interest without gathering consensus on what is the best way to go about doing so. I said that ground was gained yesterday, but sadly all that has happened since then is the UCF have lost the credibility they had gained. It is a poor step backward and a sad one to see. Mister Cavallero inspires confidence and is, clearly, a good man. I would hope that this is a momentarily lapse of judgement and that he, as all good politicians, see's reason and the need for patience and debate. What the Chairman said is unfortunate and regretful, but one must not abandon reason as a result.

"The calls for a referendum before my return to Torchland to discuss the matter with the Chairman and, hopefully, Mister Cavallero is a recipe for disaster. Their has been no political ground gained on this issue and is therefore currently lacking any basis in legality. Subsequent, I have personally issued invitations to Mister Cavallero and several members of his party to be flown to Isn Deslen to meet here with myself to present their arguments to me prior to this meeting in January. It is my hope that I will be able to convince the party to postpone demands for the referendum until after this meeting, both the one I hope to have here and in Palmerston. As for the Defence Agreement. It is merely a continuation of relations held prior to the dissolution of the Confederation. The wording is almost identical, sans corrections for the Torchlander government, and permits the same level of military access. The choice of words could have been better, but what was signed is the same as any other defence treaty ever conducted with no strings attached or shadow intentions as insinuated."

Nathaniel Ridgewood reported on this with the assistance of his junior correspondence team.
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© Belfrasian News Network 2015

by **Rodarion** » Mon Dec 14, 2015 12:02 pm

Consul warns against foreign involvement in Torchland political process

Consul Ottavio Civitarese speaking at the Minerva International Science Forum in Lanciano today.

14 December 2015, 14.20pm

Consul Ottavio Civitarese has calmed for regional calm as tempers rise in Torchland over the fast growing Carnaro situation, he also warned other foreign states to limit their involvement reminded other governments that this is a “domestic affair, to play kingmaker with the wishes of a large portion of foreign country is tantamount to criminality”, his warnings come as Prime Minister Sentar struggles with the fast moving situation in Carnaro despite wanting to mediate a result. The Belfrasian government was highly critical of a letter signed by UCF leaders calling for a referendum by January 2016, despite it being their political right to do so under the current form of government in Torchland.

Speaking at a foreign affairs discussion event in Lanciano this morning, the Consul appeared to confirm that he had doubts over the UCF’s methods. He appeared to agree with Prime Minister Sentar that getting to a position where a referendum was possible would take time, however he dismissed “establishment orchestrated patience”, warning that “prolonging the process will only infuriate a restless movement”. Several Senators also warned that demanding a referendum for January was too premature, “I think the UCF should slow down, preparing the way for a referendum of this kind in a matter of weeks is flawed, but then I suspect the letter is more of a sign of its intentions and dedication that attempted blackmail” Senator Luciana Abate (NDP) said on Hard Issues this morning.

“These things of course take time and I do not think for one moment that the UCF’s leaders do not know this, all of them were seasoned politicians before Torchland became what it is now, this letter, far from being one of blackmail – rather childish thinking by some I think, but as Luciana said, an indication of the UCF’s determination” Senator Piero de Gaspari (NCP) said on the same chat show.

Consul Civitarese opined that the situation in Carnaro has only appeared to have worsened because it has been internationalised through foreign involvement.

“This situation is a domestic one and should really remain so, I have complete faith that the Torchlander government will permit this act of pure democracy to determine the will of the people, of course it needs to respect the fact that not everyone in Torchland wishes to remain in Torchland, contrary to what Chairman Baker thinks, but there is unnecessarily added pressure on this situation because of foreign involvement” he said, mentioning Prime Minister Sentar and the Belfrasian government directly he praised Prime Minister Sentar’s sentiments but again warned too much involvement would infringe upon the process’s likelihood of swift resolution.

“I applaud Prime Minister Sentars sentiments and intentions over the Carnaro situation, though I do offer him words of warning, he should limit how far he becomes involved in this, debates of this kind can become vicious and prone to vile mudslinging, should he become too stuck in, and the Torchlander government says no or delays further, those who want to separate will only accuse his government of meddling for their own self interests in Torchland, this would be counter-productive and a serious undermining of his own position of advocating public debate” he said.

However some in Carnaro and indeed in Rodarion have expressed concern that a foreign government is mediating over a truly domestic and internal affair. Senator Frederica Reneiri (NCP), who is also the deputy chair of the Senate Select Committee for Foreign Affairs expressed her disdain over the latest developments, speaking to VaticanTV reporters she said, “I am troubled, truly troubled that a foreign head of government is involving himself over a domestic affair in an entirely different country, what if the Consul was to begin talking to the Soldiers of Romula in Callis province?

“Would Belfrasian citizens accept that? Of course they wouldn’t, what if the Consul began involving himself in the Highlands affair in Arthurista, Arthuristans would never permit that. Nor would the Consul put himself in that position in the first place I think” she said.
Whilst in Carnaro, the Belfrasian response to the informal letter sent to the Board of Directors by the UCF leadership was met with shock and disapproval.

“How dare they [Belfrasian government] accuse us of blackmail, if he was even remotely aware of our constitutional rights, he would be aware that we are politically permitted to propose a referendum on any matter, granted our decision for a referendum for January can be seen as premature, but demanding a date for campaigning to begin by January is far from that” Angela Ottivano said to a crowd of 3,000 in Drenova this afternoon, many in the crowd continued to shout “we want out”, whilst others saying “Sentar stay out”.

However, Peter Cavallero, the leader of the UCF was more accommodating, speaking to reporters outside the Marica District Administration Building, “I understand Prime Minister Sentar’s concerns over the letter, but we need a date to work from, we need some form of confirmation that we are being listened to, and being told to wait by him and our government isn’t acceptable, nor is the basic fact, and all due respect to him, the fact that we must wait for a foreign leader in order to negotiate with our own government. We require recognition of our demands and expectations, it wasn’t blackmail, it was a mere representation of our desire to use our political rights.

“They can say no to January, but we at least hope they suggest some time frame to which we can begin working towards. He [Sentar], continues to claim that we are not allowing debate, has he even been here? No he hasn’t, there is debate in every street, in every school and college, there is debate in every mall and place of work, unless of course he expects us to debate with those on the other side of the country, where our wishes and desires do not matter one iota. But there is debate, a truly democratic debate and we will work towards getting our referendum no matter how long it takes for him to return to Palmerston.

“He can claim he was side lined or pushed out, but as I said earlier, I welcome his assistance and voice of reason but we will not wait, we will not stop for a foreign government to talk to our own, it may not be a government we want, but is our nonetheless. I hope in the time between now and his return to Palmerston, he offers words of wisdom to the Board of Directors as we negotiate for a referendum in 2016” he said.

The supposed backtrack by the UCF over the date has gotten many in the Torchlander government confused, with many wondering the January demand was a day of voting or when the referendum campaign officially begins, with Cavallero offering no exact details, the letter has been seen more of a test than an official correspondence – to see how the Torchlander government would respond to requests from the UCF since the requests are politically viable under the South Lake form of direct democracy that was introduced to Torchland at the end of 2014.

On the matter of a military installation “close the border”; which was revealed in a BNN article, Consul Civitarese answered a question on the matter, saying the facility was of no concern, “if were to take every cold war facility with fearful consideration, I would most likely be dead from anxiety” he joked. The Consul also reconfirmed that he would not permit Rodarian involvement in the political process in Torchland and defended his position to prohibit private and public donations to the UCF’s campaign.

We will keep you updated on all Torchland related stories as they come in.

Written by Mario Cesaro.

MORE From National Express

Church attackers former members of the Ordice [ 5243 ]
Sense of unease over Carnaro situation [ 9429 ]
Could Carnaro become a new Bogoria? [ 1375 ]

MORE FROM ESPRESSO NAZIONALE

OP-ED: Anikatia risks alientating itself over Albiya [ 1824 ]
Papal Navy to launch two new vessels on the Sorrentine Sea [ 2782 ]
Government prepares to table tax reforms [2782 ]
Tax reforms and how they affect you [ 1003 ]

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by **Belfras** » Mon Dec 14, 2015 3:43 pm

BNN International
Torchland

BNN gets interview with Chairman Walker over referendum
UCF are "radical group" - Chairman Walker
^{14/DEC/2015 | Nathaniel Ridgewood (@RidgewoodNate) (BNN)}

Chairman Walker appeared certain and set in his ideology of the group.

Palmerston, Torchland - A special interview has been conducted between the Belfrasian News Network and David Walker, the Chairman of the board for the State of Torchland. This northern bordering country was once a part of the Western Confederation, a founding member of the Central Defence Initiative and long-time ally of the Kingdom. In accords set at the time of the civil war in the former Western Confederation that allowed the Kingdom to enter, the two nations agreed to share political, administrative, and military measures. The accord was kept in place by Virdia and South Lake, seen today as law makers in Viridia passing a law mimicking the health act for Megos Aelyros. Torchland, however, was different. The accords were not initially signed by the administrative body of Torchland during the civil war as it had been occupied by Citizenist forces, a loop hole that left Chairman Walker without an ally until treaties plugged the gap on the weekend.

Despite having his southern ally back, Chairman Walker faces new threats from within. The United Carnaro Front, a political party only established on Friday, are demanding for a referendum within it's administrative boundaries to allow itself to be annexed by the neighbouring Papal Republic. The demands, seen by some as divisive and orchestrated by the Papal Republic itself, possibly met a melting point when a letter was submitted demanding the referendum in January. The letter has today been dismissed as a 'test' by the leader of the party, although questions about the legalities were dismissed with people insisting that the people had the right to demand a referendum. Many, including those in the Papal Republic, feel that the demand for a January referendum was a rushed objective and was clearly designed to be rejected. The leader of the UCF and several other members dismissed the claims that it meant for the referendum itself to take place, but for the campaigning to start at this point. Prime Minister Sentar was described as "disappointed" with the UCF's attitude, but refused to comment following a meeting with his cabinet on Monday.

BNN reporter Melinda Wright was able to get a few questions through to Chairman Walker during what was doubtlessly a busy and hectic day as the fate of a segment of their country hung in the balance. The first question that Melinda had to bring across was: "During the press conference [yesterday], you stated that you think that radical groups are a threat to Torchland. Do you believe that the UCF are one of those groups? What is your own take on the idea of the referendum?"

"Yes, of course they are radicals, Melinda." was Chairman Walker's reaction. "I mean, just recently the leader of the UCF shoved a referendum down our throats and expected us to sign something within such a short time span. As far as a referendum is concerned? Yes, it has been a topic that the recent board meetings have extensively addressed. What I have to say is this: We understand people's demands and wishes, but unfortunately we cannot serve everybody's own desire. The direct democratic system imposed last year has set the opportunity for people to voice themselves, yes, but in the end we need to filter out what is and what is not possible. To demand a referendum without any kind of talks with the board is just a way of saying 'This is what we want and you better be accepting it!'. Anyhow, let's make a wager. What do you think the Rodarian government would do if Torchlanders in the Caicova region begun demanding a referendum to split and join Torchland without any backbone or valid argument? They'd reject it, of course. And I think it is foolish to believe otherwise."

In retort our reporter asked "According to polls their are a lot of people, especially Rodarians within the Carnaro region that agree with a referendum."

"Now, don't get me wrong. This isn't an outtake to those in support of it. I am just saying that a referendum needs to be looked over, I understand the concern that those among the Rodarian community in Torchland have, but we will have to work on this together. Look, one of my best friends and partners is of Rodarian descent and to be quite frank a majority of enlisted Western Army combatants during the civil war were Rodarian. I think they're a great people, but this is a problem we have to work on as something is possible if we work together. Not trying to break off where we can. That isn't the Torchland I know."

Despite the ground that Prime Minister Sentar was able to gain during the talks on the weekend, steps seem to be taken by both sides to undo the progress. The letter as mentioned by Chairman Walker called for a referendum to be set next month and had apparently made no reservations for a political debate. The UCF have also dismissed the need for a debate today, insisting that the matter was already decided among residents of the area in question and insinuating that the referendum doesn't need to be a nation-wide matter, with some suggesting that allowing a debate to take place would only serve to sabotage the idea of separation. Critics have also been calling the Prime Minister to 'step out' of the matter entirely, allowing the country to decide the matter itself. It is prevalent to point out that those in favour of a Rodarian integration are the only ones making such a call, with others perhaps realizing how strong the alliance between the two countries is.

Regardless of a political stand point, a looming question remains. The Papal Republic are vowing to stay out of the matter, but after Bogoria, can they actually be trusted? They suggest that the matters are different, but with them invading Bogoria to assist rebels that ultimately remained independent, how quickly would they change their minds to come to the aid of the Rodarians in Torchland if thing's took a turn for the worse? The defence agreement signed, whilst stated by Sentar as a mere 'continuation' of relations, would allow Belfrasian personnel to enter the country to assist in any large scale rioting or civil unrest. In the aftermath of the Nos Callis riots in 2011 and the major terrorist attack earlier this year, the National Police Constabulary are arguably best equipped to handle large scale unrest. A suggestion made by political figures within the Papal Republic seem to suggest that they feel that personnel from Belfras would be quickly deployed in the event of unrest, which lingers a question as to the deployment of Rodarian forces in such an eventuality. With the defence agreement firmly in place, it would almost certainly lead to a military confrontation between the two countries. Such a dangerous proposition is shadowed by the recent conflict in Bogoria, which almost brought the Papal Army and the Belfrasian Army into contact with eachother as the forces deployed in Nidjeland where quickly ordered to enter the country and intercept the rapidly advancing Orders.

Nathaniel Ridgewood reported on this with the assistance of his junior correspondence team.
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© Belfrasian News Network 2015

by **Rodarion** » Tue Dec 15, 2015 10:14 am

Pope and Consul arrive in Temuair for historic joint visit

Pope greets welcomers as he leaves the plane in Dinsmar.

14 December 2015, 14.20pm

Pope Constantine XIV and Consul Ottavio Civitarese have arrived in Dinsmar, Temuair for a unique Christmas visit, the Pope who will hold mass at the Holy Annunciation Cathedral in Dinsmar, appeared upbeat and excited for his visit, whilst Consul Civitarese is expected to meet Head Burgess Vitor Iago Lista and Emperador Avila, meeting the latter alongside his Holiness. The Consul is expected to discuss the warming of relations between the two countries with Head Burgess Lista as well signing numerous trade deals including joint development of mines in western Temuair and infrastructure modernisation. It is Pope Constantine’s first visit at Christmas to foreign country since becoming the Pontiff last September.

The Holy Father and the Consul both joined Emperador Avila in Dismar, where they reportedly had lunch. All three discussed inter-faith relations, with the Pope expressing hope for “Temuair remaining a bastion of multi-faith harmony”, roughly 7% of the Aisling population is Catholic. Whilst a majority are non-Abrahamic followers, something that has concerned members of the Curia with regards to the Pope’s visit. However the Pope was recorded saying to the Emperador that “mentalities about Christianity and paganistic faiths are incredibly outdated, this is the twenty first century and it is vital that we accept inter-faith harmony as the norm”.

His Holiness declared this Christmas period one of “mercy and forgiveness”, in a speech to Cardinals and faithful yesterday at Saint Peter’s Basilica, he said “let this celebration of the Lord’s birth be one with the thoughts of forgiveness and mercy, let us end this year with clean slates and efforts to cohabit with sense of friendship, family and togetherness forgetting and forgiving past trespasses and sins”.

His Holiness is expected to hold a Mass at the Holy Annunciation Cathedral in Dinsmar tomorrow with Emperador Avila and his family being present, Archbishop of Dinsmar, Luis Agron greeted his Holiness at the airport, but was not present at the meeting with Emperador Avila. At least 3,000 people are expected to take part in the Mass with extra seating provided inside and live television screens being set up outside in the square. Security has been stepped up in Aisling capital ahead of the Pope’s visit.

For his part, Consul Civitarese left the lunch and met with Head Burgess Lista, both spoke behind closed doors for over an hour before giving a joint-press conference.

“After our extensive discussions, myself and Head Burgess Lista are confident that relations between our two great countries will only improve over time. We have found common ground on numerous issues, including climate change, international criminality and terrorism and of course stability in the far-east.

“On bilateral trade, we both agreed to ensure total trade value would reach $45 billion by 2020, it currently stands at $32.4 billion, but with increasing
respect each other’s economic strengths and Temuair has many, we will surely succeed in reaching our target. Temuair has much to offer the world, let alone the Papal Republic in terms of trade and economic exchange, it has knowledge and experts that are the envy of the world and I am pleased to announce that a student exchange programme will be established by our respective governments.

“In terms of the exact details agreed, the Papal Republic will ensure that $22.4 billion of investment will be put into Temuair by 2022, this investment by the Rodarian state will go into power production, transport infrastructure and expansion of Aisling mining and chemical production, a strong Aisling economy is something the entire world can benefit from and the Papal Republic is eager to ensure that this become a long-lasting reality” he said.

Many analysts have noted that the addition of the Consul to the trip, is considered to be a counter-move to Basileria’s controversial visit several weeks ago, when Basileria’s Praetor Ioan Castriota used his visit to criticise the Papal Republic and its bi-lateral relations as a form of “imperialism”. Several Aisling political figures were concerned that his words may be viewed as being held by Temuair by Rodarian government leaders, however the Consul dismissed this saying, “despite words of an outspoken individual, we do not and will never hold such harsh criticisms against the host nation, which I suspect suffered more embarrassment than benefit from the visit”.

Rodarion and Temuair have enjoyed a somewhat friendly relationship since the late 1980s when trade relations began to expand rapidly, since 2003, Rodarion has been one of the largest importers of Aisling oil and gas, in 2012, during Consul Civitarese’s first visit to the country, he signed a deal where the Papal Republic would invest $300 million into Aisling oil production, in exchange for Aisling investment in Rodarian textiles and steel production.

The Pope’s Mass at Dinsmar’s cathedral will be broadcasted live on Vatican TV from 09.20am (RET) to 10.20am, the address will be done in English, Rodarian subtitles will be provided.

Written by Mario Cesaro.

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by **Rodarion** » Tue Dec 15, 2015 11:18 am

Why the Kingdom of Belfras has failed democracy and freedom

Belfrasian Prime Minister Aaron Sentar talks freedom and democracy, but his actions say other things

15 December 2015, 14.20pm | Written by Deputy Foreign Minister Maria Del Rosario

They’ve made the same mistake again, if they think this is Bogoria all over, it is true in that they’re backing repression and the denial of the right to self-determination – these are the words my son’s international affairs lecturer used during a lesson at his university. At first I was shocked that such a pronounced opinion was offered, but then his words began to ring true. After researching numerous newspaper articles, opinion pieces and statements by Prime Minister Aaron Sentar and other Belfrasian government ministers, I found a simple truth – Belfras has failed democracy and freedom.

Referendums on self-determination, be it independence, autonomy or secession are never easy affairs; they become emotionally charged, vicious in rhetoric even, but the denial of one on the basis that a government can’t agree to the wishes of everyone is one that will only escalate viciousness. The United Carnaro Front in the ethnically Rodarian region of eastern Torchland is a union of numerous parties, movements and societies that have campaigned for Carnaro’s independence or unification with the Papal Republic since the 1980s, is demanding a referendum for Carnaro’s future, it has been denied three times now by Torchland’s government.

The UCF are radicals, a minority fringe movement, nationalistic and equal to other radical groups like the Citizenists, these are all such comments made by Chairman David Walker and other Torchlander government officials about the UCF. They “lack a valid argument or backbone” is one such comment that struck hard at the UCF, in fairness they have immense backbone, for asking for an act of democracy from a truly undemocratic system that gains its holders of powers from big business and the will of the people. The UCF responded to the radical comment by declaring its intention to “recruit more radicals for a radical cause worth fighting for”, the hashtag #Iamaradical has been used hundreds of thousands of times in Torchland on social media and is testament to the actual amount of support the UCF has.

But the rhetoric is only a symptom of the problem, Torchland’s repugnant government has only been strengthened through the offering of blank cheque from Belfras, where its own police force is viable for deployment in Torchland in the event of social unrest or acts of terrorism, this fact has infuriated vast sections of the Rodarian government, who have accused Belfras of “deterring the anger of a sizeable minority over a simple request to enact democracy”. It gets worse, the UCF vowed that should a single Belfrasian police officer strike a Carnaro citizen in any event, there would be a “whirlwind of rage”. The fact that Belfras has effectively pimped out its own police force to defend an illegitimate government from social unrest is testament enough to the fact that Belfras has failed democracy and liberty.

Even when a bearded Sentar spoke of democratic debate and negotiations between the UCF and the Torchlander government, his words were being voided by his actions. The Torchlander regime, which is in effect a corporation, run by chief executives who are appointed on the basis of their personal wealth and not elected by the people and is unaccountable to anyone has failed to respect the UCF’s political right under the flawed system to propose a referendum. The Torchlander government appears to be willing to reject the wishes of 55% of a population of 4.8 million for a referendum, yet accept the proposals of 300,000 people who want a referendum on state led recycling.

What would the Torchlander government lose in the event of a referendum? Carnaro is not an economically vital region of the country, its more agrarian than industrial and only represents 16% of the population, they would not lose anything at all should they have faith in democratic debate and permit the referendum, since there’s a 50-50 chance the pro-unification camp will lose. If the region voted to remain in Torchland, the issue would be solved for least over a generation, yet they say no because it would be too far. A referendum on Carnaro could easily be followed by a referendum replacing the corrupt Market State system of governance with a truly democratic system – yet Belfras appears keen to support such a decrepit state.

The same level of support was offered to Bogoria, another decrepit rotten regime, that used ethnic discrimination both economically and politically to disenfranchise an entire minority. The Bogorian Civil War, contrary to what Prime Minister Sentar oddly perceives was caused by decades of ethnic divide and conquer, chronic economic failures and marginalisation. And not Rodarian spies or some Rodarian secret cabal in Bogoria, it was caused by a government that believed itself impervious to the will of 9 million people because it had the complete backing of the CDI, including Belfras. Even as the Bogorian fascist elite attempted to take over the government, the CDI failed to stop such an event and then criticised the Rodarian operation tasked with saving the repressed ethnic Polish south from genocidal lunatics within the Bogorian establishment.

Already we can see the commonalities, the denial of self-determination, the rejection of democratic rights and the refusal to listen to a large segment of the population for self-interests and of course, each time these establishmentarian elites have the complete backing of Belfras. Perhaps it is out of pure hatred towards ethnic Rodarians that the Belfrasians fail to push the Torchlander government harder on allowing a referendum, there is no need for talks or negotiations, the Torchlander government merely needs to offer the UCF a date in mid-2016 and set the parameters for its referendum, surely we are not going to see the same pathetic attempts as appeasement through offers of autonomy and cultural rights as Arthurista offered early on in the Bogorian conflict? Surely we are not going to see blind offers of political gifts that are not even being asked for by the other side? We shall see.

For a government that supposedly defends democracy and freedom it makes poor choices in friends and even poorer choices in who it backs to the full, if Torchland is to erupt, which seems highly unlike despite what Belfrasian propagandists say, it would be the fault of the Torchlander government, its business moguls desperate to protect their social experiment, the fact that should the Torchlander government incite violence, it will employ Belfrasian riot police to baton down those protesting, this only escalate anger and tensions. Nothing is worse than foreigners beating your head with batons than your own detested government and some in Belfras are right, how would the Papal Republic respond to Belfrasians beating ethnic Rodarians for simply asking to given the chance to determine their own future?

By offering a blank cheque and little in the way of offering real chances of democracy and liberty in Torchland, the Belfrasian government will be the victim of its own short-sightedness, especially with a terrier like Torchlander government getting more venomous towards the United Carnaro Front and the Rodarian minority every day. Belfras has failed democracy and freedom in its search for allies against the spectre of so called Rodarian expansionism, how the mighty have fallen to new levels of depravity.

Written by Deputy Foreign Minister Maria Del Rosario, the author's views do not reflect those of this newspaper.

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by **Temuair** » Thu Dec 17, 2015 9:45 pm

Visit by Pope Constantine XIV lifts Aisling spirits in wake of Mheadhain massacre

Pope Constantine's mass at Holy Annunciation Cathedral in Dinsmar was attended by over 1,000 Aislings, with thousands of others tuning in to the televised proceedings

Dinsar – Astrid: Pope Constantine XIV of the Romulăn Catholic Church, accompanied by Consul Ottavio Civitarese of Rodarion, arrived in Temuair for a unique pre-Christmas visit. According to a press release from the Imperial Ministry of the Interior, both Pope Constantine and Consul Civitarese met with key members of the Aisling government, including Emperador Avila VII, regarding a number of relevant issues and that results of the talks were favorable to all parties and would result in a "great and budding relationship between two great nations".

Pope Constantine's visit marks the first time a Romulăn Catholic pope ha visited Temuair. Temuair is home to approximately 3.9 million Romulăn Catholics, many of who attended mass Tuesday morning at the Holy Annunciation Cathedral in Dinsmar. Tho sends of others flocked to churches around the country to witness the special event, which was televised by Centennial Broadcast Network and Picon Media Group affiliates in all major cities. Aisling entertainer Casey Cahill, a noted Romulăn Catholic, was invited by Pope Constantine to preform during the services.

Though the majority of the nations 57 million inhabitants are followers of Deochism, a polytheistic religion originating in Temuair whose existence has caused friction between Aislings and monotheistic religions around the world historically, reception of the Romulăn Popes visit by non-Romulăn Catholics was positive. Branca Freire, Minister of the Gliocan Temple and director of Glicoa's Way, a non-profit charity organization, commented on Pope Constantine statement regarding interfaith relations saying "I'm glad to see the western monotheistic religions are as committed to interfaith harmony as we of the Gliocan Temple, and the other Temples of Deouch, are. First reconciliation with Basileria, next words of peace and unity from Pope Constantine. Tomorrow could see the end of religious prosecution."

Despite the acceptance of Pope Constantine's visit, some experts believed the popes vsist, as well as a visit by Praetor Ioan Castriota of Basileria earlier this month, may spark controversy between Temuair and several of its neighbors, notably Austrasien and Sieuxerr. Skanderan Catholics comprise nearly 93% of believers in Austrasien, as well as a sizable percentage of the population of Sieuxerr, while Temuair itself is home to 5.3 million Skanderan Catholics. Skanderan Catholicism is an offshoot of the traditional Romulăn Catholic, established following the disputed election of Pope Urban VI. Reltions between the two denominations have often been chilly, and even antagonistic at times throughout history. Christian Gérard, Archbishop of Dinsmar and counterpart to Archbiship Luis Agron, representing the Dinsmar Dioceses of the Skanderan Catholic, was unavailable for comment.

The Holy Fathers visit to Temuair in the wake of the Mheadhain massacre has served to lift the spirits of many Aislings. On December 1st, 2015, following the beginning of an Aisling offensive into Gratislavia, the southern city of Mheadhain was barbarically and mercilessly attacked by the Gratislavian military, suffering numerous artillery and rocket barrages, surface to surface missile strikes, and several air assaults, including carpet bombing by Gratislavian bombers. According to sources within the Imperial government, as well as the Imperial Armed Forces and Aisling Home Guard, over 90% of the city was destroyed during the sustained assault, and official death tolls have reached as high as 49 thousand as of December 12. The city remains closed to all but emergency workers and members of the Home Guard, and experts estimate that the process of locating, removing and properly intering those killed in the attack will take several months. At this point, officials say there is nearly no hope of locating survivors. Pope Constantine offered prayers for those killed or wounded in the attack during mass at the Holy Annunciation Cathedral in Dinsmar on December the 15th, and Consul Civitarese personally expressed the sorrow of the Rodarian government to Emperador Avila VII and the Chamber of Burgesses, vowing to take any and all actions to assist in humanitarian efforts. Pope Constantine commented on the masscure during the homily of his Decmeber 15th mass

"The events in Mheadhain will always be a reminder of the depravity of those without mercy and respect for humanity, never is it permitable for such barbarism to occur, never is it acceptable for civilians to be targeted in such a way, never is it acceptable go unpunished. Know that the Lord stands with you in your fight against barbarism and know that I and the universal church stand with you, may God bless you with swift success and strength to rebuild and begin anew."

Luis Agron, Archbishop of Dinsmar, stated i an interview that he was glad that Pope Constantine was able to find time during the busy holiday season to visit Temuair. "Our congregation is small, but devout, and I know that the Holy Father's visit to our modest diocese, especially in the shadow of conflict that now shrouds this nation, was well received by God's faithful."

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by **Temuair** » Sun Dec 20, 2015 9:38 pm

Imperial Government announces end to "major fighting" in Bedero

Aisling infantry from the 53rd Imperial Dragoons Brigade during the Battle of Bedero

Dinsar – Astrid: A press release from the Imperial Ministry of Defense declared that "major fighting" in Bedero had ceased, and that victory in the capital city of Gratislavia was assured. Knight-Commander Nicolau Alberte Millian stated::

As of December 17, 2015, all organized and coherent Gratislavian military formations within the immediate area of Bedero have been rendered ineffective or surrendered to our forces. Further, Aisling and allied forces, including those of the Gratislavian Royalists, have occupied all key facilities to the administration of the city, which includes the capital building, military administration complexes, and broadcasting centers for television and radio. This also includes sites necessary to restore utility services to the city, which engineers are currently working to repair to ease the situations for the civilians still within the city. However, small-scale engagements within the city may continue for some time as hold outs and resistance forces are rooted out and neutralized.

Aisling forces from the First Division entered the city on the morning of December 8th, following an intensive air campaign aimed at weakening the defending forces. Special Forces were infiltrated into the city to mark targets for both aircraft and artillery while Airborne forces, including the 91st and 5th Imperial Fusiliers Brigade, entered the city to secure critical locations as well as ingress points for follow on forces. Bedero's defenders including the Gratislavian III Corps, which was comprised of several elite formations of the REpublican Guard, as well as numerous supporting units, with a total estimated strength of 25,000 troops. Fighting within the city was reportedly fierce, with numerous engagements occurring int he cities narrow streets and even within the cities ancient sewer system.

Units of the Aisling Home Guard have been moved into former Gratislavia to assist with keeping order. According to a statement from his office, Burgess Xabier Demato of Ira raised questions during a closed session of the Chamber of Burgesses today regarding using the Home Guard in Gratislavia. The Imperial Ministry of Defense defended the deployment of Home Guard units, stating that Gratslavia, and its people, were now under Aisling protection and control, and therefore it was acceptable and legal to deploy Home Guard units into them. Several thousand people participated in demonstrations, principally in Tamaris, Ira, and Olina, protesting the decision to use Home Guard forces in Gratislavia. Most of the Home Guard Forces deployed to Gratislavia are based in these divisions. Burgess Rodrigo Viveiros, however, defended the move and vowed that his Home Guard forces would serve in Gratislavia once they were no longer needed in Mheadhain.

Government workers have reported that the fires burning in Mheadhain are mostly under control now. The death toll remains at 49 thousand. Government workers are not convinced that the city can be rebuilt considering the damage it has sustained and are drafting plans for the complete demolishing of the ancient city, which was founded in 1321 CE. According to Burgess Viveiros, the city will be rebuilt or reconstructed. "It is inconceivable to not do so, for that would be to declare to the Gratislavians that they have won." Neasa Pais, Aisling ambassador t the World Council, is expected to address the council regarding the issue on Monday, December 21.

According to an Imperial Ministry of Defense spokesmen, all reasonable methods to reduce civilian casualties were taken during the battle for the capital of Gratislavia. "We had units begin broadcasting that an attack was imminent hours before we launched our first sortie or any troops entered the city. In generally, only precision guided weapons were used against targets, and only then after the identity of the target was verified by ground forces. Our Olheiros, the Pathfinders, train for this mission, and executed it with precision." However, the civilians of Bedero did not escape unscathed. Although a firm casualty figure is not available at this time, it is estimated that over a third of the city suffered damage during the fighting, and that approximately 1,000,000 people will have been displaced from their homes. Aisling forces have been directed to assist refugees wherever possible, and the Imperial Army reports it has engineering and medical units in place to assist the surviving civilians in the city.

This morning, the Imperial government also confirmed reports that Gratislavian President Damjan Mihajlovic, his wife and one year old child, were killed within the presidential residence located in the southern suburbs of Bedero. Elements of the 53rd Imperial Dragoons Brigade had established a perimeter around the residence and had strict orders tor refrain from engaging anyone inside. A Direct Action Team from the Imperial Marshals Service was flown in from Fort Eire to breach the residence. According to a report released by the Imperial Marshals Service, the DAT entered the structure and encountered resistance from 14-20 armed individuals. Upon entering the presidents office, they reported that the President, his wife and child, and another female, had been shot multiple times. Prime Minister of Gratislavia Svetomir Ivanović was in the room and armed with a handgun, which he used to fire on officers, killing one before being killed by return fire. According to evidence gathered by investigators from the Imperial Army and the Imperial Marshals Service, including interrogation of surviving members of the presidential guard detail, it appears that President Mihajlovic intended to ordered the forces defending Bedero to stand down or was planing to flee the nation with his family, when Ivanović became enraged and opened fire on couple, their child and his own wife. According to a statement from the Emperadors office, a state funeral will be held for Prsident Mihajlovic "as soon as conditions in Bedero permit" and that he and his family will be intered according to Gratislavian customs and traditions.

The Sieuxerrian government has announced that the city of Željeznik, located in southern Gratislavia, has been secured. Sieuxerrian marines of the 21st Marine Infantry Brigade and Aislings of the 1st Naval Landing Brigade landed in the city on December 1st. Though initial advances were slow, allied forces, with the help of Gratislavian Royalists, were able to advance from their beachhead and secure the city. Fighting in the area, however, is still ongoing and widespread, according to reports.

Aisling forces from the Second Division also declared victory in the city of Novi Kraj, some 350 miles southeast of Bedero. According to reports, large groups of the Gratislavian IV Cops defending the city, under the command of Marshal Pavle Zoric, defected to the Royalist cause. This allowed Aisling forces to make a rapid advance into the city, and also allowed for the capture of an entire Republican motor rifle brigade.

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by **Rodarion** » Wed Dec 23, 2015 8:48 am

Papal Navy's force arrives at Balangir

Three of the eight vessels now based at Balangir, the largest deployment in the Far-East in Rodarian history

23 December 2015, 15.00pm | Written by Giorgio Attazini

The Papal Navy’s Far-East Task Force (FETF) has finally arrived in Balangir, Madrastan after a three week journey across the central ocean. The eight-ship strong force arrived at its new permanent home at 09.43am (RET) this morning, greeted by thousands of Madrastani spectators, brass bands and ship horns. Admiral Gianni Napolitani, head of the Papal Navy declared the arrival of the Task Force, the “first day of many peaceful and stable in the Far-East”. The Papal Navy launched a savvy media campaign the day the task force left its base in Santa Fiora, online and televised ads declare the Task Force, the “peaceful hand of the Papal Republic” and a “Gift of stability to the Far-East”. The Papal Navy was granted management and access to the Balangir Naval Port in October following Madrastan’s admission to the Romula Cooperation Organisation.

The Far-East Task Force, headed by the Chaplain class destroyer, the HHS Coraggioso Zelante, left Santa Fiora on the 9th December, joined by two other destroyers; the HHS San Alberto and the HHS Santa Elizabetta, two Spear class frigates; the HHS Navigatore Benedetto and the HHS Capistrano, one Type 903 Replenishment Ship, the HHAS Signora della Misericordia, one San Sebastio LHD, the HHS San Giacomo and one San Gennaro class submarine, the HHS Papa Leone II. The Task-Force is set to be joined by the newly formed Far-East Air Operations Force (FEAOF), which will boast at least 20 aircraft, including two RE-H4 naval bombers who will be used to help train Madrastani airforce personnel in naval operations.

From December 29th through to January 18th, at least 4,000 Papal Army personnel and a vast array of equipment will be transported from the Papal Republic to the Kanchipuram Army Air Force Base just west of Balangir, the same base will also house the FEAOF. Field Marshal and Minister of Defence, Paolo Terravici speaking alongside admiral Napolitani this morning said, “The deployment of the contingent to Madrastan will be the final piece in a framework dedicated to joint-security efforts and joint-training programmes. The force deployed to Madrastan will enable the Papal Republic to train Madrastani forces in numerous fields, including combat, both open and urban, joint command procedures and of course search and rescue and other humanitarian processes.

“Furthermore, the presence of Rodarian soldiers in Madrastan will be a constant testament to the country’s endevours for peace and stability in an economically vital and vibrant region of the world. But it will also be a testament to the professional appeal the Papal Army offers and the longstanding friendship between Madrastan and the Papal Republic.”

Admiral Napolitani followed up by announcing that the Far-East Task Force will be assisting in the development of the Madrastani Navy. “By deployment of the Far-East Task Force, we will be able to fully assist the development of the Madrastani Naval Forces, both out at sea and in the shipyard, we will be free to assist the Madrastanis in improving their anti-submarine capabilities, their amphibious assault skills, their anti-amphibious defence skills and their anti-air capabilities, whilst of course ensuring that their Navy is focusing on its needs and realising the necessities of a modern navy, I know that the men of the Far-East Task Force will be looking forward to working closely with their Madrastani counter-parts.”

The deployment of the Task Force has prompted a great deal of talk among commentators and analysts, Professor Luigi Zantini writing in the National Journal of International Affiars; “the deployment of these specific ships to Madrastan offers an insight into the Papal Navy’s intentions. The addition of a San Sebastio LHD offers the Papal Navy in the region great power projection, this including one of the Archangelus carriers; since one is undergoing repairs and two others must always remain in Rodarian waters, it will take some time but the eventual addition of an archangelus carrier will ensure the Papal Navy’s position as a powerful force in the Far-East”.

The deployment of Papal Navy vessels on a permament basis in the Far-East is the first of its kind in Rodarian history, many have noted that the deployment will mark the one of the milestones in the Papal Republic’s rise as a major world power with projection across the globe.

Written by Giorgio Attazini

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by **Central Prestonia** » Fri Dec 25, 2015 5:34 pm

Emperor Absent From Christmas Festivities, Suffering "Exhaustion:" Palace

From left: Prince Nicolae, Crown Prince Leo, Emperor Michael VII, and Empress Camelia, in this December 9, 2015 file photo taken on the occasion of the Emperor's birthday. Palace officials announced that the Emperor, 85, would not be attending Christmas celebrations due to exhaustion.

Basilerium His Imperial Majesty Michael VII was absent from the Christmas Mass at the Cathedral of Saints Helena and Nicolae last night, and did not appear at the Christmas Feast and Imperial Ball this evening, owing to what Palace officials are calling a case of exhaustion owing to his advanced age. This is the first Christmas festivities not attended by the Emperor since the death of his youngest son Prince Teodor in 1997.

In a statement released by the Imperial Press Office this afternoon, Palace spokesperson Antoni Ponta told assembled media that the Emperor, who recently celebrated his 85th birthday, would be celebrating the holiday season privately at the advice of his physicians.

"In consideration of his advanced age and the rigors of his duties, and suffering a mild case of exhaustion from the same, His Imperial Majesty has made the decision on the advice of his medical staff to forego public celebrations of the Nativity of Our Lord this year," Ponta said, reading from prepared remarks. "His Majesty wishes to extend his blessing to his honored guests and all those who celebrate upon this day, and humbly apologizes for his absence."

The Emperor's absence marks the second major event of the calendar at which he was not present, following the Foundation Day parade during which he was again said to be suffering exhaustion, and comes on the heels of an announcement early this year that he would be reducing his share of royal duties in favor of his son and heir the Crown Prince Leo. While this effort, as well as a similar statement made in 2007, seem to have borne little fruit, Palace watchers tell ART that the 58 year old Crown Prince is being groomed for imminent rule, reviewing bills of the Senate and holding audiences with foreign and domestic dignitaries in his father's stead. Neither the Crown Prince nor the Imperial Press Office offered comment on these reports. Speaking earlier this month at the Emperor's birthday, the Crown Prince denied persistent rumors that his father was suffering the effects of dementia.

"It is a lie, propagated by the tabloid press and those who wish our family and our country harm," Prince Leo told ART earlier this month. "The fact of the matter is that my father, our Emperor, remains as sharp mentally as he ever was, however as a man of such an age his energy is not what it once was and it is to be expected that such a hardworking man, whatever his station in life, be permitted a respite from his labor."

The Christmas Mass was celebrated by His All-Holiness the Ecumenical Patriarch, who earlier met with and offered Holy Communion to the Emperor in the Palace's private chapel. In his sermon, His All-Holiness described the Nativity of Our Lord as a rescue mission for humanity and stressed the importance of the Christian narrative to modern life.

"My great fear, as this holiday approaches, is that we as Christians grow numb to the story from having heard it so often, that we fall into the belief that there is nothing more for us to learn from the Nativity of Christ, that a story written so long ago and so far away to our time and place has little use in our society. In Christ we see the light of God brought forth to man; a lifeline thrown down from the heavens by which man can be saved. That great light, so long ago, inspired wise men from countries far to journey to see the living Christ. It inspired shepherds, common stock of the land, poor servants, to proclaim the glory of God. And it shines for us as Christians and for all the world still today, through the Holy Spirit, compelling us to bring the lifeline of God and rescue ourselves and our fellow-man in Christ's name."

The Imperial Christmas Feast and Ball was presided over by Crown Prince Leo and his wife the Crown Princess Elena, and attended by approximately 500 including representatives of 25 countries as well as 50 distinguished citizens chosen for their contributions to society throughout the year. Among these were 14 year old Victor Florescu, the youngest university graduate in Basilerian history, and 103 year old Marija Ciobanu, the oldest living Basilerian. Those selected received the Civil Order of Saint Basil, 3rd Class, in addition to grants worth 10,000 lei in recognition of their achievements and services.

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by **EsToVnIa** » Tue Jan 12, 2016 6:56 pm

Foreign nationals to be forced out
Supreme Leader Virtanen announced that foreign nationals of CDI nations were to be removed immediately amid security concerns

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^{January 12, 2016 | Niva, Estovnia}

Supreme Leader Virtanen making the announcement in a press conference

Niva - Estovnia, In a short press conference today, Supreme Leader and Father of the Nation Virtanen announced that all foreign nationals of nations that are members of the Central Defense Initiative were to be removed within the coming weeks. This announcement comes only a few days after the semi-annual state collective meeting which sees the Grand Committee for National Restoration, Department of Defense, and State Security Agency discuss potential national security issues. In the hours immediately following the conclusion of the meeting, the office of the Supreme Leader released a statement saying that "with the help of the State Security Agency, we have been able to identify new threats to our great nation and a means that we view as being fair and just in dealing with them." It is expected that an estimated 582,000 Arthuristan, Belhavian, Belfrasian, and Emmerian nationals will be forcibly removed, costing the state an estimated 15.9 billion dollars.

"For our great state to continue on this journey towards redemption, it is of significant importance that we are able to identify and remove any threats that may cause harm to our wondrous nation and hamper the work of Eternal Leader Rheinhardt and his May revolution" Supreme Leader Virtanen announced during the press conference. "With renewed efforts by the State Security Agency, the Grand Committee, and the Department of Defense, we have identified that many western nationals that have seeped into the cracks of our noble society are a grave threat to the work of the Solidarity Front. As such, it has been deemed by both the Grand Committee and the Central State Committee that we cannot allow history to repeat itself and stomp out the seeds of western greed and oppression before it has chance to take root."

The Department of State has announced that foreign nationals will have approximately six weeks to exit the country, with the Department of the Interior stating that they would purchase houses for fixed sums should there be no buyers in that amount of time. If foreign nationals are still present in the nation at the conclusion of the six week departure timeframe, then the State Department has announced that the nationals will be charged with espionage and subversion and summarily arrested and tried as spies. Embassies will not be affected by decree, however the Supreme Leader warned there would be "dire consequences" for embassies that were discovered to have been granting foreign nationals amnesty.

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