Sunalayan News {SUNALAYA ONLY!}

[Mestovakia]

Yuktobanian port of Mimir crippled by Surprise Attack

UYRNS Mikhail III, one of the ships sunk during the Mimir attack.
Earlier today, the Principality of Amidonia launched a devastating attack on the port of Mimir. This unprecedented action comes at the head of several months of tense negotiations between the militant nation and the Yuktobanian Government.

According to Official sources, A solitary attack submarine of an undetermined model sank 2 Yuktobanian Naval vessels and a Civilian tanker, before launching 8 Cruise Missiles at Mimir. The port facilities sustained major damage in the attack. The retreating Amidonian submarine was later detected and sunk by several Anti Submarine helicopters of the 2nd Fleet. Markings on debris from the submarine identified its origins as Amidonian.

Fires from the numerous impact sites lit the sky for hours, as ruptured fuel tanks and munitions factories detonated in catastrophic chain reactions.

Speaking today from Cinigrad, President Seryozha Viktorovich Nikanorov denounced the deadly attack, which killed at least 842 people. However, with more casualties being reported every hour, this number will most certainly increase.

Update: Sergei Makarov, Press Secretary of Amidonia, has declared that the Attack on Mimir was a justified response to Yuktobanian colonial aggression. The Amidonian government also declared that more attacks would follow unless "Yuktobania backed down from its attempts to integrate the Principality". The Yuktobanian Government responded that the Missile Attack was a brazen Act of War. President Nikanorov today called for an Emergency Session on the response to Amidonia's Sabre-Rattling.

[Capsland]

David George Sets Out 'Mission for Stability'

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HMS Capital, just one of seven destroyers, on route to Tau port

David George has set out his plan for the current conflict with the USRR. The government has remained positive and surprisingly calm after the recent formal declaration of war by the USRR, in a turn of events the Senate has decided not to issue a formal declaration of war but has opted to announce that a state of military conflict and deliberation exists between the two countries.

It is the aim of this parliament, and certainly cabinet, to protect the futures and ideals of Capsland and its people. Although this conflict is not ideal both in terms of financial authority and security, it is clear that the crisis cannot be resolved in the short term at least. The Social Democratic Party and the Green and Liberal Alliance have come out in support for the current government and have formed a Grand Coalition with the Democracy Party regarding wartime policies. It is in this time that we need unity and strength as our brave armed forces fight to protect freedom and democracy.

This government has chosen not to institute wartime conscription as in past conflicts and hopes the population understand and are considerate in terms of delays and cut backs to public services. This government is proud to say that public services such as schools, police, hospitals and fire services to name a few will continue to operate as normal, especially in norther Capsland. It is this that we fight to protect, our normal way of life. In the face of conflict The Federal Kingdom of Capsland and her people stay strong, keep calm and carry on with our lives.

The mission of this government is to stabilise the situation. We support the status quo however we also recognise that the status quo cannot be maintained with a rogue state to our north. The force of the Capslandian war machine will be enough to repel and push back our foe. Our northern states of Calindra, Mapledrin, Marbleash and Garddrin will operate as normally. Our superior air force will keep us safe. Do not panic.

Military centres across Capsland have reported a surge of volunteers up almost 200% in some towns.

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In other News
- Parliament rejects Rezuan call for peace until the 'necessary parameters are in place'.
- Senate offers peace talks with the USRR although without government sponsorship.

[Pantorrum]

Capslandian Destroyer Lost, USRR at War, Pantorrum leaving the Bohin, Konetya's fate in question as President begins Ventismar Tour. Its a world in Shambles.
(The views below are those of the author)

Yesterday, a Capslandian Destroyer was lost in a skirmish with the Red Fleet of the growing USRR. It is believed by some that the Soviet Republic launched an assault on the Capslandian Destroyer without warning, leaving few survivors and potentially sparking a whole new war in an already fragile world. It is clear that the USRR is in the wrong, but our government has failed to take action. The Vice President spoke in the absence of the President at a press briefing today. He said, and I quote, "There is insufficient evidence that the Soviet Republics acted on the offensive. We will not be drawn into a war where the aggressor is unknown. In the event that it can be definitively proven that Capsland was not the aggressor in this, then we will come to the defense of our dear ally. Until that time, we will focus on rebuilding the shattered remains of peace left behind elsewhere in Ventismar." The official position of our government is that we can't get involved until we have more information. Whether or not we act, even when more evidence does arrive, remains to be seen.

In other news, we are preparing a withdraw from active operations in the Bohin. General Bradley spoke on PNN today on the matter.

"Our time in the Bohin is coming to an end. We've suffered few casualties, only 32 lost to be precise. And most of those lost were from artillery assaults from Marxist controlled Uszwa. The Bohin have claimed only 2 of our troops, while we have claimed an estimated 1,200 Bohi troops in air assaults over the past few months. We've delivered immense damage to the enemies military defenses in the Wieffa Region and have not taken a single civilian life. Our air campaign has been arguable the most successful in the campaign thus far, sustaining the least losses while still inflicting a huge number of casualties on the enemy force. We single handedly discovered the advanced enemy jamming system, and exactly how to bypass it. If not for our discovery, and our immense contributions to the war over the last 2 months, thousands more in the commonwealth would be dead and their air campaigns would still be ineffective without communications. We would be happy to continue and deliver results in the Bohin war, as we have already turned the tide from heavily in favor of the Bohin to a much more decisive standing. Unfortunately, instability all over Ventismar has drawn our attention. Rezua, despite all their claims of being great peacekeepers, seem incapable of delivering peaceful results on their side of the continent, as a revolution transforms Eikangaard and war breaks out between Capsland and the USRR. We cannot both fight their war and defend stability in Ventismar. As such, the President has ordered we end air operations in the Bohin by the end of the month. We will continue to deliver air strikes and pelt the enemy defenses with bombing runs until January 28th, when all aircraft will be recalled and Thanatos Air Base will be pulled out of the war effort."

The end of war efforts in the Bohin is a controversial topic among the Defense Department. It is believed by many to be a necessary end, however, as a demand for our presence grows in the ventismar. Novorossiysk continues to strive for war, Eikangaard's diplomatic position remains in question, and our close ally is now at war. Now is the time for diplomacy, and end to the wars and bickering that have marked foreign policies of the world for decades. And the Vice President has said that we will lead the way into a new era of peace and prosperity across the world.

To rpove our dedication to peace that we have always had, the President has embarked on a diplomatic mission to Ophioneus, to work out a deal to keep Konetya free and safe. Our mission in konetya is also coming to and end. In the last 7 months, the small countries armies have been trained to a total professional force of 90,000. The government has a record high approval rating, every bridge and roadway is rebuild, all power restored, and all water lines functioning. Industry has been rebuilt and most homes that were lost have been replaced. At immense cost to the Pantorran Tax payer, we were responsible for nearly 75% of all rebuilding in Konetya. With our mission coming to an end, our withdraw in inevitable. The President now hopes to work out a deal with the federation that will keep the union out of Konetya, and the province free. With immense numbers of federation troops amassing on border, now is a crucial time to secure peace in northern Ophion.

Its the first stop on his Ventismar Tour, a diplomatic trip that will take Pearce first to Ophioneus, then to Eikangaard, Shastara, and maybe even Capsland and the USRR now that this conflict has burst forth. His goal is to restabilize the continent so that we can renew our focus on a more international scale. Some speculate that he will seek help from Eikangaard, Shastara, and the Federation in establishing this new era of peace in Ventismar. Noticeably missing from the list of nations he will visit is Rezua. When asked why, the president said that he believed they were responsible for more harm than good. Their "hard headed diplomacy" and "arrogant foreign policy", he said, have caused immense bloodshed and is counter productive to any mission for peace. He said, and I quote, "Until such time as the Rezuan Empress matures, they will have no part in a mission for peace. Our aim is not to use diplomacy as an excuse for war, but as a preventative tool to avoid it."

We will continue to bring you more on the instability that rocks Ventismar, and our necessary retreat back to the home front in the Presidents new effort to bring peace for our age.

[Franigessa]

War is on the horizon!

Today The United Socialist States of Franigessa has been apparently drafting and training young men to join the army. Political Activist Joanne Parsons claims "The Franigessa regime has a history of becoming hostile when their needs are not met and the governments best solution is to intermediate the nearby nations. I strongly believe war is on the horizon." Franigessa has tried to brush off allegations but a recent increase in the national defense budget will tell you they are up to something. Local Franigessasians are preparing for war and are frightened on what is to come.

[Franigessa]

Wild Fire in Northern Franigessa!

This afternoon it was reported that there was smoke along the northern coast of Franigessa. "I was taking a hike along the scenic mountain route and that's where I saw smoke." Local Christopher Noamsy reports. The smoke along the Vertismo mountains led to a rampant wildfire. Locals to the area are encouraged to evacuate the area immediately as the fires will be difficult to stop because of the mountain range next to the lush forest. It is still unknown to what caused this fire, however, the Board of Environment and the Board of Defense is investigating the matter. Foul play is not ruled out.

[Daredland]

Daredland cuts diplomatic ties and sanctions Engleberg and Republican Corentia

The State Council has passed two laws regarding Daredland’s relations with the neighboring countries of Engleberg and Republican Corentia. The first law orders a one-sided cut of diplomatic ties by Daredland’s initiative. The second law calls for imposing personal, political and economic sanctions on both states. The reason was obviously the unlawful and secret military involvement of both these nations in the Daredi–Weniges crisis with their own interests. The Daredi government said that Englean and Republican Corentian aggressors have been put on an exceptional list, but once again reiterated that Daredland would blacklist any nation or individual citizen that would somehow set ground on Weniges territory. From now on Daredland would interact diplomatically with Engleberg and Republican Corentia only through foreign embassies of states willing to serve as the middle-man. Chancellor Calvin Aigner said that the Daredi government will settle differences with the Weniges separatists in a two-sided format. Foreign states using the Weniges territory as a playground for any purpose will be seen as an act of aggression against Daredland.

[Calva]

Calvan Times

Dormant Warhead production site reopens as Missile parts manufacturing and recycling plant after closing in 2003 to help with maintenance of Calvas Biological and Chemical warheads

Today the factory in an unnamed location in Southwest calva reopens its doors to help with the effort to provide enough replacement parts for Calvas Chemical & Biological warhead arsenal. Every year the nations missile stock are meticulously checked over for any damage or wear and tear. during this process around 100 separate parts are removed and recycled and new parts installed during this multi-million goa operation to make sure that Calva remains able to strike back against any foreign missile launches against our territory. Originally all the work now being taken on by the reopened plant was done in situ at the missile sites but this ended up proving to be inefficient and highly damaging to the environment as none of the parts were able to be recycled and were sent to Rangail military scrap yard. The plant is to officially reopen next week on Monday and is expected to start processing parts for recycling by the following day.

New sleeper train service to start running from the north to south of calva via capitol next month

On the first of next month a new train service is being rolled out that will provide a more comfortable to travel long distances from the north to the south of calva with only one stopover in the capitol. (CRN) Calvan Rail North,(CRC) Calvan Rail Central and its southern counterpart (CCS) Calvan Rail South have signed a deal to run a train service that will finally provide the first ever night service on the calvan rail network. The Service known as the Calvan Compass will take its passengers 8 days to get all the way down to the south but whilst you travel you will get to see some of calvas most beautifull sights. Travelers onbord the train can expect a full bord acomidation with meals with prices ranging from 400 Goa for a luxury first class burth to 50 Goa for third class.

[Aznazia]

Aznazia gives USRR 48 hours to Halt Hostilities or Face "Consequences" While Moving to Participate in the Bohin War
By: Jason Domilar

UPDATED: 12 Pm January 17th

During Chancellor Pudikov's tri-weekly morning press conference, the Chancellor stated that he was directing the Aznazian navy to begin operations to support the Coalition against the Bohin. When asked why Aznazia would intervene the Chancellor said that "the Red Hand has been using the conflict to gian access to heavy weapons such as armored vehicles, air aircraft weaponry and small arms in return to assistance to the Bohin. As a result we consider the Bohin Government to be supporters of the Red Hand and thus a warring party within the scope of our Operation Southern Justice". Reports then asked if the recent exit by Pantorrum was related to this shift in policy by Aznazia to which the Chancellor replied 'no'. "We will not deploy front line ground troops to the war, however I have authorized that any Marine officers how wishs to assist in the training of Moleston troops may request to do so with the approval of Admiral George Addams of the 3rd Fleet", said Pudikov.

The attention of the conference was then shifted to the conflict in Ventismar when reporters asked the Chancellor about what actions Aznazia would take in response to the United Socialist Republics of Roscrea's (USRR) strike on the Capsland destroyer Frost and declaration of war. After a brief pause the Chancellor stated; "I have been in contact with Executive Chancellor George about the current situation in Capsland. Right now it is still unknown what occurred between the HMS Frost and the USRR navy, but it does not seem like the USRR is concerned with unraveling this mystery or maintaining peace. This appears to be a political stunt to isolate Capsland from the world and to sow uncertainty in its allies. I have assured the Executive Chancellor that Aznazia stands behind Capsland and hopes for peace to be found". It is still unknown what transpired between the Frost and USRR navy, but many Aznazian analysts say that it is unlikely Capsland initiated hostilities given that the destroyer would be on a suicide mission against a much larger force. Kelly Fulton; a security analyst with the Aznazian Department of Defense says that such an attack ‘would be accidental and should be brought to the negotiating table rather than the battlefield’.

At the end of the conference, the Chancellor took the opportunity to issue a warning to the USRR. "I am giving the United Socialist Republics of Roscrea (USRR) 48 hours to end hostilities with Capsland, or they will face the consequences of not just Capsland, but a number of nations that consider themselves allies of Capsland and defenders of freedom, independence, and peace". Before reports could ask questions about the statement the Chancellor left the stage to Press Secretary Niña Rasgado. She stated that she could not go into details about any diplomatic, economic or military actions that Aznazia was undertaking but that "Aznazia sees the USRR as the aggressor nation and a threat to the security of Aznazian economic and military interests in Ventismar".

In other news
- National Democratic, Silver and Bison Parties don't have the numbers to repeal renewable energy subsidies
- Opinion: How 2018 is already so much different then 2017 for Aznazia
- Stocks down as conflicts expand in scope in Ventismar and Ziamba
- Cold Snap in Northern Aznazia delays rescue efforts in Harken for mudslide survivors
- Endless Frontiers Launches supplies to Commonwealth Space Station
- Is Belantica Open for Business or Still Closed Off?

[The Seven United]

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HS4 given the go ahead / Trade Commission increases tariff for cars and more, while sanctioning Engleberg and PRC

The Infrastructure Commission has voted to give the HS4 project a go-ahead. The project was cleared to begin Phase 1 a decade ago though progress has stalled thanks to the lengthy recession. The Commission stated that it was the previous governments fault that there was a stalemate in the building, and that funding was allocated years ago. Many communities, especially countryside communities have sprung up against the project stating that it will ruin the landscape. The Commission has stated that it will reconnect the west and the far western cities, like Berjina and Chaledinia which have neither a motorway or rail to link them to the rest of the country/union. The HS4 project is set to cost 104 billion Argents, over half of the money was allocated a decade ago. The rest of the money is said to come from this new recent development with the Trade Commission though it is believed by the S7NN that the current allocation of money is woeful, as many different sources heighten the number by twenty or so billion Argents, money needed to propel the growing but fragile economy.

The Trade Commission has eyed up increasing tariffs for a long time, but can't figure out which to increase. Tariffs are at a historical low, with some raw resources and oil/gas companies paying virtually nothing to transit through and trade their goods in The Seven United. Ahina has said that she wishes for the "scamming to end" stating that some conglomerates have been taking advantage of the low cost to transit through. Ahina has asked The Trade Commission to find a solution, and they believe they have found one. The Commission will be raising import duties on vehicles and automobiles. Not affected by the rise are trucks and farming machinery, car duty will rise from 9% to 14.5% this including all new car imports. Vehicles passing through the country will just have to pay the standard duty of 9% which will not change says The Commission. All rail machinery, tracks and equipments will see the duty lower to 5% from 11%. The pass through duty will always remain the same. Another rise will come from plastics, with the plastic import duty rising from 4% to 9%. Many manufacturing companies have risen in anger stating that the effect will knock on to all customers and companies they supply, especially small time businesses. The Commission stated that the current plastic situation is harmful and uncontrolled stating that the rise was considered because of "Economic and political situations". We currently import a lot of our plastic from Divergia.



The Trade Commission has also said that they will be banning the import of Englean and PRC steel forbidding it from travelling through the Union also slapping on a 190% tariff for all engineering parts destined for Engleberg only. Any PRC and Englean manufactured goods passing through or to The Seven United will see a 40% duty rise from 9%. The sanction was dubbed ludicrous and harmful by The Democrats and UNP though The Commission had said that it was necessary and the behaviours of the two countries have been ludicrous. Ahina has also said that political ties (if any) will be cut if the actions continue onwards and that the Weniges Reich situation was a complete travesty.

All tariffs get added on. 40% manufacturing tariff + 190% engineering part = 230% tariff.








-John Howard, writer for S7NN

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Other News

WAR! What will happen? Commission silent though answering AMA!
Ahina taking leader AMA questions!
Aznazia gives USRR ultimatum!
Railway modernization helped by tariff decrease though not dramatic
Sanctions just a "slap on the wrist" ? Our economics analyst says so
A lot of the HS4 money expected to come from eastern budget slashing and tariff increases while ultra rich taxes decrease slowly
"We welcome HS4" Says Berjina and Chaledinia mayor
Currency: 1 Argent ARG ($A) = NS$0.71.8263

[United Socialist Republics of Roscrea]

USRR PREMIER REJECTS PEACE FOLLOWING PROTESTS!

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The Premier of the USRR, Mr. Leif Sköld, has rejected peace talks offered by Rezua today, following the government of Capsland's rejection. He stated that these peace talks, while in good faith, are not wanted nor welcomed at this time. "The people of the six republics that make our great nation have spoken. Neither the party nor the people it represents are willing to discuss peace until the Government of Capsland admits it is responsible for this incident."

This comes after the government of the USRR published its reports on what happened between the Red Fleet and HMS Frost. The report, published this morning, concluded that "without a shadow of doubt HMS Frost opened fire upon Patrol 23-C within territorial waters of the United Socialist Republics of Roscrea. HMS Frost began to open fire after the third warning issued by Patrol 23-C that they were inside territorial waters of the USRR." The report further concluded that while Patrol 23-C was searching for survivors from the HMS Frost, to be given medical attention and to be returned to Capsland, the Air Force of Capsland opened fire on Patrol 23-C ending any chances of survivors being found.

The Red Fleet has been deployed and is currently in Northern Capsland. No conflicts or skirmishes have been reported since the incident with HMS Frost. The Red Army Air Forces have also been prepared for strategic bombing in Northern Capsland, though no reports of casualties on either side have been made yet.

Premier and General Secretary Leif Sköld has stated that the Red Army Land Forces will be deployed "within a week" after the Red Fleet and Air Forces have prepared ground. He and other government ministers have stated the war will end when Capsland admits to being the guilty party, or when the Red Army marches through the streets of Capsland's capital.

Units from the People's Liberation and Defence Army of the Socialist People's Republic of Cill Airne have also been sent to aid. The PLDA is to be merged with the Red Army next year following the admittance of the SPR of Cill Airne into the USRR.

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In other News:
- Veronica Scott, popular singer from Cill Arne, to represent USRR in Sunalayavision 2018 with song "Jag Kommer".
- Great Northern Bridge proposed in Belantic Parliament
- Glaciär Rhodevus, a branch of Glaciär Foods from Cill Airne, being sued.

[Dirkhizistan]

DIRKHIZISTAN AGAIN TESTS IT'S LARGEST NON-NUCLEAR BOMB

Bomb explosion at test site near Kugükije Air Base

Today the Dirkhiz Military tested it's largest non-nuclear bomb, the newer version of one previously tested last year. The bomb was dropped from a bomber at the Kugükije Air Base Test Site outside of Kugükije Air Base. The bomb's name, the DBM2 "Ülken Ayu", in english, "Big Bear". The DBM2 is now reportedly Dirkhizistan's largest non-nuclear weapon with a blast radius of around 200 meters. The bomb is also a response to Zaran, a nation hostile to Dirkhizistan, wanting more power in Azarah and testing missiles to threaten the Dirkhiz. The Dirkhiz Military also plan on making capable of being loaded onto the tip of a ballistic missile, this would mean making the weapon small enough to fit onto the missile, but the military also said they need it to be, more destructive, smaller, lighter, and faster. With tensions in the world growing, Dirkhizistan is trying to make it's defense stronger.

IN OTHER NEWS:
War, USRR sinks Capslandian ship, Mugharz showing support for Capsland

Aznazia warns USRR

Deadly bombing in Borläng

Zaran ballistic missiles

Peace Rejected by Premier of USRR

[Baggnagia]

Terror plots by the “Core” stopped in Baggnagia, armed forces set to go after the group’s cells in the country’s north

SILCENDA, BAGGNAGIA – MPs has gathered for an emergency parliamentary session. The MPs are set to order the deployment of Baggnagian armed forces for anti-terror operations in the nation’s north. Baggnagian President Fran Hapénic is set to be present at this session in person and the national leader has already headed out to participate. All of this is a response to the fresh foiling of a series of planned terrorist attacks in different parts of Baggnagia, including in the nation’s capital Silcenda. The planned attacks were exposed by the intelligence agencies of Baggnagia with help from the Sunrisian Prime Intelligence Division (PID). The intelligence reported the group calling itself the “Core” as the plotters and conductors of these foiled attacks. The group first became known to the Baggnagian government in the past too, but still remained secretive. The authorities have described the Core as a “terrorist group in its infancy” with a mix of ethnicity-based and religion-based extremism. After the current plots were discovered along with terrorist locations, the Baggnagian special operations forces have cracked down on the terrorists nationwide and had a “clean-up.” The Core is said to have armed paramilitaries active in Northern Baggnagia. To get rid of the paramilitaries, the government has decided to engage the military that would cleanse the nation’s north of terror. The President is now heading to the parliament, but he had previously released a reactionary statement on how the Baggnagian state would respond to the emergence of a terrorist group on its land.

A while back we had armed fighters terrorizing the Southern Flank, but we had eventually liberated it with hard effort. Now we have attempts by similar kinds of criminals, maybe even more brutal, to do the same with the northern half. These terrorists might be even worse because they had ambitions to strike beyond the region they occupy. They wanted to strike the capital along with a number of provinces of Baggnagia and hit at least one major city in every part of the country. We had stopped them in their tracks with the help of our Sunrisian allies whom I thank dearly. Now that we know where these terrorists of the Core are, we can strike at their heart. The enemy is still weak and underdeveloped which is why we need to strike before they can stand up on their feet. They are small in number and low in strength which is a signal that we need to go after them now and finish them off fast. We will drive them out of their rat-holes into the clean field and blow them up. Baggnagia and Southern Ventismar will be safe.

[Mestovakia]

Yuktobanian Forces launch Invasion of Amidonia

Yuktobanian Amphibious Forces onshore at Gremikha

Today, in response to the Amidonian Threat, President Nikanrov authorized the use of Military force to eliminate the threat of further Terror Attacks. Elements of the Yuktobanian 2nd Fleet have landed near the Military port of Gremikha and are currently engaged in battle with defending Amidonian forces. The defending Amidonian Naval Forces have been mostly destroyed, with stiff resistance coming from the city limits.

The Gaius VII,crippled by Missile fire during the opening stages of the Battle of Gremikha

The picture above shows the Amidonian Pitomnik Class Frigate Gaius VII. The Flagship of the Amidonian Navy, it was crippled by a Submarine Launched Missile during the early stages of the battle. While still floating, it was rendered Combat-inoperable and was captured by Yuktobanian Commandos.

[Rhodevus]

News from the RAA and Commonwealth Space Association

Today saw the release of the yearly schedule for the Rhodeve Aeronautics and Aerospace Association as well as the Rhodeve Commonwealth Space Station. On February 7, the 2 Umbrelliet and 1 Ispanzan astronauts will be heading back down to Sunalaya, leaving Rezuan and Eubatian astronauts to continue their mission. February 28 will see Rezuan lead launch to the CSS alongside a Shastaran and Rhodeve. The private Aznazian company Endless Frontiers has been given the chance to send their new rockets to the Space Station as a part of the next seven resupply missions. If the missions are deemed successful, then this agreement can expand to another four missions.

Future missions to the CSS will include astronauts from Pantorrum, Ispanza, Eubatu, Vesvai, North Rukonia and Belantica. Further missions are currently being discussed by the Commonwealth assembly with representatives from a select group of other nations.

In regards to the RAAA, they have entered a partnership with their equals in Aznazia to begin the designing and development of a new space station around the Moon to begin assembly as early as 2025. This future station will allow for future missions to other planets as well as allow for new research to long distance travel and off-world colonies. Along with this development, the two countries, along with North Rukonia will be researching the potential of, and designing a new space ship. The purpose? To travel between the CSS and the moon station without the need to return to the Sunalayan ground.

All other programs and future missions are listed on the Commonwealth and RAAA web page.

[Zilverenberg]

Zilveren Berg proceeds with nuclear test near southwestern border, despite solemn onlookers

The glorious nation of Zilveren Berg - by order of Supreme Leader Rhul Gorm - has successfully detonated an 8 megaton nuclear missile, dubbed Raz Ghul, meaning "Big Devil", along its southwestern corner of its borders. The Supreme Leader's command comes despite warnings from the Corentian - and international communities - alike.

Supreme Leader Gorm stated yesterday that his decision to continue nuclear tests comes as a "sovereign right of the Zilveren people" to further exert Zilveren Berg's role as an "international power". Some critics claim this action comes in response to recent, ambiguous Corentian sanctions placed against Zilveren Berg in response to claims of humanitarian transgressions, such as the establishment of concentration camps.

Despite these claims, the Supreme Leader assures the people that the vast kingdom of Zilveren Berg has never been more prosperous, and will continue to go down the paths it has chosen as an isolationist nation to grow as the most powerful of all on the continent, even if it means splitting the atom.

Reporter Luxu Martel,

Ministry of Media

[Rhodevus]

Rhodevus is Ashamed of Zilverenberg

As a country which had once been a nuclear power, hearing about a nation continuing to develop and test these horrific weapons goes against what the nation stands for. The government is appalled by the government of Zilverenberg testing nuclear weapons, in blatant disregard for international law and well-being. As such, Rhodevus has placed sanctions on the country and seized all assets of its citizens and government officials which are held in Rhodevus.

"These tests are terrible. We hope that Zilverenberg will instead offer to work with Rhodevus to dismantle their weaponry instead of continuing the age of nuclear proliferation and mutually assured destruction," said Acting Queen, the Princess Heir Sierra Everen-Abrams.

In Other News:
-Embassy exchange and naval base exchange in discussion with Nordstramus

[Nordstramus]

Nordstramus sets up Embassy and Naval Base

Citizens of The Kingdom of Nordstramus were delighted today as it was announced that an embassy was set up in the nation of Rhodevus along with a new naval base. The embassy will be located in the Rhodeve capital city, Kingstown. The naval base will be situated in Dunloop. In exchange, the Rhodeve government will set up its own embassy in the Nordic capital of New Calso. The government will send a total of 1,500 marines to the naval base.

The King of Nordstramus was quick to comment on this move saying "I and the kingdom should be greatly optimistic. The embassy will bring a diplomatic relationship to our and the Rhodeve government. It is always a good thing to have people who have your back. We can count on Rhodevus and I hope they can trust us. The military base will ensure that we will have a strong impact on foreign affairs and deal with international conflict. The future is bright." Civilian all across Nordstramus were ecstatic and hosted multi-provincial parades.

The Nordstramus government has shown an increased interest in global diplomacy. The Head of Foreign Affairs made a statement this afternoon " The board and I are truly excited about the news of a new embassy in the Rhodeve capital city. I am optimistic about the future near relationship with other nations and believe we are in good hands."

[Sunrisia]

Sunrisian Special Forces Sent To Baggnagia To Help Defeat The Core, PID Will Resume Intelligence Support

The Department of Security has confirmed that Sunrisia has sent special forces to Baggnagia in cooperation with the Baggnagian government, in order to help take down the emerging terrorist group known as – the Core. The group was originally discovered with the help of joint intelligence efforts between the Sunrisian PID and Baggnagian agencies, where bilateral cooperation led to the foiling of a series of terrorist attacks around Baggnagia that were planned by the Core. One of the targeted locations included the Baggnagian national capital – Silcenda. The exposure of the Core’s plans and the discovery of the terror group’s cells around Baggnagia have allowed local authorities, military and security services to crack down on the terrorists before they could act. The terrorists were primarily taken down by the Baggnagian special operations forces.

After the crackdown, the PID and Baggnagian intelligence found out that the Core had paramilitary forces based in northern Baggnagia, which prompted the nation’s government to launch a full-scale anti-terrorist military operation to take the Core down. Sunrisia has offered its support in the fight against the Core, which was accepted. The Department of Security, the main command of the Sunrisian Defense Force and the PID believe that directly combining forces will help take down the young terrorist group easier and quicker before it could grow. They cited the examples of a successful fight against Oculus in Edereon and an effective ongoing battle against the Red Hand in Uszwa, which was driven out of Aznazia before that. The PID says that as it currently stands, Edereon is free of Oculus and Aznazia is free of the Red Hand, which means that the same can be done in Baggnagia. It is also important for the global anti-terrorist struggle, knowing how fast the terror groups can grow and how important it is to take them down, while they are still small and relatively powerless.

The PID has said that it would continue supporting Baggnagian counterparts in tracing the Core or other potential terrorist cells around Baggnagia, as well as will directly assist in the mission against the Core in northern Baggnagia. The objectives of the intelligence in that particular mission, will concern locating the terrorist positions and report them to the military of Baggnagia and the Sunrisian forces helping them. Meanwhile, the Department of Security has said that the Sunrisian special forces will battle the Core, being the leading contingent for the Sunrisian Military in anti-terrorist operations around the world. They had previously battled the Black Sun in Ventismar, continue the fight against the Red Hand in Uszwa and western Ziamban, and have also carried out stand-alone operations against terrorist groups and drug cartels in Corentia, just to name a few notable examples.

In other news:

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• Capsland and Roscrea in a military confrontation.

[Calva]

Calvan Times

Calvan government gives warning to Zilveren Berg to stop their nuclear proliferation or face sanctions and or blockading of their ports.

Today as Calvas government responded to the nuclear tests by the nation of Zilveren Berg with warnings of sanctions and blockades against this rogue nation and called the actions of the government of Zilveren Berg reckless. Furthermore, in response to this new threat to the peaceful world, the calvan government has unanimously passed the notion of moving the nation's military into a ready state of defcon 4 along with the reactivating of constructions of biological and chemical warhead ICBM's.

Calvan priminister Magnus Göransson stated today that "There is obviously no intent from the government of Zilveren Berg to stop digging them selfs a hole that they will never get out of and they seem intent on using this hole they are digging to terrorise peaceful nations via the use of nuclear weapons, Calva will not tolerate this. My message to the government and leader of the nation of Zilveren Berg is to cease and desist your destructive ways and to come to a negotiation table rather than negotiations with warheads and missiles."

[United Layfet]

Nordipolica World

Congress to vote on the "Rhodeve Question"

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NORDIPOLICA - January 18th, 2018
By Martin Tanner, senior staff writer

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Arthur Weasley (P-Nordipolica) just proposed SB-12, a bill designed to give Executive Minister Edmond Dantes, Rhodeve Ambassador Aubrey M. MacIntosh, Layfet State Affairs Director Fraiser Crane, and Foreign Relations Director Luke Brant the ability to "engage in negotiations to fully enter the Rhodeve Commonwealth". This question has been quite controversial in the public sector as many Layfetians view it as a way of the international community to take away its sovereignty and others say that Layfet has already won its revoultion against Rhodevus and we shouldn't go back to them.

Major leading economists say that joining the commonwealth would increase trade and benefit the economy as long as Layfet would not have to contribute to increased foreign defense spending. The vote is to take place later this week. Dantes, Crane, and Brant had no thing to comment. Ambassador MacIntosh did say: "This is an excellent idea that will bring Layfet further on the world stage and with Rhodevus being one of our closest allies, it is important to continue to work and grow with them."

[Zilverenberg]

Supreme Leader ignores international threats, "kills two birds with one stone"

Yesterday, protests erupted throughout the city of Fenru in response to the Supreme Leader's recent nuclear proliferation and testing, including recent tests. However, General Rin-Rin Turaguay stated today that "dissidents will not be tolerated". To exert the glorious power of Zilveren Berg, the General has confirmed yet another successful nuclear test, with a twist!

Today, military parades and celebrations ensue in the city of Fenru to crush local dissidence. The mood is solemn, as the Supreme Leader announces great success in a second nuclear test, as he has been able to "kill two birds with one stone". What the Supreme Leader is referring to is the complete annihilation of the nearby town of Kengara, to warn Fenru - and the rest of the nation - of the price that they will pay for resistance. This second explosion shattered windows in Fenru. Military parades and celebrations continue throughout Centrum Square, and participants are ordered to report to their local box for identification purposes.



This second launch comes despite international warnings. The Grand Cardinals have expressed the glorious Supreme Leader's intention to ignore international threats, as their concerns transgress Zilveren Berg's inherent sovereignty and right to progress. The Supreme Leader finished with a statement: "This is our land; thus, we will create and destroy as we please. We do not need the international community to support us. A nation's greatness is measured by its ability to provide for itself".

Lara Flickerman,

Ministry of Media

[Amestrris]

Amestrris speaks out on Northern Nuclear Threat

Today marks the second nuclear test executed by our Northern neighbours, to the dismay of The Covenant. Amestrrian officials have been scrambling in wake of the two nuclear tests, which occurred in the span of only two days, and has even lead to the destruction of one of Zilveren Berg's own towns, Kengara. This came following anti-nuclear protests in the proximal population center of Fenru, Zilveren Berg.

President Rhoam Odama of the Amestrrian Covenant spoke out earlier today, condemning the nuclear proliferation of the Northern hermit kingdom. "The behaviour of the Zilveren government is absolutely appalling, and will be met with strong sanctions. Furthermore, Amestrris will build strong defenses along the Amestrris-Zilveren Berg border, but will only make a peacekeeping defensive presence in the region. The President further stated that the nation will open its borders to any Zilveren refugees who wish to escape, or have been labelled as public dissidents.

The Nirvata Mountain Range, often referred to as "The Spine", represents the border between Amestrris and Zilveren Berg. Environmental Minister Zelena Otarch spoke out stating that the recent nuclear test near the border "has not only created political tension, but has wreaked havoc on the local ecosystems and structures of the local mountain range. Although not detrimental, this is still environmental damage, nonetheless". Furthermore, Minister Otarch - along with the President - have urged the nation to cease nuclear proliferation, if not for the interest of the international community, then for the sake of the environment and the implications of blasting nukes against a shared mountain range. This concern comes as the first detonation took place near the central great Corentian lake that other nations also border - along with Amestrris - and is a great source of freshwater. These nuclear disasters have the potential to pollute and damage these resources, and poison the ecosystems of other nations. Thus, the President considers these actions to be indirect acts of aggression, as their detonations "have poisoned tributaries that flow from 'The Spine' into our great nation. These acts - whether direct or indirect - have potential for aggression, such as via the effects of fallout, which have already poisoned tributaries feeding to our great crater lake", he stated today.

Amestrrian officials continue to enforce strict sanctions on the nation. Some have implored the President to enact strict, pre-emptive military responses, but the President asserts that "in times like these, it is important to remain calm and rational. If it is fear that they want, then it is fear we shall not give them. But it is also imperative that we - as a nation - do not act out of impulse, nor fear. Further, we will not support a nation that is so blatantly unpredictable and reckless."

IN OTHER NEWS:
- Supreme Leader of Zilveren Berg continues to ignore President Rhoam Odama's efforts to 'reach out'
- Refugee labelled 'dissident' escapes Kengara before nuclear destruction; "it is absolutely horrible there": tonight at 9pm
- Calva and Rhodevus speak out on Zilveren Berg nuclear proliferation; enact sanctions
- Terror plots stopped in Baggnagia
- USRR rejects peace talks with Rezua

[Belantica]

House Passes GNB Project, Government Issues Statement On Zilveren Berg
Today, the House of Commons voted in favor of the Great Northern Bridge Project, and the bill is now being passed onto the Senate for voting. The bill passed 162 in favor, 72 in opposition, and 36 abstaining. Many of those who voted in favor said that the GNB is vital to the northern economy, particularly commerce flowing between the east and west, in addition, provide traffic around the capital area an alternate route instead of crossing Albany Bay at Sheppard's Neck Bridge. Those in opposition came from southern regions, many of the MP citing that the GNB hold little to no value in interests to help fund the project, which is estimated to cost roughly 16.9 trillion Mons. The House agreed that roughly 60% of the funding will come from the government, while the remaining will come from loans taken out from the Bank of Belantica. By default, the GNB will be part of the expressway network, while the cost and debt will be repaid over time by tolls collected on the BEXA system. These parameters could be changed within the following days as the Senate votes on the "Bridge Bill" as it's called.

In addition, several Members of Parliament, the Chief Cabinet Secretary, the Prime Minister, and the Queen have compiled and released a statement regarding the nuclear tests that occurred in Zilveren Berg, condemning the act and calling for the halt of future tests. "The government of Belantica will not support nations that behave in a reckless manner," a spokeswoman said, " Zilveren Berg has demonstrated that it's willingness to test nuclear weapons in an age when such tests will upset many around the world, in which the reaction from many of our friends and allies, holds true. We condemn their government for conducting nuclear tests and will be sanctioning the nation until they terminate all plans for future tests. We stand with the rest of the world and want to end the development of more nuclear weapons. We hope that they will offer to end these tests and end production of nuclear weapons."

In Other News
-Colonel Fried Chicken made a press release saying that several of their chefs who are tasked with creating new menu items for the restaurant chain has made a new fried chicken recipe and will do a trial run sometime next month
-A homeless man in Montego saved someone's life when a stockbroker fainted and fell into the bay at the Champion Street ferry dock. The city him with a house, and free utilities for a year
-Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued travel advisories for nations in Ziamban, Ventismar, and Ophion
-Is there a difference between New Albany and New Revon? The topic appearing more on social media
-Former cartel leader Joseph "Kong" Denero was found innocent in a recent drug charge brought up by the state of New Albany, with mix reactions relating to his release
-Parliament also made an additional statement that they have intentions to further relations with the Ophion Federation
-USRR and Capsland going to war? The former rejecting peace talks and preparing for a possible assault on their neighbor. Will this affect current business agreements?

[Nordstramus]

Nordstramus now draft soldiers!

This afternoon it was announced that Nordstramus will have an increased focus on their military. The government has been starting to draft young men into the Royal Army Reserves (RAR). The men who have been drafted are sent to a remote island off the coast of Blythedale, where they will learn a barrage of military tactics and skills. Young men who are over the age of sixteen can now be legally drafted. This is one of the new military policies.

General Thane Gilbert Earl has made comments on the current situation " I understand the concern of most parents, however, I can assure you all we are not sending our new soldiers to the frontline. We are simply training young men to have the chance to be valuable soldiers. The times are changing, tensions are rising, I want to make sure we can always have an elite military." While the General and other important figures are supporting the move there has been protests opposing the new action.

[The United States Of The Tao]

Tao Times

Breaking: The United States of the Tao to back Capsland

Just moments ago many of our investigators and reporters have heard from numerous sources in the military and government that the United States of the Tao is preparing to back Capsland in the current USRR-Capsland war. One representative from the USTN agreed to an interview, this is what he had to say, "We received a order from the Prime Chancellor to send 2 squadrons towards Capsland ASAP at threat level 5. After reading the news I understand why, of course the new government has something to prove, trying to distance itself from extreme political nations and this provides a perfect outlet to do so.". Many are scratching their heads at this decision, the political strife with the Nationalists just a few months ago left our nation politically and on some level, infrastructure was broken. We decided to go to the Prime Chancellor himself about this, surprisingly he agreed to make a statement, "Look, I understand people are still concerned with the state of our nation, however I can assure you we have pretty much fully recovered at this point. We are trying to prevent the same terror the Nationalists brought to the United States of the Tao from harming anyone else. the USRR has crossed a line, DO NOT COMMIT A ACT OF WAR WITHOUT A DECLARATION! With my former experience as head of the USTN and Chancellor of the Armed Forces, I can assure you this should not affect life at home in any real noticeable way. This is not just about stopping Communism and Extremism, this is about dignity and honor, something the USSR threw away when they ferociously attacked a vessel with no clue of what was going on.". Of course the Prime Chancellors Military, particularly Navy experience should definitely help in any wartime situation, and war seems like a great way to solidify his power; details on whats to come have yet to be seen. We asked around the city of Ein and the reception to this action is mixed, most seem to support it, however some just don't think we should be looking outside of the Tao just yet, after all we are going from almost no relations within the past three months to a possible wartime situation. Either way, we will likely soon be at war, and we must come together, for the Tao, our brothers in the armed forces, to stand against communism, and to protect those defenseless against it. Now is not the time to fracture, it is the time to come together to fight this threat that frightens us all, and that is something I think we can all agree on.