The Western Isles News

[Mokov]

09/01/2019
Royal Mokovi News
Nový Litkov, Kingdom of Mokov

Protest During Royal Funeral, Kral Ivan Furious

Today, Kral Ivan XII held the state funeral for his father as was required. Initially, all went well, with the young monarch providing a touching eulogy, and demonstrating his royal qualities for all to see. Unfortunately, protesters affiliated with the rebel 'Sons of Mokov' deigned to ruin the ceremony by protesting against the monarchy just across the street from the Royal State Mausoleum. The Palace Guard quickly moved to disperse the protest, and shots were fired. Nobody was killed, but four have been injured, and forty-two have been detained for staging an illegal protest. In response to this outrage, Kral Ivan XII has pledged to begin a system of reforms for the Kingdom, but also that he will show no mercy to "Traitors, Rebels, and Terrorists of any kind."

In other news, the sales of Mokovi Fish Vodka have gone down, following a scandal that involved the CEO of the Royal Mokovi Alcohol Corporation purposely ordering the use of lower quality materials for transport and storage. The Board of Directors is currently debating having him fired for violation of company Safety Policy.

[Mokov]

09/03/2019
Royal Mokovi News
Nový Litkov, Kingdom of Mokov

Ascension of Král Ivan XII

Early this morning, the ascension ceremony for Král Ivan XII took place. The mood was spoiled somewhat by rumors of several KBA purges of the lower classes, and more than one Son of Mokov was arrested trying to sneak in. Upon being crowned by the High Priest of Mokov, Král Ivan XII declared the formation of 'The Royal Mokovi State Assembly' a form of limited civilian government, that allowed for people of all classes to run for seats on the State Assembly and propose laws and policy changes to the Král. Of course, they couldn't actually do anything without the direct approval of the Král, but many see it as the first step towards democracy.

[Mokov]

09/04/2019
Royal Mokovi News
Hradz-Talmec, Kingdom of Mokov

Royal Funeral Protestors Sentenced

As many will remember, three days ago a large protest was broken up outside of the funeral of Král Alexei XVII, which culminated in shots being fired and numerous protestors arrested. After several days of deliberation, Filip Zasnotc, Grand Royal Judge, declared that three of the arrested protesters, confirmed to be some of the leaders of the 'Sons of Mokov' be executed via public hanging, while the remaining 39 have been sentenced to life imprisonment in Prahelmz Prison. Prahelmz is both the most infamous prison in Mokov, and the oldest still in operation, having been established in 1892. Nobody expects those 39 unlucky rebels to survive the first month, as both the guards and the inmates of Prahelmz are known for their murderous brutality. Of course, who's going to care what happens to a criminal, and a rebel at that?

[Ainslie]

Your Weather: Menindai - 26C/10C

DOMESTIC: Gifford announces foreign affairs shakeup
Marderan, Ainslie

Following a few months of relative silence and stability and a notably quiet Ahnslen presence in the international arena, current Foreign Minister and Prime Minister Eleane Gifford has set out her new picks as she drops the Foreign Affairs portfolio. All other Ministers have remained with their portfolios, however there has been chatter around shifting the roles of the current Department heads - those who answer to the ministers.

However, the most consequentual personnel changes have occured in the Foreign Affairs portfolio.

Callum Parkes returned to Arnton from the League in a speedy fashion recently. However, this has now been confirmed as not on the basis of scandal but rather of promotion. Eleane Gifford today has announced that he will be Ainslie’s next Ambassador to The Western Isles.

”I am pleased to announce that after the good work Callum has done in the League that he will now serve as Ambassador to TWI from Ainslie. I thank Andrew Whitford for his service and wish him and his family all the best as he enters the much-illusive retirement. This country is very much for the better because of him and his service - whether that be because of his influence on domestic policy in his illustious tenure in the role of Deputy Prime Minister or his immense contribution to the Isles as Ambassador to TWI.”

Ambassador to The Western Isles (ATWI) is a relatively new and unique position within and for the Ahnslen Government. It is quite a prestigious role, often serving as the face of the Foreign Ministry in ainslie as the nation’s chief negotiator and diplomat.

Mr Parkes’ promotion to ATWI leaves the role of Ambassador to the League vacant. Long-time diplomat and secretary of Continential Affairs (who supervises diplomacy in Argus and Gael) Jesse Kerslie is to be brought into the role. He was present at Gifford’s press conference today and delivered a speech. Here’s a short excerpt:

”Today marks a shift. It is not dramatic but it certainly is notable. It is time for Ainslie to truly help set the agenda and seek to address issues that not only affect us but spread out to other nations as well. Nuclear non-proliferation, better regulation of what nuclear activitiy remains, better environmental protection and an ongoing and consistent commitment to fairness and justice remain steadfast as key priorities. In addition to this, we stand committed to the rules-based international order.

We also will address the well-intentioned yet expediently created MADSA by the Kenzai Government. We must create a better framework around it and a better model of governance. We will speak to repeal and replace this blind spot.”

Gifford also announced her pick for her replacement - Aaron Gerslin, the former Deputy Prime Minister, will step up to the role effective immediately.

More to come as we get it.


SPORT: Cautious Cricketers eye victory in Norstham
Austrabyur, Norstham

The fourth round of the Ahnslen men’s cricket world cup campaign is edging nearer, with the past three weeks showing a promising start from the team.

In the first round, Ainslie and Cosie met once again and the results were not too dissimilar to their encounter of one another in the ODI. Ainslie posted 283 off of a solid innings built from the ground up by the two openers’ 110 run partnership yet a collapse in the middle order prevented this foundation being fully capitalised upon. Ainslie beat Cosie in this round by a net run rate of 0.74.

In the second round, Ainslie faced a new competitor - the Corindi Cricket Teams. With the sport’s administration in shambles the team seems to be providing hope for their followers despite their loss by almost ten overs. Modest scores from Ainslie’s batsmen were very much overshadowed by Kai Rendall’s four wicket haul which constrained the opposition to 208 on quite a reasonable batting pitch.

In the third round, there was a concerningly similar situation to the first round in there being largely a middle order collapse save for a conservative Daintree hitting 23 (35). It was a close finish for Ainslie, who lost by only six runs in the end with the tail unable to capitalise off of quality bowling attack at the death from Nhoor.

There has been an injury scare going into the fourth round, with batting revelation Alex Daintree reporting a shoulder complaint. In addition to this, Allere Gannon is likely to get a start over Charlie Rentige who broke his finger today at training.
Yet despite potentially being two men down going into the latter stages of this tournament, Captain Simon Karlen remains optimistic about his team’s hopes.

“We’re quite happy with where we are at - sure, we lost last game but it was a very close finish against a high ranking team. Our bowling attack has been worldclass and Renners (Rendall) has been bowling at his best. Perhaps there’s some issues in the middle order we may need to iron out but at the moment we’re confident with the lineup we’re fielding at the moment.”

- Simon Karlen, ODI Captain

One of the journalists at the impromptu press conference then asked Karlen about Ainslie’s prospects of winning the world cup.

“Well, what we are currently focusing on is the next game - we can’t get near that trophy unless we qualify. A world cup win cannot be ruled out, but our intention first is to win these games coming up and win them comfortably.”

- Simon Karlen, ODI Captain

A world cup win is certainly not out of the question. However, it’s up to Karlen’s men to get there first.

National Weather

City (Max / Min)
Anertah (29C / 18C)
Arborai (20C / 14C)
Arnton (23C / 14C)
Hauton (21C / 8C)
Highland Ridge (19C / 9C)
Kennedai (25C / 14C)
Mandara (26C / 18C)
Menindai (26C / 10C)
Port Blaxland (23C / 16C)
Rathane (25C / 17C)
Quirindi (24C / 12C)
Watarah (26C / 16C)

[Havalland]

The Royal Cryer

Havalland Chooses Their National Anthem

Ever since it's independence in 1603 the Kingdom of Havalland never had an anthem, usually the most popular havallish song was played at sporting events.
However a recent group of patriots had suggested that an anthem should be chosen before the football season begins.

The parliament picked a hand full of songs when one in particular stood out, "Dearest Country Mine" was a song written and composed by Alexander Hoffman in 1814 king Leon had a local high school band and choir preform the songs and when he heard this song he described it as the very meaning of Havalland.
The parliament agreed, a unanimous vote made this song the official anthem of Havalland.

[Almorea]

SEPTEMBER 9, 2019

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Sen. Nora Soodalter nominated to be next deputy president

Sen. Nora Soodalter (A-Baranor) asks for $5 individual donations during her 2016 Senate campaign in this file photo

ELLSBURGH- President Alasdair Hallowell today nominated Nora Soodalter, a Baranor senator and member of the Almorean Party, to be the next Deputy President of the Federal Union, according to an official press release.

Mrs. Soodalter, 49, who has served in the Senate since 2013, trends to the right of her party on many issues. A protectionist and foreign-policy hawk, she has voted with the Hallowell administration unevenly since its inauguration, according to congressional reports. The second-term senator is, however, viewed favorably by Federalists and enjoys bipartisan respect.

Mrs. Soodalter secured the President's nod after competing with other candidates, including several senators and the Education Secretary, for the job. Should she be confirmed, she will be the first female Deputy President in the two hundred years of the office's existence.

The nomination comes after Michael Jardine, 77, who has served as Deputy President since 2017, was hospitalized with severe heart issues last month. Mr. Jardine, who was hospitalized first in Kingsford and later in Seavale, was released to his home three days ago.

Mr. Jardine, who previously served as governor of Baranor, has close political ties with his proposed successor. In a statement today, he announced his intended retirement upon Mrs. Soodalter's confirmation by Congress and praised the senator's "intelligence, sharp wit, decisive and firm nature, and total commitment to public service".

The nomination makes Mrs. Soodalter a major possible contender for the AMP's candidacy in the next presidential election, which will be held in 2022. Sources within the party have told the Times that, while Mrs. Soodalter enjoys widespread respect, there is resentment in the liberal wing of the AMP that she may serve only to reinforce President Hallowell's hawkish and nationalist tendencies.

The nomination process for Mrs. Soodalter will begin on September 15, when the Chamber of Representatives will begin a hearing at which she will testify. A Senate hearing has been scheduled for September 23, followed by votes on October 10.

The Times of Ellsburgh reserves all rights to this publication. Copyright MMXIX.

[Martenyika]

Thursday September 12, 2019
RKT - Royal Kessa Times
Kessa, Martenyika

Zubele Seeks Almorean Petroleum in Wake of Increasing Car Ownership

Almorea - President Zubele touched down in The Federal Union of Almorea yesterday, eager to secure trading agreements with the nation. A statement about the trip was announced to the press just several days ago, although the President’s office has confirmed that a travel plan was developed in coordination with Almorea before then. Further government releases corroborate speculations that the President will prioritize favorable access to Almorean petroleum.

The economy of the Federal Union depends in part on petroleum production, as well as textiles and electronics. However, it is currently in the midst of a recession marked by high unemployment and an increasingly unpopular government. The takeover of high tech electronic production by other nations such as Ostehaar, for instance, had been a contributing factor to Almorea’s hardships. President Maxime Zubele now intends to submit Martenyika as a new potential market for Almorean petroleum. This presents an enticing opportunity for the Federal Union of Almorea to recuperate some of its lost export revenue.

President Zubele’s mission to Almorea follows his prior high profile, controversial deal to open factories for Austrovik-Germanian car manufacturers within Martenyika. Before departing for Almorea, Zubele confirmed that the growing market for automobiles in Martenyika prompted him and his government to look for new sources of petroleum. Martenyika has seen a minimal increase in car ownership per year in the past, but demographers are already noting marked increases in vehicle purchases following the arrival of Austrovik-Germanian factories.

Many support both the President’s original manufacturing deal and the goal to import Almorean petroleum. A spokesperson for the President’s party said yesterday that “a deal for Almorean petroleum imports would make car ownership and fueling less cost prohibitive to the people of Martenyika. It will help job and general economic growth.” Martenyikan car ownership has traditionally been below average, especially outside of cities. This is partly due to the expensive scarcity of petrol. However in turn the high price of petrol has kept vehicle ownership from expanding rapidly.

On the other hand, the Martenyikan Green Party (MGP) continues to oppose the President’s measures due to environmental concerns. The Greens protested against the President’s car factory deal, echoing Scantarbian criticisms about the Austrovik-Germanian cars’ environmental impacts. The MGP released an official statement of opposition today, claiming “we [MGP] oppose the President’s unnecessarily harmful efforts to both increase the domestic ownership of environmentally hazardous vehicles, and cement Martenyika’s indefinite reliance on fossil fuels.” Despite this opposition, it remains to be seen whether a deal can be secured, and how it will be received by the people of Martenyika.

[Almorea]

SEPTEMBER 15, 2019

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Refocusing on trade, Hallowell urges acceptance of Martenyikan talks

President Alasdair Hallowell speaks to the Trannsa Cultural Convention in Leedworth on September 8, 2019

ELLSBURGH- Signalling that his administration will shift its focus back to international trade, President Alasdair Hallowell today urged Congress to vote to accept preliminary agreements signed with the government of Martenyika over petroleum.

The President held discussions with Martenyikan President Maxime Zubele in Ellsburgh on Thursday. Mr. Zubele landed in Almorea's capital with the intention of securing access to Almorean petroleum exports, which analysts say are desired to lessen the impact of fuel scarcity in Martenyika.

Speaking to reporters in the Mahogany Room of Carldon Hall, Mr. Hallowell said that his talks with Mr. Zubele had included provisions for the Martenyikan export of zinc and cobalt, and also mentioned a potential import quota for Almorean textiles. The textile industry has suffered in recent months, as organized crime has risen to represent the largest share of the economy in the southern provinces.

"Maxime and I are really getting somewhere," Mr. Hallowell said, referring to Mr. Zubele by his first name. "We have a great relationship. We want free trade, fair trade, but also money-making trade. I want our great Almorean oil to be exported everywhere."

Congress will likely approve the Hallowell administration's negotiations with Martenyika, especially in wake of Saturday's leak of an embarrassing internal memorandum from the Export Bank of Almorea. The document, written by government analysts, estimates that Almorean export revenue has fallen 14% since fiscal year 2016-17.

In Martenyika, Mr. Zubele has faced criticism over his controversial decision to allow the presence of Austrovik-Germanian car manufacturers; environmentalist politicians have lambasted his talks with the Almorean government as assuring the country's "indefinite reliance on fossil fuels".

Mr. Hallowell plans to visit Athara Magarat and Hadyanze this autumn with a view to securing bilateral trade agreements with both nations. AMRETA, a free trade agreement with the Magarati government, has been on ice since late 2018; meanwhile, the Hallowell administration hopes to secure petroleum importation quotas from Hadyanzin officials.

The Times of Ellsburgh reserves all rights to this publication. Copyright MMXIX.

[Austrovik-Germania]

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DRONE ATTACK ON AUSTROVIK NATURAL GAS FACILITY

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The Pottersdam Natural Gas Plant a week before the attack

[size=200]Yesterday morning at approximately 3:00 in the morning, two large drones were used to deliver and detonate explosive devices on the Pottersdam Natural Gas Plant in the city of its namesake. The attackers have not claimed responsibility for their actions, and a serious police investigation has opened in the early afternoon.

The Power Plant in question is the largest in the country, supplying just over 800 megawatts of energy to the surrounding region, including the Schysten Manufactering Plant South, in the suburbs of Pottersdam, where almost 13'000 people are employed. After the attack, Plant A2 and B1 were completely out of action and the Schysten Plant lost electric power for at least six hours before emergency generators were brough online from Plants A1 and B2. A small blaze occured in A2 after the attack, however fireman were quick to tackle the fire and only two people were seriously injured and no deaths occured.

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According to police reports, the drones used were simple commercial drones, and so the culprits couldn't have been that far away from the plant. This theory is further supported by the fact a dark green plug-in hybrid which was a foreign import at the side of the Autobahn in a small abandoned barn. The explosives used were actually incredibly complex, according to the blast and forensic testing, and also CCTV footage, and could not have been "homemade". Instead, it is believed that the criminals in question were supplied by a foreign rival or terrorist group.

Schysten Division of the Übermacht Group LLC, part of the corporate conglomerate Übermacht-Krupp Group, has released no statement about the event, despite it affecting their company, however the energy company KLM, the company which runs the Pottersdam Natural Gas Plant on behalf of the Austrovik government, made this statement:

'Krupp Leichen-Mayteir does not tolerate the disgusting and cowardly attacks made by these rotten and dangeorus eco-terrorists which were supplied by foreign national powers who do not wish to see the economic activity of Austrovik-Germania continue to grow with the increasing conspiracy of "climate change", which some powers have been indoctrinating their citizens into believing. KLM will continue to supply light and happiness to the people of Austrovik-Germania and we wish the two members of our team the best recovery in hospital.'

The Ministry of Energy and Transport also made this statement after the attack:

'We are deeply sorry for the two employees of KLM who are affected by the blasts that occured this morning. We also congratulate KLM on the handling of the situation. We believe that the League of the Western Isles should begin a serious enquiry into what occured in the Pottersdam Natural Gas Plant and to find the foreign power that supplied the eco-terrorist at hand with the arsenal to commit such an atrocity. This was not only an attack on a power plant, but hospitals and other emergency stations completely lost power and risks the lives of thousands. Whoever committed this crime will be discovered and punished severely. The Cabinet is particularly looking into any Scantarbian involvement in this attack, if there is any.'

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GOVERNMENT PUSHES ALMOREA TO SIGN GREATER PETROLEUM DEALS WITH MARTENYIKA

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Austrovik government officials and high-ranking employees of the various car companies producing cars within the Republic of Martenyika are currently attempting to mount pressure on the government of the Federal Union of Almorea to sign more major petroleum deals with the Martenyikans.

This comes after stock prices of various automobile companies fell drastically (but are now recovering) during the ongoing trade conflict with Scantarbia and Austrovik-Germania, and also due to the Martenyikan people slowly being starved of fuel and prices beginning to rise, and Austrovik car dealerships taking a hit as a result.

Currently, the government wishes to not disclose any more information on the topic.

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All Rights Reserved. State Press

[Havalland]

The Royal Cryer

Queen Magdalena announces pregnancy

The Havallish queen, Magdalena Wolf has been quite popular, there was slight worry about the king marrying into a mining company rather than a noble family but the queen has become beloved among the Havallish people.

While on a trip to her home country she did drop a hint at being pregnant but it wasn't confirmed until yesterday, in accordance to Havallish traditions, the people of Kingston were summoned to the court yard of the palace where the royal couple announced that they were expecting, followed by a vow of heirdom, where King Leon III vows to pass on the throne to his first born, a tradition dating back to the Duchy of Havalland under the HAC.

Havallish Embassy Attacked

The other day a group of soldiers guarding the Havallish embassy in Mokov were attacked by two members of the "Sons of Mokov" it is unknown why they would attack an embassy.
When a Havallish journalist got in contact with one of the privates for an interview he stated that "the vehicle had passed by many times at slow speeds" the terrorists were stopped for suspicious behavior, the Havallish soldiers wanted to take them in to ask questions, this is when one of the privates got shot.

It is possible that they feared getting in trouble so they fired on the soldiers, a corporal and another private apprehended the two sons turning them over to the KBA, whom gave the Havallish soldiers permission to use lethal force against terrorists if necessary.

[Martenyika]

Tuesday September 17, 2019
RKT - Royal Kessa Times
Kessa, Martenyika

Almorea Petroleum Deal Breaks Trade Talk Stalemate

Almorea - After several days of trade negotiations between the Federal Union of Almorea and the Republic of Martenyika, including a roughly five day period of deadlock, both nations report that a deal has been reached. President Maxime Zubele travelled to Almorea late last week eager to secure an agreement on petroleum. He appeared this afternoon alongside Almorean President Alasdair Hallowell to jointly announce the agreement.

The stalemate began after an initial round of negotiations, during which other trade commodities became the new subject of discussion. Almorea proposed a deal to export textiles to Martenyika as well as petroleum. This proposal renewed concerns and debates across Martenyika, including its people and legislature. Many have taken a hard line against any textile imports, imploring the President to do the same and support the emergence of domestic textile industry. Martenyika already produces cotton for primarily foreign textile industry, but proponents often cite textiles as a sector ripe for domestic growth. They are concerned that Almorean imports would stifle any efforts to expand at home.

The past few days have seen several deals go back and forth between the nations, involving extra commodities such as textiles, foodstuffs, and electronics, but neither side could agree on them. To break the stalemate, Presidents Zubele and Hallowell agreed to move forward on petroleum alone. After arriving at this agreement, Zubele remarked “despite the slow progress of the past few days, I am happy we could meet on common ground to agree about the most important commodity for both our nations, petroleum. We can talk about the rest later—nothing is truly off the table yet.”

A second round of negotiations has been confirmed, and is predicted to take place at the end of the month, in Martenyika. This worries some textile industry proponents, who are questioning the President’s statements. Some are left wondering if “nothing...is off the table” implies that the President may agree to textile imports during the second round of negotiations.

[Enchanta]

Ambassador Pleased With Refugee Talk Success

[imghttps://imgur.com/undefined.jpg[/img]
Henry Warsap
Enchantan Ambassador Henry Warsap has said that his work with Brulafi has been a ‘sign of hope’ for refugees displaced by the war. He praised both governments for allowing the political conference to ensue. The Brulafi ambassador Josh Neumark was escorted into Enchanta on September 2nd, to speak with Mr.Warsap about the refugee crisis in Enchanta.

“This is a sign of hope, a sign that refugees are not alone, that they can be safe” , said Mr.Warsap
The ambassador heavily encouraged the conference, and with good reason. Every day, more and more refugees are leaving the nation to go to other countries. The government thinks the war is only going to get worse from here, that the battles will get more bloody.
“This is not the Enchanta people should be in”, Henry said right before the conference started. The conference took place at the Equality Council office, Political Enchanti was not allowed to sit in on the meeting, however, we did receive a summary afterward.

20,000 refugees will be sent to Brulafi each year
They will be transported by Navy Boats or Commercial Airlines, due to the lack of an Air Force
As compensation, Brulafi will receive 2,000 dollars each year until the war ends
The refugees will be safe in Brulafi until the war ends
The refugees will be allowed to join the workforce in Brulafi, although once the war ends they can apply for full citizenship

Overall, both ambassadors are pleased with how everything turned out.

[ThePenguinLand]

The PenguinLand Times

Four Votes, Four Bills to consider as the Lower House sets in for a long month of policy-making

Bill 1: Sanctioning Austrovik-Germania for mainpulating emmission tests on cars
Status: Defeated
For:191
Against:239
A bill sponsored by opposition rebels in response to allegiations made by Scantarbian officials claiming that Austrovik-Germania had manipulated emission tests on it's cars. The bill wanted to force government officials to announce their recognition of foul play and say that it would affect any upcoming trade deal. Since, the bill's defeat the Head of the Lower House Sergej Balvivic assured the public in a televised statement that Austrovik-Germania would continue to be a trusted and stable trade partner and that the outcome of the vote didn't bear any effect on future deals that the opposition might attempt to thwart.

Bill 2: FCTA Amendment 1(Financial rules and funding)
Status: Defeated
For:159
Against:271
A bill brought up by FCTA skeptics wishing to institue a constitutional challenge to the PenguinLand's membership in the FCTA. One of three ammendments designed to create a legal impasse with the FTCA in which the PenguinLand would have to be ejected from the trade deal. Since it's defeat by a margin of 112 a review is not possible and many believe that the question of FCTA skepticism has been settled.

Bill 3: The Creation of the Steel Partners Program(From the previous Steel-Partnership)
Status: Approved
For:299
Against:131
A bill seeking the creation of a trade deal dubbed the " Steel Partners Program", also forming a block of economic aid and assistance. This would include the countries of Austrovik-Germania and Miklania, and possibly Bella Isle en Terre and Havalland. The participants would all be countries that the PenguinLand exports steel to. Trade officials will set out to the respective countries to ratify this agreement, as well as any other domestic votes that have to go through.

Bill 4: Easing Customs with Scantarbia
(Vote Yet to Come)
This bill hopes to create an easier customs agreement between the PenguinLand and Scantarbia, to allow for an easier economic flow as well as ease the possibility of economic tensions that could be created from being an ally of Austrovik-Germania. The vote is expected to be close as both government and oppostion parties will seek to take a harder stance against Scantarbia, although the rising discontent with Austrovik-Germania espoused by certain members of parliament could hinder their efforts.

[Mokov]

9/22/2019
Royal Mokovi News
Paradz, Mokov

Clash Between Royal and Rebel Forces

One week ago, the nation erupted into all-out civil war following the foundation of the Mokovi Democratic Republic in the city of Nový Mokov. Today, the first battle of the war began and ended. The Royal Second Army moved to occupy the industrial town of Paradz, which had joined the rebel cause shortly after the outbreak of the civil war, and was ambushed by a numerically superior rebel force. Making use of stolen artillery pieces and vehicles, the rebels decimated the Second Army, leaving only 1,200 survivors. The general in command was killed in action, and a statue has been constructed in his honor.

[Austrovik-Germania]

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ÜBERMACHT - THE GREEN GIANT?

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The new 2020 Übermacht Series C1, releasing December 2019

Despite the Austrovik government's urges to stand their ground against Scantarbia's expose on the Emissions Scandal with Austrovik car brands, Übermacht has recently unveiled the new Series C1 line of car, which includes a sports coupé, a sedan, and also a crossover SUV coming out as a sister lineup known as th Series Cx1. Now, whilst it is not unusual for Übermacht to release new cars after maybe auto-shows and gatherings, these specific cars are also fully electric, heeding to the warnings of the Scantarbian government and many environmental protestors.

The Series C1 was teased earlier this month on a online video, however no-one was expecting the lineup to be electric. Not only that, but the Übermacht-Krupp Group have also released a statement hinting that the electric components used in the Übermacht Division cars could appear in the other brands under the ÜKG belt:

"The Übermacht-Krupp Group car brands take the environment as a serious factor when it comes to automobile innovation. Electric cars are not only on the rise in demand and popularity but are fast becoming more economically feasible than petroleum motor cars. The ÜberGreen platform used on the Series C1 selection of vehicles is, in the coming months, going to be implemented onto cars within other brands such as Bulicken, Imponte and others. We will continue to work with petroluem vehicles, however, until it is considered immoral to produce them any longer."

The new ÜberGreen platform is mainly being manufactured in plants around Wilhemsdorf, but also in a manufaturing facility in the Republic of Martenyika. The new platform uses a lithium battery electric engnine and can be lengthened or shortened depending on the vehicle specifications it requires. There is also speculation that a sportier version of the platform could be produced for a special, mid-engine electric super car but these rumours have not yet been confirmed.

The government, slowly backing down as the Trade War with Martenyika begins to take its toll on Austrovik businesses, have made no comment on ÜKG's move to electric motors, and one of ÜKG's main competitors, Schyster, has announced its plan for a new hybrid crossover SUV in the coming weeks.

[Mokov]

09/30/2019
Royal Mokovi News
Mokov

Internal Strife Within the Sons of Mokov?

Several days ago, the KBA provided us with a detailed report on the internal situation of the rebel Mokovi Democratic Republic, and today, they have granted us permission to publish their findings. The rebel government has been divided into four factions: The Grey Legion, an Orthodox Christian clerical fascist group, the People's Front, a De Leonist party, the Radikální Demokraté, a radical democratic party, and the Monarchisté, who identify themselves as constitutional monarchists. Considering how different these factions' ideologies are, it is only a matter of time before the rebels succumb to infighting and destroy themselves.

[Legendary Island of Atlantis]

12.04.15
Segentova Worker's Times
Democratic Socialist Republic Segentova

Euthanasia is now legal!
Yesterday, the gonernment announced that euthanasia would become legal within a period of the next six weeks. This has caused some protest within the nations religious communities, as they see this descision as quote unquote "immoral". The governments official position to this new law is as follows: "We didn't directly descide to legalizde euthanasia, but the law legalizing it is part of the "research and cure"-policy which states that the patient is allive the medical staff will try to cure said patient, however if they demmand euthanasia due to litteraly lying on the death bed and to end their suffering it is to be administered". For more information on this current topic be sure to go to http://www.SWT.net or check into our TV or Radio podcasts half-hourly.

That is why the existence of war itself is justified without even meaning harm to any sentient being, and much more so than meat (no offense, i'll keep my diet to myself).

[Almorea]

OCTOBER 2, 2019

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Lawmakers savage Hallowell's budget plan, worrying markets

Lawmakers confer on the floor of the Palace of Congress after budget negotiations on October 2, 2019

ELLSBURGH- Lawmakers from the opposition Federal Party attacked the Hallowell administration's 2020-21 preliminary budget plan on the floor of the Palace of Congress today, raising early fears that an inability to agree on federal spending levels might lead to economic troubles for Almorea.

Treasury Secretary Joseph Avella unveiled the government's vision for future spending levels, a plan which includes a controversial $19 billion in deficit spending, in a communication to the Budget Committee and the leaders of both houses of Congress last week. The amount of money planned to be appropriated, $141.5 billion, is the largest sum ever to be requested from Congress by a presidential administration.

The unprecedented $19 billion in deficit spending would be split largely among Almorean welfare programs, with $12 billion earmarked for federal agencies that assist the public in purchasing expensive drugs, refinancing their homes, and paying hospital bills. The Export Bank of Almorea, which assists Almorean companies in meeting export costs, would be strengthened with a further $1 billion, almost two times its current budget, as part of the Hallowell administration's focus on expanding Almorean trade.

The military would receive a further $1.5 billion in funding, while $650 million is earmarked to build new federal prisons and $75 million to create new apprenticeships.

The administration's budget roll-out was accompanied by a congressional offensive on the part of the Almorean Party, which President Hallowell leads. Some of the AMP's brightest stars, including Rep. Mark Parde of Adashawnee, championed the 2020-21 plan, Parde calling it "a highlight in the history of Almorean federal spending."

Sen. Nora Soodalter (A-Baranor), who is expected to be confirmed as the next Deputy President later this month, hailed the President's budget as "a bold, exciting new step for a new decade."

Federalists were not so pleased, with Sen. Sarah Tolton (F-Gavshin) calling the budget "a disgrace." Sen. Michael Creelman of Culawee went farther in his criticism, claiming that "the Hallowell administration's reckless appropriations plan will sink Almorea into a hole of debt, from which it will never crawl out."

Economists have pointed out that the Hallowell plan, as it stands, would increase Almorea's national debt threefold. But they are also concerned that, if the parties cannot reach a consensus on key areas of federal spending, the country's economy might be subjected to severe storms.

"Exports, agricultural inspections, regulatory oversight, the tax system- in Almorea, all these things rely on federal spending," said Robert Ierado, an economics professor at the University of Talavora. "If the spending dries up for even a small period, the economy would find it a lot more difficult to run smoothly."

The Times of Ellsburgh reserves all rights to this publication. Copyright MMXIX.

[ThePenguinLand]

The PenguinLand Times

An Update on the Bills going through Parliament

Bill 1: FCTA Amdenment 1 (Financial Rules and Funding).
Status: Inactive
The bill was defeated by a margin of 112 votes, making any attempt at review impossible. The bill has also been setup to not go through the Upper House upon it's defeat in the lower, burying the debate for another time. For now, all we have to wait for is a commentative vote by the Economical governors to provide a closing vote on the bill, admittedly one that is not legally binding.

Bill 2: Steel Partners Program
Status: Waiting for Upper House.
Passed by a high margin in the Lower House, it's popularity and economic benefit will secure it a majority in the Upper House. From then on, ambassadors will be sent out to the respective countries to negotiate their entrance into the program. We will have more on the details and applicants of the plan next week.

Bill 3: Smoothing Customs with Scantarbia
Status:Passed
For: 250
Against:180
In a more liberal turn of policy making, the new customs plan has been accepted. Lowering tariffs on Scantarbian products and co-operation with their companies and economic ventures. This new plan also smooths down the process for the military to buy planes and vehicles from Scantarbian companies and defence contractors.

Outrage as Committee votes for Revote on Sanctioing Austrovik-Germania

For:33
Against:27
The bill sanctioning Austrovik-Germania for manipulaitng emission tests on cars has been allowed to go to a revote by the legislative committee as the bill was not defeated bu sufficient amount of 50 votes. This will bring more tension to the situation before the Upper House vote, adding a possibility that the execeutive department could file a non-execeution order against parliament saying that it will not carry out the bill as it demands an execeutive action from the president.

[Haasar]

October 6th, 2019
The Selago Chronicle
Selago, Haasar

INVESTIGATION IN SELAGO APARTMENT EXPLOSION UNVEILS TERRORIST THREAT

On the morning of August 31st of this year, there was an explosion that decimated and destroyed an apartment complex, killing 250 people. After investigation lead to no leads on foul play, it was written off as a gas leak in an apartment at the epicenter of the explosion belonging to a man named Arlo Walton, who died in the blast. But, just 2 days ago, a unnamed person, claiming to have been friends with Arlo Walton, said that he found undeniable evidence on Walton's laptop (which the friend had been borrowing for a school assignment at the time of Walton's death.) that the explosion was a bombing. The evidence: many emails with an unidentified person, talking about planning attacks, as well as purging Christians, Jews, and Muslims. Police then investigated Walton's shopping history, and found that about a month before the explosion, he had bought a multitude of chemicals, including agricultural fertilizer and diesel fuel, as well as two toolkits. Also, camera footage from a diner just down the road from the apartment complex shows Walton meeting with a man named Mikhail Vanko, who was arrested late September for conspiracy, after he was found writing plans and building a bomb consisting of chemicals similar to what Walton had bought, and who also has ties with a Vatolist extremist group called the White Dagger Front. The story doesn't have much more development to it, but has already shown us what really happened that morning.

[Nhoor]

[Martenyika]

Saturday October 12, 2019
RKT - Royal Kessa Times
Zawezi, Martenyika

Officer Killed, 3 Critical In Ekhatho Trafficking Crackdown

Zawezi - Authorities are beginning to release details about Friday’s trafficking interdiction operation in the Ekhatho region, which caused the death of 1 officer and put 3 more in critical condition. Despite the human cost, law enforcement officers reportedly arrested 16 suspects and recovered an estimated 40 victims of human trafficking in two locations.

Part of the operation involved securing a dock area and warehouse outside Ekhatho’s capital, Zawezi. Local law enforcement officers and troopers from the Gendarmerie’s Strategic Response Group (SRG) reportedly came under fire as they approached and entered the warehouse, and were forced to return fire. A Gendarmerie spokesperson claims that “several armed suspects” were struck, and “one SRG trooper as well as one Zawezi officer were struck in the vest but not critically wounded, while three are currently critical. Unfortunately, one officer of the [Zawezi] Police was struck fatally during the firefight...”

The deceased officer has been identified as Zawezi Police Sergeant Doní Menzi, a 6 year veteran of the force with a distinguished record. The family identified him following the conclusion of the operation, although they have declined to comment any further at this time. Sergeant Menzi leaves behind a wife and two kids.

The second part of the operation required members of the Maritime Gendarmerie to board a barge on Lake Kuba. The team also encountered resistance from armed suspects, leading to the wounding of one unidentified trooper. The Gendarmerie spokesperson has issued a commendation, saying “we value the contributions of our Maritime Gendarmerie brothers, who were not only instrumental in supporting Gendarmerie, Strategic Response Group, and local personnel at the dock warehouse, but also in securing all contraband and victims in the barge.”

This suggests that a new era of law enforcement cooperation may be on the horizon for Martenyika. Together the law enforcement agencies and Police apprehended 16 suspects and at least 40 human trafficking victims between the warehouse and barge, although some estimates run higher. Official releases have not announced a definitive number. However releases have outlined the contraband found in the two locations such as cases of illegal weaponry, ammunition, drugs, and cash. The authorities are investigating the possibility that the barge may have been sailing across Lake Kuba to Doravo.

[Scantarbia]

FOREST FIRE UNDER CONTROL

by Alexandra Eleonora, 12 October 2019

LEAFY VALLEY, KEVERAI - Last week, Scantarbian government, in response to an ongoing forest fire in the Leavy Valley region of Keverai sent a team of firefighters along with two firefighting variant of the EH-32B super-heavy lift helicopters to aid in defeating the raging inferno which threatens the local palm industry, LYRAM, and its workers and residents. The team worked tirelessly around the clock in order to minimize the impact of the fire. As a result, the fire, as of October 12th, is fully contained and is just waiting to burn out.

The fire itself started on a quiet September 28th afternoon, during an unusually dry season where the foliage acts like tinder, ready to be lit on fire. During that particular day, a unique weather condition called “dry thunderstorm” occurs. This mixture caused a perfect storm giving off a 100% chance of a forest fire happening on that particular day. The first lightning touched the ground near palm oil plantations owned by LYRAM, a Scantarbian palm oil company and one of the largest on the Western Isles, prompting an evacuation of its surroundings. Fortunately, the Keveraite government worked fast, and not so long after, firefighters started to arrive on the site of the inferno.

Yet, there are two questions that remain unanswered. First, what should we do with the scorched wasteland, and second, what should we do in order to prevent more fires from happening? To answer the first question, a LYRAM spokesperson told SBS that they’re interested in repurposing the land to expand their palm oil plantations, arguing that by doing so, they’ll be able to provide more jobs to the surrounding community, provide more income to the Keveraite government via tax, and change the land into something a lot more productive. The spokesperson also said that if the proposal is accepted, LYRAM will cover all the cost of turning the scorched land into a plantation. There are also talks, supported by several environmental organizations, that propose to replant the land and restoring it to its previous state. Although, this endeavor is, without a doubt, will need a lot of time and capital.

In order to answer the second question, Scantarbia’s Minister of Forestry, Sjafruddin Syamsul, taking from his own experience in managing forest fires that are common during Scantarbia’s annual dry period, proposes a system called “prescribed burning”. Prescribed burning, or also known as a controlled burn is done by intentionally setting fire to part of the forests to burn off foliage, therefore reducing the fuel buildup that could cause huge forest fires. Furthermore, prescribed burning is also proven to provide several benefits, such as stimulating the germination of fire-dependent species, revealing soil mineral layers that increase seedling vitality, controls competing vegetation, improves short term forage for grazing, and helps control tree diseases.

[Nhoor]

[Austrovik-Germania]

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RIOTERS ARRESTED; CHESTHAM SAVED

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Chestham Police arresting a rioter

In the early hours of yesterday morning, riot police were called in by the Chestham Regional Police (CRp) to help with the mass of riots occuring in the city as of Friday evening. They managed to successfully arrest over 2'230 rioters.

The rioters in questions were apparently taking to the streets to "suppress corruption in the Autrovik government" and to "cease the anti-democratic nature of the ruling National-Liberal Party". However, what is clear is that these rebellions have been hijacked by left-leaning terrorist who wish to see the dark era of communism brought back to the Crowned State of Austrovik-Germania, which hasn't existed since the reunification of the Austren Archipel in 1993. The rioters mainly used stones, rocks and some even fireworks to brutally attack police officers who were simply doing their duty to protect the people of Chestham in the early Saturday morning. Some of the leftist members of the Freunde der Erde (Friends of the Earth - FdE) Party also made an appearance, stopping bus services and major roadway intersections within the city centre by causing violence and hatred.

The main ringleader of these riots was the Austrovik laywer and internet blogger Christopher Jurhurtinger, who was among the rioters to be arrested today. He first was noted by the Nationaler Dienst für die Überwachung der Kommunikation (NDUK; the National Service for the Supervision of Communications) for his blog posts online calling for the end to the National-Liberal Party's rule in Austrovik-Germania, and the resignation of First Minister Frederick von Hersmann, and the dissolution of the Rijkstag and Budesrat, and the creation of a new, democratically socialist Austrovik-Germania. These dangerous views resulted in a warning sent by the NDUK to his address which he either never receieved or ignored entirely, and according to his girlfriend Maria he did indeed do the latter. Thankfully, he has been arrested and will go on trial next week.