The Western Isles News

[Ipland]

07.24.2016
Ipland Star
St. Champton, Ipland

Fire in St. Champton
BREAKING NEWS

A fire broke out in St. Champton's downtown core today.
Currently the area around downtown and the downtown itself has been completely evacuated, but with many unable to get out.

The fire is believed to have started by an electrical malfunction at the I&L Hotel, and spread because the fire burst in all directions, heating vulnerable parts of nearby buildings, igniting other fires and creating a domino effect.

So far, three people have died, and 865 have been seriously injured.

The fire, while getting smaller, is still burning.

[Excelsior Laude]

[deleted]

[Covonant]

July 24, 2016
Coventry, Covonant



Covonant and Nicodema signs Mutual Defense Pact

Today the Union of Covonant has signed Defense Pact with t the Republic of Nicodema where both countries pledge greater support in ensuring peace and stability in their parts.

At the treaty signing for the Defense Pact between Covonant and Nicodema, Prime Minister Imperatus Marl expressed joy noting Covonant is pleased with garnering greater allies and support.

The people of Covonant and Nicodema have much to be thankful for and our establishing of diplomatic and military support is another to add on our list. We are pleased that our allies just across the sea from us is willing and able to join the movement of ensuring peace and stability in not just the South Argus area but the greater Western Isles.

The Prime Minister expressed that there will be no abuse of use in the treaty and that mutual understanding and respect will be shown by both countries to achieve the goals of territorial sovereignty and peace. The treaty signing ceremony was held at the Ministry of Defense in Coventry, Covonant. Present at the Ceremony was Rosaline Herras, the Head of the Ministry of Defense in Nicodema. She pledge to uphold the stipulations of the treaty and to work along side the Union in ensuring peace and stability reigns in the South Argus area. The President of Nicodema was unable to attend the treaty signing ceremony as he is currently on a official visit in Livorino.

Reporter: Likalia Reid

[Nicodema]

July 25th, 2016
8:00 PM
Nicodeman Insight Network
Translated from Nicodeman

Huge news! Nicodema is proud to announce embassies are being built here in Nicodema for these fine countries: The Empire of Excelsior Laude, The Constitutional Monarchy of Ipland, and The Union of Covonant. These events prove that Nicodema is improving its international relations, an improvement over the wave of isolationism that swept the nation in 1990. Hopefully, this will promote trade and diplomacy to all the Western Isles!

[British Oceania-Polynesia]

July 25th 2016
Commonwealth News Network
Oceanic-Polynesia

Tropical Storm!

Breaking news tonight, as weather specialists tracking the tropical storm; "Leslie", has taken an unexpected turn, and is now heading south towards the islands. It is said to hit the commonwealth in the early morning tomorrow, and is expected to strike with full strength, with flash flooding warnings, and 41 mph winds. We advise citizens to prepare for the worst, and take precautions.

We will keep you updated on the storm in coming hours.

[Atnaia]

Merrit Isle Governor in Critical Condition
Levi Strongberg Comatose and Unresponsive, Merrit Isle in Flux

Levi Strongberg, Deputy Governor of Merrit Isle, 2013

MERRIT CITY, MERRIT ISLE - Levi Strongberg, Merrit Isle's Acting Governor and sole representative of the isle's interim government following the Merrit Isle Disaster, is in critical condition today. Doctors say his condition is likely due to ill effects gained after his severe malnutrition, and a possible allergic reaction to intravenous drugs being used to help treat the politician. Atnaian representatives on the isle have rushed to have Strongberg transferred to a hospital on the Atnaian mainland, worried that the temporary medical facilities of Merrit may have contributed to his current state.

His doctors, mostly volunteers from the Atnaian Society for Humanitarianism and from the Royal Army of Atnaia, have claimed that Strongberg is currently alive but unresponsive, and that his state appears to be declining. This comes following his statements opposing current Atnaian presence on the Isle as the worst of the disaster's ramifications subsides. Hegemon Wessich has but out his heartfelt condolences for Strongberg, stating that "he is a strong man, and I hope to see him pull through" and that "Atnaia will do everything in its power to ensure that Merrit is able to reclaim its rightful position on the world stage, in the form of aid to Strongberg".

Questions still circulate regarding how Merrit will rebound following the disaster. While flooding has subsided and the work of clearing and rebuilding Merrit City and the surrounding area has begun, the current state of the Isle's government and businesses ensures it is incapable of rebuilding under its own power, and it has been greatly leaning on Atnaian support. This has reignited debate as to possible reunification with Atnaia. Hegemon Wessich and the Quorum have stated that no referendum will be held until Strongberg's health status is confirmed stable, and that they will maintain military presence on the Isle until that time.

[Covonant]

July 26, 2016
Coventry, Covonant



President of Callumstan arrives in Covonant for official state visit



The President of Callumstan Mr. John Morris arrived in the Union of Covonant yesterday for an official state visit. President Morris arrived at the Covonantian International Gateway Airport (CIGA) where he was greeted by Chief of Customary Protocol Mr. Gregory Mair and Minister of Foreign Affairs Hon. Tilonius Vesa. The President was escorted to Palatine Manor (the official residence of the Prime Minister) for a state ceremony.

At the ceremony Prime Minister Imperatus Marl expressed joy at the visit and noted that both countries through bilateral meetings should hope to gain clarity on issues surrounding defense, joint base initiative and also strengthening greater ties. The Prime Minister also expressed pleasure at the message both countries were sending to other countries in the region.

I am most pleased particularly for the message we are sending to other states that through mutual understanding and respect but most of all greater cooperation we can be one step closer to being a safer nation and a safer region.

The Callumstanian President expressed appreciation for the ceremony held for his visit and noted that from it he hopes to form a partnership between both countries. He expressed that his visit is mainly to establish military bases in both countries, that will allow for our militaries to work closely together, allowing for quick response time in the event of a serious conflict.

This partnership, I believe, will lead to a close alliance between Callumstan and Covonant. An alliance that we can begin to lay the groundwork for.

Protests along route of Callumstan President motorcade

A small number of Covonantians had put on a small protest along Union Way just nearing the exit of the CIGA. The group that identified themselves has being apart of Action Covonant expressed that they will not support any base being built both overseas or locally. They believed the government should focus more on welfare, health and education and stop being militaristic.

The protest for the most part was peaceful. The police high command has noted that his team will be out to ensure safety during this visit. He implores all Covonantians to be tolerant and display the greatest amount of respect to the foreign dignitary.

Reporter: Likalia Reid

[Ipland]

07/26/2016
Ipland Times
Ipland City, Ipland

Monarchy to Lose Inherent Political Power

Today, a huge decision was made in the Iplandian Parliament, one that will remove the seat for the Monarch of Ipland, from the House of Commons. Now King Tab will have to run under a party in a constituency like everyone else.

This doesn't mean bye bye to the monarch just yet, as the Monarchy has now been granted Cultural Status.

[Eurania]

7/26/16
Imperial Broadcasting Channel
Warsawyev, Eurania

Results of Bill released: Victory for the Proletariat

---

The IC has voted by a narrow 51% to 49%, that the nation of Eurania, effective at midnight, shall be reformed economically, politically and culturally. At 12:00 AM, The Emperiyaska Yalta will cease to exist, and the new government, ruled by Mikoyan Systen, will govern Eurania from then on.

[Atnaia]

Atnaia to Cease Export of Iron and Kudzu
'Continued export not economically reasonable,' says Quorum Representative Rheya York

Auswick Iron Mine, New Dublin

PORT GRAY, ATNA, ATNAIA- Speaking to members of the press yesterday, Quorum representative Rheya York announced that the government has negotiated a deal with the Organization of Iron Producing Companies of Atnaia and the Kudzu Producers' Syndicate of Atnaia that would cease foreign export of the goods. According to Representative York, "foreign exports of those goods were incredibly low, and was bordering on fiscally irresponsible, perhaps even going past that point already". According to OIPCA and KPSA representatives, this change is welcome, since foreign shipping costs on iron and kudzu had become prohibitively expensive.

"Simply put," says OIPCA spokesperson Henrietta Cole, "we were only continuing exports out of a sense of obligation to decades old contracts. This deal has allowed us to bow out of said contracts, enabling us to turn our attention towards stronger domestic production and closer ties with local Atnaian companies that will only serve to strengthen not only our own industry, but Atnaian industry as a whole."

Criticism has been levelled against the move by the organization Free Trade Now!, which claims that this is a further protectionist step by a government that has been slicing into Atnaian trade identity on the world stage. This criticism was addressed by York.

"FTN can claim that this government relies on protectionist trade practices," York said, "but the numbers simply do not support that. Do you know how much iron we shipped to Ostehaar, one of our closest allies and trade partners, last year? Just over $5000, usually packaged as an element of some other trade practice, and not even enough to cover the practical costs of shipping. Call the government buyout of corporate contracts a protectionist policy if you like, but supporting the opposing point on a basis of ideological fervor when continued trade in these industries was slowly bleeding this nation's wealth is the height of folly."

The Quorum hopes that shifts in policy will open up further jobs in manufacturing, as the Atnaian arms manufacturing industry continues to expand under government support. Galahad Arms has announced intentions to open up a new facility in Black Hill for increased small arms production pending new government contracts, and aeronautics company Verticus Cooperative has recently won a bid to develop the first domestically produced fighter concept since the 1960s.

"This really is a new future for Atnaian manufacturing," York said. "We're living in a truly cutting-edge future."

[Realm of Councilry]

July 27, 2016
Tri-City Tribune
Hexcon

Iron in the West!

Last night, two Hexconian miners just outside the city of Ford Valley, found a pleasant surprise when coal mining. They struck iron. And there wasn't just a little. They had been on their shift for six hours already, and were about to head home. They then found a little bit of iron. Surprised, they kept drilling into it. There seemed to be no end. They then called over their manager, and he was shocked, because no iron had ever been found in Hexcon before. They estimate there will be more iron other places in this mine as well, and possibly more in Hexcon. Now hopes are high around Hexcon, and many are looking for iron. Prime Minister Folsom has released a statement on this, "Exports help the economy. We need more exports. Iron is an import for us. If we can make Iron an export, I believe we can increase our GDP by at least 5%." He then congratulated the miners. Roughly 190 metric tons were found.

[Eurania]

Deleted

[Excelsior Laude]

27 July 2016
LNN: Laudean News Network
CITY OF NAUTICUS, EXCELSIOR LAUDE

Trade Agreements Established with Nicodema and Puhrlam

His Imperial Majesty Emperor Constantine Augustus Aurelius announced earlier today the economic trade agreements of both diplomatic ally Nicodema, as well as a new ally in the region, the Republic of Puhrlam. Laudean-Puhrlam relations will, as of 27 July 2016, consist of maintaining the operation of the International Silk Corporation, a joint Silk manufacturing corporation designed to enhance the centuries old Puhrlam Silk trade into modern textile automation, through Excelsior Laudean technology. The Emperor and the Senate are both pleased that Excelsior Laude is engaging in regional economics and trade at this time.

[Livorino]

The Livoran News Link
Keeping you updated
07/17/16

International News

Twitter in the News
@Kkaren12
Getting married in Saint
Leoluca's Cathedral, Livorino!
Honeymoon here!!!

@MCdeo24
As an Atnaian it's amazing to
Find a part of our history here
At the Statue of King Frederich.

@Leopards4lyfe
Just saw the Crown Prince with
Some foreign leader, so cool!!!

Top Story: LEF to pull out of Merrit Isle

As many might remember, two months ago the tiny Island nation of Merrit Isle was ravaged by a natural disaster. In a showing of our support of any put through natural disasters and our solidarity with other tiny nations, Livorino sent the LEF, Livoran Expeditionary Force, to hand out humanitarian aid.

The Corwn Prince today had this to say, "My fellow Livorans I come to you today to tell you that the LEF will be pulling out of Merrit Isle. Our small nation delivered humanitarian aid, and committed Search and Rescue missions, to a higher degree than most would expect us to. The LEF inspired hope in many people of Merrit Island. Now that the worst has passed, and the Atnaians are no longer overburdened with the tasks of coordinating relief aid, we have found that our mission has come to an end. Thus after two months, the LEF will be returning home to their friends and loved ones. Thank you."

While certainly not the end of the troubles for Merrit Island, this is certainly the closing of Livorino's chapter in the history of this event.

Multiple Diplomatic Visits to Livorino

As many know, the president of Nicodema arrived yesterday, son in tow, to discus relations between Livorino and Nicodema with the Crown Prince. The trio, along with a translator, went to dinner in one of Livorino's best and finest restaurants. Details on the meeting are scarce but it is more than likely that details will be released sometime in the coming days.

Along with that two more nations are visiting today, Ipland and Troaso. Troaso will be sending its Secretary of State to discus with the Crown Prince, and Ipland will be sending a delegate to speak with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Anastaise Dupuy. For both, relations will be discuss much like that with the Leader of Nicodema.

Domestic News

Top Story: Slavery ring discovered in Capri

4 million annually come to Livorino to get married or go on honeymoon

Buddymoons becoming more and more popular

Livoran Leopards win 2-1 in most recent game

[Nicodema]

Deleted by Nicodema

[Jahe Davmwoem]

July 27, 2016
THE RED FIST
Jahe Davmwoem




THE PEOPLE HAVE A VOICE!!!


THE PEOPLE PROTEST CENTURIES OF TYRANNY!!!

With the announcement of Markus, saying he will allow for democracy, now is the time to strike! The time for the rise of the Broad Union! With millions of clenched fists, we will form the All-Industrial Council, and coordinate your production and give everyone an equal share!

Pondes boasts of tripled production, but does not give a single Paem more to any worker!!! Markus is a young puppet of the Capitalistic Keomora!!!



Do not look up to a person to lead! Look to the Broad Union and the ALC!!!

Every vote for the ALC is a stab in the heart of inequality!
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

OOC: The ALC (All-Industrial Council) is a forming political society of communists who follow the DeLeonist path of communism.

[Covonant]

July 27, 2016
Kanaute Devios
KBC4

TROOPS RETURNING HOME FROM DEPLOYMENT TO KEOMORA

The Ministry of Defense today released a statement outlining that with immediate effect over 50,000 Covonantian troops could be back home by the end of the month. Over 100,000 troops were deployed to Keomora as a result of ongoing tensions in the region between members of the C6 and Jahe Davmwoem. The troops were deployed over a month ago as a result of military aggression being used against Carpestan. The Union in an attempt to secure and protect its interest had deployed troops to Keomora to aid in the defense of the country and the base which is co-administered between Covonant and keomora, and to also aid in quelling the tension in the region. A heated discussion in the League of The Western Isles between Covonantian Ambassador to the League Ashur Baptiste and Eutriston delegate led to a vote of a cease fire on the conflict in the region. The Ministry website has noted that the country continues to monitor and assess the situation and believes it as critical but was not in a state that caused greater concern for military intervention. The website also stated that the Ministry will reconsidered deployment of troops back to Keomora in the likely event that the situation escalates to a point of grave concern.

Many Covonantians welcome the news of the troops coming back to the Union. They have called for all troops to return home. The Ministry website noted that not all 50,000+ troops will arrive at the same time but all 50,000 should be back in Covonant by late August. The Ministry stated that as early as next week Monday troops will be returning back to Covonant. The additional 50,000+ that will remain in Keomora will partake in defense and closer monitoring of the tensions in the region, conducting of drills between Keomoran forces and forces from the Democratic States of Corindia, and to provide protection to Covonantian base, and citizens in Keomora.

[Atnaia]

Levi Strongberg Dead at Age 41
Acting Merrit Isle Governor Passes Away at Mt. Sinai Hospital From Injuries Sustained During Merrit Isle Disaster

Mount Sinai Hospital, New Dublin

NEW DUBLIN, REDWOOD-AND-MILLS PREFECTURE, ATNAIA - After an emergency transfer to New Dublin's Mount Sinai Hospital, Merrit Isle's Acting Governor, Levi Strongberg, has passed away at age 41. Doctors say he passed peacefully.

"The injuries he had gained after the disaster were simply too much for his weakened body," said Dr. Maria Clay of Mount Sinai. "As malnourished as he was, it was like his body was fighting a war on a dozen fronts, and the allergic reaction to the drugs that were treating him was just the last straw."

Hegemon Wessich has expressed his heartfelt sorrow to the people of Merrit Isle.

"This is a great loss for the people of Merrit, but not one we will let them suffer alone," Wessich said. "Atnaia will be there to hold our Merritian cousins up in this time of sorrow."

The passing of Strongberg has thrown Merritian stability, as there are now no living members of its independent government to helm oversight of reconstruction following the Disaster. These concerns have not gotten past the Quorum.

"We will be moving to oversee a referendum for Merrit's future as soon as humanly possible," the Hegemon stated. "We will allow them to decide their future democratically, and will welcome the results with open arms. We have high hopes for seeing Merrit brought back into the Atnaian fold. After all, from culture to history, Merrit is as Atish as Port Gray, Ambress or Black Hill. We're all of the same, proud blood."

Some claim that any move to hold a referendum on Merrit Isle would be opportunistic, but the Quorum maintains that it is critically important for peace and stability in the Mesder Sea area.

"Already, our forces have ensured that post-disaster damages caused by looting and other human interference have been kept to a minimum," Wessich explained. "Riots and other calamities that frequently follow these sorts of disasters have been unheard of. The Royal Army has proven that the Hegemony is Merrit's best option at peace."

[Domanania]

July 28, 2016
Federation Broadcasting Channel
Domanania

New Addition to the Fleet

Earlier today it was announced that the Board of the Navy have begun construction on a new addition to the Federation Navy.

The Glacier Class Cruiser, Ravager, is planned to be completed by May of 2017. And thanks to our faithful allies Keomora, the cruiser is able to be built four months ahead of schedule due to their generous contributions to this project.

Some are wondering why it is being announced now to the public when it is only being built. But it is thought that it is a scare tactic to show our power to our enemy Bhikkustan.

The Specs of this powerful new ship are released and you can find them here: https://www.nationstates.net/page=dispatch/id=669204

[Eurania]

7/28/16
Eurania Central Channel
Eurania

Eurania showing support for protesters in Jahe

---

The government of the NSRE is unofficially leaning in support of the protesters in Jahe. In a statement by Premier Mikoyan in front of the Nationov Zoviet, he stated that "Socialism and Communism will be more balanced throughout the region, when the masses will rise up and begin to protest the idea of capitalism." There is a rumor that the government plans to further support uprising in the west, via unspeakable means - although it is denied by the government itself.

[Perawin]

7/28/16
PPBA
Vera Tiye Vaal Intensive Care Wing, Astarlane Hospital, Sarahite, Perawin

Perawin harbors deposed King of Puhrlam; denounces coup government

Reporters are camped outside the Vera Tiye Vaal Intensive Care Wing after the shocking discovery of a half-dead man when the Lady Maris was unloading early this morning. The story gained increased spotlight when Councilwoman Saren Ki-Willay, one of the most powerful politicians in the country, cut short her inspection of new shipyards in Winoan Bay to take control of the situation. Ki-Willay scheduled an emergency press conference outside the VTVIC in an attempt to calm media attention. "Yes, the rumors are true. Some time last night, in a ruthless coup, Shapur attempted to murder King Khosrau to seize control of the government. Yes, we will host HIs Majesty in Sarahite as long as this fake government attempts to keep control of Puhrlam. We are proud to announce our top doctors in the VTVIC are keeping His Majesty alive despite his serious injuries. Violence will never triumph in a democratic nation. No more questions." In an official statement signed by the Big Three -- Thea Ren, Kinder Canvay, and Aster Leonin -- with the notable exception of the Vaals, the Perawani council stated that

We, the Grand Duchy of Perawin, denounce the Shapur government of Puhrlam for avoiding democratic channels to seize power and for attempting to purge the government of those unsupportive of the coup. Perawin will not stand to see one of our strongest allies be overrun by an authoritarian government and will do all we can to assist His Majesty regain his country.

PPBA will continue updating this story as more facts become clear.

[Ipland]

07.28.2016
Iplandian National News
Feralind, Ipland

Rural Communities to be Revitalized with New Infastructure Projects

As many Iplandians know, infrastructure in the rural regions is significantly worse than in the city.
Many rural communities report water shortages, power outages, and roads that haven't been fixed for over a decade.

But today, the RCC (Rural Communities Commission) announced a large revitalization project for all communities with infrastructure deemed bad.

This will fix pipes, power lines, roads, etc. and will hope to create a better life for younger generations.

We will know more, shortly.

[Domanania]

July 29, 2016
Federation Broadcasting Channel
Domanania

Domanania Agrees to Peace Talks

A few days ago, the untrustworthy Bhikustani Government offered talks of peace between the two nations.

The Bhikustani government claims that we were not the targets of the attack at Tamron. They meant to "Strike the fleet of satan". Of which the satan they refer to is Vioraux. But at the time, only one ship from Vioraux was in tamron, when they could have striked many other targets where there were only Vienne ships.

The People are furious, but Marcius Brenshal has agreed to a cease fire and peace talks. He claims that this is to stop the war before it escalates and involves more countries.

[Covonant]

July 29, 2016
Coventry, Covonant



Consul Votes to Decommission UCS Dominion Escort Carrier

In a heated debate in the Consul today, members of the Consul deliberated on the issue of whether to get rid of or retain the country's only aircraft carrier. In a vote of the 240 MPs present, a resounding 176 voted to have the naval vessel decommissioned, while 45 voted to retain the carrier, with 25 abstain. The Speaker of the House Lucretia Lucii, approved of the members decision, noting that the time period will be early next year.

Opposition Leader Crassus Gais, expressed sadness at the results noting that Covonant is giving up its jewel, the symbol of its powers of the seas.

I am disheartened by the results. I know we have contemplated this vote but I was never one to believe it would have come to pass. The Union is a recognized naval power, and for us to give up the one symbol of power we have on the seas, I believe will leave a mark on our operations beyond our shores.

Minister of Defense Batiatus Sula, however believes the vote had the country's interest in mind. He noted that it was too costly and almost impractical for the Union having a aircraft carrier.

I am grateful that this August assembly have once again voted with the country at the forefront of our minds. The Opposition leader cries lost, I cry victory. Members of this noble cause, and this prestige House, we simply could not afford it.

Prime Minister Imperatus Marl welcomed the move noting that it was the right thing to do.

We have to be cognizant of the fact that our budget could not afford an carrier, and with letting go of the carrier we have made rooms for improve spending. Let us not view this as a lost for our country's navy but as a win. We may be giving up a carrier but we will still maintain our presence on the seas and our allies can rest assure Covonant's quick response and presence when the time is right and we are called upon

The government has announced that as early as January the UCS Dominion will be decommissioned. The Defense Minister has noted that his Ministry will find alternatives to fill the gap that will be present.

Minister of Defense Batiatus Sula, outlines what's next after decommissioning

The Minister of Defense Batiatus Sula, after witnessing the vote by the Consul to have the country's only naval carrier decommissioned had provided further details on what his Ministry will do leading up to the decommissioning and after. The Minister first noted his approval of the decision expressing that it was too costly.

A lot of persons may feel disappointed with the results, but we need to face the facts and come to terms with reality that we can't afford it. Presently the carrier is out of operation for the greatest part of the year, the only time its was in operation this year was between January and February, for the rest of the time after that it has been stationed in Kanaute at Eaglet Naval Base. What the Ministry intends to do is see what alternatives we have ensuring we have a naval force committed to protecting the seas and protecting our interest at sea.

The Minister noted that Covonant's navy remains among the best in the region and he has no doubt that it will change.

There have been talks that we no longer have a navy that can respond quickly to matters that may concern us at sea so our navy will be undermined in that respect. To those who may think that way, I call bullocks. Why that is impossible. For starters we have a few bases located in foreign countries, bases that are strategically located overseas, it is expensive enough to maintain these bases and at the same time maintain a carrier. A carrier is not that much a necessary if you have bases and your troops are deployed around the region. Our navy will only get stronger from here on forward.

When asked what were the alternatives that the Ministry of Defense will explore the Minister explained.

Presently we have a light aircraft carrier that we are negotiating on, but that has been stalled on the fact that members of the Consul are not taking lightly with the idea, we have found contractors to do the construction and in fact construction had started but due to lack of funds, it had to be placed on whole, issues such as those causes members in the Consul to want to push aside that options, however the light carrier should be available by the end of the year, the Consul would have to approve whether it is commissioned into service. I however have no problems with the light carrier it can assist with getting the job done. What I can assure will be done is more vessels be added to our fleet. Already we have been in dialogue with shipping contractors in Keomora looking at a possible deal of purchasing a few vessels. We are also exploring the option of acquiring more submarines to be placed on full time service on the high seas.

The Minister noted that he and his Ministry is devoted to restructuring the Union Navy.

We are looking to improve the services of the Navy, and before year end it will be improved,

The UCS Dominion has been in operation for the past ten years. The decommission of the carrier will see it being turned into a museum.

We thought it best to have it turned into a museum, when the time is near we will explore that option

Reporter: Gregory Stiles

[Eutriston]

Ground Campaign Eminent in the Jahe Conflict
King's Vision Fulfilled, Assault Ships and Tranport Planes Mobilise

Ground Troops Leave for Jahe

AMBRIDGE, EUTRISTAN- Two weeks after the calls by King William James for the usage of ground troops in Jahe, four days after Parliament approved the plan, and just hours since Emperor Pondes has signaled the green light, Eutristinian ground forces are now being flown into Jahe. The announcement came early Saturday afternoon when a surprise press conference was held at the Palace for unforeseen reasons. High ranking officials of the military were largely present, highest among them being Chief Defense Adviser of the Army Jonathon Richardson. Absent, though, was one of the most outspoken advocates of a ground campaign, King William James. Even though, he did say that he was "Excited to see progress come at such a fast pace", and that "Although we may not want to put our men in harms way, we must do what is right in our current situation".

When the plan was proposed to Parliament, the Liberals were mind-boggled. The plan, built and resting on many conservative principles and positions, was not as attractive to more leftist MPs and Moderates. Chief among there concerns was the notion of deep involvement in a foreign conflict, especially after the Second Quarter's disappointing GDP increase rate of only 2.3%. These internal problems must be resolved, the Liberals said, before they would consider a foreign war effort. David Thominson spoke on the matter after the vote passed, saying "Eutristan may be having internal problems. We may need to fix them. But Jahe is also having internal problems, ones much graver and consequential than ours. We must help them, our family, our kin, before we can be as selfish to look the other way and worry about ourselves. If we do that, we will turn our eyes away from the world, and when we turn back, we will have lost everything".

At the conference an official number of troops was set at around 65,000 troops, which would be transported via air, with a select few engineers and marines being brought on assault ships. Richardson spoke for majority of the conference, and although his speech was long, it offered few details. Richardson called it, "A do or die moment, one which we will never have the mantle to make again should we decline to the challenge." He also offered a general perspective of what the troops would do upon arrival, saying "The troop's mission is simple. They will be sent to the Jahenian borders to supplement the forces already there, and to fortify positions which have not been. They will protect Jahe from the outside and turn a blind eye to the internal matters, they will not take sides in the conflicts, their purpose is not as such. They are being sent there to protect Jahe, not Liberal Jahe, not Conservative Jahe, not Democratic Jahe, not Monarchist Jahe, or Communist Jahe. They are being sent for all Jahenians good, and when the dust settles on Jahe's internal struggles, they will move out, as their purpose was never to extend after such. Should they be attacked while they are there, efforts to reinforce them will be made a top priority."

Although the King was absent from the conference, he was not too shy to refrain from making news of his own. Shortly after the conference ended, the King announced on the Palace of Ambridge website that he would be visiting Jahe on a journey to meet the people of the country, and their new leadership, in the post-Cornelis era. Citing the dramatic changes in the societal landscape, he said "I am excited to meet the people of Jahe, along with their leaders, in person. I am eager to learn, and to see first hand, the struggles of the average man of Jahe. To work with the government to fix them. To provide our own help when needed. I will also be visiting our troops on the border, and making a speech while there. I hope to show these troops they are not alone, that the whole of Eutristan shows compassion and sympathy for them. My friend Emperor Piet Pondes will also be making a statement, and I am glad to be in the audience while he talks and to witness him as the people do." The trip is set for August 2nd through August 20th, making it the longest diplomatic journey the King has ever taken.