The Democritus Times (Democritus Only)

[Anxiety Cafe]

2 November 2027

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ECONOMY AND BUSINESS | ARTS AND LETTERS | GOVERNMENT | SPORTS | SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY | MILITARY | INTERNATIONAL

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Mapuche Victorious: End of the Conflict?

Early this morning, in what has been called "coordinated military action" by the governor of Concepción, a police department in Padre Las Casas (a suburb of Temuco) was set on fire, resulting in 2 deaths and 23 hospitalizations. Nearly half an hour later, Mapuche activists gathered in Anibal Pinto Plaza, the main square of Temuco, and stormed the nearby city hall, forcing the evacuation of mayoral staff. Anarchy erupted in the city as protesters vandalized and toppled status of Spanish conquistadors, forcing an already overextended police department to withdraw from the Wallmapu border, where additional medical aid and supply stations have been set up.

Unique to today's protests are a series of violent acts initiated by protesters, while violence has almost always been initiated by police officers prior. Police officers firing rubber bullets are facing volleys of stones, cans, and other miscellaneous objects. City authorities fled to the main Temuco police department, where the largest concentration of police officers stand to protect them, while Mapuche activists cross the border into the city unimpeded.

President Sánchez responded immediately by signing an emergency order requiring a binding referendum on Wallmapu membership for localities in the provinces of Concepción, Neuquén, and Chiloé; all three have launched lawsuits against it for violating the territorial integrity constitutionally afforded to them. Although the national government technically has the ability to federalize lands from provinces (with congressional approval), this has never been done before without explicit permission from the bodies involved. However, if Wallmapu is considered the legal successor of the Mapuche states that existed prior to San Martinian conquest in the 1800s, treaties ensuring land rights and autonomy may supercede the provinces' rights to the lands in the first place, but use of these may set a legal precedence for other ancestral Mapuche territories, including much of Patagonia.

After discussions with protesters, Sánchez has agreed to request neutral international observers to run the referendum, in return for the activists relinquishing city hall and, if appropriate, returning to Wallmapu. A strict curfew has been initiated in the city, and despite previous promises, Sánchez has brought in the military to "secure the situation" until the referendum can be held, tentatively scheduled for one month from now.

Sánchez has faced harsh criticisms for these recent actions; not only for "giving in to the demands of terrorists," but also for "overstepping the boundaries of presidential powers." Matias Soto, governor of Concepción, has led the anti-Sánchez movement, vowing to not turn over any lands outlined by the "illegal referendum." Sánchez has also faced other opponents. Some claim the demarcation of borders based on ethnic lines promotes ethnic nationalism and reduces diversity, negatively affecting other indigenous peoples in the nation. The president has not responded to any critics.

In Wallmapu, officials and residents alike have praised Sánchez, especially for expanding the autonomy issue beyond just Temuco but into all neighboring provinces, where large Mapuche communities still reside. Some hope that the new boundaries will allow for one governing body for all Mapuche, effectively uniting them under one political organization for the first time in history, as they have always been fractured into at least six states. This view, however optimistic, is unlikely due to the fact that many Mapuche live in large urban cities, with some tribes living entirely outside the bounds of the referendum (such as the Tehuelche in Chubut or the Ranquel in Cuyo). Still, an opportunity for relative political unity among Mapuche allows them an opportunity for more influence at the national stage, especially among other indigenous peoples.

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In Other News: Local branch of the Amity Fleet to be established in San Martinia; Millaman denies any connection between Wallmapu and the Shining Path; Sánchez seeing slight increase in approval ratings according to recent polls; Martínez to visit Temuco during referendum to encourage voting; Soto leaves Sánchez's Independent Democratic Union for the Republican Party

[The East African Commonwealth]

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Amity Fleet Independent of EAC

Nearly five years after its initial founding, the Amity Fleet has officially cut ties with the East African Commonwealth and will now function as an independent entity, free from the political desires of the EAC. The Amity Council will be retained as the formal head of the Fleet as well as each branch, but otherwise the Fleet is under a massive restructuring. The major Amity branches will remain but they are being re-designated as Divisions and will each have a representative on the Council. Each Division will be allocated a sixth of the total budget for personnel, operations, and facilities to ensure no one part of the fleet sees favoritism. In terms of where that funding is coming from, the EAC has agreed to give yearly funds of 15 billion to support the Amity Fleet and keep it in operation until the organization is on its feet financially. However, on the same day as this announcement was made, it was also announced that new National Branches of the Fleet will be opening in Italy, San Martinia, and the EAC. These Branches operate as semi-independent entities on their own which are maned and operated by the national government the Branch is based in. The national government will be able to direct the local Branches to conduct whatever operations they want so long as the motives for these actions are not political or being using for military means. They are jointly funded by the Fleet and the national government, however, should an international emergency or major operation occur all Branches will be under the direct authority of Amity Command or the Amity Council and not the local government.

Admiral Kutoa shakes the hand of Admrial Ura, signifying the end of the Fleet being a sub-branch of the Commonwealth's Coastal Partol

Each one of these branches will have a seat on the Amity Council as well, the main administrative body of the Fleet. This Council currently consists of nine members, one for each of the Divisions and one for each of the Branches. Each are nominated and selected by other members of the Fleet based on an individual's merit and abilities with the exception of National Nominations where individual nations may present personnel they feel may be worthy of holding a seat on the council. The Council will meet twice a year to discuss major issues and discuss the guidelines the fleet will follow. Should something need to be voted on, there must be a majority vote in the Council in order for any proposal to pass. Below the Council each Division and branch operates independently and is given great autonomy. This is the method that the Amity Fleet has operated over the last five years and there is currently no plans to change that management style. With administration and economics covered the Fleet wanted to address a new issue being their ability to respond internationally.

The Amity Fleet's New Temporary Council Headquarters in Tanga, Tanzania

It has been no secret that as of late the Fleet has been unable to act as anything more then an ocean cartography group and data gathering for archeology. Now things are changing. The Fleet's Shipbuilding Division has just launched the last three Venture Class Frigates (FA-13, FA-14, FA-15) and launched three new ship classes that are being classified as Amity Cruises. Each on of these ships is considered to be experimental and testing different designs to respond to different scenarios. The first design, the Swift class cruiser, is a bi-hulled vessel that is mean for fast transport and time sensitive operations. It is capable of conducting search and rescue, aid, and rapid response missions. It is currently the most favored design out of the new cruisers as it gives the Fleet the response time that it lacks. The second cruiser, the Valor Class Command Cruiser, is mean to act as an international command center and has the ability to coordinate multinational fleets during rescue and response operations. It also has the ability to act as a global command center for the Fleet should multiple crisis occur at once. Lastly, the Icon Class Cruiser is by far the largest and most ambitious of the three designs. Closer to an actual combat vessel, the large ship can transport and launch aircraft and deploy aid in a fashion similar to how military amphibious assault craft deploy marine forces. Each one of these ships will be placed under Amity Command for now, but it is expected that these ships may be given to different divisions developing on global events.

From Right to Left: The new Swift, Valor, and Icon Amity Cruisers with the new designation FC-XX steam out of dock for the first time

With new ships, a new administration, and a new reach the Amity Fleet appears to be ending the year on a high note, but that does not mean the Council is content with their current reach. The Fleet is considering opening new branches elsewhere and is currently in talks with the French and Bengali governments about creating new Amity Fleet Branches in their nations. It is also rumored that the Fleet will be establishing their first local development program somewhere in Africa to help stabilize the continent during the Cold War and lower tensions. We are expecting to hear more in the coming weeks on the progress of new missions, new branches, and a new future for the Fleet as it enters into an unknown future.

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| Africa First Candidate Announcement Expected Soon | Deal Struck with Germany and France to Reduce African Garrisons | Navy Prepares for Ship Orders to Replace Amity Vessels |
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[Calindelo]

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Malacca Strait Toll Expected To Be Implemented By Indonesian Government
7th November 2027

The Malacca Strait is one of the most busiest shipping lines in the world. (Photo circa 2022)

JAKARTA, INDONESIA - Recently, newly inagurated leader of Indonesia, President Viktor Makmuri, has expressed heavy interest in establishing a toll for maritime vessels who cross the strait of Malacca. Makmuri claims that due to the Malacca strait being one of the busiest shipping lanes across the entire world, the traffic may bring in pollution, and crime, specifically illegal immigration, smuggling, and piracy, and Indonesia is left to clean up what is left, which Makmuri see as unfair. The president then states that Indonesia may be entitled to some sort of compensation or payment to further improve traffic and pollution regulation, and fund forces to protect international trade and detain criminal elements going in, out, or through Indonesia and its allies.

[Nowa Polonie]

Economic and Diplomatic Junior Ministers for South American Affairs appointed

With an increasing trend in strengthening economic and diplomatic links with South America, President Witkowksi appointed to the Economic Ministry a new junior ministry several weeks ago, and the ministry is due to release its first report for Q4 of 2027 - Jaczek Piechota, formerly a member of the Communist PZPR during the reign of the Stalinist regime, and then of the Democratic Left in the Polish thaw, and finally of the current governing party, the Visegrad Left Alliance List, had previously served as the economic minister of the Polish state, and though the current posting he has received may come as a slight demotion, it is seen by many apparatchiks within the government as a position with increasing political relevancy.



Piechota's previous work within the Polish government in organising stronger links with the Baltic countries is seen as a blueprint platform that may be used to create stronger economic bonds with South America. With cooperation with the FSR in the development of a domestic capability to produce satellites, notably their 'Star One' model, Piechota has hit the ground running, announcing an agreement reached to bring onboard a team of technical officers from South America to oversee a new planned plant in Lublin, with an estimated budget of Zl. 220 million over an initial three year period, and an employment potential estimated anywhere between 800-1,200, depending on the success of the collaboration. Piechota has praised his counter-parts in the FSR, pointing to them as a model for a successful, federated Socialist economy.

Piechota is not alone in being the newest junior minister however, as former ambassador to Spain, Marzenna Adamczyk has joined ministerial staff as the Junior Minister for South American Affairs - her primary concern, in contrast with Piechota's cooperation with the FSR, has been focused on San Martinia - the recent Mapuche conflict there. While Adamczyk has not outright gone so far as to condemn or condone the recent actions of President Sánchez, the presence of a diplomatic delegation within Wallmapu, in the form of a small embassy, as well as a small staff of volunteer Police (who have so far acted in an advisory and administrative capacity, both helping to guide local police, provide expertise, and free up staff for active duty), has all but confirmed Visegrad's diplomatic recognition for Wallmapu, and Adamczyk said as much.



A Professor of Hispanic Studies, and fluent in Polish, English, Spanish, Portuguese and Russian, Adamczyk is regarded as a fine choice for her posting, and speaking regarding most recent developments in San Martinia, she said;

''While it is not the place of Visegrad's people or politicians to wag their fingers and dictate policy across the world, we are all too familiar with the kind of domestic unrest that is occurring there - we have felt its hurt, and our only aim is to assist in what ways we can to see that that same hurt does not fall upon people we share the unbreakable bond of humanity with - to this end, I wish to extend the branch of peace to Mr. Millaman, and Mr. Sánchez, and to offer whatever help my I can provide in my office to the people of San Martinia, both Mapuche and otherwise.''

[Lendenburgh]

Chief Justice Nyström demands Monarchy be stripped of titles
In the wake of intense debate on the floor of the National Assembly over the structure of the new Nordic Constitution, the Provisional High Court has stepped in for the third time in the process- this time, demanding the Monarchy be stripped of their last vestiges of ceremonial power in the country. Members of the Conservative and some of the Center party are heavily objecting to the ruling, saying the court has no right to make demands, and the role of the Monarchy should be solely determined by parliament. However, PM Sassa Karstenson made a statement in affirmation of the Chief Justice's wishes today, seemingly open to cooperation between the legislature and the judiciary in establishing the new constitution.

The people of the Nordic Federation made a clear determination this last election cycle. A determinantion that this nation would no longer tolerate abusive government, tyranny, or even the possibility of those appearing. As the High Court has been specifically tasked with jointly overseeing the country's transition back to a Constitutional, limited democracy, it is the absolute duty of this body to provide input in the constitutional process. It has become exceedingly clear that royal figureheads are no longer, even ceremonially, important to the majority of Nordic citizens. To maintain the government's mandate of popular rule, this court hereby find the abolition of the Monarchy's ceremonial power to be an indelible step in the ratification of the next governing documents of the nation

Signed,
Chief Justice Nyström
of the Nordic Provisional High Court

I cannot help but agree with the Honorable Justice Nyström on his comments about the Monarchy. Despite what my compatriots in the opposition are saying, the simple fact remains that the King is no longer reflective of the state of Nordic Society. In the course of the political turbulence over the past year, we have been tasked with the unique opportunity to shape a new Nordic society- not just for today, but for the next thousand years, and the people have given clear indications that the new Federation should not include a figurehead monarch. The days of old Europe have long been numbered. We must constantly innovate in both the political and economic spheres of the nation, and just as the people have given my party the mandate of bringing down the old economic order of Nordic society, so too must I seek to bring down the remnants of the old political order. I do not make these comments our of revolutionary fervor, but a rational desire to create the best nation for all citizens. That means we must prevent the terrible things which took place in 2026 from ever happening again, including the Monarch using his position to institute a new government without considering the will of the people. We are fortunate enough that King Oscar is not a tyrant, because the current system- even if it is nominally ceremonial- still allows for a single, autocratic leader to step into power. We saw this very clearly with Autarch Ramussen, and we must prevent this political tragedy from ever happening again.

Excerpt from Prime Minister Sassa Karstensen's speech on the floor of the National Assembly

Minister of Foreign Affairs speaks out about Mapuche conflict, Malacca tariffs, and possibility of joining the Amity Fleet

In a press conference earlier this week, the Minister of Foreign affairs seemed to refrain from making definitive statements on the ongoing Mapuche conflict in San Martinia-

He stated that "The Federation is glad to see the situation diffuse from the heightened tensions seen over the past few weeks," but that the Nordic Federation would "not attempt to make any comment on the efficacy of current policy or provide guidance to a foreign government regarding internal affairs." This very political response was met with some pressing questions from the media, asking why the government was not taking a more concrete stance on the issue, the Minister did not respond to the question. Those in Stockholm who support the Mapuche's push for further autonomy have said the Socialist government is not supporting the worldwide struggle for rights as it should, while the majority of the population remains ambivalent. Politicos have theorized that the government is not making a definitive statement until other DEU nations have a clearer position on the issue, and seem to be waiting for a more politically opportune moment to 'take sides' on the issue.

However, the Minister did not refrain from painting a clear position on the proposed Malacca strait tariff,

The Nordic Federation strongly urges the Indonesian government to reconsider this toll. Though DEU trade agreements provide exemptions, it is still worrying to see such a vital artery of international trade be compromised. We understand the importance of raising revenue from national assets- but, as the Danish learned in the 18th and 19th centuries from the dissolution of the Sound Toll for the Øresund, it can become an all too intoxicating reliance for the nation. The Nordic government publicly extends an offer of support to the Indonesian government in order to further develop domestic industry and trade ties without the imposition of a toll, so that both international trade through the strait and the people of Indonesia may thrive.

Towards the end of the press conference, the Minister did confirm that the Nordic and EAC governments were in talks to establish a branch of the Amity Fleet in the country- which could be an economic boon, and an important component of the Federation's reputation on the high seas in coming years.

Government presses hard on nationalization- removes all legal protections for private property across entire industries

In the continuation of efforts to nationalize certain sectors of the economy, the National Assembly has recently passed a resolution that officially suspends all protections of private property in the sectors that are under nationalization. Following the Pharmaceutical industry, Mining sector, and metal processing facilities- the government is expected to begin the acquisition of many financial institutions over the course of the next month, slowly transitioning them into state-operated and insured savings banks, as well as forbidding many types of speculation and stock market investing that are currently occurring in the Federation.

Being the major point of deviance between the governing coalition and the opposition, Conservative party members spoke out in the media extensively against the resolution, going so far as to call it "a violation of the most fundamental rights of Nords." PM Karstensen was quick to respond on twitter saying "If this country had elected conservatives, the only fundamental rights Nords would have had was private property."

The drafting of the Constitution, in the wake of the scrapped convention, still proves to be an extremely arduous process. Estimates for when drafts will be ready to vote on range from a few months to an entire year. The Nyström Court may have had their deadline for democratic elections met, but as of yet, there has been no new mandate for a Constitution ratification deadline. We will keep you as up to date as possible on upcoming conventions and votes regarding the Constitution.

Expanded portions of the Karlskrona-Gdansk treaty are publicly released, confirming Nordic-Visegradian military cooperation
In addition to the unveiling of economic and cultural cooperation, the energy union, and the cross-Baltic mega tunnel, the government has released further details of the Karlskrona-Gdansk treaty with the Visegrad Union this week. The additional terms include joint military operations and training exercises, as well as a clause outlining a full military alliance. The increased ties between the two socialist nations on the European continent seem to be expanding to a common defense, the first the Federation has entered into outside of the DEU.

However, political opponents from within the governing coalition have stated they are concerned about the military overruning their spending, and do not see a need for the expansion of military assets on as large of a scale as is currently occuring. Only time will tell whether PM Karstensen is able to moderate the Conservative/Centrist push for military development with her own coalition's desire for pacifism.

[Calindelo]

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The Biaya Selat Act of 2027 signed into Law;
France and Indonesia Cooperate in Drilling Operations in the South China Sea;
Makmuri Administration Plans to Strengthen Ties and Invest in French Indochina
22nd of November, 2027

President Viktor Makmuri holds a press conference in Merdeka Palace, Jakarta after signing the Biaya Selat Bill. (November 20, 2027)

JAKARTA, INDONESIA - After signing The Foreign Vessel Protection and Tollage Act, colloquially known as the Biaya Selat, President Makmuri held a short press conference to clarify and expound the newly passed law to Indonesian citizens and the government's plan in the near future. The President has stated that the coast guard and to a smaller extent, the navy would receive an increase in funding and all civilian DEU vessels would be exempted from the toll, whilst DEU military vessels would need to pay a fixed rate; small Indonesian fishing vessels would be exempt from tolls, but would be randomly selected and searched by the coast guard. The Coast guard would patrol the straits of Malacca, Makassar, Sunda, Lombok, and the sea of Banda for unidentified vessels and suspected pirates. Passing vessels in Malacca would need to pay their respective passage fee and register in any of the following ports: Medan, Kuala Lumpur, Malacca City, Batam, Singapore, and in the future, the would-be-made port of Rupat Port in Rupat Island. The ports of the other straits are still being discussed. The refusal or evasion of payment and registering would result in the seizure of vessel, arrest of the crew-members, and the confiscation of goods. According to experts, around 500 vessels pass through the major straits and passageways of Indonesia each day, and around 180,000 per year, which means tolling would make 35 Billion USD per year. Operations will start around the second quarter of 2028.

President Makmuri has also announced Indonesia's agreement with France to cooperate in researching and extracting South China Sea's oil and natural gas, for the benefit of both nations and the ability for Indonesian companies and corporations to invest and establish industries in Saigon with no tariffs or taxes. The President is pleased with the recent diplomatic interactions with France and expects both nations would have increased bilateral relations.

[Bengal and Assam]

Bengal joins Amity Fleet. Naval base HMKS Niiyon-Machi handed over ceremoniously

As the clock struck 6, in the presence of important government officials and head officers of the Amity Fleet, the Royal Kawanese Navy ensign was lowered to the tune of Heart of Oak for the last time over His Majesty’s Kawanese Service Niiyon-Machi, located south of Fort William, as the base was turned over to the Indian Ocean detachment of the Amity Fleet. In its place, a White Ensign, with the Amity Fleet’s symbol flanking the Union Flag was raised to reflect the change in management.

Over the past month, the government, and a delegation from the Fleet worked out a mutually beneficial agreement for the basing of the fleet in Bengal. This week, the Royal Kawanese Navy stripped the base of its weapons stores, defensive capabilities and based ships, all of them being relocated to nearby HMKS Kizukawa in Funamori, east of Fort William, while leaving behind consumable and livelihood stores and naval repair capabilities.

According to government ministers, Amity Fleet and Royal Kawanese Navy officials present in the subsequent Tell the Press session, the Amity Fleet, as a maritime body with the sole purpose of distributing aid and conducting humanitarian activities, will be under the command of an autonomous office within the Ministry of Civil Defence, which will initially be staffed by officers mainly from the Royal Kawanese Navy until suitable the Kawanese detachment of the Amity Fleet can provide replacements from their own . The Amity Fleet will also be able to call on the Royal Kawanese Navy should it require assistance.

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NOT CANON AS OF NOW

Polling in Maldives show a significant portion of people comfortable with the idea of Maldives joining Bengal

Normally known as a tropical paradise, Maldives is one of the biggest foreign travel destinations for Kawanese tourists. However, underneath all its glamour lies a poor nation, politically unstable with frequent coups as well as human rights abuses.
Recently, a Kawanese think tank conducted a poll in all populated islands of Maldives, and found that a significant portion of Maldivian citizens support their country becoming a part of Bengal in the future.

Experts attribute this to the Maldivian expat population in Bengal, who come here looking for work, and are treated somewhat like Kawanese citizens in sectors such as housing, healthcare and education due to the country’s link to what Bengal considers to be the old Commonwealth. These expats go back to the Maldives and tell their close ones about Bengal and its way of life, giving their peers the idea of what Maldives could be under the Kawanese welfare state. Other factors come into play as well, such as political stability as a part of British Kawa, a more stable economy due to Kawanese investment and diversification from the predominantly tourism based economy, more stable finances due to the strong Kawanese Dollar. Environmentalists are more likely to vote for joining Bengal in a future referendum due to Bengal’s stringent environment laws, something that subsequent administrations in independent Maldives have ignored.

After the polls are broken down, younger people are more likely to vote for joining Bengal, with those in the middle predominantly unsure, and older people against the idea of the Maldives losing its sovereignty.

[Anxiety Cafe]

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Moving Santiago?

22/11/2027 - 16:59 Clarin.com | Economy |

The Chilean Central Valley holds much of the western coast's population, including large cities like Santiago de Chile and Temuco. This fertile area, well-suited for both agriculture and urbanization, is enclosed by the Chilean Coastal Range on its west, the Andes on its east, and the Sea of Chiloé to the south. It's northern border is far less defined; the separation of the two ranges to form the valley is not uniform in its north-south direction, resulting in interruptions that form bowl-like basins, which hold cities in the northern valley, like Santiago de Chile, Rancagua, and Los Andes. This scattered portion of the valley is its northern zone; its central zone runs from uninterrupted from San Fernando to Villarrica, where an extension of the Coast Range reaches inland to the Andes. The southern zone runs interrupted from this extension to Puerto Montt and the Reloncaví Sound in the south.

An issue common to cities of the northern valley, however, is smog, as polluted air tends to remain in the bowl where wind cannot blow it away. However, additional problems arise from the overpopulation of these basins; urbanization has reached the mountains, and lines the banks of the narrow river valleys through the Coast Range to coastal cities like Valparaíso and San Antonio. The northern valley, according to officials and environmentalists alike, has long exceeded its carrying capacity and can no longer sustain further population increases.

Authorities in Santiago de Chile and Valparaíso have labelled decongestion of the northern valley cities "of the highest priority," and have come to an agreement with the governors of the provinces of Valparaíso, Concepción, and Chiloé to increase integration and encourage migration to cities of the central and southern valley. This agreement highlights especially Curico, Talca, Linares, Chillán, Los Ángeles, Osorno, and Puerto Montt,

As a group, these provinces have committed to expanding and constructing transportation routes along what they term the "Valley Corridor," but the remainder of the endeavor has been delegated to city officials. Some, like in Curico and Talca, seek to take advantage of proximity to Santiago and Valparaiso by encouraging suburbanization, while others, such as Chillán and Los Ángeles, are instead focusing development nearer to the city centers, where transportation nodes are.

The bulk of this development is in Concepción, which in addition to expanding the cities of Linares, Chillán, Los Ángeles, and Osorno, highlights two areas of focus. The first is between the cities of Chillán and Los Ángeles. In this area, a widening of the valley combined with close proximity of Concepción and a stable water source (the Biobio River) encourages urbanization. Similarly, in the southern valley, the flooded river mouths of the Valdivia and Maullín Rivers create sheltered harbors (Valdivia and Maullín, although this latter one is inside the border of Chiloé), while the nearby lake district can serve as a water source. Matias Soto, governor of Concepción, says these areas are the best in the entire valley for population growth.

The recent announcement of this decongesting plan, although having been in discussion for years, came as a shock. Many labelled it as a political ploy; the governors of all three provinces have declared their support for Concepción in the ongoing dispute with Wallmapu, across political party affiliations. A projection of unity within the Chilean heartland is likely en effort to delegitimize and dishearten Mapuche activists, what with the referendum on expanding Wallmapu borders coming soon. This project specifically, to encourage migration from the northern valley to the central and southern valley, may also have political implications. Additionally, the exclusion of Wallmapu from such an effort is notable; it is within their borders that the valley is at its widest, interrupting the coastal range and forming a continuous area of relative flatland to the sea.

Wallmapu leaders have labelled the project as an affront to their autonomy; Concepción's two areas of focus are just north and south of the border, and thus the Wallmapu Republic will likely have to face increased encroachment as a result. Additionally, an endeavor to increase population of the valley and encourage integration will of course result in a growth in use of transportation corridors that run through Wallmapu, which is legally obligated to allow them to pass. These together, according to Millaman, "display the true intentions of the project."

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In Other News: University of Temuco officially endorses Mapuche claim to the city; Three juveniles allegedly burned down Mapuche cultural center; Economists concerned about the effects of the Malacca Strait tax on global trade; Man arrested for assaulting a Mapuche family in Concepción

[Greater Persian State]

Tehran Daily Mail

Khoroushi On his way to a meeting with a workingmen's association
Drama as Khoroushi Asserts Control

The Social Democratic Party has been embroiled by party conflict as Prime Minister Khoroushi has attempted to assert control of the war still reeling from the attempted coup two years ago, from the departure of Akbar, and now grappling with Khoroushi's attempt to liberalize aspects of the party and the economy. Khoroushi's attempts to assert his control over the party, from a combination of factions and the continuing dominant influence of Davud Akbar, boil down to two main thrusts. One, democratizing the party. The Party infrastructure has been dominated by a powerful Executive Committee and committees dominated by the Trade Unions. Khoroushi has attempted to give more control to party members, where the influence of factions is less prevalent. Secondly, liberalizing aspects of the economy by transferring some appendages of state owned enterprises either to private ownership or labor self management. He has now sought to expand this reform to reframing the party institutionalization of "Davud Akbar Thought" to be less directly laudatory of the former Prime Minister.

This has proved difficult. Initial privatizations were quickly approved by the Persian Freedom Party which props up the government, but the left of the SDU said the PM was "aspiring to Dengism." There was even a resignation of two government Ministers. However, the democratization of certain state owned enterprises and end of state funding was greeted more favorably by the party, although not as much by the opposition. Persia First however, was not entirely opposed and some deputies voted for it.

Party democratization was another steep hill. Davud Akbar used his influence to slow down some of the suggested reforms, and at a session of the Executive Committee Khoroushi was strongly rebuked. However Khoroushi used the power of his position as Prime Minister well, he fired several Ministers in Akbar's pocket and unilaterally rewrote SDU by-laws to exclude these former Ministers from the Executive Committee. At the next meeting he bused in supporters of the reformers, and he was able to win the vote on restoring many of the tasks of party management to local committees and national membership. He met with Akbar publicly to shake hands and uphold party unity, and the issue was largely settled.

As for the issue of Davud Akbar Thought, Akbar moved behind the measure to uphold party unit for which he was greatly applauded. The party constitution was updated to reflect "SDU values of egalitarianism and democracy." Davud Akbar Thought remained in the constitution without being directly mentioned.

Other Bulletins
-PM Khoroushi to review new subterranean construction projects
-Backlash against new Feminist movements proves weaker then predicted
-Inside the Push for Marriage Equality: LGBT Activists push for the government to recognize same-sex unions

[Nowa Polonie]

Visegrad signs 'Trans-Atlantic Trade Agreement (TATA)' with Pacifica

In a breakthrough for Visegrad trade, Visegradnik sources confidently announced publicly they had concluded previously unknown talks with Pacifican counterparts. In a move rare to Visegrad, the provisions of the trade deal that resulted have allowed for a limited opening of the Visegrad economy to foreign investment - more specifically, to Silicon Valley. Going forward, Pacifican companies will be presented the chance to purchase, both from the publicly traded companies within Visegrad, and from state owned industries, up to a 38% share in ownership, much higher than the usually allowed 22% share in foreign-ownership of company stocks.



Visegrad has a long history of domestic manufacture of electronic parts, and a healthy metallurgical industry to lower costs, so the expansion into computer parts has come quite naturally to some companies. It is hoped that with enough time, and both domestic and foreign investment, that Visegrad-made computers can launch a market coup in Europe and the near-East.

Originally pursued by the trade ministry to seek foreign markets for Poland's shipyards - particularly in the sale of cargo freighters made in shipyards like Gdynia - after several weeks of dialogue, a much wider deal was eventually reached, encompassing the sale of machine parts, industrial machines and cargo freighters from Visegrad, and the purchase computers and computer parts from Pacifica. President Witkowski was described by sources within the cabinet as being particularly pleased by the deal reached, owing to an ongoing diplomatic campaign from Visegrad to establish stronger trans-Atlantic links, and to diversify its trading relationships and diplomatic arrangements.



Despite possessing some of the largest shipyards on the Baltic Sea, and some of the largest in Europe, the shipyards of Poland's Baltic coastline have seen a sluggish last few years in growth. Slow expansion of production capabilities, and low demand from overseas markets have plagued them since Visegrad Unification - when the inclusion of the Czech and Slovak economies reduced the necessity of oversea trade - but with the agreement reached, they will once again spring to life, and the sale for profit of cargo freighters to Pacifica, it is hoped that this, in conjunction with increasing Baltic partnership with the Nordic Union, will bring about a re-invigoration of Visegrad's maritime industries.

More pleasing for the Defense Ministry - who established side-channel talks soon after trade dialogue began between Visegrad and Pacifica, a deal valued at ~$500 million was reached providing for the sale of Pacifican F-16 fighters, with a stock of spare parts. The Visegrad Air Force, while possessing a stock of several dozen relatively modern Mig-29s inherited from its constituent nations, particularly from the Polish Air Force (which prior to the collapse of the Eastern bloc, was like the army, the second most large, and the second most professional, in the Eastern Bloc, after the Soviet Union), has been given specifications and a small fund to achieve a limited modernisation over the next four years. Sources in the MoD were happy to say that the planes would allow for the phasing out of several dozen older Mig-25 platforms from combat duty (though wasting nothing, they will likely be sold on, or used as training craft). The new planes have been broken into two training groups of twelve, where for the next three months, Visegrad pilots will be learning how to use the new kites, while six have been set aside for study by Visegrad engineers so that production of spare parts for the new planes can be achieved domestically.



Still regarded globally as a competent fighter, the purchase of the F-16 has been heralded in Visegrad to take a long look at effective, foreign designs. Existing aircraft manufacturers like PSL and Avia, conglomerated now under the Visegradnik Aeronautika state manufacturer, have been given the green-light to study and dismantle several of the new fighters.

[Anxiety Cafe]

☰ Sections | Clarín Economy

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The Rio de la Plata: Shipping Improvements

12/12/2027 - 17:58 Clarin.com | Economy |

The Río de la Plata Basin allows navigation far into the South American interior, but much of this potential is still untapped. For example, in the image shown above to the left, only the blue sector is open for oceangoing vessels; all else can only be traversed by barges. This, and other navigational difficulties, are to be resolved soon, according to the Ministry of the Interior.

Although the basin is heavily regulated by dams and hydroelectric plants, especially in the Brazilian Plateau, there no dams on any of the rivers in San Martinian territory, except for the binational Yacretá and Salto Grande dams, on the Paraná and Uruguay Rivers, respectively. To improve navigation, however, two new dams, shown in green above, are to be built on the San Martinian course of the Paraná River: one, Chapetón, just north of Santa Fe-Paraná, while the other, Patí, will be near Reconquista-Goya. These dams, in addition to having a combined hydroelectric power capacity of 5,212 MW, will increase the depth of the red section from 8 feet to 21 feet, allowing oceangoing vessels to reach all the way up to Resistencia-Corrientes, just south of the Paraguayan border.

In the headwaters of the Bermejo River, a tributary of the Paraguay River (which unites with the Paraná River at the Paraguayan border north of Resistencia), an afforestation and reforestation program will be conducted. The Bermejo, despite being a relatively small tributary of the system, contributes over half of its silt, and thus to expensive dredging in the Paraná and Río de la Plata. Continued silting, in addition to causing the expansion of the Paraná River delta, which will pose difficulties to navigation if left unchecked, would also cause eventual structural problems in these dams.

In the binational sector of the Paraná, two additional dams, also shown in green will be constructed. The Itatí-Itacora Dam will be located between the Yacretá Dam and the confluence with the Paraguay, while the Itacuá Dam will be located between the Itaipú and Yacretá Dams. These two dams will have a combined hydroelectric capacity of 6,300 MW, to be split between the two nations. Functioning as compensating reservoirs (Itati-Itacora for Yacretá and Itacuá for Itaipú), these can also allow the already-established dams to increase power capacity while reducing or eliminating the structural and downstream erosion and navigation consequences associated with it, having a total increase of 2,350 MW (950 MW of which, corresponding to the binational Yacretá, will be split, while the remaining 1,400 MW, corresponding to the FSR Itaipú, will only be for this country).

These two dams will also increase river depth in this binational section from its current 8 feet to 12 feet. It would still be limited to barge traffic, but would have improved navigational security (due to current more precarious conditions) and would allow for larger barges, and thus more cost-efficient transport. For this sector, a lock system would also be constructed by the FSR on the Itaipú dam, thus allowing direct navigation between near 1,450 km of barge-navigable waterways of the upper Paraná and its tributaries and the over 1,500 km of the middle and lower Parana before it reaches the Río de la Plata.

This endeavor, then, will increase the navigational length of the Paraná River by oceangoing vessels by over 500 km, more than doubling its ability and covering almost the entirety of the Paraná River in solely San Martinian territory, in addition to improving navigational abilities above this sector. This extension provides a much more cost-efficient economic outlet for San Martinia's north, especially for northwestern cities like Salta and San Miguel de Tucumán, which were previously greatly isolated from the Atlantic, but also for the northeast, the Brazilian south, and Paraguay.

The other area of navigational difficulties is in the downstream areas of the system: the lower Paraná and Uruguay Rivers, the Paraná River delta, and the Río de la Plata itself. In its lower reaches, the Paraná River becomes a delta, pouring into the Río de la Plata directly or indirectly through the Uruguay River. All of these areas are navigable for oceangoing vessels already. The Paraná, downstream of Rosario, is dredged to 34 feet, while the Uruguay, downstream of Concepción del Uruguay, is dredged to 25 feet. In the Río de la Plata, almost all canals are dredged to 34 feet, except the Martín García Canal shown in purple above to the right, which is dredged to 32 feet, and the Madgalena Canal shown in green, which is dredged to 36 feet.

Normally, ships from the relatively shallow Uruguay River must stop for refueling and/or transferring of shipments to larger boats in Uruguayan ports, either Nueva Palmira (32 feet) or Montevideo (34 feet) before venturing into the Atlantic. As a result, this system bypasses San Martinian ports like Buenos Aires and La Plata. To overcome this issue, the de la Serna Canal (shown above in red) is to be extended, widened, and deepened to the standard 34 feet, connecting the three navigable arms of the Paraná River. The northernmost (Paraná Guazú) and middle (Paraná Bravo) arms empty across from Nueva Palmira, connecting to the 32-foot Martín García Canal, while the southernmost (Paraná de las Palmas) empties near Buenos Aires, connecting to the 34-foot Emilio Mitre Canal. This canal, then, will allow ships from the Uruguay River to avoid the current 32-foot limit and, at the same time, improve their access Buenos Aires and La Plata. Puerto Guazú, shown in red will be established at the northern end of the canal, serving as a gateway and transshipment center between it and the 25-foot Uruguay River.

After ships leave the Paraná, Uruguay, and inner Río de la Plata, they can exit into the Atlantic either through the Magdalena Canal directly, or through the Punta Indio Canal, making a stop for refueling and shipping in Montevideo. However, the Punta Indio Canal is currently only dredged to 34 feet, compared to the Magdalena Canal's 36 feet. Thus, Puerto Salado, shown in orange, will be established at the mouth of the Salado River in Samborombón Bay, connected to the Magdalena Canal through an access channel dredged to 36 feet. While acting as an alternate refueling center, Puerto Salado will also serve as a transshipping center; shipments from the basin can be transferred to larger ships before the long and fuel-consuming trip into the Atlantic, making trade more cost-effective.

Puerto Guazú and Salado, as the only ports of their respective provinces (Mesopotamia and Buenos Aires) in the Río de la Plata proper, will also serve as their main export centers, accessing the agricultural products of the southern Pampas, one of the most productive areas in the world, alongside the industrial corridors of the highly urbanized sector.

The Martín García Canal, connecting the Uruguay River and northern arm of the Paraná Delta to the Río de la Plata, will also be dredged from its current 32 feet to 34 feet, while the Punta Indio Canal, connecting the Río de la Plata to Montevideo and the Atlantic Ocean, will be dredged from 34 feet to 36 feet. As a result, the inevitable increase in traffic that will come from opening the Brazilian south and San Martinian northwest to the network alongside overall navigational and access improvements can be distributed among a number of ports in the Río de la Plata, instead of overloading any. This also means both gateways into the basin are dredged to 36 feet, allowing for cheaper trade with the rest of the world.

In summary, only 1,470 km of the current system is available for oceangoing traffic; the remaining 4,080 km is limited to barge traffic. However, after these efforts to improve navigability, near 2,100 km will be oceangoing, while over 3,500 km will remain for barge traffic, for a total network of over 5,600 km of interconnected navigable waterways providing an outlet for much of the South American interior's products.

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In Other News: Results of Wallmapu referendum still being tabulated as legal disputes arise; Polls of Mapuche communities show increasing desire to move to Wallmapu; Villa Mercedes considering ban on public horseriding following traffic catastrophe

[Ukrayinae]

17 December 2027

31st Anniversary of the Revolution


Ukrayinian Regiment and the Tank Formation

Kiev is filled with fluttering flags of the Nation and of the Party. 31 years ago, the decadent Ukrayinian Government led by the vile traitorous scum then President Viktor Omelchuk ruined the country and almost sent its people into poverty. Our Leader, Stepan Ryudik led our valorous Generals to oust the Government that has greatly shamed its own citizens. 31 years ahead, the people remember the deeds done during those times, the rising of the Ukrayinian Eagle, the technocratic economic reforms which revitalized so many sectors of society. The Party has given the people increased standards of living, strengthened the military, and gave Ukrayinae the capacity to be a European Power. On this day, Kiev is filled with celebration, Children waving flags, posing with members of the Protection Squadron. Everyone is massing up on Kiev's City Center to watch the Annual Military Parade which is always showcasing improved equipment of the Military since 1997.

The Leader then gave a long speech that shows gratitude to the Ukrayinian people for the achievements that they have done for the past year. He thanked the Party Bureaucracy even up to the lowly farmer.

Ukrayinae continues to rise from the ashes and will continue to rise until our enemies have been struck by our might. Long Live the Movement! Long Live the People! Long Live Ukrayinae! -Kerivnyk Stepan Ryudik

The Day ends with Church Services and Thanksgiving Dinners in each family. Ukrayinian National Television plays patriotic music throughout the night until 10PM wherein the National Anthem plays and the annual showcase plays for people to feel proud of their achievements and the nation's.

Other News:

- The Leader plans to open up relations with France and Germany.
- Grand Admiral Vyacheslav Shevchuk lays out plans for another expansion of the Ukrayinian Navy.
- Protection Leader and Minister of the Interior Eduard Kolesnyk approves expansion of the Security Service

[Zackaroth]

Leadership Crisis in Zackaroth: Zackaroth Close to Civil War?

Zackaroth's Leadership crisis has not gotten better in the intervening months. Instead of a peaceful transfer of power, the country is quickly fragmenting into camps supporting who exactly should be the High Leader. When Yusri el-Akram sustained an overwhelming vote in the Zackarothian national elections, High Leader Abullah refused to accept the results and claimed foreign interference was to blame for his loss. Things only got worse from there as it was eventually revealed that Abullah may have poisoned former Nassar Akram to regain his own High leadership position and to further Zackaroth's interest in Africa. This sent shockwaves through the nation that caused riots and protests. The riots got so bad, that the Zackarothian National Guard and local police forces where authorized to use live ammo if they got bad enough. This lead to what is known as the Massacre of Toss, where a large protest turned into a riot and then a brief gun battle as Police and Troops opened fired, killing at least 50 people and injuring hundreds more in the stampede. Things only got worse as Nassar Akram's death was labeled murder by poisoning, though Abullah was never indited for this crime. Pressure was mounting for the High Leader concede.

However, an ill timed message and offer caused another break. When Puertollano Leader, Castillo, died, Yusri el-Akram sent words of condolences and even offered to attend the funeral as High Leader of Zackaroth. However, this provided fuel for Abullah's claims that Akram only won the election because of South American help. Effigy's of Castillo and Akram where burned and some crowds have been seen chanting praise for the death of the South American Leader. Akram attempted to put on a defense that Puertollano is not Orostan and where not the ones that attacked Zackaroth. But that was not enough as both Akram and Abullah supporters started clashing in the streets.

Now Zackaroth is dangerously close to fragmenting and has almost been split in half. Akram had relocated to Jeddah while Abullah still sits in Toss. The various armed forces of Zackaroth are also fragmenting as well, with claims of desertion high as some abandon the High Leader to join Akram, seeing him as the true leader of the nation. This has also not been limited to the state of Zackaroth but also it's other states and even the Commonwealth.

The UA, Palestine, Oman, Yemen and Kuwait have all sided with Abullah. All these states, save for Kuwait, have been with Zackaroth for decades and benefitted greatly from Abullah's rule. Kuwait and Palestine even see him as the great emancipator for either liberating their countries or allowing them into the Republic.

Zackarothian Syria, Bahran, Qatar and the ZAC have all thrown their weight behind Akram with many of those states suffering immense civilian casualties during Abullah's landgrabs in the late 2010s or having been greatly aided by Akram's father. The ZAC prospered tremendoiusly under Nassar Akram's Mogadishu Plan and have managed to turn their economies around .

Jordan is staying netural and attempting to keep the Republic together, constantly advising for peace talks and appealing to the CSN for aid.

The nation is on a verge of a brutal and bloody civil war. Unlike the wars in Africa, both sides have access to advanced and dangerous weaponry. This also possibly include chemical, biological and even nuclear weapons. A civil war here would be unlike anything seen since the Second Nigerian Civil War and would most likely include mass casualties in the possible millions. Thats also not to say the world wide economic shock this may cause as Zackaroth's Oil fields would be prime targets for either side and could seriously diminish oil sales in the near future.

The world is watching and waiting to see if this resolves peacefully or explodes.

[Greater Persian State]

Tehran Daily Mail

Soldiers of the Anbar District moving into position
CRISIS IN ZACKAROTH: NATION ON DEFENSE FOOTING

Rival political factions threaten to tear Zackaroth apart as the central authority of the country has faltered and the national defense forces have splintered. The entire Republic looks poised to blow, along with it a key Persian regional partner, Near East Accord member, and a key source of energy for much of the world. As soon as the crisis emerged, Cabinet has held several meetings both scheduled and emergency to discuss government response, and has acted with at least for now, the support of all main parties.

The Government of the Federative Republic of Persia has taken many actions to secure regional stability. First the official political position of the government. The government maintains that stability, democracy, and peace must return to Zackaroth, and that the road to despotism is undesirable for regional partners and the people of Zackaroth. The Persian government believes that Akram and Abdullah must meet with international meditation to discuss a path forward without violence. The government does not explicitly endorse any particular side, only that peace must be upheld. The government has also instructed all international ambassadors to meet with the governments in the countries which they are stationed to discuss the situation and provide Persia as a stable regional partner to work through for the crisis. The economic response has been preparations to increase oil production meet global demand in the event that the Zackarothian fields are compromised, as well as increasing protection of pipelines. The government is also initiating research into providing other market needs that may not be filled in the event of civil war. In the military sphere, the government It has mobilized all military districts on the Zackarothian border, including but not limited to the Syria Military District, the Anbar Military District, and Gulf Military District. Border guards have been reinforced by entire divisions, stationed to provide the conflict from spilling into Persia and the protect the border populations from clashes. The Persian Navy has ceased joint patrols with Zackaroth in the interest of not interfering with Zackarothian internal conflict.

The government of Zackaroth, and all involved parties have also been directly contacted.

Other Bulletins
-New Tunnels Temporarily Sidelined as new resources put into border stability
-What does Mobilization look like?
-Government hires private security for some pipelines
-44% of Persians prefer Abdullah, 35% Akram, rest have no opinion

[United Democratic Christian States]

Germanic Times

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- 2027 Elections - Bismarck Doctrine - Internal Policy - Foreign Affairs - Education - DEU - GUAF Central -

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Luftwaffe purchases 6 billion Euro worth of new assets in 2028 expansion.

Today the Luftwaffe announced the purchase of 54 new Eurofighter Typhoons and 24 Airbus-Boeing CMCA's. While the purchase of additional Eurofighters was anticipated at some point in the future do to growing responsibilities of the Air Force, the 24 additional CMCA's mark just the 2nd purchase of the aircraft by the Luftwaffe since its inception. Its versatility and economical flight being major selling points that appear to have sold the representatives in Berlin.

IN OTHER NEWS-The GU has also announced they will be gifting large sums of military equipment to the Sahrawi Republic soon, including retired Leopard 2s and Panavia Tornados

[New Metropolitan France]

2028: Year of the Euro begins with launch of digital currency

The European Standard Bank has become only the second central banking institution in the world - behind the Central Bank of the United Republics of Pacifica - to launch an official digital currency. In accordance with the Blueprint for Monetary Union, which was previously ratified by the DEU Assembly in Strasbourg, the new electronic Euro is officially recognized as a fiat currency which has a monetary policy determined exclusively by the ESB. This step, which takes place 6 months prior to the introduction of physical notes and coins into circulation across the Eurozone, also marks the first day that the common currency may be transferred and exchanged across the European Financial Transaction Communication Network. The Network, which operates under a principle of charge-free non-discriminatory access across the current DEU member-states, FUNA, China, EAC, Persia, Bengal, San Martina, and Australia, will ensure that the new European currency will already have a noticeable global impact.

Representatives on the executive board of the ESB include the French Seventh Republic, Germanic Union, United Roman Triumvirate, United Kingdom, and the Iberian Prosperity Pact. Other users of the new Euro currency include Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.

[Segentaea]

Johannesburg Gazette

A Vote of No Confidence!

Today, in the parliament of South Africa, the EFF and DA parties have partnered up with a total of 267 votes of no confidence in the current President, Zindziswa Mandela. EFF Parliamentary member, Subusiso Zondo, cited the president's mismanagement of the potential oil crisis due to the current problems in Zakaroth.

The votes have passed and Mandela has been removed from office. A special election is to be held in one week.

The EFF has nominated Vuyani Pambo, a previous party spokesperson and leader of the far-left party.
The ANC has nominated 68 year old political veteran, Ace Magashule. Magashule was an anti-Apartheid activist, and has a long list of accomplishments in South African Politics.
In a surprise move, the DA has nominated John Steenhuisen. Steenhuisen has supported EFF notions in the past.

ANC critics of the surprise election have cited the lack of time as "unconstitutional". ANC notions to push the election back have been nodded aside by the EFF and DA.

[Nowa Polonie]

Visegrad Romantic League Launches 'Folk Brewing' Campaign

The Visegrad Romantic League, a socio-cultural movement in Visegrad, who's stated goals are; 'To both preserve the folk cultures that exist within the Visegrad Union, and to synthesize from these folk cultures a shared ideal of a Visegrad culture', has today launched a social campaign of its own, with some support from the government, to promote the home production of craft beers, spirits and wines by the people of Visegrad.



Krystian Gomulka, a leading member of the Visegrad Romantic League in the Opole Voivodeship, posted pictures on social media of his own home-brewery, which he states has the capacity to produce several gallons of beer a year.

While the government has not gone so far to financially support the campaign, it has given the League permission to use public infrastructure to host classes pertaining to the home manufacture of alcohol, as well as fast-tracking construction permits for 'small to medium-sized alcohol manufactories'. The government has however stated that home-breweries will be unable to sell their products commercially, though it has said that it will collaborate with the League to certify those who have attended training offered by the League, and permit them to sell their produce at local and national level craft-fairs, and in private 'buyer-seller' exchanges.



Mindful of the ongoing global pandemic, classes have remained small for now, however the League has stated that throughout 2028, it hopes to help finance and subsidize hundreds of new small-scale manufactories.

Not wishing to pass up on a good thing, and knowing the already prestigious reputation enjoyed by the Visegrad states for the production of craft alcohol, the government has also begun long-term planning to create a state monopoly working in collaboration with the League and its members, whereby certified manufacturers will be able to sell at set prices (with a range of additional benefits, from government-issued coupons for automobiles, to subsidized holidays). These craft-produced goods will then be sold by the Visegrad government both domestically, and for export abroad.

[Bengal and Assam]

"Our boys in the FAA are doing their jobs in flying coffins. For how long?"

The Sea Harrier has been the Royal Kawanese Navy's main aerial fighting machine ever since it was introduced into the force in 1989, alongside the Invincible-class carrier HMKS Maggie Thatcher. Retired from the British Royal Navy in 2006, and the Royal Indian Navy in 2016, the Sea Harrier has continued on to serve the Royal Kawanese Navy for 40 years straight. Although kept airworthy due constant maintenance, changes in hull and other forms of upgrades, many specialists are coming out against the continued service of these "reliable yet old" aircraft in the Fleet Air-Defence Arm.

Recently, LegCo Member Yvonne Lai of the Kawanese Conservative Party has called out the government for continuing the use of these fighters in the FAA, despite Prime Minister Itai's promises to increase Bengal's defence capabilities during the election campaign.
"The Sea Harriers have served Bengal for the past 40 years. These are reliable fighters yes, but the only reason they have held up for this long is because they have rarely faced any combat or conflict. And according to modern safety standards, that this government and governments before have gladly ensured when supplying the Royal Bengal Air-Defence Force while neglecting the FAA, these machines are just a bit more than coffins with wings. I'll say it again, our boys in the FAA are doing their jobs in flying coffins. Can the Right Honourable Madam Prime Minister answer, for how long will this continue, and for how long will their safety be neglected?"

After MLC Lai's statement, many FAA pilots have come out, expressing their dissatisfaction with years of government neglect, while the recent rise of China has got Defence Analysts begging Government House to focus more on the realm's defence.

AD

[Nowa Polonie]

Visegrad holds first 2028 'Duna' Exercise of 2028

The annually held 'Duna' Exercises were kicked off this week, and are expected to last for the next eight days. The Duna Exercises, quad-annually held national military exercises, are an institution peculiar to the Visegrad Union, functioning as a both protracted training exercise for both the professional and reserve forces of the armed forces (with particular emphasis on combined operations, and use of the reserves in support of the professional army at both a tactical and strategic level). The Reserve Forces of the Visegrad Union has for a very long time served as an institution for retired soldiers, the ideologically motivated, and the 'civic minded', and its units are drawn from their local districts, housed in their local districts, and trained to fight in their local districts. With such a great number of reservists and soldiers active at one time, the Duna Exercises function at the same time as a public holiday, with a particularly patriotic and militarist bent, with the exercises starting - and ending - with parades.



The 7th Lusatian, commonly referred to as the 'Niebiesky Berety' (Blue Berets), parade in Gdansk.



During exercises, the 7th helped to instruct reservist forces based in the Pomerania military district how to utilize pontoon bridges to conduct both counter-offensive operations against a presumed aggressor force, or retreat by means of the temporary bridges.

The Air Forces received particular support in carrying out a series of exercises, primarily in the Sudetes, where local reservist forces in tandem with airborne infantry conducted a simulated defence.



The Army however, and in particular the mechanized and armoured forces, had their own own fun, being deployed the area of Podlasie to conduct training for large-scale counter-offensive operations in wooded terrain. Particular emphasis was placed on utilizing armoured elements in tandem with tactical and strategic-level air defenses on a localized scale.



The training and use of low-technology communications, such as smoke signals, flags, and even reflective mirrors, are thought by Visegrad military planners as ideal measures to reduce reliance on telecommunications, allowing local military elements to coordinate effective manoeuvres without compromising themselves to enemy wire-tappers.



Ultimately, while the Visegrad military places a great deal of trust in the ability to localized reservist forces to effectively provide a great deal of potential for both active combat, military policing and, in the event of enemy occupation, guerrilla activities, in the areas of Visegrad where population densities simply cannot support local reservist units, the professional army finds itself involved in training to defend these very same territories.

[Andeya]

February 7th, 2028

FUNAI To Demarcate Indigenous Lands

With the pandemic now over, the FUNAI has begun the long process of demarcating indigenous territories. The controversial issue has gone to the forefront since San Martina has granted autonomy to the Mapuche, leaving the FSR as the only major South American country to not have granted any concessions to its indigenous population. While the decision to demarcate lands has been viewed positively by indigenous activists, some have complained that the Fujimori-administration is purposely dragging their feet. Even after the FUNAI completes demarcating the lands, the proposal will then have to be sent to various government ministries and Congress for approval, before finally ratification by the president. Further complicating matters, the FUNAI faces staunch opposition from various parts of the FSR.

In Orostani Brazil, public support for demarcation has steadily increased, with approval now at 55%. Proponents of demarcation argue that it is necessary to make up for the long history of forced "relocations" which natives were repeatedly subjected to. While at first many feared that the demarcation efforts would face major backlash from farmers and ranchers, the FUNAI has promised to not demarcate any currently designated farmland, placating their concerns. Additionally, most potential indigenous territories are inside the Amazon, which is already a heavily protected region. However, major anti-indigenous sentiment persists in Orostan. Many conservative Orostanis see unassimilated natives as backward and lazy. This sentiment, while not unknown to the rest of South America, is most prominent in Orostan due to historical government policies.

Despite being part of the same nation, a very different tale occurred in Uruguay. In 1831, strong parliamentary opposition caused the Orostani emperor Pedro I to abdicate. After abdicating, Pedro I returned to Portugal in a failed bid to support his daughter's claim to the throne. He also left his five-year-old son as emperor, which led to a period of great political turmoil. During this time, Uraguay was able to secure its local self-governance. Uruguayans were ecstatic at the fact that they would no longer have to rely on appointed governors, who came from the far-away capital and knew little of the region.

That year, Uruguay elected its first governor. An Uruguayan nationalist, he invited the region's indigenous tribes to a grand meeting, to discuss future cooperation. The European settlers and the indigenous tribes historically had good relations, and the natives eagerly accepted the invitation. However, after getting his guests drunk, the governor deployed his militia on them. Subsequent attacks would ensue, with natives being told: "get out if you can." Soon afterward, the last five survivors were sold to a human zoo in France, where they would die in captivity. In less than a year, the indigenous populace was declared extinct.

For two hundred years, it was believed that there were no Uruguayan natives. However, during the late 1980s political liberalization, some Uruguayans started to claim that they were indigenous. Nowadays, 5% of Uruguayan identify as indigenous. Despite that, they're largely seen as phonies, due to their lack of knowledge of indigenous culture or language. The Uruguayan government has stated it will not tolerate any demarcation within its territory, as there are no indigenous people in Uruguay.

On the other hand, Paraguay is a bastion of pro-indigenous activism. While Paraguay's indigenous population is rather small, this is due to their historical marriage policy: early on in their history, Paraguay forbade Europeans from marrying each other. While this law has long stopped being enforced, this has led to an unusually large mestizo population and a trilingual population. Most Paraguayans are fluent in Guarani, Spanish, and Interlingua - an unknown phenomenon in the rest of America. Despite that, Paraguay still struggles with racial inequality. However, they have been taking major steps to rectify this since joining the FSR.

Although the FUNAI has wide-spread support within Paraguay, the Paraguayan government has stayed silent on the matter. Some suspect that this is due to Paraguay's economic status. Paraguay is one of the poorest nations in America and heavily relies on FSR financial support to build up its economy. Still, in Asunción, Paraguayan pro-indigenous activists have pressured the government to be more active in supporting the FUNAI. Afterward, an Andean delegation arrived in the Paraguayan capital. The delegation announced that Andea is considering raising financial contributions towards Paraguay for the remainder of the Third Plan. While most Paraguayans have seen this as a blatant attempt to try to bribe them into submission, some say that Paraguay should take the money anyways.

In Andea, to say that opinions of the FUNAI are polarized would be an understatement. Although Andea is the most indigenous South American country, with a quarter of Andea's population being indigenous, many Andeans detest the FUNAI. Conspiracy theories have sprouted that the FUNAI is actually the political-wing of the Shining Path, a Nazi plot, or a European scheme to destroy the FSR. "The Shining Path realized they couldn't win the war, so they moved on to become politicians," said a Lima resident.

Even within Andea's indigenous populace, opinions on the FUNAI remain divided. About 15% of indigenous Andeans think that the Andean state was completely justified in its handling of the Shining Path and indigenous assimilation policy. On the other hand, 35% of indigenous Andeans are "very supportive" of the FUNAI. However, most indigenous Andeans have a more nuanced view on the matter, both abhorring Andea's period as a one-party state while thinking that some of their measures were necessary.

In the past, other South American indigenous activists have lambasted Andea for never apologizing for the forced assimilation of indigenous people, or the anti-Shining Path death squads which ended up disproportionately targeting native communities. Some activists argued that forced assimilation has never ended in Andea, but has just taken a more subtle nature. They point to the internalized colorism which is ingrained into Andea's large indigenous and mestizo population, such as the fact that the majority of Andean media and advertisement are dominated by whites, despite them only making up 6% of the population.

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In Other News: FSR Air Force to procure 120 Embraer C-400 Albatross (Strategic Airlifter/Tankers) over next decade. Albatross believed to be modified version of KC-46 Pegasus blueprints acquired during the Seattle Pact. | Standoff in Zackaroth continues. Observers confused over whether this is the leadup to a peaceful resolution, or simply the calm before the storm. | Petrobras contracted by Angola to help jumpstart oil production in the aftermath of the Angolan Civil War. | FSR to "gradually" build up "strategic reserve" of PPE and other essential materials in preparation for the next pandemic.

[Bengal and Assam]

Bengal’s housing problems. Are they really solved?

Yuko Suzuhana

The government, in particular the Housing Department, celebrates the 30th year of the “eradication of homelessness” in Bengal this year. However, despite Bengal officially eradicating homelessness in 1998, with the last slum-like house north of Fort William(Calcutta) being torn down, and its former inhabitants moving into a publicly owned apartment amidst fanfare, which they would eventually buy after a few years, subsidised by the Housing Development Board due to their right to housing as Kawanese citizens, we still have to ask, despite whatever the government may say, has our housing problems really been put behind us?

Backstory
By the end of the 2nd World War, Japanese bombs have made 40% of Bengal’s population homeless. After lots of deliberation and surveying, as well as inspiration from the ‘Commieblocks’ built up north in the Soviet Union, the government of then Governor Barnett established the Housing Department, which established devolved Housing Development Boards in cities and towns all across the then Colony.
The HDB started a "Land For Roofs" program, where vast tracts of land where buildings destroyed by the war once stood, were taken by the government to build mass public housing to be sold and rent for subsidised prices to British-Kawanese, and to a extent Commonwealth subjects, while the former owners of the land will get a specified number of apartments without any charge.
Although inspired by the brutalist Soviet public housing program made only for the purpose of giving people a roof over their heads, the Kawanese program, mainly in suburban areas, expanded upon this by creating churches, NHS GPs, Convenience Stores, community centres and other services within these housing estates to build a sense of community.

HDBs in cities ensure public housing for all, while maintaining a sense of community found in Housing Estates in other Commonwealth Countries.	Due to low population in rural areas, as well as the abundance of private housing, rural governments make small apartment buildings. Private apartment building construction is encouraged and subsidesed in rural areas by HDBs	Since the early-90s, various HDBs across the country have been subsidising architects and artists.

However, although all may seem rosy regarding housing in Bengal from the outside. Bengal's housing policy faulty from within, with immigrants(mainly from India and Burma) getting the short end of the stick due to profit-making malpractices by apartment owners.

Due to many of the immigrants illegally coming into Bengal without necessary paperwork to apply for housing or rent, these immigrants are herded into "cage-homes". Originally full-sized apartments that can hold a family of 4, cage homes force people 5 times of that capacity to share that space, disregarding safety standards. One of the recent accidents is the Setagaya Fire in the Port of Funamori district, where about 25 people burned to their deaths.
Unless complaints are made, the government and authorities responsible looks the other way, making these a hazard for those living in them, and innocent families living around them.

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[Anxiety Cafe]

14 February 2028

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Sánchez Steps Down

Despite rumors of President Sánchez's resignation becoming widespread months ago due to his controversial actions during the new Mapuche crisis, they had all but disappeared in recent weeks. However, now that the province of Concepción has lost its lawsuits against Wallmapu and turned over Greater Temuco and other territories to the Mapuche, the president formally announced that he will be stepping down within the next two weeks, becoming one of few San Martinian presidents to resign from his post in recent history.

While sudden, experts say this move has been coming for years as Sánchez's support has declined. Initially elected during former president Salamanca's publicity scandal, his center-right stances appealed to many. But as the public's opinion on the cold war shifted, his staunch pro-European views became increasingly unpopular. Additionally, many of his policies exacerbated inequalities and painted him as a servant to the rich, rather than the people. Disaffected Salamanca voters turned against him, and efforts to win them back, such as through granting Mapuche autonomy, lost him much of his traditional support.

The recent pandemic and economic downturn, which coincided with an explosive resurgence of the Mapuche conflict, doomed the once promising political figure to failure. Now, vice president Mateo Rojas will finish out the remaining two years of Sánchez's second term. Described as "ideological twins," Rojas has been a longtime Sánchez supporter throughout his political career. Now, he is struggling to distance himself from the increasingly unpopular figure.

Hiring an all-new cabinet and holding numerous meetings with Independent Democratic Union leaders to discuss policy positions, Rojas has already taken well to the leadership role. But many say he, like his predecessor, is doomed to failure. Thrust into an uncertain situation, the new president has many challenges to face, not the least of which being public opinion, which remains uncertain and unpredictable.

The Mapuche conflict, although having subsided following what's widely considered a victory in the referendum, still rages on. The establishment of the leftist Wallmapuwen political party, which espouses Mapuche nationalism, autonomism, and secularism, and its subsequent gains in membership, shows this clearly. However, Rojas has made it clear that he views the matter as finished. "They have their autonomy and their lands, and so there is nothing more that can be done," he said during a press conference.

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The Green Energy Plan: Revised and Renewed

The Green Energy Plan, initially put forward by Sánchez to launch a renewable energy transition in San Martinia, sought to make use of the country's extensive solar and wind resources. It saw the removal of nonrenewable subsidies and their replacement with emphasis on solar parks and wind farms, especially those utilizing "high-efficiency design" (that is, those adhering to the principles and design elements outlined in the plan).

However, this plan had the same vulnerabilities as any other focusing on wind and solar power: the two are highly variable, fluctuating over days and months, and thus require some sort of storage system. These storage systems tend to be experimental and costly, including those outlined in the original plan. However, the only alternative, using conventional fossil fuel plants as backup to balance out fluctuations, requires extensive use of nonrenewable energy, thereby undermining the very purpose of the plan.

With the revised version, the costly compressed air energy storage associated with Patagonian wind farms is to be eliminated. In initial stages, before the farms have direct access to the major load centers, conventional thermal power plants will be used to balance out daily fluctuations for local needs. For the solar parks of the Atacama, the molten salts serving as thermal energy storage are inherent in the design, but storage tanks will be reduced in size to only allow for consistent power production through the night; daily fluctuations again will need to be compensated for by traditional plants.

The reason for this change is twofold. The reduction in costs, say proponents, will encourage further investments. However, the main reason is a landmark agreement reached with the FSR. The HVDC network outlined in the original plan, connecting major production and load centers, will be paralleled by similar development in the neighboring country, to create a supergrid connecting the two. As a result, the FSR's great hydropower resources can be integrated into the grid.

Now, solar and wind energy will power both San Martinia and the FSR; when it is high, dams will increase reservoir size, only to release it when solar and wind production declines. As a result, the FSR's numerous hydroelectric facilities will serve to compensate for the variabilities of solar and wind energy, allowing both nations to reduce their fossil fuel use. Additionally, because the solar and wind power plants will now have lower costs and only be limited by the expansive FSR reservoir capacity, they will proliferate much quicker. If the storage capacities of the reservoirs are high enough, the two could theoretically rely entirely on renewable energy sources.

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In Other News: Remembering the destruction of the Orostani-Zackarothian missile exchange, many warily eye the situation in the Middle Eastern country; Senator Martínez says Green Energy Plan will not be effective due to reliance on market forces for renewable power plants; Language revitalization campaign in Wallmapu to save endangered Huilliche language, the only living relative of Mapundungun; Mapuche activists continue to celebrate in Temuco as police force is to be investigated and partially replaced

[Andeya]

February 7th, 2028

Indigenous Rallies Gain Traction

After the landmark decision to allow for demarcation of indigenous lands, pro-indigenous groups have organized rallies across the FSR to show their resolve in final victory. The rallies have been noted for their colorful apparel and liveliness. Additionally, in a surprise move, the Alliance for Peace announced its full support for the indigenous movement, adding a powerful but controversial ally to their side. The Alliance for Peace has gone as far as to say that they plan to nominate an indigenous president, saying that "it's time for our first indigenous president." Despite this bold move, many observers say that this isn't enough for the Alliance to win the next general elections.

In Orostani Brazil, indigenous rallies were held in major cities, namely in Brasilia and Rio de Janeiro. The demonstrators gained support from the local populace, with many of them joining the rallies. "We have resisted the illegal occupation of our lands for five centuries. We will never stop fighting against the destruction of our tribal communities and Mother Nature," an indigenous spokesman stated. However, similar rallies had less success in Uruguay, where they failed to get any significant public support. An interviewed Uruguayan said the following: "The reason we remain distrustful of the protestors is that we all know that the Charrúa and other such groups are long gone. For two hundred years, not a single soul claimed to be indigenous. Yet, as soon as it became politically convenient we are all supposed to pretend otherwise."

In Paraguay, the local government has finally made its decision. They were faced with an Andean delegation, who were believed to have implied that Andea would have increased financial assistance for Paraguay if they remained silent on the FUNAI and the indigenous movement. However, the delegation was rejected, signaling a shift towards being more vocal in supporting the indigenous movement. With Brazil becoming increasingly receptive to the indigenous movement, the Paraguayan government has gambled that it won't face any significant backlash. In the aftermath of the political shift, Paraguay is now seen as a much-needed safe-haven for indigenous activists. Representatives from indigenous groups across the FSR have announced plans to meet up in Paraguay, where they plan to set up a unified political front to help coordinate activities.

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Modavef supporters rally in Ayacucho

In Andea, hundreds of indigenous protestors have overwhelmed the workers of the Rio Huaypetue gold mine and brought mining operations to a complete standstill. The protestors claim that the mining site has brought needless destruction to the environment, and that the mine itself is located in indigenous lands. The Andean government has claimed otherwise, saying that the FUNAI has yet to finish demarcating lands and that due to its economic importance such lands would not be considered for demarcation in the first place. At its peak, the Rio Huaypetue gold mine was responsible for 2% of the world's gold production. However, the protestors have disagreed, saying that only farmland and ranches were marked explicitly as safe from demarcation by the FUNAI.

The Andean government has accused the protests of holding two local police officers hostage, allegations which the protestors denounced as misleading. They claim that they were acting in self-defense. What the term self-defense refers to is still unclear. Some believe that the protestors consider any "intrusion" on the gold mine as grounds for self-defense. As such, local police forces near the Bretana oil field have stated that they will be keeping a close eye on the ongoing developments.

Further complicated matters, Movadef has once again come into the spotlight in Ayacucho, the historical base of the Shining Path. Movadef itself is widely believed to be the political arm of the Shining Path, as its main objectives seem to be focused on securing amnesty for captured Shining Path members. However, the group has denied such allegations, citing its record in advocating for better working conditions and indigenous rights. Modavef has also attempted to participate in past elections but has been repeatedly denied despite having reached the 500,000 signatures threshold needed to participate in elections.

In Ayacucho, the Modavef has garnered the support of the city's teacher union. The teachers declared an indefinite strike, saying that they will not back down until their demands are met: increased wages for teachers, reduced class sizes, and the inclusion of indigenous languages within the city's curriculum. Andea's Minister of Education has called the Ayacucho teacher protests "utter-nonsense," and has stated that Andea will never give in to terrorist demands.

Even as Modafev continues to mobilize its supporters, it remains deeply unpopular with the Andean public. Nine out of ten Andeans view Modavef as a national security threat, and even in Ayacucho, the teachers strike has met much criticism from parents. The last Shining Path holdouts in the VRAEM region were only wiped out in 2017, and some fear that if the Modafev is allowed to continue operating it could lead to a Shining Path resurgence.

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In Other News: Breaking News: San Martinian President Sánchez resigns today.| Is the motocar going the way of the dodo? Experts say no. | Sustainable water use is "critical," says Fujimori. National Water Commission created. | FSR Central Bank to run test trials of deploying CBDC country-wide. Previous trial runs done in Uruguay, but on a limited scale.

[New Metropolitan France]

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The Continental Standard

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Long live Europa

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DEU forms Periphery Partnerships with Poland & Ukraine

The DEU Assembly has signed and ratified Periphery Partnership agreements with Poland & Ukraine, establishing a framework for closer engagement with both countries. Poland will become the first non-member state to join the Energy Union, European Environment and Sustainable Production Commission, and all other areas of European environmental policy with the exception of EuroCharge. European citizens will be offered equivalent EuroCharge rates when charging electric vehicles in Poland, however this will be conducted in accordance with existing Polish legislation. The country will also establish a Permanent Representative to the DEU in Strasbourg for liaison on policy issues as they arise.

The Periphery Partnership agreement with Ukraine will see the common external tariff removed on all Ukrainian goods exported to the European Internal Market, all Ukrainian tariffs on goods from the EIM abolished, and Ukraine included within the European Financial Transaction Communication Network. The treaty will also see Ukraine facilitate rapid processing of DEU perishable products, eliminate customs procedural/administrative/bureaucratic/technical delays, import deposits, price controls, localization/nationality requirements, and countervailing regulations/duties/taxes in relation to trade with the European Internal Market. The DEU EIM and Ukraine also signed an anti-dumping agreement, and committed to implement policies in compliance with the Reykjavík Convention on Climate Change.

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Published 27 February 2028

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French military withdraws from Mauritania

The President today ordered the immediate withdrawal of French military forces from Mauritania. Logistics officers of the Sustained Strategic Deployment Corps have begun to oversee the implementation of an exit plan which will cover all branches of the service on active deployment in the area, to be completed within three weeks. Eight Decisive class cargo ships have amassed at the port of Nouakchott, to evacuate 30 MBTs, 2,400 Light Utility Vehicles, 1,350 Heavy Utility Vehicles, and approximately 33,000 tons of other equipment used to support the garrison of 12,000 French and Algerian personnel. The large freight convoy will be escorted by the North Atlantic Fleet, which is also to play an active role in the withdrawal - the super carrier Normandy and Mistral-class assault ships will receive by helicopter 2,200 French troops to return to Europe. An aerial evacuation will also be implemented by the Air Transport and Rapid Deployment Command, with 6 A400 aircraft expected to fly 700 support staff and medical specialists which were attached to the garrison to Algiers. Confederation air bases near the capital and Bir Moghrein will also be emptied, as 24 fighter aircraft, 4 bombers, 50 UAVs and 70 helicopters transfer to Reggane within the Algerian interior. The final 8,000 or so ground forces will embark on a 3 day-journey along the main desert highway until arrival at Tindouf.