World Wide Journal (The New Earth Only)

[Shengdi]

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Troops Fire on Hong Kong Crowd

Date

In a reaction against protesters in central Hong Kong, the Shengdese military detachment to the city opened fire on citizens after they pushed down one of the police barriers in the city square. The death toll is still coming in, but in the range of 40-70 people have already been reported as killed, with hundreds more facing injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening. The commander of the company, Captain Jia Lim, ordered his troops to open fire after the protesters forced their way through a blockade raised by the police in the off-limits part of the square. Captain Jia was immediately recalled from deployment, but the company's soldiers reportedly believed that they feared for their lives, and a spokesperson for the government claimed that stones were thrown by the protesters.

The majority of the protesters were members of the White Lily Society, a college organization that has been steadily growing in membership, and since multiplied in size and support following the shooting. The president of the society, 22-year-old Chen Tai was among the slain, along with chief organizers Chang Hui and Xiong Yun. The student group has since released a statement on their Hong Kong website, condemning the government and military and calling for "true movement to stop further bloodshed". Beijing has demanded the censoring of the website, but the chartered government of Hong Kong has sternly resisted what it sees as illegal demands.

Two Aeurians were also among those killed, with another reportedly injured. One of them has been identified as Petrus Vallée, a junior exchange student to Hong Kong University and competitor for potential valedictorian; a honor never held by a non-native resident. The loss was felt hardest by those who knew him, many saying that Vallée was the face of a true Aeurian.

"He was competitive, friendly, always there for you." Said fellow student Hao Xia. "Petrus was among the best of us at the university, he couldn't stand injustice. He thought what the Emperor was doing was wrong, and joined the protest to show his displeasure."

Vallée was the winner of various honors and rewards in both Aeuria and Hong Kong, and was majoring in political science with the hopes of working for Aeurian Emperor Aleksander's administration one day. Aeurians have also reacted with anger towards the news of his death, many calling it a violent execution of a citizen of Aeuria. The situation is surely difficult for Aeuria, having worked out a precarious relationship with Shengdi over the past months. The White Lily Society is planning a vigil after all of the dead are identified, and Vallée is expected to be given a place of honor at the service.

[Aeuria]

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Aeuria's Aleksander Invites UFIN to Praevalidus

April 7, 2017

Aeuria's capital rests a world away from Europe's troubles

The Aeurian Crown has extended a formal invitation to the United Front of Independent Nation's (UFIN) leaders to attend a diplomatic conference in the imperial capital of Praevalidus. The talks, to be hosted at the Commonwealth's Imperial Palace, are set to include the national leaders of Noihara, Scandinavia and Nowistrana. With a focus on bridging the gap between UFIN and La Francophonie at a time of historic tension, Emperor Aleksander seeks to find common ground with the political leadership of UFIN's members. The conference, however, is not to be dominated by the outstanding questions in Europe with the Aeurian leadership reportedly interested in pursuing a more stable, workable relationship between the UFIN and the Commonwealth itself.

With military tensions in Europe boiling over with the fall of Helinski to Scandinavian troops, the Aeurian monarchy intends to carry out its planned mission of diplomacy with the members of UFIN, following La Francophonie's most recent summit in Estbourg. While the organization's membership was initially cautious in letting the Aeurians takeover diplomatic efforts, it was agreed the Commonwealth, tucked away in its own autocratic corner of the world far away from Europe, was best suited to approach the nationalistic and militarist governments of UFIN.

Following Aeuria's annexation of much of South East Asia which included the Philippines, the Commonwealth has found itself on UFIN's far eastern border, only 3,000 kilometers from the Noiharan mainland. With the Imperial Navy continuing to expand the scope of its operations in the region, it seemed only a matter of time before Praevalidus approached the fascist bloc. With UFIN now stretching contiguously from the distant North Sea to the familiar Pacific, the Aeurian Commonwealth's interests in the bloc have grown exponentially.

Shengdi Ambassador to Aeuria Summoned Following Fatal Shooting of Aeurian Noble in Hong Kong

Amid the chaos following Shengdese military personnel opening fire on protesters in Hong Kong, Shengdi's Ambassador to Aeuria was summoned to the Imperial Palace following the reported death of Aeurian student and aristocrat Petrus Vallée in the incident. Mr. Vallée, a distinguished academic, was the youngest son of Lord Damien Vallée II - an imperial senator and Duke with ties to Aeuria's imperial family. His death has sparked outrage in Praevalidus, whose political and social elite view the incident as a "slaughter of one of our own", as one Aeurian noblewoman put it.

Ceding the fact Beijing is in total control of its domestic affairs, the Aeurian Crown strongly protested what it described as the "disproportionate use of lethal force which ultimately claimed Aeurian lives". The Commonwealth, in a precarious position in its newly formed non-aggression pact with the Shengdese empire, seems to have taken a restrained response to the death of one of its aristocrats. While summoning a foreign ambassador before the throne can hardly be described as restrained, the history of imperial reaction to Aeurian deaths in foreign countries can prove telling. One need not travel far to find an example of purely Aeurian proportions.

In 1999, a 34 year-old Aeurian national was shot dead by Edelian police following a physical altercation in which the Aeurian assaulted a pair of policemen. High on a cocktail of drugs including cocaine and methamphetamine, the Aeurian was stopped by officers for causing a public disturbance before striking one of them in the face. As a scuffle ensued, the Aeurian reportedly reached for one of the officer's sidearms before being shot dead. The incident, highly publicized at the time, sparked outrage across the Commonwealth in the nobility and citizenry alike. The Edelian Ambassador to Aeuria was summoned before the emperor and lambasted for over 3 hours before finally being expelled from the country. The emperor was allegedly furious the man had been killed "just for being intoxicated", a claim he publicly voiced to the outcry of Estbourg. The incident caused a significant row between the two countries before ultimately being dropped ahead of the renewal of a major trade deal.

Mr. Vallée's death is further complicated by his involvement in the White Lily Society, a student-formed political advocacy group based out of Hong Kong University. The group, who organized the fatal protest, are vocal critics of the Shengdese emperor and the "political domination of Hong Kong" by Beijing. The Aeurian Crown cannot be seen as sympathetic towards the White Lily Society; such an association would damage the newly formed peace between Praevalidus and Beijing. As a result, their language about the incident has not overtly criticized Shengdese policy, instead highlighting the continued need for regular communication between the two governments to avoid further conflicts.

Had Mr. Vallée died in another nation, Aeuria's reaction may have different. However, he died in a nation which the Commonwealth has newly forged a non-aggression pact with. A single death, even the son of a prominent aristocrat, is not enough to throw national relations away as it has been in the past. Despite their historical fanaticism in the defense of their citizens abroad, Aeuria has demonstrated, however unintentional, its capacity for restraint.

[Shengdi]

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An Interview With the White Lily Society

April 8, 2017

Our reporters in Hong Kong managed to get an exclusive interview with acting-president Xian Wuying regarding the eminent White Lily Society and their beliefs and plans for the future of the country and organization.

Marianne Pasinski, reporter: Thank you for meeting with us today, Miss Xian. I understand that the past day has been a very trying time for the organization. Nobody could have predicted the horrors that happened yesterday.

Xian Wuying: It has been. Some in the community considered that our mission wasn't worth continuing, that it was too dangerous after the government's response with force.

MP: Would you agree?

XW: Of course not. They are fair-weather allies, only willing to agitate until its their own necks on the line. Their own blood asked to be spilled. I have been told that we didn't understand the risks, that we deserved this. President Chen died for this. He had hopes and dreams for Shengdi, and the others and I will not let his death be in vain.

MP: A lot of outsiders and even some Shengdese don't exactly understand what the society stands for. To many the White Lily Society has sprouted up from nowhere, and left many wondering what it is you truly want.

XW: A free Shengdi. That is what we want, for everyone to be free and equal. And I don't mean under the current system, no, the monarchy needs to be abolished.

MP: Isn't that treasonous? People are worried that the society is stepping too far from its reach.

XW: I'd like to see the Imperialists come for us. Treason can only be committed against a government that is worthy of respect, of being loyal to. What we practice is merely self-defense. We asked for freedoms and they responded with gunfire, so now we must take them ourselves.

MP: So the society believes in a re-imagining of Shengdese society?

XW: Simply put, yes. We believe in the total emancipation of the people from servitude, the end of serfdom to our noble masters, and the creation of a republic that values democracy and social rights. Liberties and the betterment of the Shengdese worker is our primary goal, as well as providing a freer world and market for commerce to grow.

MP: That's all the time we have for today, but thank you again Miss Xian. This was Marianne Pasinski, WWJ Hong Kong.

[Shengdi]

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Shengdi Up in Arms!

April 9, 2017

Millions of citizens in the cities and rural areas have taken to protest and civil disobedience as the news of the Hong Kong massacre and the political rapture ebbs into Shengdi proper. In the farms and agricultural hinterlands workers have refused to continue planting their portion of the harvest meant for the government, and the local magistrates have faced attacks on their enforcement of the Emperor's demands. In the cities the protests have turned unbelievably massive with the cities of Shanghai and Hangzhou having completely shut down, the protesters blocking roads and barricading government offices.

The cries of revolution have spread across all of Shengdi, and Huli's forces in the Gobi have continued making considerable gains against a weakened Shengdese offensive, as many forces had to fall back in order to protect Beijing from a growing popular rebellion. The single uniting virtue between the revolutionaries has been calls for the democratizing of Shengdi and the expansion of civil liberties. The White Lily Society has since risen to prominence in the political dialogue, its student body origins being shed in favor of a true national political movement. The society, and the majority of its supporters, have stuck by their demands for the abdication of Emperor Hanying and the end of the aristocracy.

Hong Kong has completely joined hands with the revolution, replacing their city flag with the banner of the WLS - a centered white fleur-de-lis surrounded by red and blue. The republican movement has seen the magistrates of Hong Kong illegally dismissed and the creation of a national council to supervise the metropolitan area. The imperial military has since vacated the city and a garrison militia was formed to defend against possible efforts to retake the city. While the overwhelming majority of the partisans have been Shengdese natives, among them were found Aeurians who have either refused to leave Hong Kong or who believe in the messages of liberty and egalitarianism.

The armed forces have reportedly been unsure of how to react, with many deployed units unwilling to take a strong response against the protesters, from either fear of reprisal or unwillingness to potentially kill fellow civilians. Beijing has yet to make a formal response on the issue, and the protests are expected to continue until either their demands or a compromise is met.

[Nowistrana]

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Nowistranian Army reaches Shengdese Borders in the east of Kazakhstan



Nowistranian Army advancing in east Kazakhstan

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10 April, 2017

Nowistranian forces appeared to be in control of two key east Kazakh cities early Monday, and there were reports of tanks on the move again. The town of Ayagoz was a base for the Kazakh military and is in the center if the East Kazakhstan Region. Meanwhile, there are reports of Nowistranian vehicles on the move towards Almaty, Kazakhstan's biggest city. Kazakhstan's President said that more than 180 tanks and other armored vehicles are traveling in convoy between the cities of Ayagoz and Almaty. The Kazakh Army entrenched itself in the Astana Region to defend their capital from the Nowistranian invaders which means that the Nowistranian Army has little to no resistance to face in large parts of Kazakhstan except for small local resistance of civilians. The Nowistranian Army already controls large parts of the country and the government has received 1,400 reports of brutal attacks. In four days of fighting, both sides accused the other of targeting civilians, with casualty reports in the thousands. Many more people have fled the fighting into Uzbekistan, leaving heavily bombarded towns and cities deserted.

Despite the attempts of the international community to calm the crisis, Alexandr Rodzaevsky was bullish last night, blaming Kazakhstan for creating a 'humanitarian catastrophe'. He appeared on TV listening to two young women from a north Kazakh village who claimed that Kazakh soldiers herded 50 people into a house and burned them alive. One of them said: 'My friend was a witness of a Kazakh tank driving over an elderly woman with two kids.' Rodzaevsky replied: 'They are completely mad. It's genocide.' He later claimed that Kazakhstan had lost the right to exist unpunished any longer.

Berezina's desire to control the region's natural resources were gathering strength. With vast natural resources, including 30 billion barrels of oil reserves and 85 trillion cubic feet of natural gas, Kazakhstan would play an increasing role in future conflicts between UFIN and La Francophonie. The Kazakh government relied on hydrocarbons for 39 percent of its revenues in 2010. Kazakhstan exports more than 1.2 million barrels of oil per day and is the world's largest uranium producer; together the mining and petroleum industries accounted for 33 percent of gross domestic product in 2010 and 82 percent of exports in 2009. Kazakhstan's metal mining sector produces bauxite, chromite, copper, iron, lead, manganese, and zinc ores, and its metallurgical sector produced such metals as beryllium, bismuth, cadmium, copper, ferroalloys, lead, magnesium, rhenium, steel, titanium, and zinc. The country produced significant amounts of other nonferrous and industrial mineral products, such as alumina, arsenic, barite, gold, molybdenum, phosphate rock, and tungsten.

Some analysts believe Nowistrana provoked a war, knowing that the smaller country could not win the resulting conflict. Others say that Berezina was simply drawing a red line around areas with pro-Nowistrana populations which it would not allow to be controlled by other states and of course, the Nowistranian interests in those resources played a significant role in the recent conflict.

[Shengdi]

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Huli Joins Forces with Republican Army!

April 10, 2017

In a remarkable agreement between the forces of the reserved Huli and the Republican forces of the WLS and other democratic groups, Huli agreed to ally with them after facing the tightening noose of damaged supply lines and the unwillingness of his guerrilla forces to continue with their current goals.

The agreement was reached with liaisons of both groups in the city of Hong Kong, where a corridor of uncontrolled lands by the Imperialist faction made such a deal possible in the first place. Concessions were made by both sides, with the Republicans agreeing to Huli's continued presence as "Hero of the Revolution" and the chief-commander of the militia forces in rebellion. In return, the Fox conceded his revolutionary ideals as unsuitable and promised to uphold the torch of republican democracy in Shengdi. Huli clearly came out the loser in the treatise, with most of his radical militarist ideals being forcibly abandoned out of the necessity of continuing alongside the people's movement. The democratic forces had reportedly already entertained ideas of a future conflict with Huli, and the real possibility of a three-sided conflict in Shengdi threatened all the progress made by Huli and the Republicans alike, forcing the legendary Fox to shed most of his own ideological demands.

Most of the decision was influenced by the desire of Huli's soldiers to join forces against the Imperialists. Most refused to fight against the Republican groups, considering them like-minded revolutionaries, and began to question the objectives of Huli. Many of his opinions and goals, such as the establishment of a military state, came into conflict with the protests of the democratic masses. This was only further exacerbated by the Gobi fighters believing they were fighting for Shengdese people first, not for the demands and considerations of their leader.

Though with such an immense respect among those who served directly with Huli it's unlikely for him to fade away from the spotlight of the movement, especially as the protesters now turn to organized acts of violence and disobedience against the emperor. The skills of Huli, having a reputation for careful military strategy, will prove invaluable in the upcoming days in the fight against loyal imperialist forces. Huli has remained in an incredible position of authority, as the Field Marshall of the Republican forces and is now tasked with uniting the experienced Gobi fighters with the strained masses of the east.

[The Scandinavians]

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Scandinavian Forces on Standby in Denmark

Nordic tanks arrive near the southern border

Einmanudur 26, 2017

Following the fall of Finland to Nordic forces Scandinavia is moving to deploy almost 150,000 soldiers on the southern Danish border, with many more planned for deployment should the situation with the nations of La Francophonie continue to sour. All males between ages within Scandinavia undergo a mandatory three year period of extensive military training and service within the Scandinavian Defensive Forces at age 18 as well as males between the ages 18 and 45 to be called to the service, allowing an increasing amount of Nordic males to be called into the service by the Party as necessary. Though Scandinavia as of this Wednesday has not entered a complete state of mobilization the Party has ordered that military facilities increase production of arms and military equipment in preparation for war though Det Lederen Hylen has continued stating that Scandinavia will not declare war on the Edelreich or any other Francophonie nation unless the situation absolutely demands it. "...I have full confidence in the abilities of the military should the likelihood of war continue to rise as it has, however, I will not let this confidence get in the way of common sense. If the wolves of capitalism and democracy truly thrust for blood, I challenge, even dare them, to take the first shot. Until that day comes, we will remain vigilant, but at peace."

While the Scandinavian military presence in southern Scandinavia and the seas continues to increase, word that an unknown and strictly anonymous representative from the Party would represent Scandinavia at the UFIN conference in Praevalidus, Aeuria. Though their identity has been kept from public knowledge should the negotiations further complicate the situation with La Francophonie nations, the Party has stated that they would only choose the "best and most qualified individual from the Foreign Organization of the Fatherland Party to represent our interests in Aeuria". Aeuria is known for it's mixed reputation among Party leaders, officials, and the civilian population with ranging from respect as a global empire and military power to capitalist monarchist sub-humans who are seemingly bound and determined to destroy Fascism and the Nordic way of life, with Det Lederen himself having varying opinions on Aeuria. "Haldrada and Lande in their wisdom both shared similar opinions on Aeuria. While communication or meetings between the Party and the Aeurian government 'has been kept to a minimum' both,, despite Aeuria's mixed blood and mistaken ideals, have held a certain degree of respect for them. I would be deceiving myself and the Nords if I said I was any different". The results of what could come from this meeting is uncertain, however Scandinavia is prepared for any outcome.

[Shengdi]

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The March to Beijing

April 14, 2017

The week has been a busy one for Shengdi: both for the revolutionary forces who have staked many new claims around their homeland, and for the imperial government now in retreat. With so many changes and events in such a short time, it has become necessary to detail the state of the revolution and its accomplishments, as given by its members, as the famed March to Beijing campaign comes to its climax.

A revolution that sprung from the cries of discontent in mere Hong Kong has now grown to a movement that encompasses the majority of the southern coast, and each day finds more supporters in the form of deserters, protesters and rural aide. The week opened on Monday with the announcement that Huli had agreed to join forces with the Republicans, a major turn of fate that confused some and brought hope to millions more. Since the start of the protests in Hong Kong the Gobi campaign under Huli and his rebels had already been in full display, struggling against the entire might of the border guard and imperial army in Xinjiang and Mongolia. The now legendary Huli was at first an mysterious officer with strange plans, but quickly found renown under his campaign and came to represent the entire movement; the Hero of the Revolution, as many have come to call him. Although this title has come to conflict with the republican attitudes elsewhere no one is able to deny the progress that Huli brought, becoming the commander of an extraordinary band of guerrilla fighters that brought the conflict straight to the heart of the imperial forces.

A figure of that magnitude suddenly agreeing to become secondary to a democratic movement definitely brought uncertainties with it, but in time it became clear that Huli's concessions were out of necessity, not goodwill. Many of the freedom fighters who sided with the Gobi movement were dedicated to the removal of the imperial state, the protection of their families and countrymen, and the establishment of a republic. While at first alone the White Lily Society's agitation grew a small idea into a major reformation, and the willingness of Huli's troops to keep fighting alone dropped, fearing that eventually they would come into conflict with their own like-minded countrymen.

Though Huli has not lost his appearance of an mythical hero among the revolutionaries and has since remained chief-commander of the militias, a decision proving increasingly valuable to the rebels.

Then on Thursday news broke that caused celebrations through the people's ranks: Shanghai and Hangzhou had finally been conquered, and with the imperial military in retreat on the coast, a victory started looming on everyone's mind. Xian Wuying, the WLS president and unofficial spokesperson for the republican forces, was cheerful and smiling during her statements in Hong Kong. She praised the fighting spirit of the masses and promised that "a future for everyone, man and woman, will be for Shengdi's republic."

Today, the final plans of the republican forces have been initiated with Huli's March to Beijing campaign. The plan, of which many had considered unattainable, has brought great success to the revolution and further elevated the Fox from his peers. Deciding to abandon military movements against most of the interior country, Huli gambled on an invasion of the coasts in order to eventually move on Beijing - the home of the Emperor. What started off as an unlikely strategy quickly revealed itself as a success, as the republican armies avoided the miles of imperial soldiers in the countryside and instead broke through into lightly-defended coastal cities. Realizing this the imperial army ordered an immediate recall, and now as thousands of soldiers fall back to the administrative areas near Beijing, Huli's freshly supplied army begins the final part of its initiative.

It's still uncertain if the campaign will be a success, or if the capital of the ancient empire can hold against assault. The odds of the imperial government coming back from this defeat are becoming increasingly unlikely as the disarray caused by the collapse of the coast strikes deep into imperial forces.

[Nowistrana]

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Kazakh Army defeated near Astana; City gets captured by Nowistranian troops



Nowistranian Infantry in Astana

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14 April, 2017

Nowistranian military units — including tank, artillery, and reconnaissance — arrived in Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, on Wednesday to help Pro-Nowistranian militia there, in response to overnight shelling by Kazakh forces, state television in Nowistrana reported, citing the Ministry of Defense. Ground assault aircraft were also mobilized, the Ministry said. Large parts of the Kazakh Army defending the area were defeated in a man to man combat north of the capital Astana. Early on Thursday, Nowistrana’s Channel One television showed Nowistranian tanks entering Astana and reported that two battalions reinforced by tanks and armored personnel carriers were approaching the city. There were unconfirmed reports that Nowistranian forces had shot down two Kazakh planes and that its aircraft had bombed a convoy of Kazakh tanks opening the city for Nowistranian troops.

Women and children in Astana were hiding in basements while many men had fled to the woods, said a woman reached by telephone, who said she had been in phone contact with relatives there. She declined to give her name. In Karaganda, a city in the south of Astana and the fourth biggest city in Kazakhstan, residents said there had been sporadic bombing all day. The city was shaken by numerous vibrations from the impact of bombs on Thursday evening. One Nowistranian bomb exploded near a textile factory and a cellphone tower, leaving a crater. General Secretary Alexandr Rodzaevsky gave himself very confident, "Now that the Kazakh capital is in Nowistranian hands and the Kazakh army largely defeated, this shameful state full of criminals will not exist much longer." he said.

[Shengdi]

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Foreign Advisers Among Republican Army

April 15, 2017

With the conflict ranging in Shengdi, a war which threatens the balance of Asia and will for many decades change the face of geopolitics in the region, it was only a matter of time until foreign countries turned their attention to the revolution. Among the rank-and-file of the revolutionaries foreign men have been noted as making up a small, but not irrelevant, minority in the ground forces. The participation of Aeurians from Hong Kong was already a major talking point for the past two weeks, with many taking up sides in the republican army - since it ultimately represents a better interest to the culture of liberty that Aeurians share. Others Aeurian individuals have been spotted in the organization of the Republicans, with the college-going youth of the Imperial Commonwealth finding themselves in positions of authority; logistics and planning primarily, but some have been noted as commanding militia units into combat. Praevalidus, while still walking a careful line of neutrality, has yet to make a public statement on the presence of their citizens in the revolution - or if they will even consider sending support to a movement that seems to admire many aspects of their imperial customs.

Not known, however, has been the degree of support that the socialist Aralians have been giving in Shengdi. Since the early developments of the civil war in Shengdi, the Aralian government was reportedly very interested in the developments of the republican forces against the imperial government. One that their socialist and Marxist origins finds easy to despise. The People's Republic hasn't been quiet about their support, and although not revealing exactly what they've done for the revolution, the Aralian government was one of the first to jump to supporting the republican army. With evidence of Aralian-speaking individual within their ranks emerging on the internet, it seems pretty clear that Aralia has charted a course risking their own blood in the fight. While the Republicans are not officially communist or socialist, many of their members have sympathies for such ideals and the organizational structure is mainly formed from left-wing radicals.

Struggling Beijing has condemned the foreign nationals as terrorists, decrying the nations eager to push for their downfall as "wolves that will soon pay the ultimate price". Though with the state of the imperial government, its unlikely that any response will ever be taken.

[Edelreich]

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Edelreich Promises to Protect Stability of Central and Eastern Europe

April 17, 2017

In a diplomatic move on Monday clearly designed to respond to the acts of aggression in Europe, the Office of the Prime Minister issued a public statement that the Edelreich was pursuing a path of preemptive defense in Europe - specifically towards the regions most under threat, Central and Eastern Europe. The Edelreich has resolutely maintained that the occupation of Finland by the Scandinavian government is illegal and in violation of national sovereignty agreements, prompting a response from the administration to ensure that Europe remains "free and stable of aggressive imperialist influence".

The public statement revealed the intentions of the government in detail, and described the process of how the Edelreich intends to support the stability and safety of their continental neighbors. "The human right of self-determination is the single most important basis of national identity," Erik Kohler, a spokesperson for the government, said. "We can not stand by and watch such violations continue without a formal response."

The resolution, of which some economic aspects will be decided on by parliament, dedicated a portion of the government's international spending towards European nations; primarily focusing on countries in Eastern Europe susceptible to foreign entanglement. While the response was largely designed against Scandinavia, it is obvious that Nowistrana is another country targeted by the decision, bordering the majority of nations receiving German assistance. Berlin has seemingly learned a lesson from the ongoing invasion of Kazakhstan and the former Swedish state of Bothnia. Whereas previously it was treated as only an imperialist action, the support of the Bothnian Swedes and Nowistranians in Kazakhstan agitating for union tell of a nationalist ethnic motive at play. The Edelreich has resolved to fight these motives using non-traditional means, believing such groups to emerge from dissatisfaction of the status-quo. Prime Minister Mader aims to dissolve these movements of a platform by providing international funding and military support to the government of recessed states.

Tom Kappel, a professor at Hamburg University and a credited political analyst, considers the actions of Edelreich a potential modern answer to a historic problem. "Most nationalist movements, the separatists and the unionists, gain footing from hardships in their country. They blame a failing economy on their government, a poor work ethic on abandoning historic mores, and the faltering of conservative traditions as a hallmark of a-national degeneracy." Kappel said during our interview. He pointed out the separatism of the Bothnian Swedes, that until recently was purely a historical concern, as an example of all three conditions. "These ultra-nationalists believe that their government has either betrayed them, or is composed of individuals who line their pockets with foreign money. They feel underrepresented, and either long for a country with a cultural tradition over them so they can feel dominant, or have grown to despise these democratic institutions as incredulous and unable to respond to issues of the nation."

Berlin has apparently agreed with Kappel and others' assessment of the situation, ordering most of their financial support to be funneled into bettering the governments of Eastern European countries by stabilizing their economies and improving democratic conditions where possible. Kohler explained that the republican beliefs of free European countries were the best-suited to preventing further hostilities in Europe, but many feel that the fascist governments of Scandinavia and Nowistrana will react negatively to what will likely be perceived as foreign attempts to diminish their rule.

[The Noiharan Union]

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Noiharan Special Forces 'Jägers' Capture Kazakh President; Execute Him on the Spot


Noiharan soldiers in Kazakhstan

April 18, 2017

The Kazakh President is dead, Supreme Leader Akio vi Noihara announced Monday night, in a televised address to the nation. His death was the result of a Noiharan operation launched today in the outskirts of Aqtau, a city on the east coast of the Caspian Sea, against a compound where the President was believed to be hiding, according to Noiharan and Nowistranian intelligence. After a firefight, a team of Noiharan Jäger forces killed the Kazakh President and took possession of his body, the Supreme Leader said. He emphasized that neither Noiharans nor Nowistranians “choose this fight” against Kazakhstan, but rather, that they were forced into it by "Kazakh criminals". He praised Nowistranian and Noiharan military and intelligence professionals for working “excellently to achieve this outcome.” To Nowistrana, he noted that the Noihara has “never forgotten the Kazakh crimes against Nowistrana. With this operation, justice had been done.”

Operation Hikari took place in the dark of night when Noiharan helicopters, guarded by Nowistranian aircraft, approached a compound in Kazakhstan on a mission to kill the Kazakh president who has been declared to be a terrorist by the Nowistranian and Noiharan government. About 35 minutes later, early Monday morning in western Kazakhstan, the Kazakh president was dead, along with ten others inside the complex, and the Noiharan forces departed with the shot Kazakh leader's body to deliver it to Nowistranian authorities. The firefight was under way for most of the 35 minutes that Noiharan Jäger were in the compound, as the team encountered resistance from Kazakh soldiers and personal guards. In the end, all of the combatants in the compound were dead, along with the Kazakh president, the official said. The compound itself was blown up after the operation by the Noiharan Jägers.

The Nowistranian General Secretary Alexandr Rodzaevsky also praised the Noiharan Jägers for "high amount of professionality" and made clear that "Nowistrana and it's people will not forget the favor" done by the Noiharan government. "This operation shows the strength of the Noiharan-Nowistranian friendship is, that the Noiharan government is ready to use its valuable forces to help a foreign nation. I am touched by such commitment.", he said.

[Belastrana]

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Prince Mikhail II proclaims self as Grand Governor

Last night Prince Mikhail Romanov II proclaimed himself as Grand Governor of Belastrana, one of his orders was forcing Andruyu Volkovski, President of Belastrana to reign and a group of loyal military leaders took control of the Military and arrested the Republic Council for treason along with many of political leaders with anti-Romanov ideals. According to Grand Governor Romanov "Belastrana is to be reborn into an era of Power. We'll become a power in Europe through strength" Many leaders see this as a fascist move to secure power for the Romanov family. We'll keep you inform as this story develops.

[Shengdi]

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Emperor Abdicates; Shengdese Republic Proclaimed

April 25, 2017

After a stunning defeat at the outskirts of Beijing by the Republican army, the government of the imperial state was left in disarray and faced with an inability to formulate a response to the nearing forces, the Shengdese Emperor accepted a deal to abdicate in favor of a republic. With the news came celebration, both inside Shengdi by the brave fighters and farmers and on the outside by many who were closely watching the revolution, some impressed by the underdog victory of the Republicans against an ancient and revered political system. The victory is considered by many the last struggle of the Republican forces who are now securing Beijing, and without an Emperor at the throne the collaboration of pro-imperialist forces will be nearly impossible.

The success of the republican army was proclaimed at Hong Kong, where a delegation of representatives of the various states and organizations that supported the revolution stood to be celebrated and addressed their supporters. The defeat of the imperialist faction was dealt by Huli's divisions, whom he reportedly directly managed during the assault on Beizangcunzhen at the metropolitan limit of Beijing. The government army managed a brave defense of the town and surrounding industrial sector, forcing the republicans into casualty-high urban warfare and house-to-house fighting. However, support to the besieged defenders did not come as the republican militias launched diversionary attacks on the entire south side, along with probes on the east and west, making it difficult to determine where the actual front was. By the time reinforcements could be mustered the defense had fallen and Huli punctured a hole in the defensive network, giving a clear shot to the exterior of Beijing. While the Emperor could have undoubtedly continued fighting, a city under siege by its fellow men would have been compromised by fifth column elements, and with few options remaining, abdication was seen as the most reasonable choice left to the government.

Field Marshall Huli was praised at the address and his successes extolled to the crowds, but many in the soon-to-be-forming government are still unsure of the Fox, and whether his support was out of necessity or true belief in the republican cause. The issue is surely to cause political rumbling in the coming days, and could divide the efforts of the republicans in forming a government. Xian Wuying, head of the White Lily Society, thanked the service of Huli earnestly and spent a considerable amount of her time acknowledging the sacrifice and bravery of the militias.

"Before today you were but farmers and workers," she said, "but with an undying spirit of justice and service to your fellow citizens, you have taken an extraordinary step to better the lives of us all, and in return earned your names a place in eternity. Those who have fallen will never be forgotten, and those who have lived will be ever loved."

Many assume that Xian will be a major contender in the forming government, the woman who was only a college student months prior and survived the execution of the WLS leadership now a known face of the revolution. Some question how an individual so young could play a part in the administration of the country, but the spirit of democracy and popularity now in Shengdi could see anything possible. The direction of the government is still unknown, with a convention in Hong Kong to be held as Bejing is secured. Voices have been divided, with some calling for a republic along similar lines of Europe, where others believe that an organic system derived in Shengdi is the only option.

While for some this is seen as just another despotic government falling to revolution, it is important to note the significance of the event to the Shengdese themselves. The empire was among the longest-living autocratic and monarchist systems in place (the oldest depending on if you belong to either the Aeurian or Shengdese schools of thought) and with the enforced isolation of the state, no knowledge of the world's republican movements played a major role in the fight. Rather the common Shengdese citizen took a gamble and striked out against the only system ever known. Many accredit this victory to the city of Hong Kong, whose multicultural and foreign investments origins promulgated by charter aided the revolution by bringing in foreign ideas - namely Aeurian, an irony in that the Imperial Commonwealth remained unofficially neutral and officially supported the imperial government.

While the politics of the world will have to quickly adjust to the change, the effect that the revolution will have on Shengdi itself is the question. One only time can answer.

[Aeuria]

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Aeuria Renews Nuclear Submarine Program Despite Protests

April 26, 2017

A Jupiter-Class Submarine (Archive photo)

The Admiralty of the Imperial Navy of Aeuria has renewed the nation's controversial nuclear submarine program, ordering the construction of a further 15 vessels and allocating more funds to increase the scope of existing submarine operations. The move was welcomed by the Aeurian military community, who see the nuclear fleet as the nation's greatest military asset, but has already received domestic opposition.

The 1st Aeurian Nuclear Fleet, commissioned by Emperor Aleksander in the 1980s as the "absolute deterrent", is composed of 18 nuclear powered submarines; each capable of carrying out multiple nuclear strikes while submerged. Unlike conventional submarines, nuclear submarines do not require constant refueling thanks to their on-board nuclear reactors. This makes each submarine capable of long-range missions whose only restraint is its food supply. From its launch in 1995, the INS-Praevalidus, a Jupiter-Class submarine, did not have to refuel once during its 18-year career; running on a piece of uranium the size of a fist before being decommissioned in 2014. The Fleet, composed of 10 Jupiter-Class and 8 Saturn-Class submarines, are reported to operate worldwide and is equipped with an arsenal of over 300 nuclear-armed SLBMs which has proved unsettling to the international community since their launch in '80s.

The renewal deal will see billions of Denarii in defense contracts go to the Commonwealth's largest military manufacturers as His Majesty's 2nd Nuclear Fleet is due to begin construction as early as November. The details remain obviously classified however the sheer cost makes the project one of the largest investments in the Aeurian Navy in modern history. For reference, the 1st Aeurian Nuclear Fleet reportedly cost the empire an estimated 750 billion denarii in both research and construction. With the initial technology required for a nuclear fleet capable of firing submerged already researched and further refined over the decades, R&D costs are expected to be considerably less with a budget emphasis on construction rather than innovation.

While the Commonwealth's military has welcomed the announcement, it has already been criticized by one Imperial Senator as "reckless showmanship" with some anti-nuclear organizations staging protests in Aeuria's cities. The Admiralty defended the project as a "necessary and appropriate addition to the deterrent force of the Aeurian naval and nuclear arsenals". A poll conducted by the WWJ in 2015 showed nearly 70% of Aeurians agreed with statement: "Aeuria should possess and maintain its nuclear arsenal." while less than 40% agreed that "Aeuria should continue to operate its fleet of nuclear submarines in international waters". As the world's leading nuclear state, the Commonwealth carries a large responsibility in influencing the potential spread of nuclear weapons and opponents of the new fleet and indeed nuclear weapons in general say the empire is sending the wrong message to non-nuclear states by further strengthening its military's nuclear capacity.

Despite decades of operation, even Aeurians are divided on the issue of their country's nuclear submarines and their impact on global relations and tensions. Some view them as a necessary evil while others declare the Commonwealth's arsenal of ICBMs is already more than enough nuclear weaponry. The fact remains, Aeuria's nuclear arsenal remains a core component of its military stratagems and the Commonwealth's - perhaps the world's - most potent deterrent against military aggression.

[Nowistrana]

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Nowistrana's de facto leader Rodzaevsky calls for Ukrainian-Belarussian-Nowistranian unification

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27 April, 2017

General Secretary Alexandr Rodzaevsky claimed Ukraine and Belarus as a part of Nowistrana on Sunday, speaking about what he described as a historic injustice inflicted by the West and brushing aside international condemnation that could leave Nowistrana isolated for years to come.

In an emotional address steeped in years of resentment and bitterness at perceived slights from the West, Rodzaevsky made it clear that Nowistrana’s patience for injustices by the West, much diminished of late, had finally been exhausted. Speaking to the country’s political elite in the Grand Palace, he said he did not seek to divide the world any further, but he vowed to protect Nowistrana’s and Slavic interests there from what he described as Western actions that had left Nowistrana and it's allies threatened.

“Ukraine and Belarus have always been an integral part of the Slavic race and therefore the Nowistranian nation in the hearts and minds of people,” Rodzaevsky declared in his address, delivered in the chandeliered St. George’s Hall before hundreds of members of Parliament, governors and others. His remarks, which lasted 47 minutes, were interrupted repeatedly by thunderous applause, standing ovations and at the end chants of “Nowistrana, Nowistrana.” Some in the audience wiped tears from their eyes. He denounced what he called the global domination of one superpower and its allies that emerged. “They cheated us again and again, made decisions behind Nowistranas and UFIN's back, presenting us with completed facts,” he said. “That’s the way it was with the La Francophonie deployment of military infrastructure at UFIN borders.” Rodzaevsky, the country’s de facto leader for more than 14 years, appeared to be gambling that the outrage would eventually pass, as it did after Nowistrana’s war with Kazakhstan recently because a newly assertive Nowistrana would be simply too important to ignore on the world stage.

Rodzaevsky appeared at a rally and concert on Imperial Square to celebrate an event charged with emotional and historical significance for many Nowistranians. Among the music played was a sentimental Nowistranian song called “Slavic Waltz.”. “After a long, hard and exhaustive journey, Kazakhstan is returning to their home harbor, to the native shores, to the home port, to Nowistrana! It's time for Ukraine and Belarus to do the same so that we can all live in a unified Slavic country!” Rodzaevsky told the crowd. When he finished speaking, he joined a military chorus in singing the national anthem. Reaching deep into Nowistranian history, he cast himself as the guardian of the Slavic people, even those beyond Nowistranian borders. The idea of getting all Slavs into one country, preferably Nowistrana, is a long-cherished Nowistranian dream which now seems to be the main goal of Nowistranas government.

[The Noiharan Union]

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Noiharas Major Modernisation Plan for its Armed Forces

April 27, 2017

Noiharan Ministry for State Security has announced a military restructure of the Noiharan Armed Forces to transform it into a very modern fighting force with improved joint operations capability. Centered around a new, strict structure, the reshuffle builds on Noiharas years-long efforts to modernize its Armed Forces with greater emphasis on new capabilities including cyberspace, electronic and information warfare. Those reforms include establishing a joint operational command structure by 2018 and rejigging existing military regions, as well as streamlining troop numbers particularly in non-combat facing roles.

Lieutenant General Hana Akiyama, a former armament director of the Armed Forces, said that in the event of a serious national security threat Noihara might not be able to quickly strengthen troop numbers. Hence, it’s necessary in peacetime to have units that are already fully equipped with the latest technology and combat-ready. "The Ministry's decision fits in perfectly with our military and political reality. Our country is not simply an island in the pacific, and Noihara needs full-fledged forces that are deployed in all strategic directions especially now that Noihara has increased responsibilities within the UFIN," said Akiyama, adding that particular attention must be given to the development and modernization of reconnaissance assets, from space orbit to field intelligence.

Several commanders and collaborators at the main and central directorates of the Noiharas Defense Ministry believe that the increase in the army and navy personnel is related to Noihara’s recent actions within in Nowistrana and Kazakhstan and to the establishment of permanent bases in that country. Experts do not exclude that the government is trying to give this development a legal and organizational structure. Other experts, however, added that this modernization is still not enough for Noihara. "Simply having a modern Army is not enough for such a country like Noihara. We need new equipment and numbers," said Admiral Shinzaburo Kururugi, former Chief of General Staff of the Navy.

Noiharan Armed Forces said in March 2017 that the military had received some 1,200 ‘new and modernized aircraft’ since 2013—250 new planes, 300 new helicopters and 700 modernized aircraft. Essentially all the new fixed-wing combat aircraft are modern derivatives of older models: the Type-27 ‘Shiroyasha’ (Type-30; Type-35 and Type-33), Type-25 ‘Kazuki’ and the HaYo-29. These ‘4th generation’ airframes outfitted with modern, digital avionics and sensors are commonly referred to as 4.5 generation fighters, and lack the intrinsic design features of 5th generation aircraft which are more expensive to build and maintain. The question is how effective such fighters would be in a modern war; in fact, it’s a practical and cost-effective plan. 4.5 generation fighters are still very capable and require less development than brand new airframes would. The rising number of new weapons has raised demands for new personnel. The Ministry said the military currently needs 1,300 more pilots and will recruit them by 2018. The ministry also added that the wide-ranging military modernization, originally started in 2013 but now more needed than ever before, will continue this year, with the army receiving 905, partially simply modernized, tanks and other armored vehicles while the navy is planned to receive 17 new ships by 2019. Noiharas goal is to modernize its Armed Forces to at least 85% of modern equipment in 2019.

[Edelreich]

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Defense Ministry Signals Naval Mobilization; Wolfpacks on Alert

April 27, 2017

The German Navy received orders to mobilize the majority of their reserve fleets on Thursday, a spokesperson from the Defense Ministry said. The call reportedly came after an emergency meeting of the Chiefs-of-Staff, where it was determined that the navy would need to be at full operational capacity to defend the interests of the Republic. The Navy has since the 1980s been operating at less than 50% of total active fleets, the reasoning being the relative status quo and the international peace brought on by the Francophonie military initiatives. With the growing disagreements between Edelreich and Scandinavia, and the declaration of a Nowistrana interested in pan-Slavic expansionism, it was assumed the navy would soon see new duties trusted to them.

At Bremerhaven and Rostock, two of the major naval ports of the Marine, the military was already ahead of schedule in preparing practice drills and bringing the reserve ships back into active service. Most of the already deployed ships consist of light cruisers and destroyers and are being tasked with planning defensive routes in the Baltic and North Sea. The main worry that the military currently has is the possibility of an economic war emerging in the north, and the increase in naval patrols serves to prevent damage to the precious trade routes that fuel the north-east states. The government, under the direction of the Prime Minister and the Ministries of Commerce and Transportation, have already begun developing contingency plans - such as a mass transfer of trade direction across the country's interior, instead focusing on the easier to defend Bremerhaven.

The mobilization order comes as a controversial act on the heels of the Francophonie attempted deescalation of conflict between Scandinavia and the Edelreich. While la Francophonie has evacuated their international deployments and requested that Edelreich reduce troop numbers on the Danish border, a request they have mostly complied with, the presence of a renewed German navy is sure to ruffle some feathers.

Andreas Karbach, the Minister of Defense, brushed off criticisms towards the order, stressing the necessity of the German nation to be prepared for a state of war "at a moment's notice."

"The 21st century has largely been a remarkable time of peace," the Minister said, "and while we will do everything possible to continue this trend, the Republic must be prepared for the unconventional wars of the future."

Among the activated units are the majority of the Edelreich's Wolfpacks - their military designation for submarine combat patrols. Submarine warfare has steadily grown in prominence in the 20th century alone, and many naval experts consider the commissioning of a further 15 Aeurian nuclear submarines evidence of a future of unconventional sub-based naval warfare on the horizon. The Edelreich submarine squadrons serve as the backbone of the striking capabilities of the Marine, capable of striking against a multitude of targets and avoiding significant damage, as well as screening for larger vessels. While the original purpose of submarines has been abandoned since massive battleships are no longer a major part of warfare, the ability of a discreet and efficient fighting force shouldn't be ignored by any major military power.

[Nova Aralia]

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Aralian Navy Violates Maltese Sovereignty

29 April 2017

"Warships spotted of the coast of Malta" was the headline most prominent in the news today, concerning many as the idyllic and romanticized Aralian nation ordered a naval detachment to patrol around the islands. While political and pro-unionist conflicts have emerged in the past between the two nations, the suddenness of the deployment has many reeling or concerned for the safety and future independence of Malta.

The naval detachment, consisting of two cruisers, three frigates and two corvettes, was instructed to patrol around the three major islands of Malta and to establish a blockade, ostensibly for the purpose of "defending the territorial waters and integrity of Aralia", as disclosed by the War Ministry. While some have decried the operation as impulsive, audacious and leaving a poor impression of the diplomatic abilities of the Kingdom, the reality is that the move had been discussed for weeks prior by the Aralian General Staff. Crown law also dictates that military decisions by the government have to be approved by the Monarch, so the approval of King Antonio broadcasts a decision that reached the highest echelons of Aralia. The commanding vessel, the HMS Pisa, has been retrofitted with long-range missile systems and cooperation between the Air Force and Navy have allowed priority patrol areas to be singled out.

Chancellor de Canio defended the on-going operation, claiming that the Aralian nation was only acting in the best interest of her people, and that "the Maltese don't need to worry." De Canio's words, while dismissive of Malta's status as a sovereign nation, echo popular sentiment in Aralia; a belief that the Maltese people belong to the romanticized national borders of the country. This is a concept generally considered "Crescita del Destino" or "Destino Finale", the Growth of Faith and Final Destiny, respectively, and can be compared to pan-nationalist movements in other countries, however an important distinction is the focus on destiny, insofar as the rightful domain of the Aralian people must be achieved one day.

While understandably difficult for non-Aralians to understand, Professor Ulderico Fiorentino of the University of Milan has attempted to describe the belief in kinder words:

"Crescita del Destino is the growth of faith, or of destiny to put it into simpler words. The Aralian people believe in a government that is not motivated by nationalist sentiments and personal greed, rather we're not willing to commit to concepts of authoritarianism and appeals of tradition. We won't fall into a nationalist stupor, for Aralians are aware of their own history and understand the intricacies that formed our history and founded our modern state. This understanding, this zeal, is what led to the unification of Aralia; it is what led to our monarchy; it is what led to our participation in European affairs; it is what led to our modern developed society. It is a certain faith that we place in our nation, into the arcane bonds that form our society, and it is with this knowledge that our faith must grow. It will grow. It is a fortune or a providence that we all have lived, a force that connects our society together. In simplest terms, Destino Finale is our time, and our time will come."

In response to these provocations the Maltese government has announced their intentions to attend a private summit in Rome, where both countries can hopefully work out an agreement. This is a move from past trends, where in the previous diplomatic confrontations between Aralia and Malta, the Maltese Republic refused to compromise and in many cases the growing conflicts were solved by international intervention. The growing movement towards war in Europe, as many believe, has likely encouraged the Maltese government to finally agree to visit Aralia, where a future arrangement may be possible.

[Aeuria]

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Aeuria's Jean-Pierre to Tour Imperial Colonies, Vows to Ensure and Expand Civil Rights of Native Populations

April 29, 2017

The Prince announced the tour at the Human Rights Campaign's annual gala in Praevalidus last night.

Aeuria's Jean-Pierre VIII has announced an upcoming tour of the Commonwealth's newly restored imperial colonies which will see the young royal travel from Indonesia to Burma in a 2-week long effort to promote and protect civil rights. The Prince, who serves as the nation's First Consul, made the announcement during the Human Rights Campaign's (HRC) annual fundraiser in Praevalidus. In addition to his role as First Consul, His Highness also serves on the board of directors of the HRC - the largest international LGBT civil rights advocacy group and political lobbying organization in the Commonwealth. The tour, while officially a state affair, is to focus primarily on the legal and civil rights of Aeuria's colonial populations who, despite a famously progressive government, are not afforded full Aeurian citizenship.

Officially designated as "colonial citizens", the native populations of imperial colonies possess only a fraction of the benefits afforded to "imperial citizens" - those born to Aeurian citizens in one of the Commonwealth's 9 "core" provinces; Aeuria's mainland, Tasmania, and Zealand's two islands. These benefits range from healthcare subsidies and insurance coverage, childcare, education rights, legal entitlements, and an array of civil liberties. While expected to abide by imperial law, the Commonwealth's colonial populations - an estimated 400 million people - are not entitled to the vast financial, medical, and labor rights granted to full citizens.

The glaring inequality between Aeuria's natives and their colonies was justified throughout history as being financially nonviable. That is to say, Aeuria could not afford to extend the benefits of full citizenship to, at the empire's peak, nearly a quarter of the world's population. Instead, native populations were granted "partial-citizenship". This "partial-citizenship" ensures basic human rights, access to imperial medical and educational facilities, and provides a small financial stipend to "combat the dangers of endemic poverty in the developing world". Efforts to build the necessary infrastructure for medical hospitals and schools proved successful throughout history, however the sheer size of the population proved an ever-present challenge to the Aeurian colonial administration who struggled to service the much larger populations with the same quality enjoyed by Aeuria's mainland populations. Instead, administrations adopted a policy of "Quantity over Quality" in regards to their social welfare programs - sacrificing the high standard of Aeurian public services for a considerably larger, substandard network of public services.

After decolonization, the quality of these services dropped even further as administration and day-to-day operations were handed over to local authorities. Largely staffed by Aeurians, schools and hospitals soon fell victim to an exodus of skilled personnel who returned to the mainland for employment. Aware of the potential damage to social services by its withdrawal, the imperial government has funded various non-profit organizations whose focus is to provide specialists and educators to staff schools and hospitals free of charge.

Despite its charities and philanthropy, many of the world's liberals, Aeurians included, have taken issue with the Commonwealth's modern continuation of what is widely viewed as an outdated and backwards approach to colonial administration. In a nation whose mainland population of 40 million enjoy famous civil rights, who are widely stereotyped as morally uninhibited in their liberties, the glaring inequality brought on by the renewal of colonialism can be best described as a "buzzkill". While many Aeurians - some 65% - supported the Emperor's recent restoration of the colonial SE Asia, many in the general population are now criticizing the government's implementation of "lackluster" policies, with a Senate minority now led by the First Consul himself, calling for expanded rights and entitlements for colonial populations. The budding political movement has found an unexpected and influential ally in Prince Jean-Pierre, whose announcement seems to imply a possible shift in government policy regarding colonial rights.

While the extent and route of the Prince's tour has yet to be announced, many in the capital view the trip as long overdue; His Highness will be the first member of the imperial family to visit Aeuria's Asian holdings since their annexation. Many campaigners hope the First Consul's endorsement of colonial rights will have an impact on societal attitude on the subject, with the Prince's own Human Rights Campaign saying "Public opinion on the civil rights and legal status of native populations is surprisingly behind the times in a country whose stereotypes revolve around its excessive personal liberties."

However, colonial policy is ultimately determined by the Emperor who has remained silent on the subject since his final announcement of the restoration. Changing policy to include just the financial aid granted to full-citizens would cost billions and likely upset the government's current budget which has seen a steady increase in military and security spending. With a newly announced renewal of the nation's nuclear submarine program, whose cost is projected to enter the tens of billions, it seems unlikely the Crown will also invest hundreds of billions of Denarii in colonial welfare.

[Alcase]

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President Marie travelling to Tunis, regarding international tensions

29 April

The Alcasian parliament, following months of relatively quiet waters domestically, anonymously leaked an itinerary of President Marie's travels to the Francophone city of Tunis. Secret trips like this were seen previously in the Aeurian imperialism scandal, and many of the ambiguous black book crediting placed on the itinerary smell of similar undertakings.

While the executive has not yet released an official statement on the matters, it may spell trouble for the future of Alcase as a country.

Update:

While many international leaders have remained quiet, there have been an influx of government-funded airliners into the city of Tunis.

Many critics of the Alcasian Republic have speculated this is simply an attempt of the executive of making unfair international deals, possibly hurting Alcase, while the more conservatives of the international community have regarded this as nothing more than security discussion in light of the recent militarization of Alcase's home continent.

Many protest in the streets of Paris and the other major cities of Alcase, fighting against Alcase's position in La Francophonie. Government critics cite the Aeurian-UFIN talks as "undemocratic" and "against the best wishes of the international community,"

One far-right opposition leader even went as far as proclaiming that, "Alcase deserves to be back in its roots," and that, "La Francophonie has undermined the Alcasian state."

While tensions remain high both abroad and inside, the Alcasian Republic is officially, "determined to remain with the tide of citizenry and her allies."

[Nova Aralia]

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Malta Accepts Aralian Annexation

30 April 2017

Faced with few alternatives and fearing the growing might of an Aralian battlefleet hovering near the Maltese island chain, the Republic was forced to reconsider their historic independence, to the pleasure of the Aralian Crown. Henceforth the Maltese Republic will be adopted into the Aralian government, not as an autonomous zone, but as a member of the Crown alongside equal status with the other provinces. The explanation for this sudden change, when considered in the face of centuries of independence for the Maltese, the Chancellery rationalized by explaining that the Maltese are but a branch of the Aralian people. While national sovereignty and the right of self-determination are considered by many countries to be the single most important trait of defining international borders, the knowledge that Malta is considered hereditary land of the Aralian Crown has softened many worries over the treatment of the people there. It is also difficult for the international community to decry these actions, for while Aralia intimidated Malta with threat of invasion, the Maltese Republic signed away their independence when no immediate threat was yet to be decided; an act that has had far-reaching surges in Aralia.

In Rome, the rapturous city of business and religion had turned into a massive display of patriotism, as many took to the streets to celebrate the annexation. Aralian flags and banners adorned with the House Casamona shield were flown through the city, and many of the private businesses and government offices closed for the day. While the Chancellery and Crown were both indisposed for comment, Magistrate Caronte Berta of the Senate of Rome gave a rousing televised speech that represented many of the feelings shared by his fellow countrymen:

"Once more our future is determined, not by luck or outsiders, but by our own determination and perseverance. Our ancestors are smiling down upon us, awestruck at our victory and having pride for our small accomplishment today."

Florence itself was a rather different scene, the historic home of the Casamona Monarchy instead a quiet city of reverence. Locals flocked to Sunday Mass in record numbers, with many feeling that the good fortunes of the Kingdom were a sign of holy blessing. Whether this opinion is shared by the Catholic Church can not be said, as traditionally the Papacy refrains from involvement in worldly affairs - barring a few notable exceptions. Though the increasing number of adherents is likely being well-received by the Holy See, who stands to benefit from the reactions of the Aralian people towards the annexation.

Malta has already begun the process of integrating with the Aralian government, and a detachment of the Aralian Gendarmerie have supposedly already arrived on the central island.

[Alcase]

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President Marie Emerges After Days of Silence

30 April, 2017

The following is a transcript of the recent reporter-led interview with the Alcasian Presidency:

Thank you very much for your time, it is a pleasure to be able to interview you after so much time had passed with no official government stances. Can I begin the interview with a general question of what direction you plan on placing the Alcasian Republic following the heightened regional tensions?

Thank you for having me, Ms. Song, and yes, it is an appropriate question one might ask. I had met in Tunis several sovereign leaders, as well as several corporate chiefs of the former Alcasian Empire, primarily those of our most amiable standings, regarding a quiet radical proposal - reunification of the Union. I had felt it reasonable that, while the international community might be on edge due to the recent upturn of Fascist aggression, it would be the appropriate for the former Union to band together, with La Francophonie.

I am planning on approaching the National Assembly in a few days here to begin discussing such plans, and I am definitely counting on our former friends to consult their own people about these plans.

Wow, Mrs. President, that sure is a shock to us. Although I'm confident that the Alcasian people ought not to be worried. What would you like to say to the recent referendum pledge of the Front Nationale in the National Assembly?

Well, I had actually spoken with Ms. Mathieu-Marchal following her rally, and we spoke on the phone for several hours discussing terms we can both agree on. She was fully adamant on leaving La Francophonie but I assured her that La Francophonie's power dynamics would be shifted following the upcoming plans that were laid out in this meeting. She kept true to her philosophy, and, out of respect, I let her hold her ideas very sacredly and tight; it was not place to tell her what she should do, as we government officials are never above one another. She, as well as twitter, informed me that the National Assembly is soon going to vote on a referendum to bring to the people;
the Alcasian backing out of its most dearly held alliance.

It was definitely a crowd out in that rally, there were a lot of people upset with the peace terms. It appears that many didn't want such terms for the Finns, who we all share such a connection as Europeans,

I definitely agree with them, Ms. Song. Finns are not Russian, they do not have any matter being under the rule of the Kremlin.

I noticed you mentioned that there were talks of reunification, do you believe that this is actually hypocritical of your administration's stance of democracy and self-determination?

Actually, I thought long and hard about that throughout the past few days. I don't believe it's hypocritical at all. The Alcasian Republic has always been a nation of Alcasians, and our brothers over the world deserve to rest easy knowing that they have a say in their government, and that their institutions would not be dismantled by fascist or undemocratic leaders.

Yeah, that'd suck,

Definitely, I believe that unification would be in the best interests of our citizens, and of our former citizens. I mean, politics are horrible, there's just so much fighting I don't even see the point in it all when the citizens should come first.

I feel you on that one. Anyway, thank you for your brief meeting with me. Thank you very much for your service to the country.

It was my pleasure.

[Edelreich]

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Berlin Holds Conference on La Francophonie Membership

April 30, 2017

In another potential defeat for the Francophonie organization, that has since the international meeting in Berlin been quickly losing favor among its members, Parliament has called for a round of talks regarding their ongoing membership in the organization. Due to be held in Berlin, the conference will be composed of various government commissions dedicated to analyzing the benefits of German membership in la Francophonie, as well as featuring political experts and representatives of the Office of the Prime Minister. A steady anti-Francophonie sentiment has been growing in the Edelreich, with many Germans feeling that the organization no longer meets the needs of the modern world - a damning response from a country that once helped to form the military and economic backbone of la Francophonie. German membership in the organization historically came about as the result of an agreement with an Aeurian-Alcasian led delegation in 1968. While the Edelreich did not meet any of the requirements for joining; it doesn't have a French-speaking populace nor a cultural influence, and does not recognize French as a regional language, the Edelreich existed as a major economic center in Europe whose influence in an international organization would be invaluable. In compromising, the Edelreich was granted Extraordinary status, allowing them to fully take part in la Francophonie.

This comes in response to various shortcomings of the organization, with the rumored inability of the German delegation to the emergency meeting in Berlin to compromise with the Aeurian-led administration as a catalyst. Recently the international forces of the organization, which were deployed to Edelreich in response to the invasion of Finland, were quietly pulled away, leaving only the Canadian government to continue with joint-operations. This act caused outrage in the Edelreich with many Germans believing that they were betrayed, and attempts by the organization to defend their actions were met with further anger; many seeing them as merely political statements to save face.

Now, with protesters more bold than ever across the Edelreich, the major cities of Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg and Essen awash with anti-internationalist rhetoric and graffiti, it seems that the German government has finally decided to react.

Berlin is charting an interesting course, no doubt, for many online polls conducted in the Edelreich show that many Germans believe that Scandinavia and Nowistrana are active threats, and that war may be on the horizon. So leaving the organization that supplies for unconditional membership defense has been controversial, but many politicians and active supporters of the campaign argue that la Francophonie has already failed. Prime Minister Mader herself has criticized the direction of the organization, and was so bold as to claim that an inner conspiracy is at play to sell out European states in the name of appeasement. Berlin has went beyond the permission of la Francophonie by provocatively involving themselves in Eastern Europe and the Baltics, with the administration prepared to "engage with any act" to prohibit the fall of these states to fascist imperialism.

It is still unsure how the conference will progress, or if Parliament will leave with a majority consensus on continued membership, but the growing anti-Francophonie sentiment can not be ignored if the organization wishes to continue well into the 21st century.

[The Canadiens]

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Canada Prepares for the Worst

May 1, 2017

This morning the Senate passed bill C-239 which will begin the Canada's process of preparing for a potential conflict in the near future as well as pledging Canadian support to its allies, primary in Europe, despite its future in La Francophonie coming into question. The bill itself stresses the need for Canada to be prepared for; a war in Europe and/or the Pacific, providing military and material assistance to its allies, to be internally economically and socially braced for a war, and the deal with the very real possibility of a Canadian withdrawal from La Francophonie should the organization continue deteriorating. The initial bill was proposed by Conservative MP Ron Liepert from Alberta following the renewal of the 1922 Arctic Treaty in March which generated mixed reactions especially among conservative MPs in both houses, however its more recent restructuring presented to the House of Commons on Thursday acquired more house-wide support though some spectators and journalists observed an uncharacteristic grimness among the MPs and the Prime Minister who voted in favour for the bill. Before the vote this morning Mr. Liepert stated that; "...the Fascists have become increasingly bold with their actions and have become increasingly militaristic and by extension dangerous. If Canada is to stand against this blatant threat to ourselves, our allies, and the rest of the Free World, we must ready ourselves for the worse, or be caught unprepared should the possibility of conflict come to pass".

A major objective of C-239 is to expand and improve the Canadian military, a move that despite the looming threat of war remains widely controversial among Liberal and New Democratic MPs and their voters. The expansion planned by the Ministry of Defense primarily targets the Royal Navy and Air Force which are seen as the most capable forces to adequately assist Canada's allies in the event of a war. While all branches within the Canadian military have begun gradually entering forces into active service the bulk of military expansion is focused within RCN which is due to early triple in size as the numerous ships in the reserve fleet are placed into active duty and the RCAF commissioning the creation and deployment of new hardware and manpower over the course of the coming months most of which are expected to deploy to the Edelreich and Alaska. The Minister of Defense has stated that Canadians should expect these deployments and expansions to be "gradual but steady" maintaining that Canada's focus, despite "digging in", remains on diplomacy and working with the Germans to ultimately deter aggressive expansion from Scandinavia or Nowistrana.

Another point outlined within the bill deals with preparing the Canadian population and businesses for a conflict. Though there have been widespread fears among the population of major impacts on Canadian's daily lives, freedoms, or economic safety, Prime Minister Tremblay has stressed:

"...none of us want a war, and what the government is doing first and foremost is taking steps to prevent this war from happening. That being said however, we need to view these coming months almost like a bad storm similar to what so many of us deal with every-so-often; we aren't quite sure if the storm will hit us or not but we should be prepared anyway should it go over us even though there is a very real possibility that it will not even hit us to begin with."

While many have criticized the Prime Minister for being almost too calm about the situation many Canadians (73% in a recent nationwide poll done by the CBC) despite believing that a war is likely maintain their trust that the government is doing their best to keep the peace.

A pressing matter the bill deals with has involves a potential Canadian withdrawal La Francophonie should the organisation deteriorate. The recent UFIN meeting in Praevalidus, while successful, was viewed as a major compromise to many Canadians, or at worse only delaying the inevitable. The bill establishes a future date for a referendum of Canadian membership within La Francophonie as well as outlining a Canadian-Francophonie exit procedure that will allow Canada to exit the organisation smoothly in order to prevent chaos and uncertainly among the other member nations. Though there are many supporters of the organisation mostly within French Canada it was found that a majority Canadiens (41%) agree that La Francophonie "has failed on some level" despite a comfortable 67% of French Canadians supporting the organisation last November.