Snap Elections in Winst [GO News Cycle] [Closed/GO Only]

[Winst]

Reform Party Ousted from Government; Snap Elections called

Silvus National News
Silvus, Winst
By Marc Reet
Monday, September 20th

After weeks of protest and contentious rallies, A vote of no confidence was placed against Donovan Paige and his government. This morning representative Samantha Burke motioned for the vote to the surprise of many. Burke a member of the Socialist Party, the coalition partner of the reform party, was a strong supporter of Reform-Socialist measures throughout her term and seen as a rising star within the party. The loss of Representative Burke led to a mass defection from within the Socialist and Reform Parties. Eight other Socialists and Fourteen Reformists broke off with Burke and crossed the aisle. A last-minute attempt by the Green Party to preserve the current government failed when Gary Powers sided against his party. The final vote 76 in favor 74 against.

Since the inception of the Plutocratic Republic in 1870, no party has faced a vote of no confidence. The High Court of the Realm ruled soon after the ousting that fresh elections would be required, pushing the Wintonian General Election up by nearly two years and leaving parties scrambling to effectively campaign in this tumultuous time.

Pundits have already tapped the protesters as the critical target of the short campaign season. The fallen Reform-Socialist Government was heavily criticized by the protestors following the release of the Utkin Doctrine early last month. Of particular salience is the Paige administrations lack of a hard stance in the face of Aridite buildup along the border and failure to implement sanctions against Duke Carlo’s seizure of power in the Parthonopian Region and its implication in the collapse of the Marcomer Republic. These, however, are just the latest frustrations with the governments' foreign policy as the issue of the Kaiserin of Lunderfrau being allowed into the Plutocratic Republic as the first Monarch in well over a century, as well as the assassination of Johnathan Berry at the hands of an Al-Meriqan national still hang over the national conscious.

The Populos gave a farewell address earlier today after he transferred his duties temporarily to the Plutos Henry Brisbois.

“Today I must say goodbye to the Wintonian People. For four years I have served as the Populos of this great nation, for four years I have attempted to lead our nation into a stronger and more resilient future. I hope even as I leave this highest office, that the values of reform do not. We must see that the people have the opportunity to rise in our society, to tear down the shackles which prevent social mobility. We must not forget about L’Orphelins who live on the periphery of our society simply because they have no family name. We must not allow Noble businesses dominate our nation. We must invest in our nation, we must invest in the Guinot People. We must not give in to anger and ideological fervor.”

The collapse has caused the Hold to drop in value as well as a steep decline within the Silvus Stock Exchange. What kind of change will this bring to Winst remains to be seen?

[Winst]

Opinion: Insight for the Next Wintonian Government

By Heather Green

Following the historic news of a vote of no confidence, the question of who can next take up the mantle of control is on everybody’s mind. The snap election leaves little time for the parties to effectively campaign. The major parties failed to appeal to the voters in 2015 leading to reforms meteoric rise and subsequent fall. As we have seen the population ever fickle has swung from an intense desire for a strong domestic policy to that of strong foreign policy. The Reform party, unlike other parties, simply couldn’t adapt. The party at its core was fundamentally designed around its domestic policy agenda.

Although it is important to seize the energy of the masses, the Reform-Socialist government failed to realize the importance of not letting those energies consume the party’s identity. Reform started as a break away from the Liberal Democrats leading up to the 2010 election. A minor rift, that quickly would have healed within the next election cycle. The tragic death of Malcom Paige only 8 months into his term and the election of his brother Donovan changed the fate of the small splinter group. Donovan like his brother was an idealist, but where his brother was technocratic, Donovan was charismatic. His reorientation of Reform transformed the party from an offshoot into a political movement. Vicious attacks upon the nobility and his poster child for the “injustice” within Wintonian society; the so-called “L’Orphelins”. Mixing of Liberal Democratic principles with faux conservatism, the resulting chimera was appealing to those who pay little attention to politics and could get behind his message. The Socialists making good bedfellows for this abomination undercut the credibility they had sought to reaffirm after 20 years out of office after their horrendous attempt to hold the People’s Union and the Greens into a unified front led to the formation of the Conservative Alliance of Beo Democrats, Falians, the Republican Order (at least temporarily), and the Premier Parties. Wintonian Politics is like a pendulum, the speed at which it swings in one direction will lead to just as quick of a movement back the other way.

Originally published in the Republican Magazine on September 29th

[Parthonopia]

September 21, 2018

International News
Article by
Pepi Panforte

Socialist-Reform Coalition

Ousted in Wintonia,

Emergency General Elections

To Replace Popular Assembly

---

---

"Good riddance to them! .... I look forward to when this day comes around for whomever is the replacement." - Prince Carlo commenting on the sudden regime change with the ousting of Donovan Paige in the Plutocratic Republic.

---

---

Donovan Paige somberly delivering his lackluster farewell address.

Since the 2015 general election cycle to determine the 29th Popular Assembly, part of the ruling body of the Plutocratic Republic, a coalition of the Reform and Socialist Parties have held tight control. Stealing the majority in an upheaval of an election it is ironically fitting that this coalitions demise came in the form of a similarly speedy and unexpected matter. Only three years into their terms as the governing coalition, for the first time in history a vote of 'No Confidence' successfully dissolved the current power structure in Silvus. Socialist Party representative, Samantha Burke, led the charge on the outing of the incumbent government and the Populos. There were several last ditch efforts taken by the reactionary influenced sections of the Assembly that were clearly unsuccessful.

This unprecedented coup brings to light the sheer unpredictability of Wintonian politics, and the dangerous potential that such a slippery form of government may bring. Over the past decade and a half, the fragmented political landscape in the Liran republic, just north of Arideo, has steadily been sliding leftward. While Wintonian pundits like to compare the balance of ideologies in their forums to that of a swinging pendulum, it is apparent that this is not the case. Wintonian politics is more clearly characterized as that of a hammer driving a nail. The hammer is revolutionary theory and a gradual transition towards outright communism; the nail is the last one before the coffin is seal with the Wintonians inside. This dramatic turn of events, so close to the Parthonopian homeland, comes after a series of mass protests, some violent in nature. The Popular Assembly haplessly ceded to the protesters in this historic move of 'No Confidence' amidst calls for strong foreign policy. At the forefront of this movement, Samantha Burke betrayed her coalition partners to present the vote. In whatever replacement government that is to come, she is expected to be a major player in it.

Here in Parthonopia, the news of the collapse of the Wintonian government was met with a consistently favorable reaction. The Plutocratic Republic has long been an enemy of the Parthonopian people, especially so in playing a major role in the disintegration of the Kingdom and continuing to remain involved in the region to exploit it. While Wintonian tactics of oppression have changed over the past few decades to a less brash and overt style, their elitist policies and greed fueled drive to control the people's they deem 'lesser' still stands strong today. The most obvious instance of their continued corrupt and abhorrent behavior being the possession of colonies in Northern Meridiq, long after many other former colonial empires have released their foreign holdings. This is also the case here in the Parthonopian homeland; Puorto Lafina, the city-state neighbor of the Marcomer Republic, still contains a sizable Wintonian military presence. This historic Parthonopian port is for all intents and purposes an extension of the Wintonian country, not a free autonomous state like the majority of the region has the right to be. When events like the sudden dissolution of the Popular Assembly occur, it raises many important questions. The most frequent question raised is what is next for Wintonia? A more crucial question is whether or not the Wintonians, if they cannot rule themselves, should still be allowed to unjustly rule over other states.

This is an important topic for the Convention on the Cormor to discuss and as such, despite recently concluding this session, they have been recalled to Ancona to deal with the rising tensions in Lira. The resignation of Donovan Paige, albeit a happy sight for the Convention, is yet one more step towards a geopolitical powder keg like the one that was lit in beginning of the twentieth century. Prince Carlo was asked to comment on this turn events, a frequent face recently seen delivering a series of rousing speeches in response to international aggression and pressure towards the Commonwealth. Contrary to recent appearances, Prince Carlo's interview today on this topic was rather brief with him simply stating that the outcome is favorable, however we should be wary of whatever is to come. When asked to comment on former Populos Donovan Paige's farewell address, he had this to say, "[Paige] had nothing of any note or importance to say at the end of his career, which is fitting for a man who talked so much and accomplished so litte."

---

---

[Winst]

Wintonian Election Results Declared: No Majority Party

Silvus National News
Silvus, Winst
By Marc Reet
November 20th

Offical Results

Results from the Snap Election have come with a resounding victory for some parties. What isn't clear, however, is the makeup of the governing coalition. No party receiving a majority means coalition talks will have to begin soon. The only two-party coalition that is viable is a Conservative-Liberal Democrat alliance, although a bitter history of the 2005 election may impede talks, it is considered by most the likely outcome. If not we are looking at tenuous three-party coalition, which are known for their fragility. In the mean time, we break down the winners and losers of tonight's election.

Liberal Democrats

The Liberal Democrats are the biggest winner of tonight's election. Michele Tourne's new leadership has proved extremely important to a party that had been decimated by its own splinter group, Reform, just four years earlier. Gaining 35 seats in the election, mainly from reform counties, the new leadership has brought the party back from the brink of irrelevance. The party, which dominated Wintonian Politics from the 1950s through the 1960s, hasn't been the first seat in nearly 50 years.

Conservative Alliance

The Conservative Union, expected to be the big winner of this election, did worse than expected as many staunch Conservative counties defected to the Republican Order. The more conservative voices fleeing the collapse of reform and the radicalization of Liberal Democrats, still allowed the party to gain seats, however. For many in the party, it is seen as a pyrrhic victory, however, and has signaled the Wintonian people are not yet ready for a return of Conservatives to the Populos.

Socialists

The Socialists, although losing seats did not collapse as many predicted. Samantha Burke's gambit of defection helped buoy the party in the face of major resentment. Representative Burke was able to wrangle control of the party. Nearly all the representatives who crossed over with Burke remain in office, while those who did not have been removed.

Republican Order

The Second biggest winner Republican Order receiving 15 seats their largest gains since 1990 and the most seats since 1920. Just shy of the third seat in the National Assembly, the Republican Order has reached hights it hasn't seen in quite some time.

Reform

Reform, the obvious loser has shown its resilience and the faith of some of its constituents. It's new leadership under Maximilian Loupe seems prepared to make itself a staple, albeit on a smaller scale, of Wintonian Politics in the future.

People's Union
The People's Union is far from a loser tonight. Although it made only modest gains due to a rallying of the Socialist Party, the Union has seen a gradual return following disastrous 2000 and 2005 election cycles. The incremental increase compared to other parties bodes well for the radical left parties future.

Green
Opposite of the Socialists, the Green Party's attempt to save the former government cost it dearly as counties defected to People's Union. The party was criticized heavily for its involvement in attempting to prop up a government it wasn't even apart of.

[Arideo]

Chaos north of the border, troops redeployed

---

November 3, 2018 | Gvardio de Monteto | 16:00

---

In a press conference held today, Wilbert XI held a speech about the dangers of democracy, pointing at Winst as the perfect example to this. "A populist leader with no aim but to invade nations which do not fall in line with them will inevitably cause another catastrophic war," Wilbert XI said, refering to the previous major war. "We will do everything in our power to dissuade these populists from starting a war, but that should be mistaken for weakness; If we are attacked, we will strike back, harder and faster than any of them could imagine."

In addition to the speech, Wilbert XI redeployed the 7a and 21a Infanteriodivizio from the southern border to the northern border, citing the reason behind this as "we can no longer rely on Winst not to do anything rash while their government is undergoing a likely radical change in policy". Citizens on the border to Winst have been advised to stock up on supplies and be ready to evacuate to emergency shelters if the situation escalates. In some cases, local militias have been formed by volunteers to fend off the invaders whilst the civilians escape, should the worst come to pass. Military exercises planned near the border will still go on as planned on November 24th, despite the tensions.

[Velkanika]

Opinion: Winst's Socialists Rode the Tiger

Velkanika Wire Services
By Satasha Vigo, People's Deputy
September 16 at 6:18 PM

Snap elections in the Republic of Winst this week have resulted in the collapse of the coalition between the right wing and the Socialist Party. The Socialist Party had previously allied with the right in order to achieve greater influence in the Page government, however their abandonment of their founding principles has ultimately led to failure.

The collapse of the coalition government serves as a reminder of the perils inherent in the Democratic approach to implementing Marxism. This is the latest in a string of examples where a left-right coalition government has ultimately collapsed after the irreconcilable differences between Marxist and Reactionary ideologies conflicted. Fortunately, the damage done here appears to have been more keenly felt by the right, with the Parliament swinging to the left. Dramatic gains were made by the left-wing Republican Order and People's Union parties, which both are classified by the International Workers Organization as being Democratic Socialist.

This movement toward the left following the collapse of the irrational alliance between Samantha Burke's insincere Socialists and the borderline Reactionaries of the Reform party was predicted by history. History shows that this movement will likely continue over time as the Gostians continue to realize the benefits inherent in a benevolent Socialist government.

[Winst]

The Jacobin Alliance Coalition Formed Pundits in awe.

Silvus National News
Silvus, Winst
By Marc Reet
December 7th

After nearly 3 weeks of anticipation, a governing coalition has emerged out of the Popular Assembly. For the better part of the time period, pundits have been speculating on which coalition would succeed. For many, the outcome could not have been worse. Hopes that a Conservative-Liberal Democrat would form were quickly dashed by Michelle Tourne as their last time in power together seems to loom over her head. Instead, a monstrosity has been created by the Liberal Democrats as they enter government with both the People's Union and the Republican Order under the aptly named Jacobin Alliance.

How we got here

The 30th Popular Assembly's election results were not promising. A clearly divide assembly with no majority party coalition forming was the next necessary step. The division, however, only left one viable two-party coalition government available; Liberal Democrat-Conservative. The inherent stability of a two-party coalition is extremely appealing to would be Populos as juggling more party's demands become difficult while staying true to your base. Michelle Tourne quickly dismissed the potential alliance stating: "The Liberal Democrats will not be making that mistake again", referring to the last coalition government between the two in 2005 which led to the creation of the reform party. Without a viable two-party coalition, attempts opened up to all parties. After weeks of deliberations, the now governing coalition formed to the dismay of the other parties. A last-ditch attempt was made by the other parties to form a four-party coalition government but proved unable to produce a leader, allowing the Jacobin Alliance to secure the position by Plurality. The position of Populos secured, the Jacobin alliance achieved a virtual majority, due to the Populos' vote serving as a tiebreaker, effectively turning their 75 vote plurality into a 76 vote Majority. How this Radical government will operate remains to be seen.

[Winst]

A Nation at War?

Silvus National News
Silvus, Winst
By Marc Reet
December 10th

The newly ascendant Jacobin Alliance, have burst out of the gate running as they seek to upend traditional Wintonian Politics. In their first session, two major shifts occurred. The Wintonian war flag, which hasn't been flown since the end of the Olympic War has been raised. The move is a clear attack on absolutist regimes which have risen in Lira. The preamble of the constitution of Winst states “The Republic of Winst shall forever be at war with the forces of Monarchism and counter-revolution, until both the Guinot People and the Denizens of the World are freed from the chains of wretched tyranny.” The move is especially targeted against Arideo who have been moving troops along the border for quite some time. Fears of monarchic aggression and the unbalancing of Lira due to the rise of a new Parthonopian state have been the stepping stones in this direction. Another nod to the past and now present state of Winst is the reclassification of the Republic from a plutocratic one to a revolutionary one, yet another sign of the government's bellicose nature. These movements have been backed up by action as well, with troop movement and increased air patrols along the Aridite border, and orders to build-up the Wintonian presence in Port Lafida.

[Arideo]

A bit more SoL-oriented post, but I hope it'll make due.

---

Gvardio de Monteto, Arideo
December 13th
10:25 Local Time

With the upcoming new year's celebrations, the capital had been covered in decorations, and many shops played songs which usualy had something to do with snow or happiness. This particular trend had persisted for ages.

What was different this time was the number of people out and shopping. Specifically, the lack of people. Most had either already bought their new year's presents, been drafted in the emergency draft, or decided to stay home with their family, as they didn't want to be out shopping should war break out and the capital be bombed.

Many stores, fearing such a fate themselves, had elected to stay closed and home with their families during the crisis. As a result, about half of the stores that would usually be open and full of customers at this time of year, had closed down entirely, in many cases leaving a note on the door apologizing for the inconvenience. What stores still remained open suffered severe staff shortages (some even down to just the owner/manager), and struggled to handle what few customers they had.

Not all stores had closed for real, however: Many stores had simply pretended to close, and now hosted secret meetings between revolutionaries from all sides of the isle; Republican, communist, e.t.c. Most had the same goal: To plan what to do should war break out. Most of these groups had the same goal; To usurp the monarchy, and install themselves as leader of Arideo.

Where their plans differed were the plans for Arideo after the usurption. Some simply wanted power for themselves, others envisioned a return to the constitutional monarchy of 1926, and a few dared think further, envisioning a state similar to the parthonopian one, where Arideo would be split up into 55 states, bound together in a confederation but otherwise free.

Regardless of their aims for Arideo, one thing was clear for them: The current regime would not be able to hold out much longer if things proceeded the way they are now.

[Etrurie]

La Sentinelle Nationale

Opinion: Belligerence is the Last Thing Lira Needs

By Girard Berger

It is no stretch to say that within a matter of weeks, the Wintonian political stage has been entirely upended in the wake of the recent snap elections. The current shape of Winst's Popular Assembly is a very different one compared to the mild-mannered administration of Donovan Paige and the Reform Party. Instead of an affable, if lethargic government, we suddenly have a radical and belligerent one on our doorstep. Since they came to power, the Jacobin Alliance has already made significant moves such as raising the Wintonian War Flag (an occurrence not seen since the Olympic War a century ago), carrying out military maneuvers, and reclassifying their title from "Plutocratic Republic" to "Revolutionary Republic".

It is true that their sudden aggression is primarily directed towards their long-time enemy, Arideo. Given their history and Arideo's status as a highly belligerent autocratic state, the semi-regular period of increased tension might well be expected. Several factors make this occasion a highly concerning one, however. Among the unique circumstances of the present situation are the recent unification of Parthonopia, the (as previously stated) raising of the War Flag, and the announcement of Velkanika's interventionist "Utkin Doctrine".

It is no coincidence that the emergence of this radical government follows these events. It is likely that the perception of growing instability in Lira and abroad primed the stage for the Jacobin Alliance to make its debut. The time is ripe for them to work up popular anti-monarchist fears and "revolutionary" sentiments, and they are so far doing so with aplomb.

Although Winst's shift in policy appears to be a reaction to growing political tensions in Southern Lira, it may ironically result in ever-greater amounts of fuel for the powder keg. These past few months have seen declarations of belligerence from a growing number of powers, and Winst is the latest addition to what may very well be a chain reaction in the works.

It is becoming clear that the last thing Lira needs is more aggression. Saber rattling of this nature can only continue for so long before someone gets cut and the world has another Olympic War on its hands.

Thankfully, cooler but not unresponsive heads continue to prevail in our own Parliament. Etrurie has maintained an admirably peaceable stance, continuing to push for stability. We ought to continue to do so; as a mediator, if necessary.

This does not mean that Etrurie ought not to be prepared for unpalatable contingencies, however. If push comes to shove (which sadly seems increasingly likely), we must still be ready for it-- whatever "it" may be.

[Lunderfrau]

After Months Long Silence, Major Policy Shifts for Lunderfrau

Laubenhugel, Lunderfrau-

After abruptly recalling diplomats from Winst 48 hours ago, Kaiserin Elise Von Strauss addressed members of the media today in the garden atrium of the Imperial Palace. While all those in attendance today had assumed the Kaiserin would unveil a new foreign policy direction, few we’re prepared for the policies unveiled today. The Kaiserin’s spoke with intense fervor with a hint of anger and disdain within her voice.

“With the collapse of the previous government and the installation of the Jacobin Alliance, Winst has slapped our hand, extended in friendship, and instead elected to succumb to paranoia and petty historical rivalries. With this new leadership, Winst has descended to a rogue state, one which Lunderfrau, or any nation in Lira or beyond, cannot trust. As such I have ordered the closure of our Embassy in Silvus as well as the expulsion of all Wintonian Diplomats in the Matriarchy. All Wintonian assets in Lunderfrau are to be frozen and seized by the Matriarchy. I have requested the Chamber of Nobility craft legislation issuing an embargo on all Wintonian goods and services.”

Along with these new policies, the Kaiserin also reversed Lunderfrau’s policy towards Parthonopia, declaring Lunderfrau’s support for total Parthonopian Reunification. When asked why, the Kaiserin stated “If Winst wishes to return to the past, then so shall we.” The Kaiserin was clear to point out that Lunderfrau is still open to thawing relations with the Matriarchy’s other historical rival Etrurie.

“The Etrurians have shown a level head through all of this, I hope they too understand the threat posed to Liran stability by the new Wintonian Government.”

While it appears the majority of Lunderfrausian’s are in support of the foreign policy shift, it appears as though just as many are worried about potential conflict. Online Searches for “What to do in a nuclear attack”, “how to survive Olympic War 2” and “affordable bomb shelters” have spiked in the hours since the Kaiserins announcement. Lunderfrau’s Minister for Public Safety Gale Becker and Defense Minister Sandra Klein both dismissed the threat of conflict as “farfetched” and “minimal”.

“Winst knows where our line is”, Klein stated, “and they know what will happen when its crossed.”

[Tavok]

The Akral Post

Opinion: Disaster in Winst

By Anna Yisavva

The worst possible outcome to the recent elections in Winst has been achieved: a coalition of fascists and socialists—united, it seems, by warmongering. While the border with Arideo has been militarizing for some time, it is abundantly clear that this new government could have the will the strike.

While Tavok lies far from mounting tensions in Lira, we must not allow distance to make us complacent. The doctrines of the new Wintonian and Velkanikan governments do not indicate limited aims, but rather global revolution. It is vital that we play an active role in mustering an international coalition to respond with force if the Wintonian or Velkanikan states resort to direct and unprovoked aggression. With sufficient support—which shouldn’t be especially difficult to muster given that the majority of Greater Olympus presumably remains committed to peace—we could nip this problem in the bud and prevent the outbreak of war.

Opinion: Liran Problems

By Jak Arav

The situation in Lira is dire—that much is clear. Two nations now appear bent on masking their expansionist aims with talk of exporting the revolution (and it would be cold comfort to other Liran nations even if they really were sincere). Parthonopia and Arideo may well be in immediate danger.

However, some voices in government are talking as though we were the next country over, and not thousands of miles away. There is no sense in sticking our neck out by announcing unilateral sanctions on either of these upstart revolutionary states, or by openly seeking a coalition in opposition to them. Rather, we ought to remain cautious—speaking with the remaining sane nations of Lira, but reserving real commitments for now. These conflicts, if they ever even materialize, might well remain limited and inconclusive. Tav bodies should not be on the front lines of them.

[Produzir]

Up Late With Alexandre Jо̃nz

Hi I'm Alexandre Jо̃nz on the shores of the Bay of Aatream, and this is Up Late with Alexandre Jо̃nz (Applause). There's a lot to cover in Lira Politics in the week of September 16th, 2018. The main story everyone's talking about is the recent Wintonian elections which to oversimplify is stupid enough to attack Arideo to the disbelief of our derp of a Prime Minister out of East Lisover, West Ausbrichten (Laughter). Infact this complete razing about to go down between the shitstorm that is the Third Kingdom of Arideo and Etruria-lite is so far away from Produzland that it is in no-way, shape, or form a problem for Produz even if it's the distance from Aatream to Oranienbrug away. (Laughter). Bonerdeo does not take ANY precaution at all even if, to quote a Lunderfrausian article, "Online Searches for “What to do in a nuclear attack”, “how to survive Olympic War 2” and “affordable bomb shelters” have spiked". Clearly the definition of safety. Now lets take a moment to go to commercial break so you can take a moment on what toilet paper to wipe your ass with before we continue on how our prime minister is an idiot and this country is likely going to burn at this rate (Applause).

Now some of you might be asking yourselves, "Alex, it's not the time to be cracking jokes Olympic War II might break out", you're right. But you know what else breaks out? Acne, for ages 12-17 buy the new X-Out Pimples for only 9 and a half Escudos call 866-4XOUT to get 10% your first purchase. Sorry it looks like the commercial break hasn't ended. Now back to the show.

Welcome back to Up Late with Alexandre Jо̃nz, (Applause), now Prime Minister Riccardo Rodrigo Bonadeo thinks Produzland will get out of this entire thing by doing nothing. That has worked in the past, but no, this is the Olympic War coming to our door to sell cookies again, and this time we didn't order them. Countries that might have hostilities to us or other Lirans in the near future include, ahem, Parthonopia, Arideo, Carelia, Winst, Lunderfrau, Etrurie, Velkanika, etc. When you have to put etc at the end you know it's a long-ass list. We should probably be prepared for something right? Wrong, at least according to Big Bonerdeo. Our neighbor and former rival to the north by the name of Etrurie is competent, lets see how, to quote an Etrurian article, "This does not mean that Etrurie ought not to be prepared for unpalatable contingencies, however. If push comes to shove (which sadly seems increasingly likely), we must still be ready for it-- whatever "it" may be". This makes perfect sense, if nothing does happen, "Sorry for wasting your time soldiers here's a couple grand", if something happens Etrurie is prepared for an attack which could happen given the current situation in Winst, but Bonadeo can't bear to pay those troops if nothing happens. It's like he thinks Produzland and Amidia are on an island in the middle of the Rosel and not sharing a border with the mess that is Parthonopia. Sorry Riccardo, but you gotta do shit or your going to be sent back to West Ausbrichten, nobody wants that (Laughter).

[Etrurie]

Blanchard Addresses Recent Tensions

RENVAL - In a press conference today, Prime Minister Jean-Marc Blanchard gave a short address and answered questions regarding recent tensions in Lira.

Mr. Blanchard criticized the recent belligerence of Winst, denouncing actions such as the raising of the war flag and the nation's reclassification to "Revolutionary Republic".

"This sort of saber rattling is both foolhardy and dangerous. It has done nothing worthwhile to calm the potential storm brewing to the south; in fact, the only thing that this radical rhetoric has succeeded in is in bringing the specter of war ever closer to Lira."

The Prime Minister went on to address relations with other neighbors, most notably Lunderfrau. "The Kaiserin of Lunderfrau has declared a willing intent to build a stronger, peaceful relationship with our nation. I must say that this government is equally willing to do so. We remain open to facilitating dialogue with and between all of Etrurie's neighbors. It is my hope that diplomacy, not vitriol, will be our path."

Finally, he commented on the announcement this week of a status of increased readiness by the Ministère de la Guerre. The Etrurian military has intensified air patrols along the eastern and southern borders and has called 60,000 volunteer reservists to active duty, with plans to activate additional reserve units in the coming weeks.

"I must stress that these maneuvers are entirely defensive in nature. This government is committed to pursuing peace. Lira ought to-- no, must have-- peace. But we must be prepared for every eventuality, no matter how undesirable."

The Opposition in the Assemblée nationale appears to have reacted to these recent declarations of policy with approval. Spokeswoman Karine Larousse of the Parti Fédéral gave the following statement following the conference: "The current government has performed a respectable job of remaining level-headed during these times of tension. While we have no significant objection to the initiatives recently discussed, Etrurie must ulitmately remain wary of and prepared for any situation."

[Velkanika]

Velkanikan Navy to Reinforce Blockade of Parthonopian Microstates
Measure Announced to Counter Interference from Kaiserina

Velkanika Wire Services
By Katya Pavlovsky, Reporter
December 12 at 5:08 PM

President Utkin announced today that the embargo of the Carlo Regime in Parthonopia would be reinforced with increased Velkanikan naval assets to "counter interference from other totalitarian states." Sources close to the Politburo believe that this was intended as a direct response to Kaiserin Elise Von Strauss's intervention in the Parthonopian Civil War, and announcement of pending aid for Carlo's forces.

"This is the first foreign power to directly challenge the Utkin Doctrine," said recently retired Velkanikan Navy Admiral Isidor Michail-Ignatov when asked about the matter. "President Utkin, the Foreign Ministry, and the General Staff would have been expecting this sort of thing, however I personally wasn't expecting Lunderfrau to be the first to test this. They're susceptible to the secondary sanctions element of the embargo on Carlo's [dictatorship]."

The President did indeed trigger the secondary sanctions today, with the government of Lunderfrau and all members of its ruling classes being officially blocked from doing business with any Velkanikan government or corporate entity, including private citizens. Further, the Velkanikan Government has announced an energy embargo on Lunderfrau that will take effect immediately. It is unclear how this will impact Lunderfrau's economy, however the loss of critical supplies of heating fuel in the middle of winter when demand is at its highest will make replacing Velkanikan natural gas and petroleum difficult.

---

Opinion: What Took Winst So Long?

Velkanika Wire Services
By Ustinya Isaev-Ivanov, Reporter
December 12 at 6:25 PM

It's about time that our comrades in Winst remembered their revolutionary roots and stopped playing lip service to counter-revolutionary elements.

There's nothing wrong with Democracy - on paper, it's an amazing government system. Representative government can often meet the needs of everyone, so long as it functions as intended. The problem with it is that Reactionaries and Totalitarians are not interested in having honest debates or sharing power. The selfish few ruin it for everyone by abusing the systems designed to ensure equality and perverting them into a means to institute their own dictatorial rule over the Proletariat in the pursuit of money. The graft and rampant injustices evident in Carelian Democracy are the poster child, but most representative governments do try very hard to protect the weak.

The Page government failed because it failed to restrain the selfish few who abused the freedoms granted to all men. Unfortunately, if you listen to the Libertarian movement and remove restrictions on people, there will always be the few who go mad with freedom and inflict terrible damage in their selfishness. Psychopaths, narcissists, and the robber barons of Capitalism will always find a way to abuse any system in which they can move without being detected and excised.

History shows that the state has to protect people from themselves in order to allow them to achieve happiness, long life, and the freedom to pursue their dreams. The resurgence of revolutionary zeal among our comrades in the Revolutionary Republic will serve them well, but can they prevent Reactionaries from perverting their systems? Time will tell, but history clearly indicates that Socialism can prevail against all odds.

[Carelia]

The Sentry

Opinion: Ignoring the True Threat

By Edward Hernaand

The past few weeks have seen much global consternation over events such as the announcement of the communist Utkin Doctrine and Winst's sudden aggressive stance in Western Lira. This latter action is especially concerning. It's well and good to denounce the likes of Arideo, but Winst is, and has been deliberately giving a free pass to the real threat at hand-- communism.

At a surface level, compared to a given underdeveloped pariah state, socialist nations such as Velkanika may seem benign. However, the former are far more dangerous; not only in material terms (ships, guns, and tanks), but in the very nature of their ideology. While absolutists make no pretenses about what they are, the bolsheviks use subversive, erudite-sounding rhetoric to further their perversion of democracy: a system where one may live comfortably-- as long as they do exactly what they are told by the government. A nation for the people, as long as the people shut up, do their part, and never bother with thinking. Communism may promise one a full belly, and sometimes even deliver upon that promise. This is what makes this ideology so dangerous; so focused are individuals upon what it might do for them that they rarely stop to consider the costs. And the costs-- although not readily apparent-- are steep indeed. A disturbing number of fundamental principles-- freedom of expression; of movement; of opportunity-- are suppressed under the pretense of equality.

Where the "vanilla" dictator settles for suppressing these freedoms, the communist autocrat dismisses these essential liberties as unnecessary while quietly doing away with them and their proponents. Heinous crimes-- assassinations, arrests, disappearances, deportations to frozen wastes-- are committed regularly in the name of communism as any dissenters are labeled as "reactionaries" and "criminals" to be exterminated in the name of some vague notion of the "greater good".

The crimes of traditional absolutists are on full display, but the crimes of the communists are all covered by a gilt curtain of promises of material security and serving a "greater good". They are thus defended by deciever and decieved alike.

Communism is additionally an inherently expansionistic ideology; where an absolutist state may be content with eking out an existence within its borders, communism is very much an international threat. Velkanika's "Utkin Doctrine" is a living example of this fact.

Although it is thankful that Carelia recognizes and fights the threat posed by communism, it is most concerning that Winst's tunnel vision is focused only upon the obvious threat of absolutists and dictatorships. They have failed to see through the subversion of communist rhetoric, and Lira may soon pay the price.

[Valley Green]

Address Given to the National Council by Chief Minister Kreiger Regarding Concerning Foreign Developments

My fellow Councillors, for years our country has been isolationist on the outskirts of global politics. But now, with the resurgence in totalitarian and communist regimes, we have to be on our guard. Over the last several years we have developed complex trade relationships between many of the countries on both sides of the coming conflict. It seems as though we may have to choose sides. For now we shall stay at a distance and watch but we will watch closely. We will send humanitarian supplies and yes even arms to whoever needs them most, (and can pay the most).


Right now though a threat to our nation from our closest neighbor, Velkanika, has developed in the form of the Utkin Doctrine and their embargo of one of our best overseas trade partners Parthonopia. I call upon the Navy to provide escorts to the merchant sailors who brave the harsh seas to deliver their goods. I also condemn the Utkin Doctrine, as it is just a disgusting attempt to further spread the vile philosophy of Communism across the globe.

[Lunderfrau]

Lunderfrau stays the course despite sanctions, passes own sanctions

December 15th
Laubenhugel, Lunderfrau-

Despite the recent sanctions placed on Lunderfrau by Velkanika this past Wednesday, Kaiserin Elise Von Strauss again reaffirmed her administrations support for Parthonopia Friday while signing into law major sanctions against Winst and Velkanika, which were added as riders to the initial bill after sanctions against the Matriarchy had been announced.

When asked about the recent sanctions on Lunderfrau, the Kaiserin stated“The Utkin Doctrine will not deter us from assisting a fellow monarch in their time of need.”. The majority of citizens appear to agree with the Kaiserin, as a recent poll found that 86% of respondents supported the recent shift in policy, with 9% against and 5% unsure. However, those that are not in favor of the shift have been rather vocal. Representative Regina Fischer (Duchy of Eiswasser) made her disapproval of sanctions very clear during Thursday morning’s legislative session, calling the change in foreign policy “a massive blow to progress and positive relations with our southern neighbors in winst” and that the Matriarchy’s stance on Parthonopia “Has brought our nation face to face with one of the strongest nations on the planet”. Her concerns were ignored however, as the Chamber of Nobility voted 9-1 in favor of passing the sanctions requested by the Kaiserin. Only time will tell if her concerns are worthy of merit.

[Kwisiqafir]

Milamibin, Kwinyanga, Kwisiqafir
01:18, December 11th

Fezeka sat back in her office chair with a weary smile on her lips and a half-filled glass of rum, eyes flicking across her computer screen, one hand swirling the drink absentmindedly, the other resting lightly on the mouse as her middle finger flickered across the wheel, panning down invidiyngoku.kwq's landing page at her subscriptions and recommended videos. She had an idea of the sort of things she wanted to see, and-... There was one of them, right there. A day late, but all the better, as she could listen to it now. Clicking through to the podcast, she leaned back in her chair, taking a sip of rum before closing her eyes, letting out a contented sigh as the familiar voices began to filter out of the speakers as the iconic introductory theme faded away.

"Nofoto: Hello, and welcome to episode 271 of 'Not Quite The News', a weekly podcast coming at you from The Sunken Garden, Umthichibi. My name is Nofoto Hlale, and sitting around the table with me, as usual, are Mncedisi Sanzanza, Bulalani Mfaba, and Nyaniso Uzango'mva. We're gathered here around our microphones with our favourite facts drawn from the news in the last seven days. Starting with my fact this week - the growth rate of the city of Ndumbaba is set to be 898% this year.

Nyaniso: That sounds... Quite unlikely.

Bulalani: Yeah, I've got to agree. The chances of that panning out look pretty slim.

Nofoto: Ok, so obviously this is because of a sudden spike in the population. For those who don't know much about Ndumbaba, it's famously the smallest city in Kwisiqafir-...

Mncedisi: Somewhat, famously. Let's not assume everyone everywhere knows how big Ndumbaba is.

Nofoto: ...Sure, so, anyway, Ndumbaba, somewhat famously the smallest city in Kwisiqafir. So, the last population estimate was in autumn last year, and set the population of the city at 8,790, which would be way too small to be considered a city normally, but because of its history in the union it's been given the rights of a city since the annexation, and even since the revolution, that tradition has just kind of carried on.

Nyaniso: Yeah, so I did some research on this, and the reason for the sudden spike in the population - it's estimated to be up to 29,000 right now, but the revolutionary seas union won't give numbers, and neither will the Ndumbaba public services union, since... You know, Kwindibano secrets and all that-...

Mncedisi: Niggling little details like state security details..."

A brief round of chuckling laughter passes through the group.

"Nyaniso: Our old rival, state secrets laws, always getting in the way..."

Another brief titter, before they carry on once more.

"Nyaniso: So this is all because of the massive fleet relocation to Ndumbaba's naval base after all the news coming out of Lira in the past few months. We've talked about the first speaker's speech last month, and the statement the International Revolutionary Relations Union put out... Last episode, in fact.

Nofoto: Yes, so this is coming up every week these days, but I thought this was one of the more interesting details about the fleet location. Ndumbaba is this little atoll off to the northeast of mainland, and the only populated Isafiri island outside of Kwisiqafir itself. The highest point is two metres above sea level, and saving the atoll has often been the rallying cry behind the big renewable energy movement in the last twenty years or so. If sea levels rise even just a metre, Ndumbaba is in big trouble.

Bulalani: Absolutely, I was looking at this this morning, and I was kind of blown away by how precarious the situation is there. The whole nation spends 121 million Kwisiphawus a year on flood defenses and land reclamation - 38 million of that is spent in Ndumbaba.

Nyaniso: Really? That's... That's kind of insane. It's actually kind of unfair, what about the people living in the delta? I think they're the real unsung heroes of all this, the Umrubhi floods pretty badly every year, and there's what, 25 million people living there? Meanwhile, these 9,000 slackers are chewing up millions to stop their little island sinking.

Nofoto: Yeah... I maybe wouldn't say it like that, but yeah, disaster relief in our country really priorities Ndumbaba, but that might have something to do with the greater millions spent on the naval base there.

Nyaniso: I see what you're saying, but I'm sticking with my guns here, if you're listening from Ndumbaba, you should be ashamed of yourself, leeching off the rest of us hard working proles.

Bulalani: Nya's right, we're obviously the real victims here."

A peal of awkward laughter breaks out, and takes a long moment to die down.

"Nofoto: So the relevant unions have been cagey giving official figures for what's going on, but there's been plenty of civilian observations of fleet movements out to Ndumbaba in the last week. The Shouter reported an estimate that said we've moved a missile cruiser, five submarines, eight destroyers, and twenty frigates and corvettes out to the Aurum. It's the biggest fleet redeployment in over fifty years.

Mncedisi: Yeah, to clarify, We only have three missile cruisers, we usually keep one operating in the Melian, one in the Aurum, and one in port at any given moment. Now we've left the Melian woefully underprepared in the case of a sudden wave of Delphenian pirates in order to make sure we can keep ships coming in safely from Lira.

Nofoto: That's the official position from every union that's given a statement, yeah, but a lot of the papers' editorials reckon this is a prelude to an intervention. The Utkin doctrine and Wintonian elections have really shaken things up, like we've talked about before, and there's a lot of theories about preparations for a Parthonopian intervention or active sanctions on Lunderfrau in support of Velkanika.

Nyaniso: Those are still fringe opinions though, right? I know Velkanika are our best buddies and all, but the Kwindibano didn't exactly jump on the back of the Utkin Doctrine statements and declare Kwisiqafir ready to invade anything and anyone at the drop of a hat.

Nofoto: Sure, the government's been pretty recalcitrant putting forward a firm position on anything that's happened out in Lira or around the Rosel lately. And I can't exactly blame them, nobody wants another Olympic War.

Mncedisi: Except, of course, our close friends and allies in Velkanika.

Bulalani: That is how it looks, isn't it?

Nofoto: Well, I guess the Ndumbaba Public Services union can thank the Velks for inflating their population with thousands and thousands of lovely anxious naval personnel.

Nyaniso: When you put it like that, it doesn't sound like such a great thing.

Mncedisi: It's almost like we're teetering on the edge of a war, or something."

Another peal of awkward laughter rings out for a moment.

"Bulalani: If The Shouter's estimates are accurate, that means almost half the fleet will be operating in international waters as close to Lira as they can. The Revolutionary Marine Corps have been moving tanks around, and cargo ships have been moving a lot of military hardware out to Ndumbaba too. The fleet is one thing, but if the marines are organising, it seems fair to say that we're at least considering an overseas deployment.

Nyaniso: But, you know, look on the bright side. Now the recruitment adverts might stop being elaborate lies. Our boys might actually get to see the world from another angle for once.

Nofoto: I think the idea of that slogan is that seeing the world from the deck of an ocean going warship is a different angle, than, say, a stilt house in Ngonpuphumla.

Nyaniso: ...I can see where you're coming from, but I always interpreted it as - and I imagined other people would too, as going to other countries.

Nofoto: But that would mean war. The only way the marines would suddenly turn up in an official capacity in, say, Carelia... That's called an invasion Nya.

Mncedisi: Anyway...

Nofoto: You're right Cedi, I think it might be time for our next fact, and this one, is Bulalani's.

Bulalani: Right, my fact this week, is that in an attempt to work out who the murderer in Antoqwane Jambasa's Declining Times series before the last book comes out next year, the lead character has been put on trial..."

Fezeka had a languid smile on her face as the casters rambled on. The problems of Lira were very real, and very intense, but for a steel mill forewoman in the Umrubhi delta, it was a world away, and easily laughed off.