2024: Cold Interbellum (MT/AH/IC/Dead)

[Arvenia]

2024: Cold Interbellum
OOC|Nation Map (TBA)|Alliance Map (TBA)

OP: Arvenia
Co-OP 1: Vacant
Co-OP 2: Vacant
Co-OP 3: Vacant

Synopsis
It has been 33 years since the Cold War ended and the USSR collapsed. It was believed that global peace would be achieved once the conflict was over. However, it never became so. As the Second Cold War is looming, countries across the world are nervous. With the Global War on Terrorism and the Great Recession, the global balance is hanging on a thread. It is a matter of time before even WW3 breaks out.

Intro
Welcome to "2024: Cold Interbellum", an AH/MT RP set in 2024. In this RP, you take control of a nation and manage it with skill. Diplomacy and war is present here, so be more wise and don't do mistakes. That's the last thing your nation want.

While I would like to see some real-life nations (save for communist Russia, democratic China and reunified/democratic Korea), other countries such as Czechoslovakia or a constitutionally monarchist Romania are allowed. I want this RP to be like "2021: A New Decade" and "2024: The Long Peace".

Lore

• In 1969, a border war occurs between the USSR and the PRC. It took place at both the Uyghur border (between Xinjiang, Kazakhstan and Altai Republic) and the Manchurian border (between Heilongjiang, Inner Mongolia, Primorsky Krai, Khabarovsk Krai, Zabaykalsky Krai, Amur Oblast and Jewish Autonomous Oblast). It was more violent than IRL and led to Soviet victory. Following Soviet victory, the USSR annexed both Xinjiang (as Uyghur ASSR) and Heilongjiang (as Harbin Oblast), while China is weakened (and it would remain so until the 1990s). Since the end of the Cold War, Xinjiang and Heilongjiang are still under Russian rule (with Xinjiang being now known as the Republic of Uyghuristan), which means that territorial dispute still exists between the Russian People's Federation and the modern-day Republic of China.
• Watergate occurs as it did IRL.
• The Vietnam War ended as it did IRL.
• In 1979, the Iranian Revolution occurs as it did IRL.
• In 1980s, the anti-communist protests in Eastern Europe occurs as they did IRL.
• The Chernobyl Nuclear Disaster occurs as it did IRL.
• Following the Tiananmen Square Massacre in 1989, the CCP elects Nu Leiying, a low-ranking party official, to serve as the paramount leader of the PRC as a way to help stabilize the country under a less controversial leader. Unknown to the CCP and its high-ranking officials, Nu and his comrades carried out a silent purge within the party, mainly due to Nu having abandoned communism in favor of democratic socialism. After most of the CCP had been purged by 1990, Nu officially dissolves and bans the CCP, as well as replacing it with the more democratic "Shehuidang" (SHD), which soon began holding reunification talks with the Kuomintang (KMT). Following the talks, the PRC and the ROC officially reunified as the Republic of China, with the reunified state soon holding its first democratic election. The SHD emerges victorious in the election, but it was fair, so a two-party system is implemented in the ROC. Since then, executive power in the ROC has been electorally shifting between the centre-right KMT and the centre-left SHD. Taiwan is a SAR (Special Administrative Region) with its own parties. On the other hand, Tibet (playable) and Macau (non-playable) are independent states, while Hong Kong is still an overseas territory of the UK (albeit similar to its RL counterpart without the controversial National Security Law).
• The Persian Gulf War occurs as it did IRL, albeit with China additionally supporting the coalition forces against Iraq.
• The USSR collapsed as it did IRL.
• Amid constitutional crisis in 1993, a neo-Soviet party called the KPR (Communist Party of Russia) overthrows the Yeltsinist regime and transforms the Russian Federation into the Russian People's Federation (Российская Народная Федерация/Rossiyskaya Narodnaya Federatsiya), which is like a continuation of the USSR, albeit without the other SSRs. Following this, the RPF began modeling itself after the old PRC and implement new economic reforms that results in the creation of a socialist market economy. Despite this, the remnants of the Russian Federation flees to Kaliningrad Oblast and declares it independent from the newly-formed RPF. The oblast is thereby called the "Republic of Kalinia" (Республика Калиния/Respublika Kaliniya) and most of the Baltic Fleet gets reformed as the Kalinian Navy. As of 2024, diplomatic and economic conflict is still ongoing between Russia and Kalinia.
• The North Korean famine was so much worse than IRL, especially with a more democratic China now joining the West in sanctioning North Korea. It was so bad that conflict soon emerged in the country. In the end, around the mid-90s, South Korea deployed its armed forces to handle the situation, which would eventually lead to Korean reunification under Seoul. The reunified Korea that exists as of 2024 has the same flag, government, parties and institutions as South Korea (as well as being officially called the "Republic of Korea"). All the North Korean provinces have since been reformed as North Hamgyeong, South Hamgyeong, North Pyeongan, South Pyeongan and Hwanghae.
• Russia peacefully annexes Belarus in 1996.
• Yugoslavia actually splits like IRL, but the split is different. While Croatia, Slovenia, Kosovo and North Macedonia are the same as IRL, the other states are radically different. As of 2024, Yugoslavia (officially known as the "Socialist People's Republic of Yugoslavia") still exists (also as a single-party state), but it only consists of Serbia, Montenegro and North Kosovo, as well as being ruled by a different commuist party called the Workers' Party of Yugoslavia (Радничка Партија Југославије/Radnička Partija Jugoslavije/RPJ). On the other hand, Bosnia is divided between the Serbian Republic (Република Српска/Republika Srpska), aka Serbia, and the Croat-Muslim Federation (Hrvatsko-Muslimanska Federacija), aka Bosnia. The former is an ethnically Serb unitary state that controls Republika Srpska, Brčko District, Posavina Canton, Bosnian-Podrinje Canton Goražde, Ravno (which is part of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton) and a part of the Dubrovnik-Neretva County (which borders Ravno), while the latter is a predominantly Muslim federal republic that controls Sarajevo Canton (including Sarajevo), Canton 10, Tuzla Canton, Zenica-Doboj Canton, Una-Sana Canton, Central Bosnia Canton, West Herzegovina Canton and Herzegovina-Neretva Canton (excluding Ravno). The Republic of Vojvodina (Република Војводина/Republika Vojvodina/Vajdasági Köztársaság/Republica Voivodina/Република Войводина) is an independent state that mirrors Bosnia-Herzegovina by being ethnically composed of Serbs, Croats, Hungarians, Slovaks, Romanians and Pannonian Rusyns (aka "Pannonians"). Meanwhile, Yugoslavia operates a special form of socialist market economy called the "Socialist Labour Market Economy" (Социјалистичка економија тржишта рада/Socijalistička ekonomija tržišta rada), which sees workers control the market as opposed to the market being controlled by the government, although the government still regulates the economy in order to prevent it from becoming way too neoliberal.
• The 9/11 attacks occurs as they did IRL, followed by the controversial War on Terror.
• The Iraq War occurs as it did IRL.
• The Syrian Civil War and the Arab Spring occurs as they did IRL.
• Both Euromaidan and the Donbass War occurs as they did IRL.
• In 2016, Russia purchases both Ida-Viruu County and Lääne-Viruu Country from Estonia.
• Following Euromaidan and the Donbass War, Ukraine formally renames itself the "Western Republic of Ukraine" (Західна Республіка Україна/Zakhidna Respublika Ukrayina) as a way to distance itself from Russia and pledge allegiance to the West.
• The COVID-19 pandemic never occurs as it did IRL.
• The UK leaves the EU as it did IRL.

Rules (possibly subject to change)

• No godmodding or metagaming.
• Listen to OP and Co-OP.
• Be realistic.
• Respect the lore.
• Don't just post about war, you have a country to manage.
• Bad grammar isn't nice.
• No toxicity.
• Reservations lasts for a week.
• Posts must be longer than one paragraph.
• Inactive nations are removed after two weeks while players can revive them within a month.
• No WMD.
• City-states (except for Singapore) are non-playable.
• The POD is in 1969, although certain real-life events still occurs and the Cold War was still the same as IRL.
• The time scale is 1 month per page (might be subject to change).
• Have fun!

[Sao Nova Europa]

President Zhang Lianhong delivers State of Nation Address

The newly-elected President Zhang Lianhong addressed the Congress earlier today, laying out his agenda for the year. The President promised that his presidency would herald a new era of greatness for the Chinese nation. He stated that he would focus on liberalizing the economy, cutting taxes for working class families and corporations, and strengthening the armed forces. He also committed to putting 'China First' and to defend Chinese interests abroad. Some of his remarks include:

"I was elected to serve the interests of the people, rather than the interests of the bureaucrats in Beijing. No more will the working class people of this country toil and sweat for hours, only for their hard-earned money to be grabbed by greedy bureaucrats and wasted on useless and inefficient government programs. I will thus cut the income tax for working class families by an average of about 4%. I also pledge to finally put an end to red tape and corruption, by completely digitizing our public sector and removing useless regulations that only increase costs for consumers and employers."

"China is a great power. It has always been, in the thousands of years of our history. We will no longer sacrifice our national interests for the shake of pleasing foreigners. My administration will put China First! We will defend our maritime zones in the South China Sea and we shall not back down! I also plan on working closely with our American and Japanese friends to ensure that East Asia and the Pacific remain areas of peace, prosperity and friendship. Building a China - US - Japan 'triangle' will be a top priority for me."

Analysts commenting on the President's speech have stated that:

1. On domestic policy, the President seems keen on pushing through the libertarian populist agenda that got him into the office. With Kuomintang enjoying a majority in Congress, even if slim, the President's plans have a good chance of being put into action.
2. On foreign policy, the President repeated his 'China First' slogan but analysts believe that this is directed more at the domestic audience, to play up the nationalist sentiment that help Mr. Lianhong get elected. What analysts do keep from his speech, is that the President intents to pursue close relations with Japan and the United States.

The President's State of the Nation address has been well received according to GPolls, with a 64% approval rating. Pollsters do state, however, that traditionally the first State of the Nation address of a President is well received, so whether this is a trend that will keep up or is simply a 'honey-moon period' for a new President remains to be seen.

Prime Minister Liu Yang Analyzes Tax Cuts

Prime Minister Liu Yang, in a conference a few hours after the President's address, analyzed the President's proposed tax cuts in detail. Being a Professor of Economics, Mr. Yang was chosen for the office of Prime Minister in hopes of bringing technocratic expertise, especially since President Lianhong has no previous experience in politics. The Prime Minister stated that in the planned legislative package, there would be targeted tax cuts for working class and middle class families.

"Those that have an annual taxable income between 36,000 to 144,000 CNY will see their income tax lowered from 10% to 6%. Those that have an annual taxable income between 144,000 to 300,000 CNY will see their income tax reduced from 20% to 17%. Those that have an annual taxable income between 300,000 to 420,000 CNY will see their income tax lowered from 25% to 23%. Those tax cuts will stimulate the economy by boosting consumption and investment, thus leading to higher rates of GDP growth. This expansion to our economy coupled with some minor spending adjustments - mostly cutting red tape - will pay for those tax cuts."

The Prime Minister also expressed his confidence that Congress would approve of this legislative package. "It is a good, pro working class, pro middle class tax plan that helps the average man and woman. I am confident that will be approved in Congress, and that moderates from Shehuidang will vote for the bill too."

Congress Majority Leader Hsu Ching-te on Taxes, Foreign Policy

Congress Majority Leader Hsu Ching-te (Kuomintang) reacted positively to the President's announcements. On the tax cuts, he stated: "The plan proposed by the President and laid out by the Prime Minister seems to be promising. Of course, we will need to discuss about it in our caucus, but I am confident that most Kuomintang Congressmen shall support the bill. I do know that some have concerns over whether this will impact our state revenues, but I myself firmly believe that the explanations given by the Prime Minister are adequate."

The Congressman also talked about the President's 'China First' agenda. "It was time China demanded the respect it deserves. What the President stated is nothing more than our desire to defend our maritime interests in the South China Sea and safeguard the territorial integrity of our nation. I also have to state that the President's agenda of a 'triangle' with Japan and US is in the right direction. China is the bastion of liberal democracy and capitalism in Asia, and we need to cooperate closely with our fellow democracies."

Congress Minority Leader Han San-cheng on Shehuidang, Tax Cuts

Shehuidang failed both to take back Congress and to keep the presidency in the 3rd January 2024 elections. With those failures fresh, the party has chosen the moderate three-times elected Congressman Han San-cheng as its Congressional leader. The Congress Minority Leader has given his first interview since assuming that office today. In that interview, he expressed his thoughts on the new direction Shehuidang would have to take: "Kuomintang has embraced populism and extreme politics, and so some on our side believe we should do the same and embrace left wing populism. That, in my opinion, is a mistake. My hope is for Shehuidang to become a big tent party that will accommodate the average, moderate voter. We need progressive change and we need to defend our values, but we also need to bring that change through broad popular consensus. Under my leadership, our Congress Caucus shall assume the role of a responsible opposition."

On the President's announced tax cuts, Mr. San-cheng stated: "While I would support tax cuts for the lowest income tax bracket, I wouldn't support the rest of the proposed tax cuts. I think they will derail our budget and starve our public sector from valuable resources that could be spent on our healthcare system, our schools, our public transportation system and our welfare system. For those reasons, I believe most Shehuidang Caucus members shall oppose the bill."

[Bolslania]

Berlin, February 18, 2024. 10 AM

Chancellor Aayden Bamberger sat in his office. His chair was facing away from the door, looking out at the city of Berlin. The city had woken up several hours ago, and people and vehicles were moving about between his office and the Reichstag, the flag could be seen from the top of the German Parliament building. He held a lit cigar in one hand, smoke lazily drifting from its tip. The cigar had almost become a signatory thing of his, it always made an appearance in any political cartoon of him. He heard a knock on the door, turning his chair to face it, he spoke

"Come in." He said, one of his aids stepped in.

"Chancellor, Zhang Lianhong won the Chinese elections." He said, handing Bamberger a report from the German Embassy in China.

"Thank you." Bamberger said, he was a rather quiet man, some even compared him to the former American President Calvin Coolidge. The aid left the room, once again returning it to silence.

"Shit, thats all we need, China starting something with Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia." He mumbled, the new Chinese president's "China First" platform was always a bad sign.

[Arvenia]

Russian People's Federation (Российская Народная Федерация/Rossiyskaya Narodnaya Federatsiya)

Kremlin, Moscow, Russia
As a new year began, President Sasha Yenkov looked at the streets of Moscow as people celebrated. He reflects on the issues that Mother Russia faced throughout his reign. The territorial disputes with China, Japan, Georgia and Ukraine, the pro-democratic protests in Belarus, the economic sanctions by the West and the campaign against Uyghur separatists. Not to mention that a libertarian populist named Zhang Lianhong is now President of China and is going through with his "China First" policy, which means bad news for Sasha and Mother Russia. On the other hand, new territory has been brought under Russian rule, a strategic infrastructure development project was launched to aid Third World countries, foreign companies have become attracted to the Russian market and the Russian military is much stronger than before. However, Sasha expects that the year 2024 will bring about luck and prosperity for Mother Russia and her people. There shall be an end to both Western imperialism and ethnic separatism. He then began sending a message to the Russian people through radio.

"Fellow Russians, we are heading towards a new era and we are expected to do our best to overcome our obstacles. We, the people of Russia, must show what we can do to help our motherland throughout this year. Remember that throughout this year, there are new challenges, as well as some that emerged many years ago."

"We, the children of Mother Russia, must show strength and intelligence in order to survive this year and beyond. The challenges we face this year includes reclaiming all of Russia, fighting against Western imperialism, strengthening our armed forces and expanding the IGV. Our motherland borders some unfriendly nations and they are all bent on imposing their supremacy upon us all. We won't let that happen. We will remain strong, intelligent, proud and merciless!"

"Our motherland will remain strong and undivided as long as we keep our enemies at bay and reclaim lands that are rightfully ours. By investing in Third World countries and gaining more trust from our current allies, we will prevail. That's how we will prevail as an Eastern civilization."

"But we must remember that our enemies also exist inside our motherland. These take the form of political dissidents and ethnic separatists. They are all enemies of our motherland, just like those dwelling in other countries. For Mother Russia, we will remain strong and accomplish our objectives throughout this new year."

"You should also remember that it is soon 100 years since Vladimir Lenin passed away. Therefore, we shall all remember and honor him for his dedication to Mother Russia."

The Russian people understood the message very clear and they will prepare themselves for the new year that is 2024.

[Kelmet]

White house press room
Daily press briefing
"Questions, yes you?"

"High Janine from CNN, this morning news from the afghan government confirmed a coordinated strike by Afghan security forces with the assistance of US airstrikes and special forces along with forces from several different American PMC's captured a Taliban strong hold in south west Afghanistan with 75 confirmed Taliban casualties, after two decades of war what has this administration done to secure peace and hopefully bring a end to Americas longest conflict?"

"Excellent question Janine this administration has since coming into office only a few weeks ago has continued to work closely with not just the people of Afghanistan, but all of our allies in the region, with the passing of the E.A.D.A or Expanded Allied Defense Act will increase the co-operation of our Defense industries and military contractors with our allies in the region, but in particular Afghanistan making sure that their security forces has the support, training and equipment necessary to once and for all stand on their own and drive radical forces out of their homes while decreasing risks to American forces and the region as a whole. Next?"

"Good morning Alex from Fox news, The President is expect later today to offer remarks at the new president John McCain memorial library in Arizona, any idea what we can expect the president to say?"

"Yes I do Alex, The president and former president McCain had a long partnership and even longer friendship that the president is very proud of. Indeed we should all be proud of the former president for all the work he did to shepherd our nation threw the great recession of 2008. President Monroe will be simply saying good by to a close friend and mentor. Next?"

"Jason, MSNBC, Any Idea when and to were the President will make his first foreign trip?

" That is still up in the air at this point, the President has a lot of work to to here in D.C and isn't in a hurry to travel. Next?"

" Eric ABC, Fallowing the Chinese election a national-populist candidate much like the president has been elected, comment?"

"Yes well the president as you said is a national-populist and the new Chinese president is one as well, so there's already a good ideological common ground to build upon hopefully for a more peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific Region "

"What about the situation in Cuba? do you have a comment?"

"Yes, this administration and American as a whole will always be on the side of liberty loving people, the situation in Cuba is another example of the failure of totalitarian systems, we urge the Cuban government to listen to its people and have free elections, until then the president is engaging the harshest possible sanctions on communist party officials in Cuba and we are watching the protests very closely. In the event the government there decides to heed its peoples wishes the US as a good friend and neighbor stands by to assist the Cuban people in the quest for freedom. That's all for today thank you."

International Messages

Code: Select all

To: The United States of Mexico
From the US State Department

We wish to follow up recent success and co-operation by inviting you president to the White house for an official state dinner.

Code: Select all

To: The North Atlantic Treaty Organization
From: US State Department

Following policy from previous administration we wish to inform the North Atlantic council that the United states wishes to amend the NATO charter to allow membership to be offered to nations outside of Europe.

Code: Select all

To: Canada
From: US State Department

To further the success of the Newley opened Alberta-Louisiana pipeline we wish to deepen the military and economic co-operation between our brother nations.

[Deblar]

January 22, 2024; 11:33; Havana, Cuba



"Those bastards did what?!"

Those were the words of an National Assembly of People's Power Member Joaquin Felipe-Rodriguez when the news of new American sanctions reached the NAPP chamber. Joaquin continued.

"This is outrageous! They are punishing us for something we did not start!"

Chatter began to engulf the chamber, and President Miguel Diaz-Canel attempted to call for order.

Meanwhile, outside in the capitol pavilion and throughout the streets of downtown Havana, protesters marched, waving Cuban flags and holding fists. The protesters in the capitol pavilion began to chant "DOWN WITH THE COMMUNISTS!".

Meanwhile, inside the NAPP chamber, the chatter had finally stopped, and Miguel Diaz-Canel spoke.

"Does anyone propose action?"

Julio spoke up, saying: "I do."

MDC: "Anyone oppose?"
No one spoke.
MDC: "Alright, the motion passes. Felipe-Rodriguez, what is your proposed action?"
JFR: "The Americans have pushed us around for far too long over a silly ideological difference. I say 'no more'. I suggest we cut off ties with the United States until their abusive and outrageous sanctions are immediately lifted."
MDC: "Alright, the National Assembly shall vote on this."
A majority of members voted in favor of the resolution in a very aggressive move by Cuban legislature.
MDC: "Alright, the resolution passes. The Republic of Cuba shall call on America to immediately lift their new sanctions and cut off ties until they do."

CUBA CUTS OFF TIES WITH AMERICA, DEMANDS THE LIFTING OF NEW SANCTIONS
Caribbean Examiner
Nassau, Bahamas
In a suprising move of agression by the Cuban Communist Party, they have decided to cut ties with America until their "abusive and outrageous sanctions" are lifted. We will bring updates as they come

Heather Green
Caribbean Examiner-Cuban Branch

---

OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE CUBAN COMMUNIST PARTY
The United States of America have pushed us around for years based on ideological differences. The latest round of sanctions are aimed directly to punish us for treasonist protests we did not start. We have had enough. We are hereby suspending ties with America until these abusive and outrageous sanctions are lifted. The Americans have no business meddling in our politics. These protests are a domestic issue, and America should stay out of it.

[Arvenia]

Official Statement of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MID)

Regarding Cuba, the US government has decided to place new sanctions on members of the Communist Party of Cuba (PCC), mostly as a response to recent protests in Cuba. Russia hopes this situation gets resolved soon.

Regarding China, the Russian government congratulates Zhang Lianhong on winning the recent presidential election, although Russia is a bit skeptical about his policies, as well as the territorial disputes over Uyghuristan (formerly Xinjiang) and Harbin Oblast (formerly Heilongjiang).

[Bolslania]

Unteroffizier Anton Weingartner led his patrol through the dusty streets of Kajran, Afghanistan. Behind them slowly rolled an ARTEC Boxer, a light armored vehicle that had only recently come out. They were providing a security detail for a team of engineers who were busy working on the town's sewage system. Taliban activity had been reported nearby, and everyone was on edge. He shifted the weight of his combat gear as he looked around, the locals watched them with curiosity, not appearing very nervous. Weingartner felt a tap on his should, it was Gefreiter Schmitt. He pointed to an alley about 50 feet down the road.

"Saw a young man watching us, he ducked back there." Weingartner nodded. He raised his fist, signaling the patrol to halt. The few locals outside quickly got into buildings. They wanted to be in cover just in case shooting broke out. The squad maneuver to the edge of the road, finding cover. The commander of the Boxer, who had been unbuttoned, closed his hatch, the gunner rotating the CROWS mounted M3M 12.7mm machinegun around, looking for targets. Weingartner took a knee behind a food stand, bringing his hand up to his radio.

"Squad 2 to Platoon, Possible Taliban contact, investigating further. Over" He said. He was about to signal two of his privates to go investigate, when a bullet slammed into the food stand.

"12 o' Clock!" Came a call out, Germans and Taliban alike started shooting. The Boxer's turret swiveled around again, acquiring its target. The deep wumpwumpwumpwump of the 12.7mm MG reverberating in Weingartner's chest.

"RPG!" Someone shouted, a rocket shooting towards the Boxer. Fortunately the man behind the RPG wasn't very good, or the weapon was ill-maintained, for the RPG slammed into the ground 10 feet away from the Boxer, whose turret once again traversed to pulverize a new opponent. Weingartner spoke into his radio again

"Contact confirmed, I repeat, Squad 1 has confirmed Taliban contact! Over." He popped up, aiming down his sights. He picked up a Taliban fighter with an SKS firing out of a window. Weingarten fired three rounds, at least one hit the insurgent, the man falling back with a spray of blood. Weingarten knelt down again. A quick glance didn't suggest any casualties on the German's part.

15 minutes later, the shooting tapered off and then died down. The Taliban scurrying off before the German's put any serious firepower on them. Weingarten stood up.

"Everyone alright?" He got a series of replies. Sounded like everyone was ok.

"Squad 1 to Platoon, we need a Bomb Technician, suspected IED. Over" He said.

"Copy that Squad 1. Sending a Bomb Tech your way. Over."

---

"America levelled sanctions against Cuban political figures. Who naturally aren't happy with said sanctions." Klemens Rinder saId. He was a senior member of the Federal Foreign Office. He had been assigned to oversee the situation in America.

"Lovely. This President Monroe is looking to be an absolute charmer. President Steinmeier said sarcastically. Bamberger nodded.

"Indeed he is." The three were meeting in Steinmeier's office. The American and Chinese president both appeared to be nationalistic, which could spell trouble for the world status quo. Germany would have to affirm itself against pressure from America and China, who might want to force policies onto Europe.

"Contact America and Cuba. See if they're open to discussion." Steinmeier said. Rinder nodded.

"Ok, I'll send the message." He said, standing. As he departed, Bamberger sighed. 2024 was going to be a hell of a year.

Code: Select all

To: The Government of the United States of America
From: Federal Foreign Office

Message: In light of the recent sanctions imposed upon Cuban politicians, the Federal Republic of Germany seeks to mend whatever conflict is present. Please reply stating openness to a discussion with Cuba.

Code: Select all

To: The People's Government of Cuba
From: Federal Foreign Office

Message: In light of the recent sanctions imposed upon Cuban leadership, the Federal Republic of Germany seeks to mend whatever conflict is present. Please reply stating openness to a discussion with the United States of America.

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

Prime Minister's Residence
Tokyo, Japan
January 25, 2024

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe sat in the conference room next to his deputy, Tarō Asō, along with Commandant Satoshi Nakajima of the Japan Coast Guard, Minister of Defense; Nobuo Kishi, the Chief of Joint Staff General Kōji Yamazaki, and Chief of the Navy Admiral Hiroshi Yamamura. On the table was a simple map, and on it was plans for Japan's latest FONOP. The plan was ambitious, and never before seen from Japan.

Nakajima stood to sum up the Coast Guard side of the plan. "As you already know, our flotilla centers around the JS Shikishima, JS Akitsushima, JS Asazuki, and the JS Mizuho. Escorting will be the JS Hida, JS Kunisaki, JS Irabu, JS Oki, JS Ojika, JS Satsuma, JS Dewa, and JS Kaimon. Totaling 12 ships, the group will soon be entering the waters around disputed Takeshima Island. We expect a Korean response so I have ordered helicopters be armed and the crews on the ships to be at ready."

Yamamura rose and pointed at the map. "To the north we have the JNS Akagi strike group at ready to provide air support if need be. As the Commandant said, as we have never launched such a sizable mission there before, we may see a hostile response. They have fired at Japanese before for less. According to international law they shouldn't, but they might."

Abe rubbed his forehead. "How long until they arrive?"

"Two hours sir." Came the reply from Nakajima.

Abe nodded. "Good. It is about time we asserted ourselves for once. How is the Senkaku plan?"

Nakajima opened a folder and displayed several images. "Sir we have sent a team of designers to the islands to plan where we want to build our lighthouse and barracks. We have also been in talks with the Japan Petroleum Exploration Company about escorting a survey expedition."

Aso looked towards Abe. "It is an election year sir. If we were able to drill the Senkakus that would be a major achievement. And towards the Kurils, imagine the support you will get if you are able to negotiate for their return. We just need to put a little pressure on the Soviet regime."

Abe nodded towards Aso. "Can I expect you to organize plans for that effort?"

Aso gave a grin. "I would be honored."

"So it is settled then." said Abe. "Let me know if the Koreans cause any trouble."

Sea of Japan
50 miles off the Takeshima Islands

Captain Ogawa trained his binoculars towards the sea as crewmen bustled across the decks of the Shikishima, preparing the ship for a confrontation. With luck, his ship and the rest of his fleet would be fine and he would not have to call upon the Navy for support.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Tokyo, Japan
January 25, 2024

Statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Japan

In solidarity with its most important ally, the United States, the State of Japan will press full sanctions on Cuba leadership effective January 27th, 2024.

The Japanese Government congratulates Zhang Lianhong on his election win in China, and hopes for increased cooperation with the new administration. However, the State of Japan urges the new administration to respect Japanese sovereignty over its territories.

[Sao Nova Europa]

Congress Approves Cuba Sanctions

With a majority of 691 Congressmen (51 voted against and 98 abstained), the Congress approved sanctions on Cuba's political and military leadership. Congress Majority Leader Hsu Ching-te (Kuomintang) stated, "this is a happy day. With a broad, bipartisan majority, China sanctions the criminal communist leadership of Cuba. As a nation that suffered for decades under the chains of communist tyranny, China will always stand by the side of the oppressed and the freedom-lovers."

This move is viewed by analysts as a further indication of the growing ties between China and the US, as well as of a shift in Chinese foreign policy, that in the past decade mostly remained neutral on affairs outside of Asia. The sanctions mostly hit the top echelons of the Cuban military and political leadership, and it's unlikely that China will introduce broader sanctions, however even those targeted sanctions represent a willingness of China to enhance its geopolitical clout outside of Asia.

President Zhang Lianhong Signs Deregulatory Executive Order

President Zhang Lianhong sighed his first executive order today, which states that for every new regulation, two regulations must be repealed. This was one of the campaign promises Zhang Lianhong had promised to fulfil within his first weeks in office. Elected on a libertarian populist platform, the President seeks a transformation of the Chinese economy through a combination of tax cuts, deregulation and privatizations.

"This executive order I sign today," the President stated, "aims to liberate businesses from the shackles of red tape and bureaucracy. More regulations means higher costs for businesses and higher prices for consumers. With this executive order, we take the first step in putting an end to this phenomenon. We need only a few, simple regulations. We do not need endless red tape, whose only purpose is to justify the pay of useless bureaucrats. As candidate I promised to be a champion of businesses, now as President I do good on this promise."

Congress Minority Leader Han San-cheng Attacks President

Congress Minority Leader Han San-cheng (Shehuidang) attacked the President's executive order, calling it "delusional" and "unrealistic". He stated, "the President today signed an executive order that has no basis in reality. Forcing regulators to repeal two regulations for every new one prevents Congress from introducing regulations that benefit consumers, workers, and the environment. It is a delusional and unrealistic order whose only purpose is to undermine the government in favor of private, corporate interests. Rest assured that Shehuidang shall fight against this executive order at every level, and when a Shehuidang candidate is elected into the office of President, this executive order shall be reversed immediately."

Analysts believe that Mr. San-cheng's strong response on this executive order may also have to do with the criticism he has been receiving from the left wing of Shehuidang over his centrist overtures. Mr. San-cheng, analysts state, has the tough job of balancing between his own moderate instincts and the increasingly influential left wing of his party. Attacking the President on this issue both pleases the left wing and turns the attention way from intra-party fighting and towards the common enemy: Kuomintang.

[Deblar]

"You've got to be kidding me."

Those were the words of President Miguel Diaz-Canel as he sat in his office and had been informed of new foreign sanctions from China and Japan. He knew more were likely on the way as well. He sat back and his chair and let out a long, deep, and frustrated sigh.

"Are you still there, Mr. President?", said the Minister of State on the other end of the phone.

MDC: "Yes, I'm still here."
MoS: "So what should we do?"
MDC: "I don't know yet. I'll think of something soon."
MoS: "Also, we have received a message from the German Foreign Office. They are requesting for us to discuss any issues with America."
MDC: "There will be no such discussion unless it involves sanctions being immediately lifted."
MoS: "Okay... do you want me to send that message back to Germany?"
MDC: "Yes, as soon as possible."
MoS: "Is there anything else Mr. President?"
MDC: "No, not right now"

---

Meanwhile, in an old house in Camaguey, Cuba, Raul Castro, the brother of the late Fidel Castro, was sitting in a chair watching a Cuban baseball game on TV when he began to feel a sharp pain in his chest.
"Nurse!", Raul cried out, trying to get his nurse, who had helped him around the house since his retirement. The nurse came over.
"What's wrong?", she asked
"My...my chest..."
Raul attempted to stand, but then collapsed to the floor
...
About 2 hours later, laying on a hospital bed and surrounded by family members, Raul drew his final breaths...

FORMER CUBAN PRESIDENT RAUL CASTRO DEAD AT 92
Caribbean Examiner
Nassau, Bahamas

Raul Castro, brother of Fidel Castro and former president of Cuba, has passed away at the old age of 92. Cuban authorities say that the cause of death was a heart attack. We will bring updates as they come.

Heather Green
Caribbean Examiner

[Deblar]

"You've got to be kidding me."

Those were the words of President Miguel Diaz-Canel as he sat in his office and had been informed of new foreign sanctions from China and Japan. He knew more were likely on the way as well. He sat back and his chair and let out a long, deep, and frustrated sigh.

"Are you still there, Mr. President?", said the Minister of State on the other end of the phone.

MDC: "Yes, I'm still here."
MoS: "So what should we do?"
MDC: "I don't know yet. I'll think of something soon."
MoS: "Also, we have received a message from the German Foreign Office. They are requesting for us to discuss any issues with America."
MDC: "There will be no such discussion unless it involves sanctions being immediately lifted."
MoS: "Okay... do you want me to send that message back to Germany?"
MDC: "Yes, as soon as possible."
MoS: "Is there anything else Mr. President?"
MDC: "No, not right now"

---

Meanwhile, in an old house in Camaguey, Cuba, Raul Castro, the brother of the late Fidel Castro, was sitting in a chair watching a Cuban baseball game on TV when he began to feel a sharp pain in his chest.
"Nurse!", Raul cried out, trying to get his nurse, who had helped him around the house since his retirement. The nurse came over.
"What's wrong?", she asked
"My...my chest..."
Raul attempted to stand, but then collapsed to the floor
...
About 2 hours later, laying on a hospital bed and surrounded by family members, Raul drew his final breaths...

FORMER CUBAN PRESIDENT RAUL CASTRO DEAD AT 92
Caribbean Examiner
Nassau, Bahamas

Raul Castro, brother of Fidel Castro and former president of Cuba, has passed away at the old age of 92. Cuban authorities say that the cause of death was a heart attack. We will bring updates as they come.

Heather Green
Caribbean Examiner

Official Statement from the Cuban Communist Party
The Cuban Communist Party is deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Raul Castro. He was a champion of the Cuban cause and will be dearly missed. The Cuban Communist Party requests that our state of mourning be respected among the international community.

[Madrinpoor]

서울 종로구 | Jongno District, Seoul

Moon Jae-In and Ho Do-Yun, his successor, walked down Jongmyo Shrine. Ho often took walks with Moon, to get advice from his mentor when he was conflicted with problems. As he was now, because the Japanese were, once again, pushing claims for the Dokdo islands again.

"Abe claims they are his, he claims they can trample over our territory. He is too ambitious, and I cannot predict what he will do. If he does do something, we will know. I have intelligence monitoring the islands for signs of trouble, if something comes up —" Ho senses a buzzing in his phone. Someone is calling him.

"Yeoboseyo," he answers (with the Korean greeting for answering the phone). "What is going on? What! How! How dare he!"

"What is going on?" Moon asks, concerned.

"Abe, the devil, has sent warships into Dokdo!" Ho explains to Moon, then turns to the phone again. "Respond with our own ships! How many does he have? 12! This is an invasion! Call him and send our own ships. I want battleships...and fishing boats."


----

The Japanese ships see the Korean ones sail into the islands, batteries primed. The men on the boats swarm the deck, preparing for confrontation. The boats spread out along a thin skirmish line, and out from behind them sail about 50 civilian fishing boats. They cast their rods and nets in front of the Japanese ships, with the Korean ones protecting them. Meanwhile, Ho Do-Yun calls Shinzo Abe.

"What on earth do you think you are doing Abe? You sent warships into our territory. Dokdo is ours! Even the US recognizes it as ours. GEt into an armed confrontation and you will lose. Withdraw from our territory and stop playing petty games, Abe."

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

Sea of Japan
15 Miles off the Takeshima Islands
January 25, 2024

Captain Ogawa watched the sight unfold as Korean fishing boats and warships entered the vicinity. He gave the order to "Launch aircraft!"

As 6 armed helicopters rose into the sky above the fleet, Ogawa chuckled with his officers. While a serious situation, it was humorous the Koreans would deploy nets to try and stop them. He gave the order, and dozens of men across the fleet went into battle positions, mounting their 50 caliber machine guns and Howa Type 89 rifles. Snipers took positions as well as targeting radar was activated and main guns readied.

Ogawa radioed to the Korean commander in clear English, "This is the Captain of the JS Shikishima of the Japan Coast Guard. We are in the Japanese EEZ and are conducting a survey mission. Acting under relevant the international laws of freedom of navigation, you have no authority to stop our passage. Over."

Ogawa turned to one of his senior officers, "Radio the Akagi Strike Group, the Koreans have deployed navy vessels to counter our civilian force. We do not need air support now, but request a detachment of destroyers."

Minutes later the officer replied, "Our message has been received, the JDS Shimakaze, JDS Asahi, and JDS Kumano are enroute."

Ogawa nodded. "Good. We will wait for reinforcement before making any aggressive moves. Begin moving forwards slowly, stay at ready. Remember our intentions are for a FONOP not a battle."

Prime Minister's Office
Tokyo, Japan
January 25, 2024

Abe was taken aback when informed of the message from the call from the South Korean government. "How improper." was all he remarked at first.

He now had called for a meeting in the Situation Room, but quickly told an aide to reply.

The official reply message to the Korean government below:

Message from the Office of the Prime Minister of Japan
To: Republic of Korea
Encryption: Diplomatic


Japanese Civilian Coast Guard are conducting a survey within the Japanese EEZ. They have not yet entered the waters of Takeshima Island, which indisputably is Japanese territory under illegal Korean occupation. While I cannot speak for the position of the US Government today, historically it has recognized Takeshima Island as sovereign Japanese territory, and recently maintain neutrality on the topic.

The Japanese position does not seek armed conflict, but Japan is ready to respond with full force if provoked. Due to the 2018 effective nullification of the Treaty on Basic Relations between Japan and the Republic of Korea by the Korean courts, Japan no longer is bound to obey the treaty. As stated before, the Japan Coast Guard is in international waters currently. Stand down or face serious retaliation.

[Madrinpoor]

독도에서 24km | 24 Kilometers from the Dokdo Islands

The boats ready their batteries, and load SAMs to strike down the helicopters. If the Japanese open fire they will be the ones to get hurt. The Korean CIVILIAN vessels are there in the water, and if the Japanese opened fire then the civilians would die and the Japanese would commit war crimes. Did not seem like they cared however, as they were preparing to deploy troops to a Korean territory. Since 2006, Korean gunboats have been deployed to the islands to arrest Japanese survey boats, fishing boats, and any other non-permitted Japanese vessels, and Roh Moo-Hyun, the 16th President of Korea, visited the islands in 2006. The United States recognizes Korea's claim to Dokdo. (All IRL) However, Korea would have let Japan drill in the islands, but not after this unwarranted act of aggression. They prepared a lawsuit for the ICJ, and called on their allies to help them.

---

Ho Do-Yun called US President Joe Biden to ask him for help in this matter.

"Mr. President, we are, together, facing a grave threat to stability in East Asia. Japan is trying to upset the balance in the region — laying claims to the Dokdo islands of all things! Your government has always recognized Korea's sovereignty over them. You have also recognized the need for stability in the area, neither of which we can achieve with Japan acting as a rogue state, pettily declaring claims to territories they do not own, and they must be stopped. We do not want an act of war. Mr. President, you and your nation have always taken an interventionist approach to East Asia, and we know you are committed to helping us reassert our claims over our rightful territory. As one of Japan's largest trading partners, economic sanctions would be able to defuse this situation. If it could not, and military conflict must be taken, the United States, wth the world's most powerful military, should be able to convince Japan to stop this nonsense."

Ho Do-Yun also called Zhang Lianhong of the Republic of China to ask him for help on the matter.

"Mr. Lianhong, stability in East Asia, which both you and I care about very much, is greatly threatened by the Japanese and their rogue-like acts of aggression in the Dokdo Islands. They lay claim to our territory and are willing to use even military force to achieve it. If they come for Dokdo, and you do not protect them against the Japanese with us, what is to say they do not come for Senkaku next? The Japanese are a rising threat in East Asia and we must put them in their place, together."

[Sao Nova Europa]

Statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China

The Chinese government calls on the Republic of Korea and on the State of Japan to cease military activity, open channels of communication and lower the tensions in the region. East Asia cannot become a battleground once more. The Republic of China urges both parties to find a diplomatic solution. The Chinese government will monitor the situation closely and hopes that reason will prevail.

[Madrinpoor]

(Image)
Statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China

The Chinese government calls on the Republic of Korea and on the State of Japan to cease military activity, open channels of communication and lower the tensions in the region. East Asia cannot become a battleground once more. The Republic of China urges both parties to find a diplomatic solution. The Chinese government will monitor the situation closely and hopes that reason will prevail.

The government of the Republic of Korea says that unless Japan ceases its aggressive claims on the Dokdo Islands, there can be now ease of tensions. They blame Japan for flaring up the region and demand an apology.

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

Sea of Japan
14 Miles off Takeshima Island
January 25, 2024
1:00 PM

Captain Ogawa sat at the bridge as he watched the Koreans load their SAMs. He wasn't in the navy, but he couldn't help but smile in the bleak situation and think 'What fools, the Koreans didn't have them already loaded?'

Ogawa turned to Lieutenant Fuji, "How far out is the Navy?"

"50 miles sir." was the reply.

Ogawa nodded. "Inform them that the Koreans are loading their SAMs."

Ogawa looked out again. "Enough of this nonsense, if the Koreans haven't done anything yet they won't do anything at all. Order the JS Dewa to cross the 14 mile line into Takeshima waters. We shall cover them. We are a civilian force in Japanese waters, if the Koreans fire on us, it will be them who acted aggressively."

Across the water, the Dewa broke from the fleet, guns at ready, moving to cross the line.

Sea of Japan
50 miles from Takeshima Island
January 25, 2024
1:05 PM

"Captain Isai! We have received word from the Coast Guard. The Korean Navy is loading SAM tubes to counter their helicopters." reported Ensign Yoshimoto.

Isai nodded. "Activate targeting radar for our anti-ship missiles and lock onto the Korean ships. We might not make it there in time should a battle break out, but we can respond quickly. Send word to the fleet and Air Force, to ready our air support should we need it."

[Madrinpoor]

독도에서 24km | 24 Kilometers from the Dokdo Islands

"We do not want conflict! Your survey ships may come to Dokdo, but remove your military vessels." Says Captain Young of the ROKS Mulchongsae, the largest capital ship deployed here. "Stop this act of aggression!"

[TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON]

Sea of Japan
14 Miles off Takeshima Island
January 25, 2024
1:20 PM

Ogawa smiled when he heard the Korean reply over the radio. "I told you those cowards would not dare stand up against us. We now stand in a great position to affirm our sovereignty over Takeshima Island. They will not fire on us. All ships are authorized to cross the 14 mile limit into Takeshima waters."

He walked over to the radio to message the Korean captain saying, "This is the Captain of the JS Shikishima of the Japan Coast Guard. We are a civilian law enforcement agency so there are no military vessels present. Please remove your ships and do not hinder our survey or transit through Japanese Takeshima territorial waters. Over."

"Keep the helicopters in the air, this isn't over yet!" He called to his lieutenant. "Keep the guns trained but prepare our reconnaissance equipment to photograph defenses on the islands."

[Kelmet]

"Another busy day in Washington here today as President Monroe rides new high pole numbers into an announcement on his first trip oversees."

White House Press Room

"Good Morning." The President called the room to attention "Today I figured I would come out here and speak to you guys directly if that's alright. After many weeks of deliberation within my cabinet and staff on were my first overseas trip should be we are happy to say we have come to an agreement. The first foreign trip of this administration will be to Germany, we together we hope to deepen and reinforce the pan-Atlantic ties of the west and continue to build a strong, dependable and effective global order. I have time for a few questions."

" Mr. President, a trip to Europe seems the safe bet. What other countries were in the running for your trip?"

" Other nations in the running were China, Canada and Turkey, but in the end we decided our priorities as an administration needed to start in Europe."

"Mr. President, any comment on the recent tensions between Korea and Japan?"

" Korea and Japan are both close allies, and I will do everything in my power to restore the status quo, ease tensions and help build mutual prosperity in the region. I am speaking directly to our Korean and Japanese ally's now. We need to, as free people of the world work together to build a more peaceful and co-operative, the US stands by to engage both parties in peaceful dialogue and mediate the current unfortunate situation."

"Mr. President, the Alberta-Louisiana pipeline just opened. This make almost a dozen continental projects between the US and Canada, any hint to further co-operation between the US and Canada?"

"The US and our brother nation to the north share centuries of history and kindred blood, my mother still retains her Canadian citizenship and I would say no two nations on earth share as much in common that the nations of North America. Both of our nations stand to only gain from further integration with one another and with my planned meeting with the Canadian prime-minister on my return from Europe we will be discussing any grounds for future projects."

"Mr. President any comment on China's call for peaceful dialogue between Korea and Japan?"

"I applaud them, China shares a border with the communists, they suffered under a communist regime. They know first hand the threat against every free man and women on earth and share my opinion that frankly we have bigger problems than territorial disputes to drive us apart.

"Mr. President, Antonio from Televisa, Any comment on the new Secure Border Act that passed congress earlier this week and was signed into law by your own hand?

" Thank you for being here today Antonio, I want to start by saying that a secure US-Mexico border helps both of our nations. The additional resources, fencing and border agents along with electronic verification and more internal security measures will handicap the international criminal cartels that threaten the security of our hemisphere, as well further reduce illegal immigration which destabilizes every country north of the panama canal."

"One more question before you leave sir, A close friend of yours in congress, Republican representative Chris Manskie is bringing the Rust belt renewal bill to the floor today, saying that the time for the US to "re-industrialize" has long past. Comment?"

"I agree with Representative Manskie, there was a time when our nation produced everything we needed, were a high school graduate could work the same factory job his whole career, raise and support a family, like my grandfather did in Flint Michigan. It is my view, and the view of my party, that those times should come again and this bill is a great step in that direction."

[Arvenia]

Kremlin, Moscow, Russia
President Sasha Yenkov sat in his office and felt threatened as Japan began landing itself in territorial disputes with Korea and China. He felt that Japan would soon come after both Sakhalin Island and the Kurils. While watching the news, he knew that Japan is trying to assert claim on disputed territories. He fear that Japan might soon come for Mother Russia. It is noted that Russia and Japan hasn't signed a peace treaty after WW2, as well as the fact that Japan is strengthening itself, both economically and militarily. He orders a message to be sent to Japan immediately.

To: State of Japan
From: Russian People's Federation
Subject: Territorial Dispute
Encryption: High
Dear Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, I heard that you are trying to assert sovereignty over disputed territories. I am afraid that these disputed territories could include Sakhalin Island and the Kurils, both of which belongs to Mother Russia. I am therefore not supportive of your country's renewed attempt at imperialism. We don't want another Pacific War to occur, so I advice you to back off or face unspeakable consequences. Remember that the Japanese Empire will never rise again. It's about time to put an end to imperialism once and for all.

Искренне, President Sasha Yenkov

[Bolslania]

Good Morning Germany! This is Johannes Kerner, and you're watching ZDF. The office of Chancellor Aayden Bamberger organized a Press Meeting today, which is coming up in 2 hours. Really quickly here, for those of you driving in Berlin, the 96 is clogged up with traffic. Speed on the road is about 16 kmh....

Bamberger walked up the steps to the podium, waving to the crowd assembled before him. It was about 10 in the morning. At the podium Bamberger was greeted by flashing lights and applause. He waved again, a pleasant smile on his face as the audience died down. He had prepared a quick statement before the questions began.

"Good morning Berlin! Recently I have been in communication with the President Monroe of the United States, and he and I have come to the conclusion that his first overseas trip will be to Germany! Together it is hoped that the already close ties with the United States can deepen, and a bright future can be forged for Germany, the US, and the world." A moment of mild applause there, Bamberger waited for it to die down.

"Now, who has questions for me?" He said with a pleasant smile, casting his eyes about for raised hands, of which there was a multitude.

"Fiete Degen, Das Erste. What are your thoughts on US sanctions on Cuban political leaders?" Bamberger paused before answering.

"I believe that the sanctions on Cuban political figures will be coming up in my meeting with President Monroe." Bamberger said, noncommittal, and almost impossible for a news network to spin into an opinion, but it told the people that it was on the mind of their Chancellor.

"Yosefin Schultze, ZDF. What are your opinions on the new Chinese President." Bamberger already had his statement prepared for this question. It was an inevitable one.

"I believe that Mr. Zhang is a thoughtful man who has China's best interest at his heart." Bamberger said. Truthfully he believed that the Chinese president was going to be a problem. He seemed like something of a populist.

"Henny Poland, RTL. Will Germany involve itself in the tensions in Asia?" Bamberger paused before speaking, dramatic effect was key.

"At the moment, I believe it would cause more harm than help to involve ourselves in a volatile regional dispute, should the situation become very dire I will put forward to the Bundestag the idea of involving ourselves to restore peace."

A few more questions were asked and answered, and the press meeting was concluded by 11 am.

[Arvenia]

Russian Gazette
January XX, 2024

Sasha Yenkov Announces Plans for the New Year

MOSCOW - President Sasha Yenkov has announced plans for the year 2024. The announcement was broadcasted by the state-owned Russian Broadcasting Corporation (RVK) from his office in the Kremlin. During the broadcast, Sasha announced plans to support Russian influence on international affairs, make the Russian economy larger than both the US economy and the Chinese economy, strengthen the Russian Armed Forces, expand both the Global Benefit Initiative and the Common Defense Pact, reclaim lost territories, improve living conditions in Uyghuristan, oppose terrorism and bring an end to protests in Belarus.

Russia Condemns Japanese Imperialism

VLADIVOSTOK - Russia has recently condemned Japan for making any attempt to assert sovereignty over the disputed Liancourt Rocks, also known as Takeshima in Japan and Dokdo in Korea. Russia is afraid that Japan may also assert sovereignty over both Sakhalin Island and the Kurils, both of which are Russian since 1945. If the situation worsens, then the Russian Navy may send out the Pacific Fleet to the Sea of Japan. Admiral Sergei Avakyants, the commander of the Pacific Fleet, has described Japan's decision to assert sovereignty over the Liancourt Rocks as a "disgusting act of imperialism" and even said that Japan should have its military obliterated.

Belarus Considers Martial Law

BELARUS - Belarus, a "sovereign people's republic" within the Russian People's Federation, is still suffering from anti-government protests. Protesters are calling for fair and safe elections in Belarus, as well as Belarusian independence and Lukashenko's resignation. The protests have reached a point where the Russian government, with full support from Alexander Lukashenko and his supporters, is considering the possibility of martial law in Belarus. As the protests raged on, both the Belarusian law enforcement and the MGB have been cracking down hard on the protests, which results in many protesters being injured or even killed. Despite this, the Russian government, in cooperation with the Belarusian one, is keeping the situation in control and that it is not acting in an atrocious manner, something that Western governments allege. Remember, Western allegations are nothing but blatant propaganda.

[Deblar]

January 26, 2024; 11:54 am; Havana, Cuba

Today was the funeral procession of Raul Castro. The decision to hold a state funeral in the middle of a domestic crisis was controversial, but in Cuba, for better or worse(worse if you ask the protesters), whatever the state says goes. As the jeep pulling a platform with a Cuban-flag-covered coffin containing Castro's remains like in Fidel Castro's funeral procession, a man wearing a vest walked out into the street. 4 Security guards riding the jeep stepped out and approached the man.

"Hey, get out of the way!", one guard yelled at the vest-wearing man.

"Why the f*** should I?! My family suffered for years under him and his brother's oppressive rule!", the vested man passionately replied.

"You need to get out of the way.", another security guard said, begging to get close. As he got close, the vested man shoved him, and the other security guards approached, except for the youngest, who was only 23. He began to freak out and pull out his pistol. The vested man wrangled his way out of the grip of the others and lunged at the young security guard. He freaked out and pulled the trigger.

As soon as the bullet hit the vest, it exploded, killing the man and all the nearby security guards. The person driving the jeep was hit by a piece of flying debris, and was also killed. The jeep flew back and the platform carrying Castor's casket was dislodged, and the casket itself flew and crashed into the street. 3 other nearby spectators who decided to pay their respects to Raul Castro were killed as well. 7 others were injured, and other nearby spectators fled the scene in a panic. Then, in a nearby building, gas was ignited and a second explosion occurred, killing 4 more people and injuring 3. The entire building caught on fire.

Meanwhile, on another street, protesters had assembled for the 40th straight day, when they heard an explosion, then another. The protesters look around for the source of the explosion, and the police officers began to look around as well. Just then, a frenzied crowd that was fleeing the explosion scene began rushing the street, running over protesters and police officers alike. It was pure chaos.

TERRORIST ATTACK IN CUBA AT CASTRO'S FUNERAL KILLS 13, INJURES MORE
Caribbean Examiner
Nassau, Bahamas


In a stunning attack, a terrorist has caused an explosion in Havana during Raul Castro's funeral procession. Authorities say that the suspect was killed in the initial explosion. A second related explosion reportedly went off in a nearby building and lit it on fire. In addition to deaths, more were injured and are being treated. We will bring more updates as they come.

Heather Green
Caribbean Examiner-Cuban Branch