The Western Isles News

by **Reathwood** » Mon Dec 07, 2020 9:55 pm

Economic forecast for 2021 optimistic, says Elvewer

7 December 2020

WHITE BLUFF — Addressing the national legislature at the Allhouse at an unusual Sunday session last night, President Hethin Elvewer reaffirmed a recent report from the Reathwood Ministry of Finance projecting strong economic growth through 2021 on account of a package of business incentives introduced by the presidential administration in the summer of 2020. Promising continued competitive trade policies in the defense of domestic manufacturing and marginally decreased corporate taxes to stimulate the growth of industry, Elvewer's initiative has been hailed by proponents of the protectionist, corporatocratic Reathwood school of economics as a step in the right direction—critics, however, point to decreased government revenue and stifled foreign competition as problems that Elvewer's administration is artificially creating for future years. Further criticism, mainly heard from the Givelbund ("Liberal League") of Har Goldwin Frithier, contended that the President was merely cheering himself on in last night's speech. Political discourse remained largely cordial in the Landsall ("National Legislature"), however, with relatively constructive debate between the major parties extending late into the night after the speech.

Experts clashed in online publications throughout the morning following the speech, with discussions mainly analyzing whether the optimistic forecast is merited. The Republic of Reathwood has been endowed with a relatively steady economy in recent decades, with well-controlled inflation, a balance of corporatocratic and democratic socialist policies, and the diligent monitoring of the economy for early warning signs of trouble. However, whether significant economic growth will be seen in 2021 is still debated—the incentives passed in the summer provided only a minor uptick in the stock market and overall growth, but the Ministry of Finance may yet be developing further strategies to stimulate the economy of the Republic which, while quite reliable, has not seen remarkable growth in some time and has been a major focus of Elvewer's administration.

by **Littolyo** » Mon Dec 07, 2020 10:39 pm

2020 December 7
First Refugees from Mokov Arrive in Littolyo

Hundreds of refugees fleeing ethnic persecution in Mokov arrive in the port city of Tristenn, Dventeri.

Tristenn, Dventeri—President Leon Drake appeared on a mild and sunny winter morning, pier side at the Port of Tristenn in Dventeri, to personally receive the first boatload of refugees fleeing ethnic persecution in their native Mokov.

A smiling Mr. Drake welcomed the refugees, largely of Khas-Kirati descent, with open arms. As hundreds of refugees staggered off the gently swaying Annaster Prime, a tanker repurposed for the boat lift, the president and Secretary of the Interior Jens Harling waved broadly.

As Mokov descends into political violence and racial scapegoating following the recent coup that toppled its longtime tzar, the world has grappled—or, in some cases, refused to—with what threatens to be a looming refugee crisis of historic scale. The GZR regime that now controls Mokov has made no secret of its disdain for ethnic minorities, and Mr. Drake responded quickly by declaring that Littolyo would accept all comers escaping the violence.

Refugees arriving from Mokov go through an extensive “new Littolyens process,” as the Interior Department calls it. After brief medical screenings, arrivals are provided food and water as Department officials take their personal information and issue national ID cards and other critical documents.

Next, refugees are put up in temporary housing in their city of arrival as the government works to connect them with any family who may already be in Littolyo and arranges permanent accommodations. Refugees are given housing vouchers or connected with volunteer landowners across the country, and the government’s stated goal is to have every refugee in permanent housing within four days of arrival.

The support doesn’t stop there. Refugees are offered temporary jobs through various companies that have volunteered through the government to do so (in exchange for modest tax incentives), and provided with intensive language support intended to help them integrate in Littolyen society.

According to the Department of the Interior, more than 4,500 refugees have immigrated and received residence in Littolyo since the coup began last week. How large that number might swell as an avowedly and viciously racist regime consolidates its power remains to be seen.

Human rights advocates applauded the Drake Administration’s back-channel diplomacy with the regime, crediting it as a necessary evil that allowed for the safe evacuation of refugees from an otherwise tight-fisted regime. While Littolyo has firmly denounced the bloody coup and racial violence, it has notably stopped short of embracing the most strident calls for intervention that ring through the halls of the League, and has accepted an ambassador from the GZR regime—a step most other countries have refused to take.

When asked whether this concession signaled a break in Littolyo’s dedication to human rights, the Littolaestaff Press Secretary, Terry White, was unequivocal. “Absolutely not,” she said. “Littolyens have always been defined by their big hearts, but we are also known for our pragmatism. Dialogue is critical no matter how abhorrent the partner, and our engagement with the GZR is precisely what allowed us to help these poor, innocent civilians escape harm’s way.”

While the open-door policy is broadly popular with the Littolyen public and has earned international plaudits for Littolyo, there are detractors both at home and abroad.

Senator Stuart Veyhens, conservative of Gaba, decried the policy as a major drain on public resources that would be better spent serving native-born Littolyens. “I have families all across my state working 20-hour days just to make ends meet. How am I supposed to look them in the eye and tell them that their tax dollars are being spent to put Mokovi immigrants up in cushy new houses?”

Other conservative commentators lambasted the warm welcome as a cynical bid to “import more Drake voters,” as Sean Dunn of the Free Littolyo Institute put it.

Littolyo’s approach also set it apart from many other nations, some of which took a notably less altruistic approach to the crisis. Perhaps the most notable critic was Pierre Delacroix, the leader of neighboring Segentova, who chastised President Drake in a tweet that, “starting a refugee crisis won’t help.”

Asked to comment at a press conference in Tristenn, Mr. Drake had this to say: “I have not seen the tweet, and I do not conduct foreign relations via Twitter. But I will say that equating giving shelter to refugees with starting a refugee crisis is absurd in the truest sense. The refugee crisis is already happening, whether Littolyo reacts or not. Any leader knows that ignoring a crisis doesn’t make it go away. And when other countries turn their backs on those in need, it's all the more important that Littolyo steps up and leads.

“Every day now, thousands of innocent men, women, and children attempt to flee Mokov. Some succeed, and others pay for their attempt at freedom with their lives. To do nothing and stand idly by wouldn’t just be morally reprehensible—it would be a repulsive stain on our nation’s reputation as a defender of human rights, and would discredit us in the eyes of the world as a force for good.”

A scrum of reporters shouted further questions, but the president had to go—the next boat was docking.

by **Insulalia** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 1:36 am

G.U. POLITICS • Published 08 December 2020

Gardener's 'New Age' policies called
globalist by opposition leaders

Many argue that opening the country economically places it at greater risk

By William O. K. Doolittle | National Trough

¹

²

³

⁴

⁵

⁶

Mister William O. K. Doolittle is a writer and editor for The National Trough. Follow him on TWItter: @willdoont.

¹, the legislative branch of the Great Union of Insulalia.
², a member of the upper house of the Congregation, the Altate.
³, a member of the lower house of the Congregation, the Paritate.
⁴, a supporter of the opening, or 'opener', is someone who supports the opening of the Insulan economy to more foreign trade.
⁵, a canton (administrative division) of Insulalia.
⁶, the religious text of the Church of Good & Evil, the majority religion of Insulalia.

by **Alteran Republics** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 2:36 am

Argus Canal Crisis:
Altera co-signs Northern Isles Security Council formation

The community of the northern isles must join together to face an ever-growing list of dangers, and shifts in the balance of global power,

Whilst Segentova and Altera have not always seen eye-to-eye, it cannot be denied that since the invasions both Altera and Segentova endured during the Imperial War, both of our countries have grown closer together, so it only natural that in these uncertain times, those ties become more solidified,

The inclusion of Roendavar and Thromsa is only natural - and hopefully the first step towards creating a unified and diplomatic alliance in the north of the region.

The inclusion of Athara Magarat was a hotly debated topic within the Foreign Council. Whilst historically we were at war with the territories that now make up the Maragati states - the landscape both there, here in Altera and around the world has shifted. There are many south of the canal who are eager to live up to Alteran and modern values, and we welcome those into the international community. However, there are still those wishing to destabilise the situation further, so we must aid those in need - or else they will fall and succumb to an ever-growing threat.

As for Littolyo, I'm not wholly against the idea of their inclusion, in the long term. They do, after all, share many values with us and could be a force for good in the region. However, in their current state, they can only be seen as being to aggressively expansionist. So swiftly coming out of isolation, expanding their military influence practically overnight with the creation of new bases around the region, their ballooning military budget and questionable policy towards intellectual property rights are concerning. If, in time, they were to tone down their ideals, open up to foreign tech markets and seek to work less arrogantly in terms of international diplomacy - then we'd welcome discussions regarding their inclusion. We will, of course, continue to work with the nation on international security matters and trade.

But to say this is an exclusive club - it is not. We're currently in ongoing talks with other nations who may wish to join our ranks. We are currently in the process of recognising Aprosia as an observer state - a positive step in their continuation of being brought back into regional politics - as well as numerous other states, including our long-standing partners in Almorea, Noronica and many more.

The following is a paid advertisement.

by **Essena** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 1:18 pm

Essena State Department is a GO!
By: Mauro Largo

After years of building up the governmental foundations of Essena since gaining independence Prime Councilor Christopher P. Benjamin was happy to announce, at a recent press conference, that the State Department was ready to start its work on growing Essena's diplomatic relations. During the same conference, Secretary of State Jeremy Silver revealed that Essena had finished its diplomatic negotiations with the nation of Littolyo. The diplomatic agreement sees Essena welcoming Ambassador Reese Williams while Essenian Ambassador Joseph Lowry heads to Littolyo. This also made way for the unveiling of the three sections, in the capital of Fredricksburg, that will house new embassy buildings. During Secretary Jeremy Silver's speech saying "After a long road building up our nation after Independence, we know step out of the nest of isolationism and into the international scene. We are no longer tied to the diplomatic wills of other nations; it is our time to forge long-lasting alliances, trade, and embassies. We are here to show to the world that Essena is here to make its mark and a difference. We hope that this step forward will bring Essena prosperity!"

In other news, the two candidates running for the position of Chancellor James G. Whitmore and Abraham Moore have used this diplomatic opportunity announcement to layout their diplomatic plans if elected Chancellor. In short, both candidates praised the diplomatic opportunity as an achievement not only for Essena's present but for its future.

by **Balnik** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 1:26 pm

Politics|Gael: Balnik Occupies Faronna Islands
December 9, 2020

Monumental political happenings have occurred in Gael the last few months, with one of the biggest coming into the light just this week, with Balnik occupying the shared Roendavarian-Balniki economic zone of the Faronna Islands. This comes after announcements of a government plan to restore energy and oil shortages within Balnik after a turbulent and uneasy few months with the country losing its energy output to its growing residential and industrial sectors. Over the last few days unconfirmed reports of civilian and military vessels were seen unloading goods and materiel onto the island. Its occupation was formally announced on the 8th of December, 2020 with Vega Nikanor, Chief of the Board of Economy outlining the economic plans and goals of the region.

"Plans to encourage the Faronna Islands into our economic spectrum have been in the works ever since the end of Balnik's involvement in the Faronna Islands Agreement. Geologists were send to discover that the islands and the surrounding ocean contained large deposits of crude oil and natural gas, these were largely ignored until our petroleum needs exploded over the last year, therefore we have decided to use the resources within our economic zone to recover the energy levels needed to sustain the Balniki infrastructure and economy. This operation is led by many civilian and national firms, with the Engineering Corp of the Balniki Forces leading the initial construction of infrastructure and providing security to the island, as well as facilitating transport to and from. Our goal is to expand oil production by two and a half times by 2023."

The Faronna Islands Agreement was a signed document detailing the use of the shared islands between Roendavar and Balnik. The document was signed on the 3rd of June, 1983 with the outcome of the document being that the islands would be treated as a nature reserve. However while Roendavar stated that its signature would remain indefinitely, Balnik's signature ended on June 3rd, 2016, leading the nation to develop other economic opportunities in the zone, which it did not until now.

Unconfirmed reports state that static defenses such as SAM's as well as long range cruise missiles have also been stationed on the island. Roendavar spokespeople have yet to make a statement on the activity within the Faronna Islands zone.

by **Ainslie** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 1:37 pm

Your Weather: Arnton - 15C/2C

INTERNATIONAL: Influenza outbreak prompts Aprosian border closure
Arnton, Ainslie

Ahnslens will be prevented from entering Aprosia and Aprosians will be barred from entering Ainslie following a shock announcement by Prime Minister Elliana Gifford and Chief Medical Officer Dendren Kelse. The announcement that Aprosians will not be able to enter Ainslie for a fortnight (12am Wednesday 9 December - 12am Wednesday 24 December) comes after a group of Aprosian travellers were hospitalised after catching what is considered to be a new strain of influenza. However, despite this measure the Prime Minister and her Chief Medical Officer were quick to reassure the community.

“Ainslie has some of the best, if not the best, disease responders and disease planners in The Western Isles. We are well equipped to contain these cases and that is what is being done. The Ahnslen Government is taking a preventative but important measure. It is not to be read as an expectation that this virus will spread beyond where it currently is in Ainslie. It also should not be seen as an expectation that there are more cases than we are aware of in Aprosia.”
- Chief Medical Officer Professor Dendren Kelse

“I say this to every Ahnslen listening to me right now. There is no need to panic. What you are seeing is a Government moving quickly and decisively to stop what is at this point a relatively small threat.”
- Prime Minister Elliane Gifford

The border closure comes following another ten cases of influenza suspected to be linked to the Aprosian travellers. It also follows an alert sent by the Government to residents around Kianara that they should monitor themselves for any flu symptoms and follow the directions of local health authorities.

The Aprosian community in Ainslie has expressed dismay at the decision, stressing that it is a disproportional response to an event that happens every year. However, this opinion hardly seems to be shared by public health advocates such as Joseph Carlenda of the University of Arnton.

“When there is a new strain of influenza, especially one that suddenly presents itself in people who are experiencing quite severe symptoms, it is astute to take such measures as the Federal Government is. There’s really not a lot to lose at this point by taking such a step.”

Despite all of this discussion, the Ahnslen public, particularly in Wesland, appear to be worried about the discovery of this new influenza strain when Arendai asked them what they thought.

“I’m heading to the shops tonight, topping up to make sure I have what I need.”
- Marde from Herriden

“There’s been a line outside of my local medical centre all day. I do hope the Government has this under control.”
- Karden from Venterra

“It’s a bit surreal, getting the text on your phone and all of that - I’m confident that we’ve got this though.”
- Claire from Kianara

Wesland Health would like to remind citizens in Wesland Ranges Regional Council and in the eastern suburbs of Herriden that if they experience influenza symptoms to ring their doctor and book an appointment with them. Further, any travellers who have entered Ainslie from Aprosia over the past ten days are asked to monitor for symptoms and see their doctor if they develop a sore throat, a fever or begin sneezing or coughing to go to the local medical centre.

DOMESTIC: Terrorist wins appeal
Arnton, Ainslie

A convicted terrorist, who planned an attack against Ainslie after already committing one outside of the country has had his appeal heard in the Collective Court of Ainslie over the past month. Today the decision was delivered, with a unanimous court deciding to quash one charge of committing terrorist attack in allied jurisdiction as well as upholding the conviction for attempt to commit a terrorist attack in addition to adding the offence of encouraging and inciting terrorist activities. The terrorist’s sentence is effectively the same, owing to a mere swapping of charges.

The terrorist appealed on the basis that the offence of ‘committing a terrorist attack in allied jurisdiction’ was not a recognised offence in Ainslie and on this basis his defence lawyers argued that such a gross breach of the law demanded an acquittal.

Lead Cosura Dekin alongside Cosuras Unlen, Lerran, Espen, Fenda held that the charge was essentially ‘made up’

As per the court:
“This Court admits that it is a troubling precedent to have cases of terrorism be heard within the Federal Courts, away from the Electoral Courts and the Superior Federal Courts where the expertise to make judgments of this nature lies…

There is no common law basis within Ainslie nor is there any statute or other form of precedent which could aid the trial judge in finding a charge that the prosecutor merely, for activist purposes hopefully, was suggesting should come into force.

The notion that a judge must not be swayed by legal opinion or the personal ambitions or opinions of legal personnel is a core part of their duties.

It is with great insistence that we assert that the offence of ‘committing a terrorist attack in an allied jurisdiction’ as being not only baseless but severely contradictory to the legal principles of the Unified Electorates of Ainslie. It is unacceptable, despite any level of moral outrage, to expose someone convicted in a different country to also be convicted of a crime emerging from that very act, in that country, under Ahnslen jurisdiction.

Two simple examples highlight the absurdity of the trial judge’s assertion and demonstrates the need for such a charge to be fully rejected.

Firstly, in countries far more liberal than ours, certain acts may not be terrorism for the purposes of that country’s law. However, if they step foot in Ainslie or the country where the act occurred had an extradition treaty with Ainslie, they could be convicted, sentenced and serve a crime they had no knowledge of whatsoever. Much less the ‘accused’ in that instance may believe that there act was in the spirit of the law of that country. Such an opinion would not be for an Ahnslen court to decide. However, the notion that an act doesn’t constitute the specific criteria of a crime in a different country should not mean that, if it fitted Ainslie’s criteria, that they should be tried for the very crime they were not even merely accused of in that other country.

Secondly, a country may indeed find that an accused has performed a terrorist act within their jurisdiction. If by either extradition at any stage or if they stepped into Ainslie, they could be immediately brought to trial on a crime they thought they had already been penalised for. Such a situation would be disgraceful and an embarrassment not only to the Ahnslen legal system but is also disrespectful to other, upstanding legal systems that may indeed have very similar laws to us.

From these two immediate examples, it is exceptionally clear that this offence cannot stand. In a more colloquial sense, it seems almost as if the trial judge pulled ‘the offence out of thin air’. Thankfully, there has been no cases that have either followed this precedent or recognise that it could form part of the law. To that end, any courts of inferior jurisdiction should immediately and with haste abandon this Federal Court decision and pay great caution to creating or enforcing common law offences that simply have not been approved or endorsed by a court of superior jurisdiction.”

Their Honours did the following:

Acquitted the terrorist of the offence of ‘performing terrorist act in allied jurisdiction’;
Upheld the trial judge’s finding of attempt to perform terrorist act; and
Added the offence of encouraging, inciting terrorist activities.

The terrorist is not the only one to be punished as a result of this case.

Their Honours continued after their orders to briefly examine the conduct of the prosecutor and the trial judge in this case.

“Accused persons convicted on falsified or baseless charges are a matter which Ainslie has looked severely upon other nations for. It would be inconsistent if not hypocritical for this appeal to end with the terrorist getting the same sentence but the people responsible for his faulty hearing left unnoticed. This is because it is not merely a case of lack of evidence, but rather a creation of a charge that should never have existed and must not be heard by this Court again.

To that end, this Court refers the Prosecutor of this case [name omitted] to the Court of the Ancients for a disciplinary hearing. There are multiple reasons why this legal professional may have done what they did during the trial and it is not fair to so quickly judge the character of the Prosecutor. As such, the Court of the Ancients is directed to examine the facts and reach a verdict as to the motives of the Prosecutor and whether their acts are so inconsistent with the standards expected of practising lawyers so as to warrant their removal from the profession. This Court suggests that the Director of Public Prosecutors enforces leave on this individual until the learned Guardians reach their decision .

However judgment must be swift for the trial judge. This Court refers the trial judge to the Court of the Ancients in order for his Honour to testify as to why he should not be removed as a judge from this country’s court system. This is to give him a chance to explain and justify why his reckless abandonment of basic and fundamental legal principles as well as a clear breach of Ahnslen legal convention should not attract what is most likely at the low end of punishments for such an act as he has done. This judge will take leave until his case is determined in that Court.”

The Prosecutor is due to stand before the Court of the Ancients early February, whilst the Judge is to be heard in early January.

National Weather
City (Max / Min)
Anertah (19C / 1C)
Arborai (10C / 5C)
Arnton (15C / 2C)
Herriden (13C / 0C)
Highland Ridge (12C / -1C)
Kennedai (21C / 9C)
Mandara (17C / 10C)
Menindai (18C / 11C)
Port Blaxland (13C / 8C)
Rathane (14C / 7C)
Quirindi (22C / 4C)
Watarah (13C / 8C)

by **Thromsa** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 4:43 pm

Odd object appears near Port Germania

By Dennis Dickson
Tuesday - 8^th December 2020

PORT GERMANIA — Last night a group of local teens from Highville, near Port Germania, New Mann, who intended to party in the ruins of an old property near Highville, quite popular to organise parties, found their plans blown after the finding of a metal triangular prism.

Melissa Trengove, Mayor of Highville, told The Northern Herald that "the location is known to the populace as an area of pranks, and the like. During Halloween this year we had to remove a number of dead animals. Kids and teens love the creepy look of the place. A handfew of them probably just brought it up to the area for a prank on the town".

Inspector Clive Abbey, the chief officer of the Highville Constabulary Station, said that "after checking the road cameras of the road taking to the ruins, we did not see any suspected activity relating to the appearence of such monolith, as kids are calling it in social media. We contacted Weaver Station, and they saw no activity either. This is a small town... finding out how that appeared there is the only real investigative work we've had since the animals in October, and we still got no clue of what happened. The animals were still freshly killed, contrary to what most people say, they were not road killed animals. We collected a goat, three cows, seven dogs, and 8 cats".

The mystery is set on the social media, despite the local people not giving much of a show to the happening some college aged youth have travelled in very low numbers to see the 'monolith' and post it online.

Local man Franklyn Wilbur told us about the ruins: "a French speaking couple, it's simply the story I heard from my family, killed their daughter on their home by accident and then just left town, the house been rotting since then, and frankly no one wants it now since it is so poorly located, when I was born the ruins were just a mess, a kid once fell and broke his leg, awful... it has been cleaned, but now strange things have happened there, I've seen so many teens partying there, and sometimes I see candles at night".

Other popular news:
- Germania wins Mayesburg 3 to 1 at home.
- Northern Island election date set: 10^th January.
- New Mann Constabulary arrests man after assaulting a shoper.

by **Littolyo** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 6:37 pm

2020 December 8
Littolyo Summons Balnik Ambassador over Faronna Occupation

Arennica—The Balniki Ambassador, Ms. Lena Grović, was summoned this morning to a meeting at the State Department with Under Secretary of State for Gael Walter Faldron following Balnik’s unilateral occupation of the Faronna Islands off western Gael, in apparent contravention of an agreement signed with Roendavar in 1983.

Of further concern to Littolyo, one Balniki official, Chief Vega Nikanor of that nations’s Board of Economy, was quoted in the Isles Freedom Network news outlet as laying out plans for expansive new development of oil and gas resources in the delicate and protected ecosystem of the Faronnas. It has been Littolyen policy for decades to cut off new development of fossil fuels, and the nation has urged other countries to do the same in the face of record-breaking polar ice melt and ever-more extreme weather across the globe.

While the State Department would not disclose the particulars of Secretary Faldron’s discussion with Ambassador Grović, a statement released shortly thereafter professed Littolyo’s “genuine concern with the sudden unilateral moves in an already very dynamic region,” and reiterated Littolyo’s long-held stance that “diplomacy and dialogue are the only ways to resolve such disputes.”

The statement concluded by urging Balnik and Roendavar to deescalate tensions and return to the negotiating table, while offering Balnik help with developing renewable energy sources, “for the good of humanity.”

A spokesperson for Erika Lewis-Smith, Deputy Secretary General of the League, said she was monitoring the situation closely and would call for international mediation if the dispute did not appear headed towards resolution soon.

by **Mokov** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 7:05 pm

The Treaty on the Transition of Power from Tsar Zvonimir IV to the Gvārdyy Zelenzyy Revolutyonyy
| Ivanozavodsk, Regimentalist State of Mokov

Authorised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regime of Mokov

by **Ainslie** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 8:45 pm

President refuses to close borders over new flu
Kevara, Keverai

9 December 2020

Image: President Renaut at the press conference today in Kevara

President Renaut today during a press conference insisted that Keverai would not close their border to either Aprosia or Ainslie. Instead, he proposed a number of ‘common sense’ measures that will be implemented across the nation over the coming months. This is what he had to say.

“The Independent State of Keverai is well briefed on the situation currently occurring in Aprosia and the response by the Ahnslen Government to multiple travellers arriving into Wesland with severe symptoms brought on by a new variant of influenza virus. Right now, the advice we have received suggests that there is no need to close the border between Keverai and Aprosia, much less the one between Keverai and Ainslie. There is not a medical case for it nor is there an economic case for it. If this is a case of pandemic influenza, it is the opinion of my Government that there is most certainly still a window well into the coming days to be able to implement restrictions to protect the health and safety of Keveraites. This is particularly true both due to the lack of a significant amount of cases in Aprosia and because of the highly competent Ahnslen pandemic response framework. Whilst we do not share the same opinions on this topic, we are well aware that the bureaucracy behind the Ahnslen Government particularly in this area is amongst the best in the Isles.

We have full confidence in the ability of the Ahnslens to manage the few cases they have and if necessary to alert the rest of the Isles if this is a disease we do need to be particularly concerned about and take action about.

Currently, the Keveraite Government is not of the opinion that any form of restrictions are needed. Instead, there are some simple and easily implemented features that we will be undertaking.

Firstly, and most importantly we will be requiring all boats and planes entering the nation from Aprosia and those who have made stops there in the past 14 days or have individuals on them who have been in the country within the past 14 days to provide lists to health authorities of the people on those transports. This program will brought into force midnight tonight.

Anyone entering the nation from the electorate of Wesland in Ainslie or who have been there in the past fourteen days will be required to fill out a form available online or on arrival that outlines where they have been in the past two weeks and where they are planning on going.

Secondly, starting tomorrow, temperature checks will occur at all points of entry - airports, ports and major roads. To that effect, local governments and law enforcement will be closing down some rural roads along the border in order to ensure the effectiveness of this measure.

Lastly, we have advised healthcare centers and hospitals in major Keveraite cities where Aprosians may already be to step up their protective equipment requirements. This includes a lowered threshold for mandatory mask usage. The evidence is clear that the risk of contracting respiratory viruses, particularly in healthcare environments, can be limited by such measures.

If the situation changes or more updates are needed we will provide them. As for now, this is all we need to announce.”

The President then answered questions from the media, assuring on multiple occasions that there was no need for Keveraites to ‘stock up’ or to ‘act like we’re under threat’ from the virus.

In answering one question that asked why the President didn’t go further with his measures, he had the following to say:

“The situation we are in is practically the best case scenario. This is an influenza virus - a type of disease we know well, that has spread early into a country with unquestionably sophisticated and competent public health and disease management protocols and expertise. The measures we are putting in place are proportional to the worst case situation we can see happening in the near future. We are well prepared if this is a less controllable or more dangerous strain of influenza and we are taking measures to allow us to safely make that decision at a later date.”

Keveraites and local academics have largely supported the move, with Public Health Professor Kendi Avareau from the University of Kevara noting that it was a ‘measured and logical’ response to the threat as he saw it. This is especially within the context of there being no recorded cases of severe influenza in Keveraite hospitals yet.

by **Havalland** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 8:57 pm

The Royal Cryer

Mokovi Nationals refuse to return

After the regimentalist regime took power in mokov Havalland has pushed back hard viewing the regime in a negative light, many mokovi nationals studying at Hartford College in Kingston, the most prestigious college in Havalland have now gone out of their way to seek citizenship in Havalland, with this the Havallish government has attempted to assist those seeking citizenship and with many businesses returning to Havalland many job openings have appeared.

However there is one issue, a mokovi ambassador and two embassy officers have also refused to return, King Leon is unsure how to handle these three as he wants to provide asylum within his court, however this could cause a major controversy. For now the three have been invited to Blackforest Castle for the time being until a solution is found.

by **Aizcona** » Tue Dec 08, 2020 10:05 pm

BREAKING NEWS

In a surprise announcement both Jenderrega held a joint press conference today on the topic of Mokov. They announced that the world and especially the League needed to stay out of South Argus politics and should leave the issue of Mokov's recent regime change to nations close by like the Estral Republic and her neighbor Wellsia. It is their belief that South Argus should handle its own problems. As Jenderegga Kasandro Abinagagoitia said, "We will not allow the League to cause a complete breakdown in a nation so close to our borders. It is easy for people far away from the problem to make it worse and then wipe their hands clean of the mess while the nation's around have to deal with the worsened problem."

This comes eight days after the previous regime of Mokov was overthrown in a popular revolution that installed Vozhd Pavel Markeviç as its dictator after deposing and executing the monarch. This new state named the GZR is a Regimentalist political system. Regimentalism, the ideology of the GZR, is not a recent invention, having its roots in the writings of Igor Markeviç back in 1910. Regimentalism focuses on an extremely stratified society, under the absolute rule of the state. It is not known how wide spread human rights abuses will be but there are many concerns.

It is unknown at the moment what actions Aizcona will take but... Read More.

INTERNATIONAL HEADLINES

Recent news out of Ainslie has the National Ministry of Health potentially concerned. In a statement released earlier today, the Ministry stated that it is following the potential of a dangerous strain of flu out of Ainslie and Aprosia. It advised against travel to and from the two nations for a period of time as new information is learned about this possible new strain of flu and suggested that people that have come back from these two nations within the last few days self quarantine at home. Read More.

Jenderegga Kasandro Abinagagoitia welcomes new Northern Argus alliance stating that he hopes it will increase stability and reduce tension in an area that is economically important to Aizcona. He continued that he hoped that the new Northern Isles Security Council would refrain from saber rattling and that it will cooperate with its neighbors to ensure that North Argus stays conflict free. Read More.

by **Roendavar** » Wed Dec 09, 2020 2:48 am

ROENDAVAR CONCERNED AS BALNIK OCCUPIES FARONNA ISLANDS, VIOLATING TREATY AND RELATIONS
Politics and International Relations
December 9, 2020

Faronna Island, one of the two Faronna Islands, from a distance

On December 9, 2020, the Federation of Balnik has occupied the Faronna Islands, much to the shock of most Roendavarians.The situation has thrown the Roendavarian government into full alert, immediately convening in the Royal Palace at Dociara.

The Faronna Islands refer to two islands off the western coast of Roendavar and Balnik. It is comprised of two islands, Faronna and Eldira, as well as small rocky outcrops and islets. The Faronna Islands, located at the middle of the Argaean Sea, are host to numerous migratory birds, wildlife, and countless marine fauna. The larger of the two, Faronna Island, is home to 2 endemic species of bird, 3 endemic species of insect, and 5 species of flora. The smaller of the two, Eldira, is home to hundreds of migratory birds that flock its shores.

Hisory of the islands date as far back to ancient times as Ariethosi explorers arrived on the islands sometime around 680 BCE and named them Falthereionna, meaning the Sancturay of Faltharon, the Protacist orinos (satyr) that once trained the greatest figures in Protacist mythology. During the Empire of Corinthus and the Empire of Daciara, the islands were home to pirates and mercenaries. The crackdown on piracy and slave trade by the Empire of Daciara wiped out the islands of its inhabitants, leaving them uninhabited for centuries. The islands would once again return to Roendavarian and Balniki maps during the 1900s as the Faronna Islands, a derivative of its original name.

During Roendavarian and Balniki talks regarding their maritime economic zones during the 1980s, the Faronna Islands were a hotly contested piece of land between the two countries. The Faronna Islands, aside from expanding the economic zone of whichever country owns it, are also in the middle of the Argaean Sea and north of the International District, placing it in the middle of the Western Isles' most important body of water for global trade and diplomacy. On the 3rd of June, 1983, after several diplomatic visits and discussions, the Faronna Islands Agreement was signed, ensuring that the islands will be shared between Roendavar and Balnik and that no one would have sole control over the important islands. The islands were turned into a nature reserve and has become one of the most important wildlife sanctuaries in the Western Isles.

Reports from the Alimeni Line informed the Roendavarian Royal Guard in Dociara that Balniki forces were on the move westward. The Coast Guard and aerial reconnaisance was deployed and it was confirmed that Balniki forces had occupied the Faronna Islands and have already set up weaponry on the islands, a severe violation of the Faronna Islands Agreement that was signed four decades ago. An emergency council was convened immediately at the Royal Palace and the Roendavarian Royal Navy was dispatched to Ciena in the case of rising tensions that may arise from the occupation. A separate announcement from the Balniki government confirmed their occupation.

However, this does not come as a surprise to the Roendavarian government as the Balniki government have expressed withdrawal from the agreement as far back as 2016, however, they did not make a move and the situation was put on the least priority. Declassified reports from the Agents of the Rose did confirm that the Balniki government did plan to make a move in the future, mostly to secure economic advantages beneath the Faronna Islands. According to the same reports, oil and natural gas were found under the islands by geological surveys, which was another contentious breach of the treaty between the two countries.

Vastarosi Thronai ei-Fel. Victrius Agrezilian Eisecresil was the first high official to comment on the issue. He said in a press release immediately after the emergency council on the Royal Palace that,

"Balniki occupation of the Faronna Islands is a grave breach of the treaty between the two countries and is an insult to Roendavarian-Balniki relations. The Faronna Islands have always been a point of unity between the two nations and the current situation has made a mockery of this. We will immediately summon the Balniki Ambassador to shed information on the backhanded slight that they have dealt to us. Roendavar's position to the current situation is plain and simple: the Faronna Islands either does not belong to any country or belongs to both countries. The Roendavarian government shall file a case against the Balniki government in the International Court of Justice and we will not back down to the power-play in the Faronna Islands."

i Florin Celion Faunus Eleos Caenalron Iralethias also commented on the issue, calling for a more peaceful means to the situation, stating in a press release that,

"It is in the Roendavarian interest for peace and cooperation that the current tense situation must not escalate further. We appeal to the Balniki government to immediately accept Roendavarian diplomatic delegations and begin the process of understanding between the nations. De-escalation and compromise is of the utmost importance in addressing the issue at hand."

Roendavarian experts have expressed deep concern over the current political situation embroiling Roendavar. After the country's assertion of its place in the Western Isles through acquiring the position of Secretary General of the League, diplomatic talks between Roendavar's key allies, and Roendavarian interest in current conflicts, many experts fear that Roendavar might be taking too much than it could bear. The sudden crisis between Balnik and Roendavar in the Faronna Islands, according to experts, will serve as a major wake up call to the country that it needs to reasses its policies if it wants to assert its place in the Western Isles.

As of now, conflict is not expected to erupt between the two countries. However, as the situation continues to grow and last, Roendavarian neutrality and pacifism may not last and conflict may boil over between the two countries, another addition to the chaotic upheaval hitting the Western Isles in the past weeks.

by **Wachoviaa** » Wed Dec 09, 2020 1:06 pm

09 DECEMBER 2020
’PERPETUAL ISOLATION’: TENSIONS ABROAD FORCE CONVERSATION ON WACHOVIA’s PLACE IN THE WORLD

Foreign Minister Haywood makes history by breaking Wachovia’s ceremonial silence last week at the League, as Prime Minister Clarence Johnson makes plan clear to formally ‘go nuclear’ with Constitutional reform.

NEW HAVEN — What defines the character of a nation? It’s flag-.. It’s shield-.. It’s religion-.. It’s people? These were questions first posed when the steam gunboat, U.S.S. Peoria reached the shores of Aprasia escorting the first Freedmen settlers into the Western Isles aboard a flotilla of twelve (12) transports, and four (4) gunboats. Their journey was marked by rough seas, n outbreak of scurvy which claimed the lives of 15 men and women, which discouraged many, but the promise of freedom far from the land which enslaved them was enough to instill a fierce determination for success. There could be no going back, for the place which they called home - a wretched land drenched in blood, had been overcome by its most sinister habits, rejecting the hard fought opportunity for true equality, and the forgiveness of its original sin. In 1867, the colony of Wachovia was established upon the founding of New Haven, and Mount Pisgah. There in New Haven, at Hopefeild Baptist Church which was completed in 1870, the citizens of this new land chartered a document that would serve as basis of Wachovian society — the Declaration on the Universal Rights of Freedmen. In this document, a commitment to Peace, the realization of true Liberty for God’s people, Justice, the right of all Life, and reward for labor.

That first principle — Peace has been the subject of debate since Wachovia’s founding. It has been a social principle in Wachovian interaction with one another, a basis for law - rejecting the death Penalty and adopting a system of Exile for the most sinister criminals. At the Constitutional Convention of 1901, just before independence, the question rose of whether or not Wachovia should have a military and if it should constitutionally commit itself to nonviolence. Theologians, Philosophers, Politicians, Businessmen, and Commoners alike either agreed or accepted the will of the Convention which adopted two provisions — a limited Military, with a non-permanent land component, and Neutrality. When war engulfed the Western Isles, Wachovia remained isolated - determined not to find itself in the midst of the Imperial War and other conflict between the region’s powers. Instead, a policy of “Perpetual Isolation” was adopted in which Wachovia would engage with the outside world diplomatically and economically, but avoid foreign entanglements. For this reason, Wachovia has be absent in most regional alliances and economic blocs, maintaining membership in The League in name alone, yet, with a return of geopolitical instability across the Isles has caused intense debate to spark in every part of Society.

The state-of-the-art warship, Brooksville (FFG-313), a Wilmington-
class frigate underway at high speed near Robinson county in the
Lotus Sea. The Wilmington-class Frigates were a cornerstone to fmr. PM
Annette Scarboro’s controversial military buildup program. Critics
then argued that it wouldn’t be long before a Premier would desire to
put them to use.

This tension was exasperated when Foreign Minister Michelle Haywood broke with tradition at the League summit last week during debate over the readmission of Aprosia into the organization even as events in Mokov were unfolding. In the most open critique of a foreign power in decades, Haywood issued an open rebuke of what she called the “Argean Sea Order”, and the influence that nations in the area have long wielded over the Isles. She noted the arrogance of those nations who “[thought] of themselves as governors of the world”, and their commitment to maintaining or restoring their former imperial glory. These statements caused a sharp uproar within the Assembly, as members of the Republican Party called Haywood “Cavalier”, “Inexperienced”, and her statement “Dangerous”, “Impulsive” and “Fear-mongering”. Even the leader of her own Party’s the conservative faction offered this refrain — ”We are entering potentially challenging times.. we must choose our words wisely”.

Upon returning to New Haven, Foreign Minister Haywood delivered a response to the press corps stating:

When we fear the truth.. we have lost the paradise our Ancestors struggled so desperately for.

Not long after, Prime Minister Brooks called the Cabinet together to discuss the changing atmosphere in the Isles - to which insiders said resulted in a shouting match between Haywood and the Minister of State for Domestic and Tribal Affairs, Jonathan Watts. The content of that conversation was a guarded secret for nearly a week until Monday when the Prime Minister announced before a Party Conference, he would raise the question of revising the Constitutional Provision mandating Wachovia’s neutrality in the world. 8 Members left the room abruptly, murmurs filled the chamber, and Prime Minister Johnson reportedly smiled and said;

Now that the rebels are gone... we can have an adult conversation.

.... Words which prompted laughter and a thunderous applause.

The media blitz began the next morning when opposition leader, Anthony Keitt hit the morning networks with the slogan — ”Independence Requires Neutrality”. The Horizon Party leader, Shanice Hightower stating — ”The desire for hegemony in the Southern Isles will be our demise if we let Military Industrialism grow stronger”, and the multitude of minor parties voiced support for Neutrality or Opposition to it. In this court of public opinion, like most things, the response was polarized. Hashtags #Repeal48 and #Entanglement went back and forth in competition for the #1 spot of trending topics on TWItter. Such was the intensity of the debate yesterday, that the “conscious of Wachovia” raised their voice.

The United Council of Churches put forth a statement yesterday evening calling for a nation-wide period of prayer and reflection for all believers ahead of its annual meeting next week. In that statement, the chairman of the Council and Presiding Bishop of the Wachovian Methodist Episcopal Church (WME), Shelton Danials, was quoted as saying:

It is the faithfulness of God to the unworthy that keeps us. Not the tip of spears, stroke of pens or rousing speeches. God’s Grace keeps this nation and every believer everywhere. Without his Grace, we are condemned to a death eternal... this is the basic fundamental of our Christian faith.... our collective doctrine within the body of Christ. We trust in God. He delivered us from our Egypt, just as he did Israel, and he will deliver us from anything that may face the Isles today. We must be patient, therefore, and trust him now.

Today, as news spread of the unilateral occupation of the Faronnas Islands by Balnik, a Viral outbreak in Ainsle, and creation of a “Northern Isles Security Council”, anticipation is swirling as to whether or not Prime Minister Brooks will formally propose the Revision to the Assembly - opening the door to Wachovia taking a more active role in global affairs.

by **Biaten** » Wed Dec 09, 2020 1:27 pm

Wednesday 9th December 2020
Hachen Times
Republic of Biaten

Acting Ministers of Defence Cameron Ashworth appointed official Minister of Defence

Today, the Chancellor announced that he has appointed Acting Minister of Defence Cameron Ashworth as the official Minister of Defence, replacing him as Secretary of the Army with Alaina Straub MP, the first transgender MP and former army corporal. Before the National Diet, the Defence Minister made his acceptance speech, explaining plans for the military as well as action the military will take regarding the situation in Mokov.

“I wish to thank you all for being here today. I would like to thank the Chancellor for granting me the opportunity to serve such a high position both in the Cabinet and in the military which I have served throughout most of my life. 15 years ago, when I was serving as a lieutenant in our armed force, I would have never though I would have the honour of holding such an office.

The duty of the Minister of Defence is to provide advise to the Chancellor and ensure he uses the military effectively, as well as ensure that it is used when needed. I pledge, with this body and the people we serve as my witnesses, to make sure that the military is used effectively and when needed.

Members of the Diet, Mr Speaker, it is not news to us all that the Biatenian military is lagging behind our neighbours on the mainland, and the recent actions by several rogue members of the military, as well as my predecessor, is a clear indicator of that. It is no surprise that our military itself needs a makeover. As Minister of Defence, I will change how our military operates to prevent officers from going rogue and holding the ability to use their troops for unlawful actions. I propose a system of checks and balances to ensure that no member of the military, or the Minister of Defence for that matter, does not misuse their power.

But before I do that, we must tackle the elephant in the room, that is the crisis in Mokov. Let me make it clear that this government will not commit to an invasion of Mokov, but we recognise that the lives of our citizens within Mokov are at risk, and it is crucial that they, as well as their families, whether they are Biatenian or not, are evacuated from the region as soon as possible. I therefore announce that today, with the permission and approval of the Chancellor and the President, I will order the preparation of the military for deployment. The purpose of this is to prepare our soldiers for an emergency relief effort to ensure the safe evacuation of every Biatenian and any non-Biatenian we can provide asylum to. Within the next few weeks, we will deploy a task force near Mokov to ensure the safe evacuation of our people back to Biaten, as well as any of their non-Biatenian family members and many refugees as we can take.

I would also like to congratulate our new Secretary of the Army, the Member from Hachen Alaina Straub, on her appointment. Straub is an amazing woman I have known for years who, despite often being faced with discrimination for being transgender, has served as a loyal member of the armed forces for 10 years, as well as a member of this Diet for 12 years. As a transgender person, her appointment is a real sign of how progressive and forward-thinking our country is. However, as a friend and close political ally who I have worked alongside for many years now, I am glad to be executing the office of Minister of Defence with her as my de facto deputy.

Under my leadership, and hopefully the leadership of my potential successors, the military will provide safety, liberty and eternal existence to our nation. Long live the Republic!”

Parliament approves Western Isles Democratic Alliance Treaty

Today, Parliament has officially approved Western Isles Democratic Alliance treaty, subject to the final approval of President Breitbarth. On Monday, the National Diet voted overwhelmingly in favour of the treaty by 323 to 120. All parties except for the Communist Party and the National Revolution Party voted in favour, with the Communists voting against and the National Revolution Party abstaining. Earlier this evening, the treaty was voted on by the Senate and approved by a vote off 66 to 23.

In the National Diet, the Communists debated against the treaty, warning the National Diet of the potential consequences of “getting too involved” in international affairs, espousing an isolationist stance. Several National Revolution MPs argued for a referendum on the treaty before it is approved. However, the opposition was unable to prevent the treaty from passing.

President Breitbarth has stated that he will sign the WIDA treaty after the Western Isles Democratic Union treaty has been passed, and that he will approve both of them at the same time.

by **Mokov** » Wed Dec 09, 2020 5:03 pm

Boris Kamerov Revolts Against Regime, Declares intent to overthrow Vozhd Markeviç!

Earlier today, a series of explosions rocked the port city of Nový Litkov, followed by a mass uprising by members of the GZR garrison in the city. This uprising appears to be organized by Ryda Chancellor Boris Kamerov, the leader of the far-right faction of the GZR. While the loyalist members of the garrison fought bravely, they were unfortunately far too outnumbered to succeed, and were forced to surrender following a prolonged siege of the garrison. An hour after the last loyalist holdouts were overrun, the traitorous Kamerov revealed himself as the leader of this rebellion against the Regime. Vozhd Markeviç cannot be reached for comment at the moment, as He is currently occupied with organizing the response to this revolt. It is unlikely that Kamerov's revolt will last more than a few days, with the Vozhd personally leading the retaliation. More news as it comes.

Iozef Dzugashdze, Regiment Journalistic, December 9, 2020, 3:50 PM

by **Aizcona** » Wed Dec 09, 2020 11:25 pm

HEADLINE: LARGE MILITARY EXCERCISES ANNOUNCED

The Ministry of Defense has announced some of its largest military exercises ever which are planned to take place within the next month. The exercises are meant to bolster combat readiness among the Estral military forces and to give more experience to possible operations that the military might face in the coming years. These exercises are slated to take place outside of Hiri d'Aizcona and will include elements from the Army, Navy and Air Force and will culminate in a full scale amphibious assault mock run. As plans are finalized the Ministry will release more details on road closures.

Story Continues.

INTERNATIONAL HEADLINES

SITUATION IN GAEL

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has come out and urged the nations of Balnik and Roendavar to settle the issue of the Faronna Islands through diplomatic channels rather than through military means. The statement released talks about the issues towards trade in the area and the potential of any conflict expanding across North Argus and through Gael. The full statement can be read Here.

This statement comes after the occupation of the Faronna Islands by the nation of Balnik. This came as an unexpected shock as Balnik took control of the whole economic zone that it shared with Roendavar. This comes in light of Balnik needing to stabilize its energy market. With the unconfirmed reports of static weaponry being brought to the island, the ball is in Roendavar's court.

POSSIBLE INTERVENTION IN MOKOV?

With the situation in Mokov breaking down further, the Estral government has stated that Intervention is a possible option in the future.

Within the past day the ruling government in Mokov, which just gained power within the last two weeks, has already started to fracture which will likely lead to a second civil war. The new faction... Read More.

by **Reathwood** » Thu Dec 10, 2020 1:37 pm

Legislature divided over Western Isles Democratic Alliance as vote approaches

10 December 2020

WHITE BLUFF — With a ratification vote scheduled for a special Saturday session, the Landsall ("National Legislature") has been starkly divided by debate between legislators about the merits of Reathwood's prospective accession to the Western Isles Democratic Alliance. The vote has been planned for weeks, but the discourse around it has intensified in recent days as both proponents and skeptics of the accession have introduced their newest arguments. An associated proposal to join an affiliated free trade area was considered, but the predominance of protectionism among the major parties of the Landsall meant that the proposal never even reached the criteria for an official vote. The prospect of joining the Alliance, however, has appeared to interest—and affront—several of the major parties.

The debate primarily concerns Reathwood's historic commitment to armed neutrality—for more than a century, the Republic has maintained a robust military but rejected excessive intervention in foreign events. Proponents of Reathwood's accession to the Alliance have chiefly argued that joining it would not violate that principle; they claim that committing to the defense of democracy—as stipulated by the Alliance—would virtually never demand that Reathwood actually involve itself in military operations, but would improve its international standing and relationships with powerful democracies. Opponents of the accession have predictably retorted that any commitment to a military alliance is, by definition, a violation of the neutrality that Reathwood holds dear.

Some legislators, primarily in the liberal Givelbund ("Liberal League"), question whether armed neutrality is a viable policy in the modern day at all—members of the conservative Theedstirth ("National Movement"), which holds a plurality in the Landsall, have dismissed such questioning as attacks against Reathwood's most intrinsic principles. The debate is sure to accelerate as Saturday draws nearer.

by **Domanania** » Thu Dec 10, 2020 6:19 pm

December 10th, 2020
Federation Broadcasting Channel
Domanania

Mokov Forces Doman Company to Renegotiate its Contract

A few days after the new Mokovi regimentalist regime revealed its new policies, a Doman private company was forced to renegotiate a deal with the government.

The Doman based private company, North Mountain Internet, was contracted by the previous Tsarist regime to construct new, and improve existing internet infrastructure in Mokov. They were tasked with laying new lines, upgrading existing cables, and building new servers for the Mokovi people to experience better internet, all before handing the new infrastructure over to the government to maintain. This is how the contract has worked for over a year. However, on December 9th, 4pm local Mokovi time, government officials entered the headquarters provided to the company and demanded the suspension of all services and recall all workers. The project manager had this to say: "Needless to say we were all concerned. We had been friendly with the last government, and expected similar treatment from this government. But to see them come in and seize our data and order a nation wide recall, it scared us. The officials that came didn't speak with me, and just demanded i deliver a message to my superiors. The message was to renegotiate a deal with the new government, or be expelled from the country and not allowed to return"

We have been told that currently there are 500 Doman workers in Mokov across the country doing the work they were hired to do. There was mass confusion as all workers were recalled to the central office. Many were driving company trucks, and were subjected to roadblocks and searches of their supplies. Many felt that they may have been arrested if it weren't for the fact they were driving company vehicles. Once the news broke back home, many people were upset. This prompted a response from the President.

"Earlier yesterday, the Mokovi government ordered a private Doman company to renegotiate a deal, and seized their current assets in the nation. They have stated that if the company is to continue business, it must hire Mokovi workers, and work for a more unfair price. On top of this, the new regimes racial policies are harmful to many Doman citizens. Many have proud, and close relations to their Khas-Kirati ancestors and families. This prevents most 500 workers currently in Mokov from applying for citizenship and continuing their work. While we can not dictate how a private company handles its business, we can ask that they do not continue to work with a government, so opposed to its own people, and to an entire people group that is the ethnic bedrock of many nations. Not only are their policies directly harmful but their new economic and foreign policy have alienated a country, and all her people, from doing business with the government."

Shortly after the presidents speech, many people began to petition North Mountain Internet to withdraw all support from Mokov. However, there was a strong group of people, who believe that the Mokovi regime is in the right, and that they should be allowed to handle their business as they please. This group of individuals rallied behind the support of the Prim Minister, Beyn Tarr who expressed his beliefs in a small gathering of press, shortly after the president's speech.

"I stand behind the president, as i always do. However, I do believe he is over stepping. This is a deal between a private company, and a foreign government. Without major legislation that would allow us to limit how domestic companies operate abroad, all he can do is talk and hope his position as president does the work for him. I believe the government of Mokov, while problematic, has its right to allow who and what does business within its boarders."

It is not surprising that the Prime Minister and the President disagree. Beyn Tarr is the leader of the Opposition in congress, and head of the Domanania First Party, a known far right party that has apposed the government coalition on many subjects. He was only nominated as Prime Minister in hopes that the government could gain opposition support. This hasn't stopped disputes between the two heads of government. Despite this ongoing feud, the people of Domanania are eager to hear North Mountain Internet's response to this predicament.

by **Martenyika** » Thu Dec 10, 2020 6:35 pm

Thursday December 10, 2020
RKT - Royal Kessa Times

Royal Savannahs Int'l Park: Keveraite Visitor Nearly Impaled by Poacher's Arrow

A bizarre incident took place today at the Royal Savannahs International Park in eastern Martenyika (formerly Royal Eastern Range), when a foreign tourist was nearly impaled by an arrow thought to originate from a poacher.

Aren Kandar, a Keveraite tourist at Royal Savannahs, was nearing the end of the park's most remote trail when the arrow struck a nearby rock. Kandar allowed a brief digital interview with RKT while he made his way back to his homeland, and permitted usage of his personal video footage from the incident.

"One moment I'm enjoying the scenery, the next I see an arrow barely miss me," recounted Kandar, "it was terrifying and I got away as fast as possible." In one piece of footage following the encounter, Aren claims that he saw the suspect for a moment before they disappeared into the bush. An animal, the poacher's prey, can also be seen bolting in a different direction. Presumably the suspect missed the shot with his bow, not realizing a visitor was on the remote trail. Although shaky, the arrow can be seen flying across the frame and hitting the rock extremely close to Kandar.

Park security was immediately put under scrutiny by the Martenyikan government and park service leadership, who consider this to be a serious issue. Poaching has been an issue itself in parts of eastern Martenyika, however poachers are deterred from parklands due to the density of rangers and people in general. Royal Savannahs' International Park status has been a great help to Martenyika's burgeoning tourism industry and national economy; it remains to be seen what impact this incident may have for the rest of 2020 and into 2021.

by **Littolyo** » Thu Dec 10, 2020 10:52 pm

2020 November 22
Senate Chews Up and Spits Out Multinational Treaty [Backdated Article]

Arennica—The Senate today began debate on an ambitious pair of multinational treaties: the economic Western Isles Democratic Union and its military companion piece, the Western Isles Democratic Alliance. If passed, the treaties would tie Littolyo more closely with the countries of Biaten, Domanania, Ioudaia, Martenyika, and Reathwood, all nations with which Littolyo already enjoys close relations.

But almost from the moment the treaties were introduced for debate, it was clear that they would face an uncertain path to ratification, and the day’s rambunctious session ended with both drafts being remanded to a second round of negotiations among the treaty partners.

Open debate quickly descended into a who’s-who of ambitious senators eager to display their critical reading skills and nationalistic acumen. Both drafts took fire from the left and the right, with various concerns sometimes crossing party lines in a rousing back-and-forth that one Senate staffer described as “certainly the most electric Senate debate I’ve ever seen.”

On the economic front, partisan lines were scrambled as factions on both sides of the aisle alternately praised or skeptically questioned the agreement’s conception of free trade. Senator Vernon Ribo, liberal of the Heath State district where one of Littolyo’s largest exporters is based, gushed that the trade union would be “a fast-track to markets that Littolyen companies have struggled to access for decades.”

In a sign of the uniquely cross-partisan nature of the discussion, he was joined by Senator Lisa Torrey, conservative of Andersen State, who argued that the deal “represents a lifeline for Littolyen energy companies that are being suffocated by our own excessive environmental regulations.”

Opposing such ideas were senators like Dominic Portento, conservative of Avalon State, who fumed that the trade agreement would only further sap the lower-skill jobs that for centuries had been Littolyens’ ladder to the middle class. “You pass this treaty, and you can just watch the blue collar jobs dry up,” he said. “In rural Avalon, we have nearly twenty percent unemployment, while parts of this country are sitting pretty. This kind of insanity will only boost that number.”

Senator Geneva Lola, liberal of Limosa, agreed. “First, all the non-tourism jobs left Limosa for the mainland. Now, you’re telling me you’re going to ship them to other countries?” Notably, in past debates, Senator Lola has sided with Senator Ribo and clashed vehemently with Senator Torrey.

While the main thrust of the treaty received sharp questioning, so did its more specific provisions; a number of senators took exception to the fact that, while utilities were excluded from some of its more sweeping clauses, gas and telecom services were not listed as utilities—perhaps in part because they are not considered utilities in all the countries party to the treaty.

The military treaty underwent deep and sometimes acrimonious scrutiny as well, although Senators seemed closer to agreement by the end of the day’s discussions than they had on the trade deal.

Perhaps the most popular request was for a revision mandating that all members of the alliance maintain an active cyber force, which Senator Aubrey DeVeal of Coroco called, “a no-brainer and quite literally the bare minimum that is acceptable for a credible alliance in the 21st century.” That voted passed with strong bipartisan support in a Senate that has of late invested heavily in Littolyo’s own cyberwarfare capabilities.

On a separate issue, Senator Horton Lewtens of Dexenton—one of the oldest and most hawkish members of the Senate—sought a provision declaring that while a military attack by another country could be grounds for collective response, so too should a state-directed attack on civilians. As a member of the Odin Administration, Senator Lewtens was one of the architects of the 1970’s doctrine by which Littolyo become hyper-protective of its citizens as they traveled abroad.

Finally, a broad majority of senators took exception to the draft treaty’s establishment of Ioudaia as something of a “first among peers,” as Senator Julia Wilde of Littolica phrased it, for being a primary conduit for prospective new members.

Others were less diplomatic. “This is the best our negotiators could do? Are you kidding me?” asked Senator Neil Worth of Breapaul before a packed chamber, eliciting a chorus of supportive jeers. Senator Gary Wheeler of Highland State questioned the implication behind the fact that Ioudaia was the only nation mentioned by name in the treaty. “This looks likely to set up a pernicious power dynamic, a hierarchy, in an alliance that is supposed to be among equals.”

Ultimately, the Senate voted to give the negotiators an option: remove the provision, or find a way to put the other nations on equal footing.

Shortly before midnight, senators concluded their last vote of the evening, sending both treaties back to the diplomatic working group for further negotiation. The next round of negotiations is scheduled to take place in early December in Martenyika.

by **Littolyo** » Fri Dec 11, 2020 2:18 pm

2020 December 11
Massie Basing Agreement Passes Senate

The picturesque Mosel Coast, where Littolyo hopes to complete construction of its Joint Base Lasters by late 2021.

Arennica—It turns out that even Littolyo’s most hard-charging senators have their limits.

That was the takeaway on Friday after droves of conservative senators, who had previously lodged strenuous objections to the terms demanded by Massie in exchange for a basing deal, were cowed into agreement by a threat from President Leon Drake to simply walk away from the agreement altogether.

Mr. Drake has sought to fulfill the wishes of his Defense Department by negotiating for a regional headquarters base to be constructed in each of the military’s seven combatant command areas, and has already secured four such bases. But Massie, with its touchy domestic politics that for a period treated the negotiations as a scandal, has been a challenging case.

When an offer to construct an air and naval base finally cleared Massie’s parliament, it came with numerous demands, including a hefty lease payment, direct investment in the communities nearby, and a commitment to preferential trading terms.

That offer got a cold reception in Littolyo’s Senate, where conservative lawmakers balked at Massie’s pricey requests, while more liberal lawmakers made clear that they were growing tired of the base-building spree and saw little value in showering hundreds of millions of lyres a year on foreign nations while some Littolyens live in poverty.

The Drake Administration worked feverishly with Senate Leader Melanie Blout to find a middle ground that both Massie and the Senate could agree too, but to no avail. It was then that President Drake, frustrated and loath to see such a hard-won offer spurned by Littolyen lawmakers, went nuclear: he announced that if the Senate wouldn’t support the deal, he would assume they were uninterested in a base in Massie and would politely decline the offer.

Conservative senators initially stuck to their guns, but then quickly fell in line. According to two unnamed sources, one administration official made a round of calls to prominent holdouts, admonishing them that “our liberals will never vote for this agreement. If you want that base, you’re going to have to do it yourselves.”

In the end, the vote passed by a comfortable margin, with wide support among conservatives padded by support from more centrist liberals. A subsequent press release by the Defense Department thanked Massie for their partnership and announced that construction of Joint Base Lasters would begin imminently.

by **Ioudaia** » Fri Dec 11, 2020 4:52 pm

SEA Conducts Dual Manned Launches, Docking Maneuvers Planned

Today, Ioudaia launched two manned missions on a test flight to prepare for future docking with the Western Isles space station. At 9:28, Kenomerodios launched, carrying an extended orbital module equipped with a docking port identical to the ones to be used on the TWI space station.

Kenomibis launched four hours later, carrying a space station docking adapter in place of an orbital module. This configuration will be used for the space station. Conditions aboard will be a bit cramped, as the kenomanauts will have to remain in their seats until docking with Kenomerodios.

Over the next two days, the ships will rendezvous in orbit and demonstrate both manual and automatic docking. The four kenomanauts will also practice skills needed for working in the future space station, using the large space available in the extended orbital module.

by **Aizcona** » Fri Dec 11, 2020 10:29 pm

HEADLINE: ARANTZA AGUIRREBENA RELEASES NEW ALBUM

Major news for the Estral music scene as the nation's leading musical artist releases her third major album, Bizitzaren Kolorea ("Color of Life" in English). The album less than 24 hours after release is already topping the Estral Music Charts at No. 1 and has huge sales numbers. Along with that the international numbers coming in are impressive for a music industry that normally does not see much interaction outside of Aizcona. Singer Arantza talked on a livestream just an hour ago about how happy she was with this album and was hoping that people would love it as much as she did. Along with that she announced a new Concert tour around Aizcona and also announced that there are plans to do an international tour.

Arantza Aguirrebena is a 21 year old Estral singer and songwriter from Estra that started at 16 with the release of Ametsak. That album topped at No. 2 and remained in the top ten for 30 weeks. This combined with her use of youtube and livestreaming and being generally internet has earned her a large fanbase in Aizcona. Her style of a mix of pop and EDM is hugely popular. She is currently considered the top artist in Aizcona and was named Estral Woman of the year in 2018 after the release of her second album, Maitasun Abestiak. Her popularity is not only in Aizcona though as she has developed an international fanbase with her translating some of her songs to English.

Fans of Arantza are likely to have a good year ahead of them as she has also hinted at more songs to come saying that she has had a creative mind as of recent.

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