Sunalayan News {SUNALAYA ONLY!}

[Edereon]

Military announces defeat of Oculus

Army generals of the Ederi Royal Armed Forces have announced the defeat of Oculus. Ederi and Sunrisian militaries, joint counter-insurgent and counter-terrorist forces have stormed the last bases of Oculus terrorists, took down all their leaders and all active militants in a series of firefights. Positions had been secured and the allied forces are making check-ups for any remaining terrorist presence or activity. Intelligence agencies also say that they are searching the entire Ocidas autonomous region and all of Edereon for Oculus presence to make sure the terrorist threat has been neutralized. The Ederi army has already confidently declared victory and announced that Oculus terrorists have been eliminated on the spot. The orders were not to allow any militants to escape and none officially have, including abroad. The militants did not posses vehicles, aircraft or boats so none were able to escape the nation’s borders. Citizens of Ocidas are cheering on military heroes for finally have defeated Oculus. Minister of State for Defense Fída Pãtriclér has congratulated the military of Edereon and allied military of Sunrisia on victory in a brief early press statement. Prime Minister Céc Mustigañ will be addressing the nation later as Head of Government. His Highness King Glac Crustal IV will be making his own address to congratulate the people of Edereon on liberation from terrorism, wish everybody Happy and Peaceful Holidays that continue. This would be the Ederi monarch’s first scheduled address. The second one will be during the New Year’s Eve to give wishes to Ederis regarding 2019.

[Lindenholt]

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"Pat yourself on the shoulders" - Maximilian IV's 2019 Christmas speech

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Hedge Palace, Lindenholt -- The annual Christmas speech by his royal majesty King Maximilian IV was broadcast live last night at 8 o'clock. In it, the King commended the Lindian people for their efforts of the passed year, and wished all Lindians a merry Christmas. The transcript of the speech can be found here:

Compatriots,

After a long year of hard work, we've arrived at the days that connect us to those we love the most. This moment of breath from work and school gives each of us a moment to be together and to reflect at what we have achieved in the passed year, and look at what we want achieve in the year that stands before us.

And we have achieved a lot. Thanks to the effort of millions of Lindians, Lindenholt became an even better place to live. That would have been impossible without you. The people. The baker around the corner, the cashiers of supermarkets, the teachers, the office workers, the civil servants, factory employees, our men and women in uniform, our farmers, the construction workers, innovating students, and everyone else that I have not mentioned - as there are so many people working to make Lindenholt a better place.

Everyone has contributed to a better Lindenholt, where we treat eachother fairly, and help eachother when in need. Pat yourself on the shoulder, as because of you Lindenholt is one of the best countries on the world to live. We live in a land of plenty, and we should also take the time to celebrate that these holidays as well.

I wish all Lindians, at home and abroad, wherever they may be, a merry Christmas and happy holidays.

- HRM Maximilian IV, King of Lindenholt

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"From Ymira with Love" to premiere tonight

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LIÈVREMONT (RIPUARIA) -- Ventismarien cinema audiences will, after much anticpitation, be able to see VFW's
(Ventismarien Film Works) new action filled motion picture: From Ymira with Love. The action film is about a member
of the Rezuan "Morality Police" that finds out about secrets within the fictional organisation tasked with upholding
the morality of Rezuans. Cameras follow the main character on an epic journey to freedom for both him and his country.

The film, partially funded by the Ventismar Union's art budget, was a source of controvesy as Capslandian
director Mira Eirra was accused of further souring VU-Rezua relations. Groups suspected of being sympathetic
to Rezua have also sent death threats to lead actor Simon L. Esbian. Politicians from Felsinia's Blue Party
have also criticised the film, stating that it was insulting and immoral to produce, let alone governmentally
fund a film that is so bold in its geopolitical stance.

Despite VFW temporarily cutting funding in August - finding the film too provocative, after a court ruling this
decision was overturned. The judge stated that the contract between director Mira Eirra and VWF did not allow
for VFW to cancel the contract. Under pressure from MVPs from the Liberal People's Party (Lindenholt), accusing
the VFW of censoring free speech, the VFW issued a public apology and pledged full support to the project.

Several weeks prior to the premiere of the film, copies were sent to film critics across Ventismar. Film critics
with the Artwinger Courant rate the film 9/10:

"From Ymira with Love is a fast paced action and tension packed film. The director has done a marvelous job
to give the audience the idea that they are actually in a dystopian world, where the "Morality Police" is
making sure everyone stays in line."

The film premieres tonight (20.00, 26th December) in all Ventismarien countries, and is rated 18+ as it
features lesbian sex scenes.

Multilever pledges to support Dammsmarian rain forests

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ARTWINGEN -- Frank Polderman, CEO of the Lindian consumer goods giant Multilever has pledged to donate a
"significant amount" of money to the Hope For the Damsmarian Rainforest Campaign. In a press conference,
Polderman stated that the preservation of the Dammsmarian rain forests was important for not just the
Dammsmarian people, but also for Multilever. And by extension for the rest of Sunalaya.

Multilever believes in sustainable production of consumer goods. We strive to make our production as
environmentally friendly as possible. Therefore, we will pledge a significant amount of money to the S7NN
news network's new initiative to save the Dammsmarian rain forests.

- Frank Polderman, CEO of Multilever

The multinational has been accused of being responsible for destroying tropical fauna in favour of palm oil
plantations, as Multilever is one of the largest consumers of palm oil. Palm oil is a major ingredient in the
production of many consumer products, such as foodstuffs, skincare products and soap.

Despite the pledge, Green Progressives MP Dirk Gewoon stated that his party had trouble believing the genuineness of
the pledge, as Multilever has not pledged to be cutting down on palm oil usage. Today, Gewoon introduced a
bill that would tax companies more heavily on the usage of palm oil in their products.

The parliamentary chairman of the governing Liberal People's Party stated that they support Multilever's
choice to contribute to rain forest conservation, but do not support the bill introduced by Gewoon.

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In other news:
- What you can do to save Dammsmarian rain forests
- Ariwanese elections
- Breaking: Edereon situation

[Capsland]

Should Capsland be Open to VU Expansion? Public and Parliamentary Poll

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Sample: 3,264 people nationwide Sample: National Parliament, Burton

With the news hot on states discussing membership in Ventismar's exclusive economic club we asked the questing: Should Capsland openly welcome new states trying to join the Ventismarian Union? We went to the polls in the streets of Capsland's major cities and polled the National Parliament on whether there is an ample mandate for the government to openly welcome aspirant states.

From our results, the Royal Broadcasting Company has found that both the population and government are more than willing to expand the Ventismarian Union, but why is this and does it change when we alter the situation? We interviewed MPs on why they responded the way they did and polled specific questions over the course of two months.

Chris Gray MP, Capsland Sovereign Party
"An expansion of the Ventismarian Union is simply not beneficial for any member of the union. An added member, whether that be Orilya, North Rukonia or Eikangaard would be absolutely disastrous for the continent. Currently the Ventismarian Union is a shell of what it is supposed to be. It is a failed project that is now clinging on a knife edge while bureaucrats in Liévremont pass laws that constantly degrade our sovereignty. I find it outrageous that the government can even think about, let alone endorse, an expansion of the VU while we have a country that is falling into poverty and race riots. It is despicable that both the the government and main opposition parties are in a consensus on further degrading this country's wealth and integrity. We must seriously think about where we are as a nation and review if expanding or even participating in the Ventismarian Union is beneficial to Capsland and the continent."

Samantha Curie MP, Foreign Secretary, Democracy Party
"The Ventismarian Union is the driving force of peace on the continent. Member states of the VU have never been closer in their history; not even a century ago Capsland and Umbrellya were engulfed in a disastrous war riddled with hatred and war crimes. Since the foundation of the Ventismarian Union, West Ventismar has been in a prolonged peace. It is not a coincidence that East Ventismar is lacking behind both in peace and economics with its Western counterpart. Expanding the VU can only bring goodwill to a continent that has often seen too much infighting and not enough progress."
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"Should Eikangaard join the Ventismarian Union?"

We asked respondents "Should Eikangaard join the Ventismarian Union?". Our results came back with a clear majority of them being against the idea of Eikangaard being a member of the Ventismarian Union, a surprising result given the population being in favour of a generalised expansion of the VU. We probed respondents on why they answered the way they did.

Most of the respondents for the "no" vote cited their concerns over stability of Eikangaard - referencing the ongoing stalemate in Eikangaard regarding the three factions that currently have de facto control over the country. This theme continued in other reasons, in particular the concern over the economy of Eikangaard. There were comments over how the Eikangaard economy would not be able to survive and compete with the developed economies of member states and worries over the VU simply propping up the state indefinitely - something that is wholly unpopular with the public.

As it stands, it seems the Capslandian public will not support Eikangaard becoming a member until the state stabilises and develops.

"Should Rezua join the Ventismarian Union?"

Another state we asked the public to comment on was Rezua. This proved to be very divisive with both "yes" and "no" gaining a sizeable margins.

Upon analysis, the majority of respondents that said yes were part of right wing to far right parties - the NLP, CSP, CD, and DP. The respondents commented on the need to work with "strong robust allies" that "weren't afraid to project a similar ideology across the world". It is also worth noting that respondents that said yes labelled themselves as sceptical of the VU - could this suggest that they believe only Rezua could reform the VU?

Respondents that answered no were part of more moderate right wing and left winged parties, also with the addition of voters from the Socialist Bloc. Respondents in this category highlighted their disapproval of Rezuan military tactics - commenting on the devastating Bohin War and the fall out with Commonwealth and Pantorran forces. While the VU has little military provisions in its treaties, this seemed to have dominated on whether the Capslandian public were in favour of a state - Rezua in particular - joining the organisation.

Meanwhile a resounding 507 MPs stated they would vote down any attempt to include Rezua as a full member state in the VU - could this be a sign of how out of touch parliament is with the country?

"Should North Rukonia join the Ventismarian Union?"

Interestingly, when asked about North Rukonia joining the Ventismarian Union, a massive 83% of respondents were in favour. The respondents ranged from Democracy Party voters to Socialist Bloc voters with only the majority of CSP and NLP voters answering no.

Respondents answering yes said that they would see North Rukonia as a "natural member" with culture, economy and ethics all playing a crucial role in successful VU integration. 73% of respondents overall said they would welcome Rukonian immigration to Capsland - reminiscent of famed Rukonian inventor, Marcus Cormar, that emigrated to Capsland to invent the light bulb.

With North Rukonia currently in the process of testing public opinion over the VU, the national Parliament refused to allow MPs to answer this question as to not affect any results in North Rukonia. However, Social Democratic spokesman, Anthony Barr MP, said that his party would "clearly and unapologetic ally welcome North Rukonia into the Ventismarian family" whatever the result.

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In other News
- Unity Referendum polling has begun with the two sides cutting very close
- Executive Chancellor, David George, to meet with VU President Art van de Lay
- Unity Referendum: Prime Minister of Goldwyn, Julien Piccard, pledges his support for the "No/Non" campaign in Goldwyn
- "From Ymira with Love" set to break box office records, surpassing famed 2014 classic "Jasonholt"

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GDP Growth Forecast
BoC Interest Rate
Currency Strength
Executive Chancellor Approval
Burton Temperature
1.25%
2%
$1.480
51%
0°C

Unity Referendum:

Yes
No
Don't Know
41%
40%
20%

[Sunrisia]

Edereon And Sunrisia Celebrate Victory Against Oculus

Edereon and Sunrisia are both commemorating another victory against the terrorist organization – Oculus in Edereon, this time hopefully the final one in a final confrontation. The Ederi Royal Armed Forces and the Sunrisian Defense Force (SDF) both declared the defeat of the terrorist group and its’ insurgency, along with the liberation of Edereon’s autonomous region of Ocidas from the presence of the terrorist group. Sunrisian officers echoed the statements of their Ederi counterparts that Oculus hopefully faced a physical termination in the battlefield and would never resurface again. The Sunrisian government also echoed the necessity for intelligence cooperation to continue between the countries in order to prohibit a new undetected uprising by Oculus and to foil any terror plot plans. The Sunrisian Prime Intelligence Division (PID) and the Sunrisian intelligence community have committed to aiding Ederi colleagues in undermining the potential of terrorisim resurfacing in Edereon’s Ocidas region and the rest of the allied country.

Although under MDAA collective defense clause Sunrisia is only required to defend allies against an external attack, the Ederi government requested that Sunrisia provide military assistance in defeating resurgent Oculus in Edereon. This request was also satisfied as part of the decision made at the emergency National Defense Council meeting, because of it being in Sunrisia’s national security and humanitarian interest to keep neighboring countries and the region terrorist-free. This interest also expands towards the rest of the planet. SDF used its’ counter-terrorist units to lead Sunrisia’s effort in the fight against Oculus, however, before they fully got ready, it was the Rapid Reaction Units (RRU) and Sunrisian troops stationed in Edereon that led the fight at first. The Department of Security reminded that Sunrisia had 9,200 soldiers permanently stationed in Edereon under the Sunrisian Forces – Edereon (SFE) functional sub-unified combatant command. The deployment inn these numbers would continue under Edereon’s continued permission. It is currently the second largest deployment of Sunrisian forces abroad and Minister of Security Armăs Fórtídâ confirms that this deployment is so large specifically because of the terrorist threat in Edereon. Minister Fórtídâ confirmed that Sunrisia would continue to protect Edereon from external attack/invasion and from the domestic terrorist threat.

Following the defeat of Oculus, Operation White Light has been declared a success and its’ conclusion was confirmed. President Válîd Sâlúbĕr has congratulated the soldiers that served in the mission and has called for them to be sent back to Sunrisia, their rewarding and their honorable discharge or service back home. All 9,200 troops in Edereon are planned to be gradually replaced by fresh service personnel. President Sâlúbĕr has exchanged a phone call with Prime Minister Céc Mustigañ of Edereon in honor of bilateral victory.

In other news:

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• Minister of International Relations Ectrăr Álienan on a 3-day visit to New Vesvai in-between the Holiday celebrations. The Minister plans to affirm Sunrisia’s agreement to sell materials to New Vesvai, which it would use to construct the planned border wall with Vesvai to reinforce its’ separation and independence.

[South Baggnagia]

President Dobrin Nóvak holds first summit with new cabinet

JUGAC, SOUTH BAGGNAGIA – South Baggnagian President Dobrin Nóvak is holding the very first summit along with members of a new cabinet. The president assembled a new cabinet in a major reshuffle where old ministers left and their new replacements came in. Fortunately the reshuffle appeared to be on good terms and there was no bad blood left between the president and the outgoing ministers. The president had his new cabinet picks attend hearings at the Chamber of Deputies to get approved by parliament members and take over their new offices. The outgoing ministers did the president a solid an agreed to stay in service until their replacements were approved by the parliament. This only further cemented that the president and the old cabinet were parting ways on good terms. President Dobrin Nóvak, New Prime Minister Tomáš Talbursen, New Minister of Foreign and Ventismarian Affairs Jurij Zéjler-Leichhardt and Minister of Defense Vojtěch Wylem Bětnar were some of the names in attendance along with the rest of the new administration. The president and the cabinet were making conclusions for the passing year and escorting it out prior to the upcoming arrival of the next year. Early agenda was set for the upcoming year and what should be achieved.

[Sunrisia]

Rock band Stélla talks the political side of past single “Monster”

Venăs Fîmbrél, lead vocalist of Stélla

The Orentan-based rock band Stélla, also originally native to the national capital, have addressed the conversation behind their past single – “Monster”, which the band did not originally deny of having a social message aimed at social media. Nevertheless, many have interpreted it as a specifically political message, rather than a social one, and suggested that the band were circling territory that may not be necessary. In fact, the music video for “Monster”, which was filmed in Ventismar, was named to be a propaganda music video. However, the ambiguous reaction and response has not made the band back-track and, in fact, has made Stélla address this past single more specifically to make things clearer and move away from ambiguity in what was projected in the song.

Front man Venăs Fîmbrél has previously stated:

“Social media is dying and good for it. I am happy to see children playing outside and that number keeps growing. Each generation is more imaginative than the last one. It warms my heart. What comes around goes back around and I think the withdrawal from digital life is in motion.”

Fîmbrél has not backed away from the statement and has doubled down on it in the WTF News exclusive interview:

“Conspiracy theorists are probably having a blast by suggesting that we may have engaged in talks with the government to produce “Monster” as an anti-social media single. If we have made their day and gave them something to talk about, then bless their hearts. The happier they are, the better. However, in reality, you don’t need to be in cahoots with political parties or forces to have your own position as a citizen. Yes, I voted for President Válîd Sâlúbĕr and for the current coalition that leads the Convet. And yet, we released “Monster” long before the last presidential and legislative elections, which confirms that we have had this stance long ago. Point is, we think this conversation is being pushed too much towards the political side of things, because our focus has been on the social one.

We don’t like the social media culture and what it does to human communication and human interaction. We are personally happy to see it fading away and we are not ashamed to admit it. We are sorry for all the Sunrisian social networking companies that are dying, but those people should probably find a new calling, because this is a relatively new industry and it can be replaced with something else. The founders of social media were innovative when creating something new and that’s how social media came to be. Those same people should now employ their innovative creativity to find a new calling and a new creation that will better the society and the world. Social media is not really achieving anything groundbreaking or positive. It creates self-esteem problems, makes people depend on “likes” and “hearts”, and digitalizes communication too much. You can have thousands of friends and followers, and yet be the loneliest person on the planet. We would like to wish that everyone just exist the matrix and we think this culture has got to go. Therefore, those words that I personally said about social media, were brutal honesty and I am not taking them back.

As for politics, once again, we only had a social message. We have yet to release a song that might sway an election and we don’t have plans to do so in the future. Don’t forget that a lot of our peers in the rock genre, whether in Sunrisia or around the world, have used rock as protest music against the status quo. A lot of it has been aimed straight at any government, capitalism, communism, dictatorship, democracy, bureaucracy, etc. We haven’t gone that deep, but hey, we don’t think there is anything wrong with having a civil position on issues, including on political ones. In fact, people should be active and partake in keeping politicians in check and defend their rights and interests, because we are ultimately the masters of our own land. We just need not to forget that.”

In that same interview, Stélla had gone on to talk about new projects, new music, the Rock vs. Synthwave popularity rivalry and producing soundtracks for movies. The band hinted that they might be working on some songs for the soundtrack of an unnamed superhero movie, which Stélla refused to disclose. Fans speculate that it might be the sequel to “Night-Claw”, which has yet to be green-lit, or some other unrelated superhero property.

After the interview, Stélla performed their past Sunalayavision Song Contest entry – “Cârnavór” and remix to the song – “Sátélît” in the studio.

[Frasian Viceroyalty]

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Frasian Infrastructure Projects Given Green Light

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Friesienstadt, Frasian Viceroyalty – In a recent meeting with the Frasian Landtag, Reichsfürst Cynfor announced the support and green-light for a multitude of infrastructure projects within the Viceroyalty. During his announcement, Cynfor noted the age of much of the Frasian state's roads and railways as dating from the early Cold War period and that it was about time to update these systems. This project would also be aimed at restarting the Frasian economy, so that it may once again prosper with the rest of the Kaiserreich. The Viceroy has previously made it clear that his plans include opening the Frasian economy to the world, with areas such as Ventismar and Belantica being major goals. The Viceroy outlined the project to include the Frasian National Railway, which previously was Reichseisenbahn Ostfriesland, along with a new national highway system that would connect the major Frasian cities with the Kaiserreich's Kaiserliche Autobahnsystem. These projects would begin in late January 2019, with the current system connecting Frisienstadt receiving two new lanes in order to create an 8 lane highway. Along with this, the Viceroy has permitted Frasian company Frienergie to install electric charging stations along the highway in order to promote the usage of electric vehicles. These stations will be placed at varying intervals along the highway, with fast-chargers acting as "electric gas stations." There was a bid for the installation of hydrogen refueling stations, but there were complaints about the possible safety of these sites and therefore were not adopted. In terms of the railway system, the Viceroyalty will be teaming with Reichstrak, which recently purchased Rotfahne railways and their stock of rail lines across the Kaiserreich. These lines predominately stretch from Schwarzburg to Friesienstadt, connecting the western portions of the nation to the east.

This rail project will see more activity brought to the Frasian state, with Reichstrak seeing a large amount of western tourists venturing to the east each year. Along with this, the Frasian National Railway has been recently ordered to cooperate with Belantican Railways in connecting the Weniges Reich to Eastern Corentia via railways. Three railway systems have been designated to connect with the Weniges Reich; through Frasia, through Sangarn-Strelitz, and through Anhalt-Köthen. This project will join the project to develop a highway connection to the Weniges Reich and a subsequent revitalisation project nicknamed "Projekt Phönix." It is currently unknown what the rest of the project will entail, but it is rumoured to be set to be revealed later this month.

In terms of the "open economy" that the Viceroy has spoken about previously, it seems that he has a particular interest in connecting the Viceroyalty with a close Englean ally and a homeland of his family - Shastara. In recent comments, the Viceroy stated that he would like to see a "future connection" with his family's homeland that would "mutually benefit both states." It has been reported that the Viceroy has recently requested a meeting with Shastaran officials to discuss possible connections, and has been approved by His Imperial Majesty to establish trade deals with the nation. This approval has also been granted to deals with Belantica, Rhodevus, and the Weniges Reich as well.

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[Rezua]

It's Quiet...Too Quiet

Eastern Breeze

Marc Belmore

After successful negotiations with the Free District Frasia and Engleberg, the Englean Civil War came to a much more civil end. A new Rezuan embassy is unconstruction, which will help coordinate reconstruction of the Free District as well as establish a study aboard program. As part of this, Revon classes will be offered for students at a discounted rate to encourage learning. In addition with Belantican acknowledgement of the sovereignty of Daredland state, the embassy will request that the F.D. of Frasia does the same in the hopes of swaying Engleberg to follow suit.

With this growing period of peace, some are beginning to wonder what is wrong. The Empire is often at odds with one nation or the other. And while some in a Capsland and Lindenholt talk of Rezua and the VU, nothing major happens in Ventismar. Relations with the VU haven’t fallen nor does the possiblilty of North Rukonia entering the VU cause disruption. For once in a long time, it seems that the Empire has no major catastrophes to handle. Many point to the normalization of diplomatic conversation in the global community as well as a shift from military gain to economic gain. Whatever the reason, the cause is welcome

Over the holidays, Christina Everen assumed the ceremonial duties of the empress while she was away in Rhodevus with her family. The princess opened Christmas festivals from the palace cathedral as is custom. However, rather than have a private party, the princess opened the palace up and hosted the captial’s Christmas party this year.

On a more serious note, with the approach of New Years Day, Princess Christina has tighten police security of the capital, to prevent any attempt by rogue agents to try to repeat the attack that occurred last year at the same time.

In Other News
-Empress Ymira sees “From Ymira With Love”, says it’s a pretty good film and a creative distopia.
-Diana the Goose caught attempting to eat the royal crown.

[Ophioneus]

New Year, New Representatives

Layout of the National Assembly. Grey: Ophioneus United. Yellow: Unity. Union: Blue. Light Brown:Independent Party. Red: Karlinist Party

Jamestown As the new constitution prescribes, one third of the National Assembly shall be re-elected every year. Despite the short time the current officers have been in position, one third of the Assembly will stand for re-election. This was done by lots drawn just before the Assembly closed for the New Year. Now, the race for the seats are in high gear. Challengers that were defeated in the first year's election are ready to give another try of defeating the now incumbent representatives. Due to the recent timing of the election it is expected that the races will quickly heat up. In total, sixty nine sears are up for re-election. Each seat represents one million citizens of the Federation, covering a geographic area needed to get that population amount. In total, two Karlinist seats, forty Ophioneus United seats, twenty Union Party seats, five Unity seats and one independent seat is up for re-election.

Already the National Assembly has been in full swing passing several reform measures to jump start the national economy and make up for the failings of the previous government. A series of reforms on taxation, housing, and infrastructure has already been passed. It remains to be seen, however, what shape the country will take. The Ophioneus United Party holds the majority of the seats in the National Assembly and has pushed through the series of reforms. However, most of these bills were agreeable to most of the National Assembly and passed with multi-party support. As more controversial reforms, such as nationalizing the telecommunication grid, national identification cards, and healthcare are put on the table the parties are starting to show their true colors.

Alexander Karev, leader of the Union Party, is seeking to take control of the National Assembly. If they take 40 seats they will have the majority. To do this, the Union Party is towing a line of populist, environmental, education and healthcare reforms. In addition the Union Party is seeking a more isolationist foreign policy. They say that Ophioneus has much to do internally before spending more money on the military. Indeed, the sentiment is common. Currently, they are in a coalition with the Unity Party, led by Savva Makar. Unity is leftist compared to Union on domestic issues, but has a similar foreign policy goal. Both parties seek to reduce the presence of the military in the Ophioneus bureaucracy and government.

The Ophioneus United Party, the winner of the first election, must now hold onto their seats. Ophioneus touts a more militaristic line, with most of its party members consisting of military men that served under Io during his generalship. The party press secretary has stated that they will continue to show their track record of reform and continue to push for "the good of the common man." Indeed, even if they loose the majority, the Continental Congress will still remain in the hands of the party, and will be the final say on all reforms.


More News:
- New Year Resolution Goal
- Free Trade: Worth the Hype?
- Computation Act: Government Super-Computers

[Kiez]

K.I.N | Kiez Internationale News
"Für das Vaterland, Kiez über alles!"

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National - Regional - World - Politics - Technology - Health - Sports - Entertainment - Travel - Money - Other

Premier Richtofen expected to deliver speech at midnight tonight

The Reichstag, Berlin, Kiez --- In honor of the beginning of the new year, a press spokesperson for the Office of the Premier has confirmed in a brief press conference that Premier Richtofen is expected to deliver his first speech of 2019 in public over the Reichstag balcony overlooking downtown Berlin. "In commemoration of the rebound of Kiez's following the tumultuous Coup that faced our nation in 2016, the Premier has made his intentions clear to join the festivities of the New Year where he has pledged that this New Years Celebration will be on a scale previously unseen before in the history of our country. While this is a great undertaking between the local government officials and the executive branch we ask that the people continue to observe the safety measures put in place during new years festivities, thank you and happy new years to everyone in our fine country."

Local Police have been observed to be on the streets of Berlin and other provinces in force, their purpose being to maintain a sense of order in the usually passionate and chaotic celebrations taking place across the country. From the Kiez Internationale, we wish our readers and viewers a happy new year.

[Lindenholt]

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Happy New Year!

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Fireworks in Dorningen

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ARTWINGEN -- At 12 o'clock fireworks lit up the Lindian sky. Lindians collectively spent 340 million Aurei on fireworks this year, an increase from 2018's 337 million Aurei. Though many people (illegally) lit their fireworks days before New Years Eve, at 7 o'clock yesterday professional firework shows around the country were given the green light to give thousands of spectators some beautiful shows. Professionals weren't the only ones that took part in providing spectators with nice lights in the sky. The largest Lindian demographic that lights fireworks is not a day over eighteen. With 66% of 12-17 year olds having bought at least some fireworks according to a poll conducted by Linfo. We interviewed a group of five teenagers (ages ranging from 11 to 17) on the streets of Beutrecht about lighting fireworks.

REPORTER: How come that people from your age group are so ... active ... with fireworks?
MARK (17): We just like big bangs. It's very exciting when you light something and have to run away from it before it blows up.
REPORTER: But what about the danger? Every year hundreds of people get wounded by fireworks.
JASPER (16): We do it safely though, look, I have my goggles, and I light my fireworks with a special wick; instead of a lighter.
REPORTER: Have all of you got those?
MARK (17): Yeah, all of us have it, except my younger brother Rick.
REPORTER: Why does Rick not have those then?
RICK (11): I am not allowed to light fireworks, I have to watch them.
REPORTER: Most of the firework-wounded are bystanders that are not wearing protection, you do know that right?
MARK (17): Yeah, okay, but I literally have never heard of someone I know getting wounded by watching fireworks, I only hear that on the news.

This year around 2000 hospitalisations occurred related to fireworks. Around 75% of the involved were under the age of eighteen. Though most cases were minor, some lost limbs, fingers and eyes. Since 2008 the government has mandated a national firework safety campaign, specially aimed at kids. Schools also do their best to educate and inform their students on how to deal with fireworks. Since the start of the campaign in 2008, the amount of firework related injuries has decreased from its peak of 4100 hospitalisations in 2009 to a "record breaking" low this New Year's Eve. The Union of Lindian Doctors and Physicians believes that, in order to get the number to zero wounded, a national ban on private fireworks should be implemented. This is also echoed by various other organisations. Several animal rights organisations say that fireworks are damaging to animals, as they are startled by it. The OPA organisation (Oudere Personen Alliantie) say that they are hindered by the loud bangs of fireworks, and thus are advocating for a ban.

The minister of health and healthcare Anouk Verte-Haansma (UD) stated that a ban would not be effective, and could have an adverse effect as it would mean fireworks could no longer be tested by the government for safety. During our interview she took the time to wish all our readers a happy New Year, and we would like to do the same.

The Artwinger Courant team wishes all our readers a happy and well informed 2019.

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In other news:
- Some good NY resolutions
- What changes for you in 2019?
- What can 50 Aurei get you?
- REMINDER: You have until midnight today to light your fireworks!

[North Rukonia]

The Jaikan Bulletin
 English

Referendum to join VU passes with 68% in favor

        The VU Referendum passed with 68% in favor of joining the organization. A passing vote was not entirely unexpected, however still a shock to many due to the distaste for the bloc early on in the previous year. With the support of the Lindan Prime Minister, and the Capslandian public, joining the VU is thought to not going to be a major hurdle.

  Sam King made a short statement on the results:

I think we have made the correct choice. Joining the VU will open our economy to the larger market, and tourism will skyrocket due to open borders. The biggest challenge will be integrating the Aurei into our economy.

   We do not expect this to damage any relations with Rezua, at least, not significantly. Joining the VU is a great idea, and will help ensure the future of our nation

Negotiations with the union will begin shortly.

Other News

-Why it took us so long to report on the referendum

-How to overcome writers block

-Looking at Ventismar: Possible future VU members and what it means for the world

-Opinion: Shastara should join the VU

[Daredland]

MDAA–Daredland Commission discusses future summit, Frasia recognized as the Occupied Territory of Frasia (OTF)

This year’s first meeting of the MDAA–Daredland Commission saw discussions on a possible future summit between Daredland and MDAA members. Daredi representatives were reportedly told by MDAA representatives that Edereon placed a bid for hosting such a summit as the most convenient location for all. The last MDAA summit was held in Damsmar but Daredi representatives did not attend because it was an inside MDAA summit. Daredi officials say that a summit between Daredland and MDAA would not be just another forum to show off cooperation but it would actually bring practical results.

“We might finally achieve the big integration goals that are available to us. We cannot count on full integration yet because of the obvious issue of Daredland’s occupied territories. But that is not a complete roadblock to us and we can achieve integration up to a certain point. That’s on Daredland’s agenda. It is only an appropriate and necessary course of action to take with the continued appropriation of occupied parts of Wenigberg by the puppet entity of the Weniges Reich and by the puppeteer Englean regime.

We saw the Weniges militia and the Englean aggressors try to legitimize their grip over the Weniges Reich by organizing illegal ‘elections’ in the occupied territories outside Daredi law and Daredi jurisdiction. ‘Elections’ in the Weniges Reich are especially humorous when considering that the Englean regime obviously does not believe in democracy. Now we see other kinds of one-sided foreign meddling in the occupied territories of the Wenigberg region with disregard to Daredi sovereignty. The Englean regime is slowly but surely trying to convert the Weniges Reich into the territory of the Englean state.

A proper response to the Englean aggressor’s continued ‘digestion’ of the Weniges Reich is to move in the opposite direction and to continue solidifying Daredland’s MDAA integration.” – Günter Heilig (WCND), Confederal Minister of MDAA Accession of the Daredi Confederation

In other news both chambers of the United Confederal Assembly have removed independence recognition from the dissolved Frasian Confederacy and instead recognized Frasia as the Occupied Territory of Frasia (OTF). Lower house National Council and upper house Council of States voted in favor of removing the independence recognition from Frasia now that the Frasian Confederacy is no longer in existence and has been replaced by the Frasian Viceroyalty. Daredi government has not recognized the Frasian Viceroyalty as the succeeding authority of the Frasian territory.

“Frasian Confederacy that Daredland has recognized no longer exists because the Frasian rebels have surrendered and allowed for the Frasian Viceroyalty to be created in its place. If those same rebels have betrayed the Frasian Confederacy then it no longer makes sense for us to uphold a state that they have themselves allowed to be disbanded.

We will not be recognizing the Frasian Viceroyalty because it is nothing but an imitation of some sort of self-governance for Frasians. It is not what Frasians fought for. It’s just another proxy in the same way as the so-called leadership of the self-declared Weniges Reich. Frasian Viceroyalty is nothing but an imitation. There is another reason why Daredland will not be recognizing the Frasian Viceroyalty as the authority of the Frasian territory. That reason is because the Frasian Viceroyalty is partaking in forcefully tearing the Weniges Reich away from Daredland and the absorption of the Weniges Reich by the Englean imperialist aggressors.

The best choice here is to recognize Frasia as the Occupied Territory of Frasia (OTF). Today Frasia has nothing but an artificial autonomous government and Frasia is being used as a tool in the manufacturing of the next pan-Germanic Englean empire including on the land of Eastern Daredland. That is exactly the course of action that the Daredi government has taken. The United Confederal Assembly and its both chambers have recognized Frasia as the Occupied Territory of Frasia.” – Friedrich Heuvel (CD), Confederal Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Daredi Confederation

[New Vesvai]

FREE VESVAI BROADCASTING

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Musician Aculeus Is Emigrating From The Dominion Of Vesvai, Immigrating To New Vesvai

Musical artist known by pseudonym Aculeus has announced that he is emigrating from Vesvai to New Vesvai. He is just the most recent one out of a series of Vesvaian celebrities to do so. Aculeus hails from Vesvai’s capital Aurisi and his most recent show-business venture was representing Vesvai in the 64th Sunalayavision with the song “Message in a Bottle.” Right now Aculeus has obtained a visa to go to New Vesvai and intends to settle there soon. The singer has yet to confirm the location of a new home. He is probably doing so on purpose to avoid the paparazzi and more intrusive publicity. After he settles in New Vesvai as a resident Aculeus plans to aim for New Vesvai’s citizenship to legalize himself fully and to complete his emigration process. The singer wants to start his new life in New Vesvai.

Vesvai’s press is keeping Aculeus’ emigration under wraps and New Vesvai’s press does not have enough details yet like the general public. The singer only had a short video call with one of the morning news shows here in New Vesvai where he agreed to share more about his decision:

“[V]esvai is becoming authoritarian hell. It is not a country but a prison. No better than during the colonial days and what Vesvai had gone through. It seems worse what is happening there today. The nation is not only slipping back into its slave mentality and autocracy from the colonial days but it’s even going below that. I am getting out of there before I get thrown in prison or before the corrupt government actually introduces exist visas and prohibits citizens from leaving Vesvai all-together. I’m making a run for it.

On the other hand there is New Vesvai. It is like night and day. This smaller part of our shared island that has become its own independent nation should be a role model to the entire island. New Vesvai is what the entire island of Vesvai should be like. I can tell you that your nation’s PR as a paradise on Sunalaya for all Vesvaians is definitely true. I’ve spent time in New Vesvai, I cried, I sensed liberty, harmony and social progress. I sensed peace there among the people and internal peace with myself. I saw a government serving its people and not vice versa. I saw other kinds of Vesvaians living under a different flag than us. But I still understood that they are the same people and the same divided nation as us and they understand that too when looking at us. They don’t have to endure all the crap we go through in the Dominion of Vesvai. We live in a police state where a corrupt fraudulently elected government rules over us like human resources to use, abuse and suck energy out of to feed themselves. Freedom of speech has died, protests are banned, everyone is in prison, there’s curfew and police brutality.

In my first trip to New Vesvai since it got independence I felt like I left hell and finally ascended to heaven. That same day I’ve decided that I am moving here and have kept my plans discrete ever since. Well until now.”

Our news company would like to clarify that our goal is not to wage a propaganda war against Vesvai because we are showing what the citizens of the Dominion of Vesvai are saying to our news outlets and we broadcast it. Musician Aculeus was just the most recent one to say a series of not very pleasant comments about life in Vesvai. An entertainment magazine from New Vesvai asked Aculeus if his emigration means a confirmed dropout from the next Sunalayavision. He responded:

“[T]he emigration process will keep me too busy to have any kind of role in the next Sunalayavision. And even if I were not busy I would not agree to represent Vesvai again because I am not proud of that country and no longer consider it to be my country. I want to become a citizen of another nation and that is New Vesvai. So if you are ever going to see me in Sunalayavision again then hopefully as a singer from New Vesvai. Of course that will only happen if they agree to give me a passport and if New Vesvai decides to participate in the Sunalayavision. On the topic of citizenship I have hope they will not leave a fellow Vesvaian behind. I’m ready to undergo all protocol procedures to get New Vesvai’s citizenship.”

[South Baggnagia]

South Baggnagian and Sunrisian jets escort North Baggnagian jet out of South Baggnagian airspace

NORTH BAGGNAGIA/SOUTH BAGGNAGIA BORDER – North Baggnagia is once again testing uneasy stability between two Baggnagian states. The air forces of the Chief of State Fran Hapénic regime have entered the airspace of South Baggnagia late in the night. It was only a single jet so North Baggnagia was given the benefit of the doubt even with all the provocations and hooliganism from before. South Baggnagian military officers believed that this single jet may have entered by mistake. Those doubts were already uneasy but they were decreased even more when the North Baggnagian pilot failed or refused to respond to radio calls.

Upon entering the airspace the North Baggnagian jet was surrounded by Sunrisian jets. They soon were joined by South Baggnagian jets aiming to confront the trespasser. The North Baggnagian pilot ignored calls from the Sunrisians and from the South Baggnagians to respond. The trespassing air force pilot was told to move back in the direction he came from and abandon the South Baggnagian airspace. The failure to respond prompted South Baggnagian and Sunrisian pilots to prepare to open fire. The pilots were ready to fire from their jets and South Baggnagian troops on the ground were ordered to ready anti-aircraft guns. The trespassing jet was tightly surrounded and escorted in the northern direction because the pathway in the eastern, southern or western direction was blocked.

In the end the jet with the mute pilot complied and exited the South Baggnagian airspace into North Baggnagia. An armed incident was avoided. Afterwards the South Baggnagian and Sunrisian troops stationed in the exclaved city of Neodvisni were told to be on standby if the North Baggnagians attempted a provocation there. The ground troops readied anti-aircraft guns in Neodvisni and pilots were ready to jump into the jets in case North Baggnagian planes attempted an intrusion into the airspace of Neodvisni. Right now things remain calm.

[Edereon]

Edereon agrees to host MDAA–Daredland Summit if it were to happen

Talks have been going on within the MDAA–Daredland Commission about holding a summit between member nations of MDAA and aspiring member nation Daredland. The summit would have the purpose of furthering some terms of Daredland’s MDAA integration. In case the summit happens Edereon has offered to host it in Ederi capital city Conordo. The last MDAA summit was hosted by The Seven United so this time Edereon would take the initiative for the next meeting.

Prime Minister Céc Mustigañ said that Edereon had a personal national interest and a security interest for a stable Daredland as a close neighbor of Edereon. There is also a humanitarian interest for Daredland to finally see peace and to have guaranteed stability by becoming a member of the alliance. Edereon’s personal interest has motivated the offer by the Kingdom to host the next summit. It is early to say what would be specifically achieved but the integration process would at least partially progress.

[North Baggnagia]

His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic drives fear into Southern traitors and Sunrisian imperialists

SILCENDA, NORTH BAGGNAGIA – By the order of His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic the North Baggnagian Holy Army made another move to instill fear into Southern traitors and Sunrisian imperialists occupying Baggnagian land in the south. His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic is sending a message to the Southern collaborators and their Sunrisian masters.

His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic is reminding that the Holy Quest of Reunification will never be stopped. One day the North Baggnagian Holy Army will march into the south and destroy everything in its way. Nobody and nothing will be able to stop the North Baggnagian Holy Army. On the ashes of battle Baggnagia will once again be reunited under one flag which will be the black, orange and white tricolor with a black star over it. Reunified Baggnagia will resurrect the single divided state and will mark the beginning of Baggnagian imperial glory. We shall move forth to expand our borders under the guise of our Holy Leader. His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic is the Messiah to this planet and will bring salvation to all. We already enjoy the Holy Light here on the Holy Baggnagian Land even if it’s just the northern half for now. But upon the reunification of the Holy Land in a Holy Quest, the Holy Light from Baggnagia will spread across the world. Humanity will realize that His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic is a father to all of them. There are no other gods.

The jet's entry into southern skies was just a test against collaborators in the south and the Sunrisian occupants that the collaborators pray to. Though already strong because of His Excellency’s guidance and support the North Baggnagian Holy Army will soon become strong enough to take on the Satanist Sunrisia. The enemy will fall in battle and the Southern collaborators will be put to death for their service to the Sunrisian demons. It is just like the scriptures and the prophecy tell us. His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic says that the day of the prophecy has yet to come. The North Baggnagian Holy Army must build weapons and train to become strong enough to take on the dark and demonic Sunrisia on the day of reckoning.

[Sunrisia]

Sunrisian Instructors Hold First Round Of Self-Defense Training For South Baggnagian Soldiers

The Department of Security of the Sunrisian Second Republic has announced that the Sunrisian Defense Force (SDF) has begun the first round of training for the military service personnel of the South Baggnagian Protection Army. The training task is being specifically handled by Sunrisian Forces – South Baggnagia (SFSB) and overseen by General Pártên Câstódél, the Commander of SFSB. The forces stationed in South Baggnagia report to Sunrisian Ventismarian Command (SUNVENCOM), which in turn reports to the Department of Security. The training program for the South Baggnagian Military by SFSB exists as part of our forces’ many military tasks in South Baggnagia. The training is employed periodically and was activated this time following another border incident with North Baggnagia.

The Sunrisian Military offered this round of training to the South Baggnagian armed forces specifically after the most recent military provocation from the North Baggnagian dictatorship, where the warplane of the regime’s air forces invaded the skies of South Baggnagia. The incident was avoided from escalating into an armed confrontation, although the South Baggnagian and Sunrisian air forces, as well as ground forces, were ready to open fire if the invading jet did not comply. In the end, the jet ended up being escorted out of the South Baggnagian airspace without an armed clash. The persistence of the North Baggnagian dictatorship to provoke South Baggnagia and to further project its’ rhetoric threatening the eventual war against Sunrisia and the follow-up occupation of South Baggnagia, has influenced the conclusion that consistent responsive action needs to be taken to contain North Baggnagia.

General Pártên Câstódél gave the following statement:

“Even though Sunrisian Forces – South Baggnagia (SFSB) are only acting in the role of a military instructor and trainer this time, it definitely does not mean that we are placing all responsibility and self-defense readiness on the shoulders of the South Baggnagian troops. Our permanent presence in this country has a larger reason. In case of North Baggnagian aggression, we will stand shoulder to shoulder with the South Baggnagians and act in this country’s defense. A war against South Baggnagia is a war against Sunrisia. That’s what our Mutual Defense Treaty is all about and that is the sole reason why our SFSB command exists. The North Baggnagian regime probably did not yet forget its’ last border provocation against South Baggnagia, where a failed invasion attempt was launched against this country. We remember the fruitless outcome and the situation will not be any different in case of another attempt. The North Baggnagian dictatorship may only end up in an even worse scenario.

This training is only the first in a planned series. South Baggnagian and Sunrisian forces had joint training exercises not that long ago and we might have more in the near future. Military exercises, war games and other types of drills are not ruled out either, but we will not rush the plans we have for North Baggnagian containment.”

The training to the South Baggnagian Protection Army is also taking place in the city of Neodvisni, an exclave of South Baggnagia that is surrounded by North Baggnagia. The training there is being handled by Sunrisian Army – Neodvisni (SAN), which is a branch of Sunrisian Forces – South Baggnagia (SFSB).

In other news:

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• Convet of the Sunrisian Second Republic considers extending sanctions against North Baggnagia from sanctions against individuals to sanctions against the state. These proposed measures would be in response to North Baggnagian provocations on the shared border with South Baggnagia and for threats to invade South Baggnagia.
  
  
• President Válîd Sâlúbĕr wants the Convet not to rush with extending the sanctions against North Baggnagia because the President wants the North Baggnagian dictatorship to be given a chance to “cool off.” The President also said he believes the sanctions against the state should be a later measure imposed at a more desperate time, because it would harm the North Baggnagian people and not the regime of North Baggnagian Dictator Fran Hapénic.
  
  
• Minister of Security Armăs Fórtídâ: “If the North Baggnagian dictatorship attempts to act on their verbal threats against South Baggnagia and its’ people, then there’s going to be a Sunrisian military response. Those episodic provocations on the border between North Baggnagia and South Baggnagia can also turn into something unpleasant, so we suggest that the regime watch what they do. Testing us further will lead to an outcome that will only end badly for Dictator Fran Hapénic and his team. You can keep testing us if you want to push the day of your dethroning closer to tomorrow.”
  
  
• Top Releases on the Sunrisian Musical Charts (In No Particular Order):
  
  
  • Arena – “Chrysos.”
    
    
  • Crîstâllús Cûlkósvád (Crystal Machine Gun) – “Fenestra.”
    
    
  • Calor – “Salve.”
    
    
  • Electro – “Vísâ” (Everything)
    
    
  • Argenti – “Zvílgsnâ” (Glance).
    
    
  • Ignis – “Rúbár” (Red).
    
    
  • Spray Painting – “Zvágzdâs” (Stars).
    
    
  • X/Y – “OK.”
    
    
  • Infrared – “Raise Your Weapon” (English-language Track feat. Unnamed Foreign Vocalist) (Remix).
    
    
  • Foreign Artist Track Category: “Sonar” (English-language), “My Feelings For You” (English-language), “Finally Moving” (English-language).

[North Baggnagia]

Patriotic North Baggnagian youth is massively desecrating the flags of Demonic Sunrisia

SILCENDA, NORTH BAGGNAGIA – The stance of Dark and Demonic Sunrisia against Baggnagian Reunification is angering North Baggnagians. Youth groups around Our Glorious Nation have been burning replicas of the Evil Sunrisian Empire’s symbol which is their flag. While doing this these patriotic youths have been holding the portraits of His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic and saluting the Glorious Leader’s strength, leadership and unlimited patriotism.

The youth believes in the Holy Quest of Baggnagian Reunification and is ready to enlist in the North Baggnagian Holy Army. Each of them believes in the day when they will stand in the battlefield and face the Demonic Sunrisia in a battle for Baggnagian Reunification. All young people are ready to give their lives in the name of this Holy Patriotic Quest. It is sacred to all North Baggnagians and should be sacred to all Baggnagians. It is unfortunate that Baggnagians in the south cannot join the Quest because they are living under the oppression of Southern collaborators and under the occupation of Sunrisian imperialist demons. Baggnagians in the south are being brainwashed by the conquerors of the South.

His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic addressed North Baggnagian youth groups in the Main City Square of Silcenda during the march of North Baggnagian youth groups. The Glorious Leader once again reminded everyone of the Holy Quest and how everyone must be ready for the prophecy where the North Baggnagian Holy Army will face off against the Sunrisian demons for Baggnagian Reunification. His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic announced an upcoming military parade in Silcenda to show off North Baggnagian military might and strength. The Glorious Leader also forewarned the youth and all nation about a possibility of him signing an executive order which would introduce a 10-year universal conscription for all citizens. His Excellency Chief of State Fran Hapénic said this plan might be necessary to prepare all North Baggnagians for the Holy Battle against Demonic Sunrisia in the Holy Quest of Baggnagian Reunification.

[Rhodevus]

The Kingstown Daily

North Rukonia, the VU and the Commonwealth: An Editorial
By: Dr. Quinn Williams; Imperial University, Department of International Relations

With a recent vote of North Rukonian residents suggesting that the country will join the Ventismarian Union (VU), many are beginning to question how this development will reflect the Rhodeve Commonwealth. North Rukonia is a Commonwealth member and has been since 1964, making it one of the newer additions to the Commonwealth realm, but still a vital part of it.

The first question on people’s minds is, will North Rukonia be forced to leave the Commonwealth when it joins the Ventismarian Union? The long and short answer is the same. A resounding No. The Rhodeve Commonwealth is an organization that works a part from other alliances and organizations. Commonwealth members can be or not be members of the USA, VU, IATA or even the MDAA (though it is doubted that the MDAA will allow anyone that has Commonwealth affiliation into the organization).

The VU and Commonwealth do have good relations, as many Commonwealth members are allies or possess friendly relations with countries which make up the VU. Similarly, some VU nations have cooperated with the Commonwealth in the past, sending astronauts to the CSS and participating in the Commonwealth Games.

Will certain issues arise if and when policies conflict between the VU and Commonwealth? There is little doubt that as North Rukonia becomes more integrated into the VU fold, that issues will arise, especially those relating to trade. Commonwealth members generally place an emphasis on trade with other Commonwealth members. And Commonwealth members are obligated to defend other Commonwealth members when attacked. The VU generally has a close trade system with the VU body delegating trade practices (this is an incredible oversimplification of the VU). While there are no easy solutions to questions regarding trade and defense between the VU and Commonwealth, after speaking with spokespersons for the Commonwealth, it is clear that they welcome the challenge and see nothing to fear.

The Commonwealth seems to be willing and able to work more closely with the VU as Commonwealth nations enter the Union.

Frasia
The Englean Kaiserreich has opened up international trade with Frasia and Rhodevus has already jumped to open trade relations with the autonomous region. Only days after news was sprung, a trade delegation was sent to Frasia to talk with their counterparts in the region and establish proper trade talks. Including in these talks would be matters such as items to be traded as well as their quantities and price, as well as trade routes and shipments, particularly through the Bay of Rhodevus. As more information is released regarding ongoing trade deals, a better understanding of the Frasian situation can be determined.

In Other News:
-Rhodevus begins preparations for Sunalayavision
-‘From Ymira with Love’ becomes a cult classic in Rhodevus following a very successful box office opening month
-Poll: Did Vesvai join the Commonwealth too soon? 57% Rhodeves say Yes, 11% Rhodeves say No, 32% unsure

[The Dictatorship POD]

General Devicks Considers Merits of Global Treaties

~P.O.D. International Broadcasting

In an unexpected press release at the National Command Center, the Commander In Chief credited the international community with the formations of "stable long term treaties", going even further to praise The Ventismar Union and The Commonwealth of Rhodevus for the "ability of such organizations to bring lasting peace to groups of potential adversaries". Being the first leader to praise such international organizations, General Nathaniel Devicks was also quick to bring the faults of current international organizations to the forefront, specifically faulting the charging of dues or the interference of individual nations' sovereignty. While remaining vague, when listing faults, General Devicks was quick to state his disapproval of the almost dictatorial overreaching of the United Sunalayan Assembly, stating an irony that "the U.S.A. claims to value freedom while in the same breath levying sanctions against non-members for disobedience to their own regulations established for member states". Continuing, he went on to say "the U.S.A. has often claimed The Provincial Ochlocracy of Denmytire to have a lack of freedom, being run by power hungry tyrants, while it is here that basic human rights are protected and there that basic human rights are restricted." Going further, the Commander In Chief referenced many freedoms, such as the right to keep and bare arms and a right to freedom of speech within the communities as things that were nothing more than token privileges in certain key U.S.A. nations.

After both praising and criticizing the international organizations, General Devicks made a shocking announcement that he would, through his power to control the diplomatic relations of the communities, create an alternative to these organizations, citing the benefits to national security while at the same time claiming that work would be done to ensure that previously considered faults would be avoided, "we will learn from the mistakes of others to create something greater than what they have, and in the future, others will learn from our mistakes to make something even greater."

With instructions from the Commander In Chief, the Body of Inter-Community Representatives and the General Staff are working together to determine what requirements would be had for potential member states as well as what the new organization would be purposed to do. It was also determined that the title of the organization would be later given by the Commander In Chief to ensure that the title and purpose of the organization did not contradict. When questioned concerning the organization's mission statement, General Devicks had this to say: "To make the oppressor fearful, and to give peace to the peaceful.

[Creperia]

DEVELOPING

NATIONAL NEWS NETWORK

Another coup attempt thwarted: Coup plotters caught with the flag of the Dictatorship of Creperia

The Supreme Revival Council (SRC), which sought to restore Creperian dictatorship, has made an attempt to carry out another military coup in Creperia to an unsuccessful result

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Creperian capital city Miraya has seen a very turbulent night but the chaos appears to have passed now. Creperia as a country has a history of coups and it almost appears to be a national curse of sorts. Tonight’s situation has been determined to be no different and the new year for Creperia is starting off with another military coup attempt.

Tonight Miraya and other cities in Creperia have seen firefights that escalated into de facto battles in the middle of the city. The Creperian National Defense Force (CNDF) was forced to intervene to neutralize the attackers so that public order and peace be restored. In Miraya the military also propped up security around the Presidential House and the building of the National Assembly. Seeing the military play the role of the protector surprised many witnesses because many were confident that it was the military that was behind another coup. Logically if the military wanted to overthrow the government then things would have gone by quieter because the soldiers would have simply arrested Creperian government officials. Not a single shot would have been fired as usual, unless the police would have attempted to intervene. This time there was gunfire and the military was protecting the government and citizens. It shows that the coup plotters were another force. In the early hours of the coup President Karr Gaudēl called Sunrisian President Válîd Sâlúbĕr asking that Sunrisian forces in Creperia help stop the coup.

Eventually, the outnumbered enemy was defeated. Peace was back in Miraya and other Creperian cities affected by the events. In the aftermath investigation of the coup attempt, it was realized that the armed force trying to conduct the coup was a rebellious division of the Creperian National Defense Force. The soldiers were caught with the flag of the Dictatorship of Creperia and it was later found out that they were loyal to the Supreme Revival Council (SRC). The SRC was the executive body that sought to overthrow the Third Federal Republic and restore the Dictatorship of Creperia which originally perished in the Creperian–Sunrisian War. The rebellious military division was an armed wing of SRC.

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In Other News:

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• Diplomatic: President Karr Gaudēl plans a state visit to New Vesvai.
  
  
• Military: Creperia ends military supplies to Edereon following the defeat of Oculus.

[Ouraicon]

WATCH LIVE: OBC NIGHTLY NEWS WITH KAREN BURLINGAME

“Hello and welcome back to OBC Nightly News. Many of us look around today and think of the world as insane and chaotic. But there was a time that many of us remember where the world seemed as if it was going mad. The 1960s. A time where everyone was paranoid, or at least more so then we are now. When fear of a Communist takeover prompted the most chaotic war in Ouraiconian history. When Ouraicon invaded, occupied, and annexed the neighboring country of Ozalares We would like to warn you that the language used in this piece is vulgar and should be viewed with discretion. OBC’s very own Howard Hewett has the details."

“My hatred for them was pure.” A gravelly smokers voice with a hint of a southern accent said. “They terrified me. And the more and more we fought the more and more I got scared and the more and more I hated em.”

The video cut to a well dressed older gentleman with a cane walking the streets of Ouraicon’s biggest city: Sao Perez. The warm and stable voice of Howard Hewett started narrating. "Every time Jake Delaney walks around Sao Perez he is reminded of the terror and pure hatred he felt while on deployment during the Ozalares Crisis in 1966. Seeing his fellow soldiers gunned down one by one until it was his turn. In an exclusive and emotional interview with OBC, former Marine and Ozalares War Veteran Jake Delaney holds nothing back. Here is a brief preview of Sunday's interview."

The scene changed to the famous Howard Hewett with his broad brown mustache sitting across from Jack Delaney.

“So you, for much of your time in the war were up in the front lines just south of the DMZ that the U.S.A had implemented, correct?”

Delaney nodded.

“What possessed you to want to do something like that?”

Delaney spoke in a casual yet somewhat serious tone, “The DMZ that the U.S.A had setup had essentially collapsed, and the fighting up there was so traumatic and so brutal we called it the Dead Marine Zone. Now I joined the Marine Corps because I wanted to be in the varsity. And I felt like I wasn’t varsity unless I was up noreast fighting the OLF. I have never regretted that decision. There were times where we were under heavy fire thinking oh Jesus Jake what the hell were you thinking! But at the end of the day, if I lived to be 63 I didn’t want to wake up in the morning looking in the mirror and thinking I didn’t do everything for what I believed in.”

Hewett nodded and continued, “Tell me about the J16’s.”

Delaney roared with a somewhat unsettling crazed laughter “Look at the end of the day for the first...oh I’d say year and a half of the war their rifles worked. Ours did not. The J16 required nearly constant cleaning, and even then they still jammed and broke on us repeatedly. Hell, I remember more than one instance where the guys in my unit would just straight up ditch their rifles and pick an AK off a dead OLF and use it for the rest of the battle. It was a piece of sh*t.”

“How many...people did you kill while in Ozalares?”

“I...I only ever killed one human being in Ozalares. We were breaching a hut and...Jesus man I was so scared. When you kick in the door of a building that you are told is being occupied by people who will not hesitate for a second to blow our brains out...it’s rough it’s real rough. And in this particular instance, the numbnuts up in command got their intel wrong, I was point lead. I kicked in the door...and I...” Jake paused clearly getting unsettled. “I put three rounds into some terrified old corn farmer.” He was almost whispering. After several moments his face changed into an angry glare. “But several days later I saw a Marine step on a shrapnel mine and I made my deal with the devil. I said: I will never kill another human being while I am in Ozalares. However, I will waste as many Zizzies as I can find. I will wax as many Greaseballs as I can find. I will smoke as many Beanies as I can find. But I won’t kill anybody.” He said tapping the side of his head. “Turning a subject into an object. Racism 101...and it turns out that’s a necessity to cope with what you are being asked to do when you have goddamn kids fighting your wars.”

The scene cut back to Karen Burlingame. “Obviously a very emotional and touchy subject for many. To catch Mr. Delaney’s full interview please tune in on Sunday Evening with Howie Hewett.”

[Sunrisia]

Sunrisian Military Helps Defeat Coup d'état Attempt in Creperia In Operation Protect Liberty

Last night, the Sunrisian Defense Force (SDF) has intervened in stopping another coup d'état attempt in Creperia at the request of the Creperian government, more specifically President Karr Gaudēl of Creperia. The intervention was specifically carried out by Sunrisian Forces – Creperia (SFC), which had launched – Operation Protect Liberty, in support of the Creperian Military against the forces that had launched the coup. This military intervention has been a slightly more controversial one within the Sunrisian government, since President Válîd Sâlúbĕr has satisfied his Creperian counterpart’s request to intervene without consulting with the rest of the Sunrisian government. President Sâlúbĕr has not called up an emergency National Defense Council meeting and did not address the Convet of the Sunrisian Second Republic to request approval for military action. The President has issued a direct order to SFC to help Creperian soldiers stop the coup and restore order in the allied country. President Sâlúbĕr has defend his decision the following morning after everything was over by stating that there time was on Creperia’s or Sunrisia’s side and that action needed to be taken quick:

“Under normal circumstances I would refrain from acting unilaterally. I would always go by the traditional protocol of consulting with the National Defense Council and then addressing the Convet to legally approve the course of action that the Council had discussed. However, we did not have that luxury there. The situation in Creperia broke out at night and it was a surprise to everybody. I did not expect to receive an emergency call from Creperian President Gaudēl. However, when he informed me that there was gunfire and a battle raging on in Miraya, Creperia’s capital, as well as in other Creperian cities, while also confirming that the hostile forces were aiming to reach the Presidential quarters and the National Assembly building, it was clear what was going on. It was another coup attempt in Creperia and we all know that the country has seen more of them than any other state should.

If I were to have waited to assemble the National Defense Council meeting and then wait for the Convet to gather, we might have already had another military junta ruling Creperia right now and we would have loads of dead bodies on the streets of Creperian cities, as well as political prisoners and reopened re-education camps. Creperia does not deserve to go through that again. Let us also not forget that Sunrisian officials sleep at night as well, so it was just physically impossible to react to an emergency like that through the traditional protocol that involves many branches of the government and a lot of officials. Therefore, as commander-in-chief, I have taken decisive action to help stop the Creperian coup. The Constitution of the Sunrisian Second Republic gives me the powers of the commander-in-chief additionally for situations like this, when there is an emergency, the rest of the government is unavailable and I, as the head of state, am required to making decisions as leader. I take responsibility. However, I hope that we will not have more unconventional emergencies like this where I am forced to act alone and disrupt our traditional power balance within the government and we can go by protocol.

I also would like to add that SFC troops have helped stop the resurgence of Sunrisia’s historical old arch nemesis. The Creperian investigators have determined that the military dissidents trying to carry out a coup, were an armed wing of the Supreme Revival Council or SRC for short. The soldiers loyal to SRC and the SRC itself wielded the national flag of the Dictatorship of Creperia, which First Republic of Sunrisia overthrew in the Creperian–Sunrisian War at one time. We have helped stop the undoing of the wonderful thing that Sunrisian soldiers have once done for the Creperian people. Operation Protect Liberty has not allowed to destroy the foundation of freedom that was planted in Creperia after the Creperian–Sunrisian War.”

As you have already heard the President mention in his speech, there was an investigation carried out in Creperia after the coup was quelled. Local investigators have determined that the Supreme Revival Council (SRC) was behind the coup and had military rebels from the armed forces of Creperia, who were loyal to SRC, attempt to overthrow the Creperian government. The official theory was that the coup plotters wanted to restore the Dictatorship of Creperia.

In other news:

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• Edén Sȏlítûdá succeeds Ectrăr Álienan as Minister of International Relations of the Sunrisian Second Republic. Former Minister Álienan says he plans to move onto some other office or position of public service, potentially a municipal one.
  
  
• New Minister of International Relations Edén Sȏlítûdá is a member of the Special Path (SP) party, which is part of the governing Justice Coalition of Neo-Isolationism and Self-Reliance. Sȏlítûdá is set to attend hearings at the Convet to be approved into the new position.
  
  
• Párêc Adstâtér, the Designated Diplomatic Agent (DDA) of Sunrisia for Daredland Negotiations, confirms that he now works exclusively with the Hasperan Republic at the request of Daredi government, ignoring the Weniges Reich.
  
  
• Neo-Isolationists and Nationalists in several Sunrisian cities publicly desecrate replicas of the flag of North Baggnagia in response to regime-loyal youth organizations in North Baggnagia desecrating replicas of the flag of the Sunrisian Second Republic.
  
  
• Sunrisian citizens across the country have been holding protests against the oppressive dictatorship of Fran Hapénic in North Baggnagia. Portraits of the North Baggnagian dictator have been destroyed or mockingly depicted. Various execution scenarios simulated with the puppets of the North Baggnagian dictator.

[The Seven United]

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Passports Commission launches new passport // Montedoran Insurgents may be receiving weapons from Englean backers

The cover of the newly designed Damsmarian passport, this one being of a Bailorian version. (SPECIMEN ONLY)

The Unitary Passports Commission has today launched a new passport design for the Damsmarian passport, of which the design has remained the same since the last change in 1987. The new passport is "revolutionary" for security, anti-forging techniques, and design. Instead of just English, the new passport is tri-lingual, including French and Spanish for the first time. Another new change is the introduction of the ability for passport holders to chose which Damsmarian state they wish to have on their front cover, as well as second page (they also have the choice to put in Damsmar as a whole).

The Passports Commission are also changing the requirements for passports and the time taken in order for a passport to be issued, which greatly reduces bureaucracy. One of these changes is the ability for those unemployed or those without a fixed employment, to garner a passport or temporary travel document. Since 1987 it has been mandatory for a passport applicant to be able to prove that they are in part-time, full-time or any sort of employment. This has been seen for years as a form of emigration control, and has been a target of the Alt Liberal government since they came into power.

Christina Anderson said (or read out a script) to us just after unveiling the system "The new changes to our passport, which is to many a document they hold with pride, will revolutionise our ageing travel document mechanism. The new anti-forgery methods that have been worked on since the Alternative Liberal party arrived into power, means that criminals and cartels will have a harder time flaunting a faked passport. Further, ots customisable, and as well it is also easier to get a hold of. I have said always that the way passports are issued is just a form of emigration control, with those without jobs at time of application, being denied a passport. It was a disgrace and I am very happy that our administration have rectified an issue that has been neglected since that policies inception in 1987 under a Democratic Party lead government, and I will put my hand up and say that in the past our own party has been guilty of not fixing the issue sooner enough. Also, we have implemented a more efficient system within the Passports and Travel Documents Commission so that they are much quicker and more streamlined when it comes to their duties, which does help to ease the excessive bureaucracy which is rampant throughout the Unitary Government, propagated by the Democratic Party. This is another chip off the mountain".

In other news, the Montedoran Police Service (MPS) have stated that after over a week of intensified searches throughout the state, they have found that the vast majority of weapons and munitions may have their origins in the Englean Kaiserreich. The MPS are currently stepping up their investigation into the origin of these weapons, which were thought to have been coming through the northern mountains and rainforest. However, with this report, our thoughts on the origins of the Montedoran terrorists armament has been greatly shaken. Speaking to the media of the Montedoran MPS Chief Alvaro Pavarotti had this to say "We all know this for a fact. The Montedoran terrorists are finding their weapons somewhere. We are investigating it, and we have been doing so for a length of time. The fact is however, the original thoughts on the origin of these weapons may be mistaken. It is highly possible that these guns are coming from elements within Engleberg, that are sympathetic to the terrorist's cause. These weapons are functional and incredibly deadly, and it is good that we are getting so many off the street, but that is no use if they continue pouring in from somewhere. Which is why I and the department are coordinating with the various Unitary customs bodies in order to investigate if the eastern corridor with Smoya is being abused by Montedoran terrorists in order to bring in weapons from the Kaiserreich. I just want to make this clear, we are not saying that the Englean government are supporting this. It is clear they are not, these weapons are not near Englean standard, many of them are rusted and aged, but they are functional nonetheless. That is also why we plan to work with the Englean government. Thank you all".

Currency: 1 Argent ARG ($A) = NS$0.65.5934.