CCA Modern News Thread [Canon|IC]

[Albarine]

SAINT RANEAU TIMES
MELHAVEN: "TEREHAN IS SEEKING TO BUILD A NUCLEAR BOMB"
Recent arrests of foreign nationals by the Terehanian authorities has caught WEDA's attention as the regime accuses them of espionage on their mysterious nuclear program.

Chancellor Sadie Melhaven speaks regarding the recent arrests of Zamastanian and Caspiaan contractors in Terehan.

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SAINT RANEAU - Chancellor Sadie Melhaven stated in forceful tone on Friday morning that the Albarinean government suspects that Terehan is "seeking to build a nuclear bomb" as the news of the al-Shaad regime's arrest of 9 foreign contractors charged with espionage of their nuclear program puts WEDA on alert. 8 Zamastanian and 1 Caspiaan energy contractors, working with the state-run Jilvia Oil and Gas Company in Olharat, were detained by Terehanian authorities on Thursday, jailed and charged with "seditious espionage" by the Terehanian regime, who claim they were "try[ing] to discredit [their] completely safe and solely commercial nuclear program."

"Let me be absolutely clear when I say the cause of arrest for these foreign nationals is unfounded and absurd," said Chancellor Melhaven in an address earlier this morning. "These are oil workers who joined the company in Terehan as a show of support to help boost what is otherwise a fledgling economy. The notion that they are spies against the regime is absurd. The Albarinean government stands firmly with our WEDA allies, and we demand the release of these captives.

"We also unequivocally affirm our stance that the nuclear program that Terehan is pursuing is not commercial," she continued, "as there has been no evidence to point to energy production at the site in the nearly four years it has existed. Only continued unexplained events and malicious rhetoric from the regime of President Asaad al-Shaad reinforces our claim. If the Terehan government does not release these and all other detainees, does not allow international nuclear safety commissioners to monitor the site, and continues down the path of inflammatory rhetoric, then our claims are substantiated with clear logic."

The Caspiaan government has issued strict sanctions against Terehan, targeting their oil and natural gas production as well as food and electronic imports to the country. While Albarine's government has not yet done so, the National Assembly is reportedly drafting a series of sanctions which will be levied against those same sectors, as well as against President Asaad al-Shaad himself.

President Phil Alias spoke regarding the situation, stating "our government is well positioned to take appropriate economic measures to ensure that we respond to this unlawful detaining. Al-Shaad does not typically follow the gamebook that the rest of the world abides by when it comes to, well, sanity. So an appropriate response is needed."

The Albarinean government, along with most WEDA member states, believes that the Terehanian nuclear program is positioned to construct a nuclear bomb, despite what al-Shaad and his top officials claim. Much of this suspicion comes from al-Shaad's reluctance to allow CCA nuclear inspectors to visit the site of the nuclear facility near Astaat, in the south-central region of the country. It also emanates from a 2019 incident in which the ZIS monitored a shipment of uranium which originated in Elastan, departed from a Barangadesh port in Daccas, and arrived in the Terehanian port of Catahle without an active transponder.

Elastan, a nation with whom WEDA shares very little good will, supplied the Zalluabedi government with weapons grade uranium during their 2011 nuclear program, which they openly admitted was in pursuit of nuclear weapons technology. Eventually, Zalluabed and the CCA were able to come to an agreement in 2013 which limited the amount and level to which Zalluabed could enrich uranium and allowed for foreign inspectors to monitor their facilities, which allowed Zalluabed to expand their commercial use of nuclear power without scrutiny. There are concerns now that the Elastani government is assisting Terehan in manufacturing a nuclear weapon in a similar fashion.

"We've seen this tactic before, and we addressed it with the international community," said Minister of Foreign Affairs Philomon Clark. "The way we did it then was by giving incentives to the Zalluabedi government to follow through, which they did. The issue now is that we're engaging with a regime that has time and time again shown that they don't care about incentives. They will detain foreign nationals for the simple reason that their governments don't approve of their conduct in this regard. They're throwing around accusations of espionage, and in some situations foreign nationals have been sentenced to lengthy prison times. That's a dangerous situation to be in."

The Zamastanian government has not yet responded publicly.

[Terehan]

JATARAN WATCH | ساعة جاتاران
AL-SHAAD REELECTED, SENTENCES FOREIGN SPIES TO DEATH

CASAAT - President Asaad al-Shaad was reelected to a second term on Saturday and used his victory speech to call out the Albarinean, Caspiaan, and Zamastanian governments for espionage campaigns, and also sentenced the 9 foreign nationals detained as spies to death. Reelected with more than 89.6% of the popular vote against opponent Jassa al-Kaast, al-Shaad is solidifying his control of Terehanian politics and government. Critics are saying that the election was rigged due to the immense sweep in popular vote, but nevertheless al-Shaad will be continuing into a second four-year term.

"This is a historic day for our nation," al-Shaad said. Later in his victory speech he called the pursuant criticism of international governments "a danger to our country and evidence of a coordinated effort to undermine the Terehanian people."

"The governments of Zamastan, Albarine, Caspiaa, and all of WEDA have encroached on our legitimacy by these acts of illegal espionage and foundationless claims of following pursuit of a nuclear bomb," he said. "Terehan will defend our legitimacy."

It was at that point that al-Shaad declared the 9 foreign nationals detained earlier in the week for espionage charges against the Terehan nuclear energy program would be sentenced to death, with the punishment to be carried out in a number of weeks. Three top executives at Jilvia Oil and Gas Company, the organization that the foreign nationals were contracted for in Olharat, have also been sentenced to death for their roles in accepting their work despite what the government calls "clear signs pointing to suspicious activity to undermine the Terehanian people."

"This is what happens to those who seek to destroy our country," al-Shaad said. "These devilish infiltrators will be put to death by the state. Terehan does not tolerate deceit and deception."

On Thursday, 8 Zamastanian nationals and a Caspiaan citizen were detained and charged with espionage. According to Terehanian authorities, the men were "conducting espionage within Terehan to try and discredit our completely safe and solely commercial nuclear program, under the guise of energy workers. This is another incident in a string of incidents in which the Zamastanian and allegiant governments have illegally exercised their misguided efforts of manipulation to paint a grotesque picture of our legitimate operations."

The Caspiaan and Albarinean governments responded with sweeping sanctions, but the Zamastanian government has yet to respond publicly.

[Quetana]

O-15 BOMBER CAPTURED IN TASIASTAN, WILL BE EXTRADITED TO QUETANA

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Abe Manadabe (@AbeManadabe)
11 June, 2022|JALJUR

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Adibul Zakar al-Jatawi was detained by Tasiastani officials and extradited to Quetana nearly 13 years after the bombings he planned.

President Emília Medeiros thanked Tasiastani authorities following a raid which resulted in the capture of Adibul Zakar al-Jatawi, the al-Fijar commander who is considered by the Quetanan Intelligence Agency (QIA) as the mastermind of the O-15 attacks, otherwise known as the 2005 Ledua train bombings. Al-Jatawi had been wanted by the QIA and several other international governments for the attack and other plots, but his location had been unknown for nearly 13 years. Tasiastani authorities, working with Quetanan specialists, located al-Jatawi in a slum on the outskirts of Jaljur, where a brief gunfight ensued and the terrorist was ultimately captured.

"Capturing al-Jatawi is a major step in the continued fight against terrorism abroad," Medeiros said. "His downfall and criminal trial will finally bring a relative sense of justice to the families of the O-15 victims."

President Haajid Swati of Tasiastan approved al-Jatawi's immediate extradition to Quetana, where he is expected to be put on trial for his role in the O-15 attacks. The 2005 Ledua train bombings (also known in Quetana and neighboring countries as O-15), was a series of coordinated bombings against the Ledua commuter train system in Ledua, Quetana, on the morning of 15 October, 2005, which constituted the deadliest terrorist attack in Quetana's history. The bombings were perpetrated by Al-Fijar affiliated terrorists, and the attack claimed 391 lives and wounded more than 1,800 people. The attack occurred during the height of rush hour, contributing to the massive casualties. President of Quetana Jessica Castro began an investigation into the bombing, which resulted in the arrests of several al-Fijar members and uncovered numerous other terror plots which authorities were able to prevent.

"It's fantastic," said Melanie Reneau in reaction to al-Jatawi's capture, "it's been so long but to have him back on Quetanan soil so he can face justice for his evil actions... it's fantastic." Reneau, who was injured in the O-15 attacks and lost her husband and daughter, has long been a vocal civilian advocate for the survivors of O-15. She has pushed for the government to be more aggressive in counter-terrorism cooperation in other countries, a staunch supporter of foreign intervention.

Al-Jatawi is a Jaginistani national who joined the al-Fijar terrorist network in its early days. He was widely believed to be the third-in-command of the group under Ahmed Babdi, but had since fallen out of favor with the organization's new leadership. According to Quetanan and other intelligence agency's sources, al-Jatawi was the orchestrator of the O-15 bombings, having provided training to the suicide backpack bombers and funding to give them access to Quetanan apartments as they waited to carry out the attack. Prior to the O-15 attacks, al-Fijar's international infamy was not well known.

Al-Fijar was first designated as a terrorist organization in 1999 by the government of Elbresia after a terror attack in Allengin. In 2003, a massive ZIS operation began to capture an al-Fijar operative named Aarif el-Ahsan after he opened fire on the agency's headquarters in Tofino, killing a special agent. El-Ahsan was captured in Jaginistan on August 27th, 2004, sending al-Fijar's leadership under Ahmed Babdi into a reactionary operation to commit attacks against the CCA. A-Fijar was officially designated as a terror group by a majority of CCA countries in 2005 following the group's deadliest attack to date - the 2005 Ledua train bombings - and a motion by President Cassious Castovia of Zamastan was issued, seeing signatures by all Security Council members agreeing. Following its attacks in Ledua and the car bombing attacks in Kuye, and in response to its condemnation by Islamic scholars, Al-Fijar provided a justification for the killing of non-combatants/civilians, providing "ample theological justification for killing civilians in almost any imaginable situation."

Among these justifications are that the CCA is leading the world in "waging a War on Islam" so that attacks on CCA member states are a defense of Islam and any treaties and agreements between Muslim majority states and CCA countries that would be violated by attacks are null and void. According to the tract, several conditions allow for the killing of civilians including "retaliation for the war on Islam" which al-Fijar alleges has targeted "Muslim women, children and elderly"; when it is too difficult to distinguish between non-combatants and combatants when attacking an enemy "stronghold" and/or non-combatants remain in enemy territory, killing them is allowed; those who assist the enemy "in deed, word, mind" are eligible for killing, and this includes the general population in democratic countries because civilians can vote in elections that bring enemies of Islam to power; the necessity of killing in the war to protect Islam and Muslims; if the women, children and other protected groups serve as human shields for the enemy; and if the enemy has broken a treaty, killing of civilians is permitted.

The Zamastan State Department subsequently opened bounties on several of the group's senior commanders. Al-Fijar, although designated as a danger to most nation's security, was mostly reserved to their fight with the Jaginistan government. Jaginistan enlisted the help of CCA nations to push back the group in 2006 after Al-Fijar launched a devastating wave of attacks against the capital of Kibul, and Operation Crying Wind was enstated. The operation involved five nations, including Zamastan, Emmiria, Vulkaria, Cadair, and Quetana. The international attention on al-Fijar grew dramatically as a result of the peacekeeping operation, a string of attacks in 2006 in Qolaysia and Sulifa which were against non-Muslim targets, and the 2007 embassy bombing in Chingola, Mulfulira.

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NATIONAL ASSEMBLY SANCTIONS TEREHAN

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Beau Iskane (@BeauVJournal)
11 June, 2022|VONGANE

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The Quetanan National Assembly issued new sanctions against Terehan's government.

The National Assembly issued sweeping sanctions against the south Adulan nation of Terehan after President Asaad al-Shaad sentenced 9 foreign nationals to death under accusations of espionage. The detainees, 8 Zamastanians and 1 Caspiaan, were working as oil and natural gas contractors for a state company when Terehani authorities arrested them for suspicion of spying on the country's rogue nuclear program. The Quetanan government, along with WEDA allies, believes the Terehan government is pursuing the development of a nuclear bomb, and has in the past condemned Terehan for its authoritarian regime and human rights records.

"The situation in Terehan is immensely concerning," Prime Minister Ian Abril said. "We in the Quetanan government urge the Terehani government to release the detainees, and in response to following through with that goodwill we will lift some of the sanctions levied today."

Some of the sanctions passed by National Assembly target Terehan's vital oil and gas sector, which accounts for nearly 70% of their economy. Additional blocks are levied against food imports, sure to strike a blow against the small agricultural industry present within Terehan. Critics of the sanctions say that they will impact everyday Terehani citizens who have nothing to do with the ongoing crisis.

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© VONGANE JOURNAL 2022

[Qolaysia]

BIN AAYID: "TEREHAN CANNOT BE ALLOWED TO GET AWAY WITH THIS"

President Nizaam bin Aayid met with Congress earlier in the day to lay out a series of sanctions against Terehan.

LEONRAU - President Nizaam bin Aayid is aligning closely with fellow WEDA member states in denouncing the Terehanian government, issuing a statement decrying recently reelected President Asaad al-Shaad as a "warlord in the making" and a "tyrant" as al-Shaad sentenced 9 foreign nations to death over accused espionage against that nation's nuclear program.

"Terehan cannot be allowed to get away with this," bin Aayid said following a meeting with the Qolaysian Congress. "The efforts of al-Shaad and his henchmen to pursue the development of a nuclear weapon under the guise of legitimacy is a threat to the whole of South Adula, and a danger to the rest of the world. Rogue nuclear states pursuing weapons of mass destruction have always face the crippling effects of the world's unity, whether it be the now-fallen regime of Syraranto or the isolated regime of Elastan. Al-Shaad now faces the decision: release these foreign nationals who have been unjustly held hostage and allow international investigators into your nation, or face more crippling sanctions and possibly worse."

9 people - 8 Zamastanian and 1 Caspiaan - working as contractors for a Terehanian oil and gas company were detained by the Terehanian authorities on Thursday under the claim that they were spies for their respective countries. In his reelection speech earlier today, al-Shaad sentenced the men to death and threatened "this is what happens to those who seek to destroy our country."

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© Leonrau Sun 2022

[Vitosium]

The David Timbend Show

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Interview with Parliamentary Candidate, Martin Da Luz!

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David Timbend
Everybody welcome, from the People's Conventional Party ... Martin Da Luz!


David Timbend
How are you feeling? Things must be tense out there.


Martin Da Luz
This is nothing, absolutely nothing. You know, my father was a candidate as well. While he didn't win, he was an inspiration to the nation, especially our amazing PCP.


David Timbend
So, early last year, we thought that we would be talking to Glauco Melo. Tell me, who is Martin Da Luz? Our audience wants to know.


Martin Da Luz
Well, David, I am a proud graduate of Rhoti United. I got myself a master's degree in economics. How many people can say that? We have these law school graduates in the running but I am a bona fide economics graduate. These second rate candidates brag about Graycott ... and whatever other school they went to. Rhoti United provides the best so you know I have something to give. I was even born in the gorgeous and downright amazing metropolis of Nethersole. Nethersole, in case you don't know, has Rhoti United University.


David Timbend
Is there anything else you would like to tell us about yourself?


Martin Da Luz
I am a father of two healthy boys! I mean, admit it, a father who is also a graduate of Rhoti United University ... you can't get any better than that! My wife, Larissa, is an amazing supporter of mine. She does these Owlers and other apps these kids have--you know, I've been learning how to make Owlers on the app.


David Timbend
I believe you are referring to hoots.


Martin Da Luz
I know what I mean, David. Okay, so, Larissa and I have been married for 12 years. My past couple of wives didn't know what they were missing. Caryn and Margaret? Who? They were nothing to me. Larissa Da Luz? The best thing to ever happen to me.


David Timbend
So, let us pause there. So, you are the proud leader of the People's Conventional Party. What qualifies you to be our nation's leader?


Martin Da Luz
You want qualifications, David? Do you really need to ask? I am a genuine graduate of Rhoti United University in the proud town of Nethersole, Rhoti, Vitosium. I graduated with a master's degree in economics. Economics! Do you know what that word means, David?


David Timbend
I do.


Martin Da Luz
What does it mean, David? Tell me.


David Timbend
What does that word mean to you, Mr. Da Luz?


Martin Da Luz
Let me tell you what it means, David. It means I am qualified.


David Timbend
As a candidate, what is the definition of leadership?


Martin Da Luz
To be a leader, you first have to get the best education you can imagine! I'm talking about Rhoti United University with a master's degree in economics, David. After that, you have proven yourself. You have what it takes! When you graduate from Rhoti United, you are a true man of the people. You can do anything!


David Timbend
So, the true definition of leadership is graduation? Wouldn't that make any graduate a leader by default?


Martin Da Luz
That is where you are wrong, David. David Timbend, that is where you are wrong. Very wrong. You are so wrong on that, David. You can not imagine how wrong you are, David. Come on, David, you know how wrong you are. You know, right, David?


David Timbend
Please tell me.


Martin Da Luz
David ... David Timbend ... David Timbend, who was born somewhere in the province of Navocalco ... David. You have forgotten what it really means to be a leader and it isn't just graduating from any school. You know where I graduated from, right? It was Rhoti United University with a master's degree in economics.


David Timbend
Let us move on.


Martin Da Luz
I was right about Navocalco, right?


David Timbend
I was born in Tolagovia, actually. Anyway, let us move on.


Martin Da Luz
Whatever. Close enough.


David Timbend
What are some major concerns and issues facing Vitosium right now?


Martin Da Luz
Here is an easy one. We aren't engaging in any wars! We need to protect our allies, David! We need to storm the countries of our enemies and show them that Vitosium should not be messed with! Also, we have this weird obsession with nature. The environment needs our help? The environment is fine, David! It's fine! We are using the environment so, no matter what, it is technically an environment! I mean ... will we be having protests to keep our parking lots clean? Where will our cars go, David? Cars should stay in parking lots! Will we be planting trees on those parking lots? Parking lots aren't meant for trees, David!


David Timbend
The idea of the environmental movement is to keep our planet clean and to help with our international issue of climate change.


Martin Da Luz
You tell me that I can't chop a few trees down for a cabin? You ... are you telling me that, David? This movement must believe that a cabin will melt all these icebergs. Will my cabin melt every iceberg at once? These ... these whackjobs want to take away our cabins, David. They will destroy them with their bombs and nuclear plant seeds! They will then rebuild these trees using the logs from our poor cabins. After that ... we will all be homeless, David.


David Timbend
Homeless?


Martin Da Luz
Do I need to spell it out for you? Vincent Gatostico and his tree-cuddling regime are afraid of us living in our perfectly normal and natural cabins! If they take away the cabins, they can rebuild the trees and pray to some Tree God they probably believe exist. Do you know what will happen then, David? That Tree God ... will make us all gay like Vincent Gatostico! Is that what you want? We can't appease this Tree God!


David Timbend
What?


Martin Da Luz
This is the gay agenda. The gay agenda is trees.


David Timbend
Well, that's all the time we have. Thank you for joining us.

[Zamastan]

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How The Last Months of Foreign Policy Will Define Moreau And The "Age of Prestige"

While his office prepared statements, this leaked image captured the pressure felt by President Atticus Moreau as another crisis abroad reaches a decisive point.

POLITICAL CORRESPONDANT: Travis Canterbury (@TCanterburyOfficial)
TOFINO - President Atticus Moreau was stern in his address to the nation, saying that Terehan will "pay dearly" if the detainees are harmed. But the tone was reminiscent of many of Moreau's addresses in recent months, as a foreign policy which was once viewed as his administration's best quality has in these last three months faced challenges unprecidented in the last half century by Zamastanian presidents. The ramblings and war crimes of a dictator placed Zamastanian air power into the heart of Western Nortua. A brewing series of events in the Jinchon and Sancheon Seas threatened to throw the world into a nuclear war. And now, with only three months to go in his presidency, Moreau is faced with the possible execution of 8 Zamastanian citizens in a rogue South Adulan nation.

On Thursday, authorities in the South Adulan nation of Terehan detained foreign oil contractors at a facility of their state run company. A Caspiaan and 8 Zamastanian citizens were soon thrust into a whirlwind of speculation, as authorities in Terehan accused them of being spies of the ZIS and that their purpose was to undermine the immensely criticised nuclear program. The government, along with its allies, believes that Terehan's ambition with the nuclear program is to develop a weapon of mass destruction. Terehan denies this, and has on numerous occasions detained foreign nationals under the excuse of combatting espionage.

This time is different, though. Asaad al-Shaad, the president of Terehan, won reelection in a widely disputed margin (89.7% of the popular vote went his way) and a recent amendment to the country's constitution effectively solidifies al-Shaad's rule for life if he so wishes. In his celebration address following reelection, al-Shaad warned against the international backlash and pledged that Terehan would never give up its nuclear program. Then, he declared that the 9 "spies" would be executed. That announcement sent shockwaves through WEDA, as Terehan's continued antagonism sees no end in sight.

"Al-Shaad will pay dearly if harm touches these men," President Moreau said in an address on Saturday, finally commenting on the situation for the first time since the arrests. "Every option is on the table. These are innocent men with no connection to the intelligence capabilities of our government. Their sentence is an afront to human rights everywhere, and if they are not released, there will be severe reprecussions beyond what sanctions can do. If they are harmed, you cannot imagine the lengths to which we will go to seek justice. And if they are executed, al-Shaad will be wiped away."

The President's stern approach was in contrast to the remarks he made last month during the heightened tensions with De Yuan, in which Moreau vowed to defend Gangkou with "everything the Zamastanian people, government, and entities have." While that crisis was eventually mediated with a summit between Moreau and Xi, it came after weeks of violence. In this scenario, Terehan is a rogue government with very few allies. The allies it does have are not friendly to Zamastan or its wider international coalition of allies, and has in the past decade helped Terehan pursue its nuclear ambitions despite international sanctions.

Earlier on Saturday, the State Department released the names, ages, and hometowns of the 9 contractors held in Terehan. They are as follows;

• Tommy Hawkins, 41 (Agenta, Northern Isle)
• Sam Jenkins, 39 (Iestmall, Pahl)
• Leo Hall, 39 (Alanis, Pahl)
• Ben Day, 38 (Alenchon, Alenchon)
• Jacob Duncan, 34 (Fougere, Cayenne)
• Lewis Fowler, 29 (Iestmall, Pahl)
• Lee Gamble, 27 (Iestmall, Pahl)
• Johan Richard, 20 (Jade Harbor, Jade)
• Jakob Daksobottir, 32 (Viitaniemi, Caspiaa)

It is believed that the detainees are being held at a state-run prison in the Terehanian capital of Casaat. Aside from a video released by the Terehanian government in which they were sentenced to death, the detainees have not been seen publicly. Al-Shaad and representatives of the Terehan government have stated that the sentence may be carried out within the next few weeks. Secretary of State Brecken Gray is in Saint Croix and Bens for a meeting with WEDA representatives, but will be headed to nearby Vorrica to meet with Terehan officials in a neutral setting.

It is hard to argue that President Moreau's administration has been succesful in many regards. A stagnant economy, a tirade of scandals, and a historic secession which split the country in two has cemented Moreau's presidency as a quite literal divide. However, the last few months of Moreau's presidency will either propel his legacy into history as a mediator in times of tension, or a failed attempt to coerce the world into Zamastanian influence. Where Zamastan has faced trouble on the world stage in the past, the strength of military and international influence was often waved over it and it dissipated. Exceptions do exist, though. Vulkaria became a symbol of prolonged and bloody bureaucratic mess, while Ossinia became an example of lightning-strike efficiency. The World War was a staunch fight for freedom in the face of tyranny, while the Elkjop War was a fight for conquest. In Moreau's case, it appears time and time again to be an assertion of what may well be the end of Zamastanian prestige.

The prestige is still there, and there is no doubt the Zamastanian military remains the most powerful on the face of the planet. Zamastanian diplomacy, economic value, and sponsorship remains favored around the world. But in both cases, those incentives prove to not be the defining factor to a regime which falls out of line. Whether it's a holdout like the Elastani government, or a tyrant that is eventually overthrown like that of West Chanchajilla, it seems a frequent case that Zamastan's overbearing force does not effect the world as it used to. Moreau may well be the last president in the "Age of Prestige".

FIRST PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE SEES HEATED CLASHES BETWEEN CANDIDATES

Sabine Armitage (BCP), Leanne Dale (GLP), Jay Gaviria (CCP), and Sylvia Wood (PAP) shared the stage at the University of Sutton, moderated by ZNN's Aiden Reventon.

POLITICAL CORRESPONDANT: Ryan Cesterne(@CesterneTofino)
SUTTON - In a night marred by a crisis abroad, the four leading candidates in the 2022 Zamastanian presidential election met on the debate stage at the University of Sutton, Zian, for the first of three presidential debates. Hosted by ZNN anchor Aiden Reventon, the candidates were faced with numerous prompts and questions in multiple categories: Foreign Policy, Abortion Rights, and the Economy. The lively nature of the night was made even more lively by the at times heated arguments on stage. Specifically, Representative Sabine Armitage and Senator Leanne Dale, who maintain a close neck-and-neck race in the polls, clashed along ideological lines as both the conservative and liberal mainstream candidates try to get a more viable lead ahead of the next debate.

Opening with a segment devoted to questions of foreign policy, specifically in regards to the ongoing Terehan crisis and the Yuan-Gangkou dispute, both Armitage and Gaviria took the approach of even greater intervention. Armitage, on the subject of Yuan, called for a complete boycott of Yuaneze trade and stated that while she was pleased the crisis had been quelled, she believed it only served to embolden Yuan.

"President Xi now knows that he has to approach the situation with Gangkou in a different way, and that's why he purged his military officials," Armitage said. "Just because he didn't get his way this time doesn't mean he's done. He's consolidating his control by replacing the people who screwed up his plan with people who will hit even harder. So it's not like Gangkou's safety is insured now, if anything it's in even more trouble than before." Armitage went on to criticize WEDA, saying "we have to wait for WEDA now, and that diminishes Zamastanian power. If we were able to do what we need to do without bothering with the long waits, we would be in a much more effective position."

Senator Dale hit back on Armitage's comments by advocating for more involvement in WEDA, saying "Xi now knows what international cooperation means. If we didn't have WEDA at our side, we couldn't be assured that Gangkou would still be around. It's only a matter of fact that the world was rallying around us, and that's why Yuan backed off. That, and the pursuit of diplomacy." Dale then took aim at Armitage, saying "if the representative is elected President, I sincerely worry that her first reaction will not be that of diplomacy, but to send bombers over the skies of Shanghan."

Armitage and Dale went back and forth for several minutes regarding their records on the military, and Rep. Jay Gaviria chimed in while invoking his grandfather, President Marvin Gaviria. "I can promise everyone that if I am elected President, we'll be back in the days of my grandfather, President Gaviria. Those days were marked with a show of force everytime we were faced with problems. Gaviria won the World War. He supported our allies. We can do both."

Gaviria was countered by Senator Sylvia Wood, who lambasted the representative by saying "your whole campaign is being run as if you are your grandfather. You are not your grandfather." Wood's soundbite was met with roaring applause and laughter from the audience, who were reminded by Reventon to remain quiet. Wood continued, pivoting the conversation away from foreign policy to social issues by saying "Representative Gaviria likes to compare himself to his grandfather. His grandfather was indeed a remarkable man and for good reason the country admires his legacy. Jay Gaviria's record is one that flies in the face of what his grandfather believed in. His grandfather supported widening immigration acceptance, while Jay wants to cap it entirely. His grandfather believed in a woman's right to choose, while Jay wants to limit it further."

On the subject of abortion, Reventon asked the candidates whether they supported abolishing the constitutional ban on third trimester abortions. Dale and Wood supported abolishing it, while Armitage and Gaviria supported maintaining it. Dale called the ban "one of the most unfortunate situations in Zamastan," while Wood said she would "by executive order destroy the ban." Armitage scoffed at both and interjected, citing the rarity of third trimester abortions and the exception clause which allows women to get abortions in the third trimester if their health is at risk.

"There is a reason abortion is legal in our country and only outlawed at the latest point possible," Armitage said. "Removing that barrier at the end is an afront to sanctity of life. I already believe abortion is wrong, so to legalize it in every single instance would be horrific. The third trimester abortion ban must remain as it is." Jay Gaviria went further, however, maintaining that he wishes to expand the ban to cover the entire second trimester as well. To this, all three of the female candidates on stage disagreed.

When the conversation pivoted to the economy, Senator Dale was the first to advocate for raising taxes on the wealthiest 1% of Zamastanians while leaving the current rate for middle and lower classes capped. Under her proposals, Dale claimed that she would be able to fund new programs to assist the country's growing homeless population seek affordable housing. Wood implied that she seeks to increase taxes across the board, though with a higher rate for the wealthiest 1%. To this, both Armitage and Gaviria disagreed, calling for sweeping cuts that would lower the tax rate for every individual Zamastanian regardless of income.

Zamastan experienced several decades of economic prosperity beginning in the 1980s with a highly diversified economy. After a record high economic point in 2017, economic growth has since slowed and unemployment has risen to 7.6%, especially high among the young. Additionally, a worldwide stagnation due to shipping disruptions and currency inflation has made everyday items more expensive. Taxation is also a major issue, as there has not been a tax break for middle income families in over 3 years. Liberal candidates have sought to cap the tax rate for lower and middle class families while raising the rates for the higher class earners. Conservative candidates have pledged sweeping cuts across the board.

Ahead of Saturday's debate, Tofino Times polling placed Congresswoman Sabine Armitage (BCP) and Senator Leanne Dale (GLP) in a dead heat, with Armitage in an extremely narrow lead at 41.3% and Dale at 41.1%. The virtual tie is evident of a major rift between ideologies within the Zamastanian voter bloc as previous elections have been difficult to determine outcomes. However, the line between the conservative and liberal candidates make the race essentially a two-way street, which is certain to cause issue for the other two candidates who will be on the debate stage. Congressman Jay Gaviria (Conservative-Capitalist Party) and Senator Sylvia Wood (Progressive Party), who are polling closely together at 8.4% and 8.3% respectively, is notable because it specifies that the right and left divide is even more apparent.

WHO ARE THE CANDIDATES

Sabine Armitage

Sabine Deleaux Armitage (born 21 November 1989 (age 32)) is a Zamastanian politician serving as the junior congresswoman from Northern Isle Province's 19th district, a seat she was elected to in 2016. She is a member of the Blue Conservative Party, and was a mainline a candidate for President of Zamastan in the 2020 election, seeking to replace Foley Sakzi who was not seeking a second term reelection. She lost the race to former-Governor of Alutia Atticus Moreau, but announced she would seek the presidency a second time in the 2022 election cycle, beating out other conservative candidates like Jean Brunelle. Armitage is a neoconservative, known for her focus on national security, support for the military, a pro-business stance, hawkish foreign policy views, and fiscal and social conservatism. However, she holds relatively liberal stances on social issues, having signaled support for gun control legislation and decriminalization of illegal substances.

Armitage drew national recognition when she won the Blue Conservative Party's primary election for the Northern Isle's 7th congressional district on June 4th, 2016. She defeated BCP Caucus Chair Keenan Lawrence, a 7-term incumbent, in what was widely seen as the biggest upset victory in the 2016 election primaries. She went on to win the district's seat in the 2016 general election. Armitage majored in international relations and economics at the University of Tofino, graduating cum laude in 2010. She was previously an activist and worked part-time as a waitress, bartender, and fast-food employee before running for Congress in 2016. She is one of only 13 congresswomen among the 202 BCP lawmakers currently in the Congress and one of 54 women among 421 lawmakers in Congressional Hall as a whole.

Leanne Dale

Leanne Hariett Dale (born December 9, 1968 (age 53)) is a Zamastanian lawyer and politician who currently serves in Congressional Hall as the senator for Northern Isle's 2nd district. She is a leading figure in the Green Liberal Party and has been the Senate leader for the party. On October 3rd, 2021, she announced her candidacy for President in the 2022 election.

Born and raised in inner-provincial Northern Isle, Dale graduated from Etmound College and from the University of Providence School of Law. After holding positions in government and private practice and working on multiple political campaigns, Dale was first elected to the Senate in 2006, becoming the first female senator from Northern Isle's 2nd. During her Senate tenure, Dale has notably shifted to the left, becoming one of the more progressive liberal party figures. She has been outspoken on sexual assault in the military and sexual harassment, having criticized fellow party members for alleged sexual misconduct and having led the investigation into then-Speaker Larious Maxwell. She supports paid family leave, a federal jobs guarantee, and a more adept immigration acceptance agency, which seeks to replace the current system with caps on immigration and refugee acceptance.

Dale is one of the most outspoken voices for gun control, having co-written the 2019 assault weapons ban instated by President Anya Bishop. She has said that a conversation with a family who had lost a daughter to gun violence made her realize that she was "wrong" to oppose gun control measures, and has since pursued stronger measures to limit magazine capacity, extend background checks, and increase waiting times. She advocates government transparency, being one of a few members of Congressional Hall who constantly release much personal and scheduling information. Her most controversial opinion for voters, however, is her pursuit to end Zamastan's long-standing ban on third-trimester abortions.

Jay Gaviria

Jay Abe Gaviria (born February 17th, 1986 (age 35)) is a Zamastanian politician, journalist, and filmmaker, the son of former-Senator Thomas Gaviria and the grandson of former-President of Zamastan Marvin Gaviria. Gaviria serves in Congressional Hall as the Congressman for Zian province's 24th district since 2016. He is a member of the Conservative Capitalist Party, continuing the progression of his family's domination of the political movement. On September 28th, 2021, Jay announced his candidacy for the 2022 Zamastan presidential election.

Jay Gaviria is considered to be the most conservative mainline candidate in the 2022 election. He opposes abortion and has stated that he would appoint judges to the Supreme Court who oppose Zamastan's first and second full allowance abortion law. He opposes gun control measures including bans on semi-automatic firearms. Gaviria supports enforcing physical barriers and implementing technology on the borders to prevent illegal immigration from central Euronia, while also supporting enforcing coast guard patrols to prevent illegal maritime immigration from Adula and Ausiana.

Sylvia Wood

Sylvia Mélanie Wood (born October 16, 1979 (age 42)) is a Zamastanian-Shoassauan lawyer and politician who currently serves in Congressional Hall as the senator for Landeda's 3rd district. She has held a number of leadership positions on committees such as the tourism, immigrants, and language boards. Wood began her political career when she ran for mayor of Landeda in the 2013 Landeda municipal election, placing second behind eventual winner Sean Coderre. She was a member of the Green Liberal Party from 2009 until 2021, when she joined the Progressive Alliance Party. On March 20th, 2022, she announced her candidacy for President of Zamastan as a member of the Progressive Alliance for the 2022 election.

Wood has endorsed national legalization of recreational marijuana, unabrupted abortion rights and a call to end Zamastan's third-trimester abortion ban, seeking renewable energy resources and a phasing out of the use of fossil fuels, and a major decrease in military spending. She has also called for the demilitarization of police departments and a phasing out of the Zamastanian Intelligence Service. Wood endorses public policy which she theorizes will reduce or ameliorate the harmful effects of economic inequality as well as systemic discrimination such as institutional racism; to advocate for environmentally conscious policies as well as for social safety nets and workers' rights; and to oppose the negative externalities inflicted on the environment and society by monopolies or corporate influence on the democratic process. She has consistently ranked among the most liberal politicians in Zamastan's legislature.

Other Candidates

Brendan Dennadeer
Brendan Alexander Dennadeer is known for his activist work in lowering the influence of corporations in the political process. During the course of the 2018-19 "PoverTea" protests, specifically in 2019, he delivered a speech in which he said "corporations sit back and drink their tea while the rest of us sit in poverty," coining the popularly used phrase of the movement. Dennadeer was arrested twice during the course of the 10 month-long protests.

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©TOFINOTIMES 2022

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109,811 comments

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TOFINO TIMES HEADLINES

• Apatonia elects James Etémé as President in contentious referendum
• Demonstrators take to streets as West Chanchajilla food shortage is met anger
• Secretary Gray visits Tirikan, vows to increase support for Gurriana communities
• Congressional Hall races are closer than previously polled - While Armitage trails, BCP legislative comeback looks likely
• Sulifa seeks to make all cars electric by 2030
• Zalluabed bombings show major security lapses as government struggles to maintain Osea Accords
• Gun Control Debate Reaches No Conclusion in Congress

[Shoassau]

L'Humanité De Shoassau

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LEITNER SAYS TEREHAN IS ENRICHING 'SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS' OF URANIUM
Terehan's nuclear programme has nearly completed a bomb.

SHARE

Michaud Domme (@BelmanEuvOfficial)
12 June, 2022 06:21 SHO| STAVENTER, SHOASSAU

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Leitner speaks to the press in his condemnation of anti-Shoassauan rhetoric

Prime Minister Gabriel Leitner warned that Terehan has started enriching 'significant' amounts of uranium gas at its underground plant at Astaat. It comes after the WEDA's nuclear watch board censured Terehan for not answering questions about uranium traces found at two undeclared sites, and as a crisis develops with 9 foreign nationals sentenced to be executed for suspected espionage. The Prime Minister said eight cascades of more than 1,300 centrifuges, the machines that spin uranium gas into enriched material, were now operating.

WEDA, and several other nations, suspect Terehan of seeking atomic weapons, a charge President Asaad al-Shaad denies. Terehan insists its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes only. Diplomatic sources have confirmed to L'Humanité De Shoassau the contents of what was a confidential letter from the Coalition Atomic Energy Agency (CAEA) to Terehanian officials. The document - a letter signed by the CAEA deputy Director General - said the Agency took note of the information provided by Terehan that it is running more 1,300 centrifuges - the machines used to spin the gas into enriched uranium.

It said some UF6 uranium gas was being fed into the centrifuges. The disclosure of the inspectors' findings comes after the head of the CAEA downplayed Terehan's claim that it was beginning industrial-scale production. Speaking in Lutharia last week, the CAEA Head said Terehan would need thousands of centrifuges, but had only hundreds operating at present. He also said that Terehan would not be able to produce the highly enriched uranium needed for a nuclear bomb if it remained under the supervision of CAEA inspectors, but Terehan expelled all inspectors last year. Terehan says it plans to install 50,000 centrifuges at the Astaat plant.

Additionally, the Shoassauan Central Intelligence (SCI) has revealed that it has found conclusive evidence that Terehan is attempting to develop a nuclear weapons, citing a secret report based on intelligence such as satellite images provided by the ZIS. Correspondents say the alleged document appears to confirm both Staventer and Tofino's views regarding Terehan's nuclear intentions. The SCI assessment, according to unnamed officials quoted in the article, casts doubt on how far Iran has actually progressed to making a nuclear weapon.

It says the agency based its conclusions on technical intelligence, such as satellite photography and measurements from sensors planted by Zamastanian and Shoassauan agents.

Michaud Domme is the chief foreign commentator and journalist at L'Humanité De Shoassau.

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© L'Humanité De Shoassau 2021

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[Terehan]

JATARAN WATCH | ساعة جاتاران
AL-SHAAD SAYS MUSLIM WORLD MUST RALLY BEHIND TEREHAN, CALLS ON GROUPS TO ACT AND PLACES BOUNTIES ON WORLD LEADERS

CASAAT - President Asaad al-Shaad released a 40-minute speech on June 12th calling on the Muslim world to unite behind Terehan, saying "the infidels of the world have shown that they seek to undermine us" and called on specific groups like al-Fijar to "act however they deem fit" after the Shoassauan government accused Terehan of being in the stages of developing a nuclear bomb. Al-Shaad for the first time also confirmed that the Terehanian government is seeking a course to develop a nuclear bomb, but that the actual process to construct one will not begin for "quite a while".

"The Muslim world is well aware that this is not our final home, but it is the home we have for now," al-Shaad said. "The infidels of the world have shown that they seek to undermine us, and they seek to discredit us and tarnish us. Death rains from the sky on true followers of the Prophet," he said, in reference to WEDA-led airstrikes on al-Fijar and affiliated commanders in Jaginistan. "Tonight I call on our brothers - al-Fijar, Hisrea Liberation, Lundia Defense, and Jabhat Asra - to act however they deem fit. Destroy the powers that be. Relinquish your suffering and take it as strength, take action."

Al-Shaad, despite criticism from some, has in the past praised fundamentalist groups like al-Fijar as being the "true endorsement of Islam" and has praised attacks against other nations critical of Terehan. Al-Shaad also called for the assassination of President Atticus Moreau of Zamastan, Prime Minister Gabriel Leitner of Shoassau, Chancellor Sadie Melhaven of Albarine, and Prime Minister Tullia Grönberg of Caspiaa. In his speech, the President said "each of these leaders disparages our great nation. I will personally pay د.ع6 million to anyone who eliminates them. We are no longer tolerant. The vermin must be removed."

Al-Shaad also said the 9 foreign spies will be executed on June 15th, and that negotiations from their respective nations are "fruitless". He said "the spies are agents of deceit. They will pay their price as we have determined, and there will be no delay. As we have said; enemies of our state will not succeed. Their agents will be dispatched and dealt with."

[Great Lutharia]

ILHAVEIA TRIBUNE
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HIRSCHL SAYS AL-SHAAD MIGHT ALREADY HAVE NUKES
President Hirschl affirmed a ZIS/SCI report that indicated Terehan is building a bomb.

President Baldur Hirschl ordered additional security to be placed around key transport hubs and government facilities after the President of Terehan called on terrorist groups to carry out attacks against WEDA member states and placed bounties on several heads of state. Hirschl also said that a report by the Shoassauan and Zamastanian intelligence agencies which detailed additional centrifuges being placed at a nuclear facility in Terehan, the sign of development of a nuclear weapon, could be outdated as Lutharian authorities believe al-Shaad may already possess nukes.

"It's just a matter of additional intelligence, but I'm incredibly worried about the prospect of a rogue nation like Terehan making these threats," Hirschl said. "WEDA stands firm together, and any attack inspired by al-Shaad's call to arms is misplaced."

Hirschl also made a plea to Muslims in Lutharia and around the world, saying "Al-Shaad claims that the Muslim world stands behind him, and that is simply not true. Islam is a religion of peace. Allah is a God of forgiveness. Allah is a God of unity. Al-Shaad does not represent peace, forgiveness, or unity. Lutharian Muslims are the cornerstone of our nation's diversity. They are normal citizens. They are our friends, our family, our neighbors, our coworkers, or comrades. Muslims do not follow the ramblings of a madman bent on world destruction. They follow the great love of Allah."

[Elbresia]

Allengin Herald | 5/30/2022
Elbresian National Detained in Terehan


Parliament issued sanctions against the South Adulan nation in response, June 13th, 2022

President Gilles Martin's government has issued strict sanctions against Terehan after an Elbresian citizen, identified as James Matrou, was detained in Terehan. Matrou was arrested by Terehanian authorities at his extended family's home in the capital of Casaat, and was accused of "espionage against the state", a claim which was levied last week against 9 other foreign nationals who have since been sentenced to death. President Martin detailed the detaining as "a scam" and called on the Terehanian authorities to release Mr. Matrou, while also calling on President Asaad al-Shaad to curb back his nuclear program.

"Mr. Matrou is not an intelligence agent or a spy of any kind," President Martin said, "he is a man who is visiting his extended Terehanian family as he has every year for nearly a decade. His arrest is a scam and I appeal to the Terehanian authorities to release him. This is a continued scare tactic of the al-Shaad regime which has been pursuing a rogue nuclear program. By detaining foreign nationals under false pretenses, it only serves to further divide international opinion on this reckless program."

Last week, 8 Zamastanian and a Caspiaan contractor were detained and sentenced to death, a move which was denounced by many governments and ushered the response from President Moreau of Zamastan indicating a possible military retaliation if the executions are carried out.

Parliament, in response to the arrest of Mr. Matrou, issued sanctions which will completely cut off Elbresian trade with Terehan. Targeted sectors include their vital oil and natural gas dependencies, as well as manufacturing, agriculture, and textile exports. As for imports, Elbresia will no longer trade pharmaceuticals or electronics with Terehan. A stipulation was stated in the sanctions that if Mr. Matrou and the 9 other foreign nationals were released, all sanctions would be lifted.

[Cyruda]

CYRUDA NEWS MEDIA
Several injured in knife and arson attack on Dawea underground train
Batemara is increasing security at national train stations



President Guiler Batemara has given his condolences and is promising more security following a deadly attack on the Dawea subway. A man has been left in a critical condition after a knife and arson attack on an underground train line in the nation's largest city. At least 10 others were also injured in the incident, which happened at around 20:00 (11:00) near Cossco station, in the city's western suburbs. Passengers ran for their lives, some climbing out of windows, as fire raged in a carriage on the T Line train.

The suspected attacker, a man in his 20s, was arrested at the scene. Eyewitness reports say the suspect sprayed a clear liquid around the carriage before setting it alight. Images from the scene show some passengers running from the attacker, stumbling through a connecting door into the next carriage. The train later stops in a station - but the doors remain closed as the train begins to fill with smoke. Finally, the trapped passengers start forcing the windows and climbing on to the platform.

There have been a number of knife attacks in Cyruda in recent years - two on Dawea's subway system in 2021. In August, nine people were injured by a knife wielding man. And in the same month two people were injured in acid attack at subway station. In 2019, a man also attacked a group of schoolchildren waiting for a bus in Byanmar. Two people were killed and at least 18 were injured.

[Emmiria]

SULAIMAN CALLS AL-SHAAD A "FALSE PROPHET"
President Sulaiman said that the Terehanian leader's call for terrorism flies in the face of Islam.

President Akram Sulaiman.

by Assan Knalla

RHAGA - President Akram Sulaiman bashed Asaad al-Shaad's speech, in which he called on Muslims to back Terehan, as the "ramblings of a false prophet" and called on Terehan to release 10 foreign detainees and to allow international nuclear commissioners to inspect their nuclear facilities. Over the weekend, al-Shaad called on terrorist groups to attack nations critical of his regime and stated that Terehan would one day possess a nuclear bomb.

"Emmiria is where Islam began," Sulaiman said. "We have the largest Muslim population in the world. Makkah al-Mukarramah sits along the Hayr. The Prophet walked here. Islam does not bend to al-Shaad. Muslims do not back al-Shaad. Muslims follow Islam. Muslims follow Allah. Al-Shaad does not speak for Muslims. He is a warmonger. His calls to align with terrorists is nothing more than the ramblings of a false prophet."

"We demand the immediate release of the foreign nationals who have been falsely sentenced to die," Sulaiman continued, "and the unsanctioned nuclear program must be subject to investigation. Severe repercussions will follow if these conditions are not met."

Al-Shaad had called on terrorist groups, naming them specifically, to attack nations critical of him. "The infidels of the world have shown that they seek to undermine us," he said, "and they seek to discredit us and tarnish us.. I call on our brothers - al-Fijar, Hisrea Liberation, Lundia Defense, and Jabhat Asra - to act however they deem fit. Destroy the powers that be. Relinquish your suffering and take it as strength, take action."

Al-Shaad has in the past praised extreme fundamentalist groups like al-Fijar as being the "true endorsement of Islam" and has praised attacks such as the Air Andaluni airplane bombing and the Kuye airport attack. Al-Shaad also called for the assassination of President Atticus Moreau of Zamastan, Prime Minister Gabriel Leitner of Shoassau, Chancellor Sadie Melhaven of Albarine, and Prime Minister Tullia Grönberg of Caspiaa. In his speech, al-Shaad said "each of these leaders disparages our great nation. I will personally pay د.ع6 million to anyone who eliminates them. We are no longer tolerant."

President Sulaiman has issued an order for increased security at key transport hubs, government facilities, and other "soft-target" locations around the country. Despite recent successes against al-Fijar, like the killing of Jaad al-Kaleel a few months ago and the capture of the 2005 Ledua bombing mastermind last week, al-Fijar networks have stated their renewed intent to focus attacks internationally in what is often called the "Autumn Retribution"; an annual season of plotting or carrying out attacks in August, September, and October.

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© GOVERNMENT THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF EMMIRIA 2021

[Kossmil]

THE KOSSMIL PAPER

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CHERDENKO LABELLED AL-SHAAD AS “RAVING LUNATIC”

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President Nikolai Cherdenko making his statement

“The scariest part is that he has been accused of planning the development of nuclear weapons. His nation's nuclear program which he denied that it purpose is to develop weapons to bring harm to many, he states it for alternative energy reasons, which we could all take at face value at first but with his madness showing. I BEG TO DIFFER! He will have the power in future which after press of button he can raining fire and destruction at will”- President Nikolai Cherdenko

Dabatta- President Nikolai Cherdenko has made a statement condemning President Asaad al-Shaad of Terehan on the action of sentencing 9 foreign detainees to death on espionage charges in a “sham trial”. Cherdenko calls for the release of the foreign detainees and for detainees not to be harmed which is echoed by multiple world leaders. The detainees are identified to be oil contractors working for state run oil company Jilvia Oil and Gas Company, their nationality are eight Zamastanian and one Caspiaan.

Cherdenko also condemn al-Shaad on his speech calling for terrorist groups to starts attacks against nations criticising his regime with bounties placed on world leaders, main ones being President Atticus Moreau of Zamastan, Prime Minister Gabriel Leitner of Shoassau, Chancellor Sadie Melhaven of Albarine, and Prime Minister Tullia Grönberg of Caspiaa. “Raving lunatic is what he is. Clearly not right in the head” Cherdenko said to the press, he also warns the consequences of his action with how the international community reacted so far and that some of the major nation responded with the move to deploy sanctions against the nation, so far some of the nation who responded sanctions are Albarine, Caspiaa and Quetana.


There was also criticism on al-Shaad calling the Muslims world to back him which Cherdenko describes as “Dangerous.” which take in account al-Shaad rallying terrorist groups to attack with example being al-Fijar and Hisrea Liberation, Lundia Defense, and Jabhat-Asra. It bring concern as these group could increase their actions and bring more terror to innocent civilians.

Tourism increase in Kossmil since the World Cup ended

Dabatta's Downtown Skyline from Velence Peak

Dabatta- Ever since the Kossmil hosted the world cup, an representatives for the Ministry of Tourism has revealed that the successful hosting of the World Cup had dramatically increased tourism in the nation in the aftermath with it being around 30% to 40% increase of tourists coming to the nation. *Name* explained that the world cup has helped with fixing or rejuvenating the nation's image because before that the nation did not have a great image because of the civil war that ended back in 2020. “This will be very good for the economy.” The representatives excitedly said while also stating it could attract foreign businesses to the nation.

She also made the announcement of the confidents within the government of maybe hosting a big event in the nation whether it is sports or political, she feels the nation is ready to do it and be successful in hosting. She states that aim and objective is within three to four years that Kossmil wins the host bid to host the summer Olympics in Dabatta but rules out a bid to host 2022 Olympics.

[Drambenburg]

The Lerbin Times

06/13/2022

Meet the Candidates

Election season is now in full swing, and with the House of Lords vote on the chancellor just around the corner, it is time to meet the nominees. With the shocking news just last month that incumbent chancellor Walde Herzog declined to run for re-election, the parties and House of Lords were in full session trying to find new candidates. In this article, we will take a first look at the candidates by party:

Party of Reason (Paleo Libertarian)
Stepping into the shoes of Walde Herzog as the Party of Reason candidate is 52-year-old small-town mayor Reynold Schwannssohne. Mr. Schwannssohne was born and raised in the farming town of Beshdorf, Lower Saxonie. As mayor of Beshdorf, Mr. Schwannssohne is known for equalizing the city's budget and eliminating excess spending while keeping all major municipality-funded programs without raising taxes.

Federalists (Neo-Conservatives)
The Federalist candidate is a long-time member of parliament Giorg Auster-Brautstadt. Lord Brautstadt, 72, is from the ancient Braudstadt family, and currently is lord over Brautstadt County in Saxonie. As a member of the Federalist party, lord Brautstadt is an advocate for interventionism in international affairs and vocal in his disdain for socialist and communist movements in the country.

Democratic-Republicans (Paleo-Conservatives)
Sofia Arnrich is a 49-year-old candidate from Lerbin currently serving as a Bradenburgian Senator. She is vocally isolationist and has fought to pass many immigration restrictions.

Disband the Monarchy (Left-Libertarians/Libertarian Socialism)
Political nobody Hans Krammer is the Disband the Monarchy party's choice for chancellor nominee. He is a 58-year-old activist from Pilsenburg. Mr. Krammer's activism in the late 1980s helped lead to the legalization of many controlled substances, including marijuana and LSD.

Republican (Republican Socialism)
Nittawosew is an indigenous congresswoman from Hessia. The 57-year-old is one of the forerunners of the Indigenous Rights movement of the late 1970s and continues to be a champion for the often under-privileged tribes of Drambenburg.

National Worker’s Party (Marxist-Leninist)
Frank Vuk is an 87-year-old Celjean World War veteran and high-ranking member of the National Worker's Party. He retired from politics in 1998; however, he is running for chancellor because he feels that, "these young-ins don't understand communism and the fight we went through in the 50s and 60s." As a previous congressman and senator from Bradenburg, he has a history of working towards the nationalization of industries and the unionization of workers.

Christian Social Union (Christian Nationalists)
Katarzyna Poleska is a 37-year-old Galicjan ex-congresswoman in Bradenburg. Her policies are based around restoring traditional Christian values in Drambenburg, especially in the family. As a congresswoman, she fought strongly against abortion, and legal drugs, and worked to make extra-marital intercourse a federal crime.

Free Worker’s Party (Nationalist Party)
Cirano Sassi, the 62-year-old president and CEO of Sassi Corp., a biotech and pharmaceutical laboratory in Sainte Marie is running as the Free Worker's Party nominee. As CEO of Sassi Corp., Mr. Sassi has championed worker's rights and worked to ensure all of his company's production and workers are from Drambenburg.

[Tasiastan]

TASIASTAN National News

President Swati addresses the nation from Jaljur, Tasiastan.

ACWAC BUILDING UP MILITARY FORCES NEAR TASIASTAN BORDER
As ACWAC's membership has expanded to every bordering nation of Tasiastan, President Swati is cautious of possible Yuaneze military action.
Ibrim Akarsja reporting from Jaljur, Tasiastan
13 June, 2022

President Haajid Swati revealed on Monday that the Tasiastani government suspects ACWAC may resort to military force if conditions are not met regarding economic concessions in which De Yuan and neighboring nations are demanding oil pipeline activity and hydroelectric facilities to be reactivated. With the recent additions of Kylastan and Pekastan into the ACWAC organization, Swati's government closed off energy supply to those countries in defiance of President Xi's threats. Swati's government also released hundreds of satellite and surveillance images purporting to show Yuaneze, Elastani, and Kylastani armed divisions at facilities near the border, adding to the speculation of impending action.

"Tasiastan will not bow to Shanghan," Swati said, "no matter what is thrown our way. We will not restore oil and hydroflow because those utilities were contingent on neutrality of our partner nations. The nations on our borders have betrayed our trust, and now we have evidence to show that Yuan's grip of control is extending to their militaries and what we strictly believe to be an impending strike. We urge the international community to increase pressure on ACWAC and to defy their power plays. If we don't give credence to their heinous taunts, then their taunts are merely taunts. However, if we allow them to continue their buildup and their flagrant ambition, then I fear Tasiastan will be subject to invasion."

The Yuaneze ambassador has been expelled from Jaljur and the Tasiastani ambassador has been recalled as top diplomats are diverting their strategies to an appeal to the international community. Last week, Zamastanian troops were allowed to establish their new facilities at Tasiastani bases after being expelled from Pekastan, and President Swati has requested a special defense clause with WEDA in a similar manner granted to Siniapore and Kalea during the Jinchon Sea crisis.

June 3rd:
President Haajid Swati warned that the recent accepting of Kylastan into ACWAC signifies the geographic isolation of Tasiastan, as the borders are now completely surrounded by its member states as De Yuan continues to assert its influence over the central Ausiana region. Also bordered by Atylestan, Pekastan, Beleroskov, Yuan, and Barangadesh, Tasiastan has been effectively cut off by ground to the rest of the world as the Alliance of Central and West Ausianan Cooperation, also known as the Shanghan Cooperation Alliance, increases in size and rallies against the geopolitical realities of international diplomacy.

"We've been surrounded and are close to abandonment," President Swati said in a statement. "The ambitions of ACWAC have left our nation standing as the sole defiance in the central Ausianan region. As such, we need the international community's reassurance that they will never abandon us and that we will continue to play a vital role in the integrity of the region."

To the south, Pekastan also recently joined the alliance and revoked international peacekeeping presence, including nearly 3,000 deployed Zamastanian troops. Swati and Tasiastan's Parliament voted to allow Zamastanian troops and the peacekeepers who were removed from the nation to find new presence at Tasiastan's airfields until more permanent facilities can be obtained. This move is sure to come as a spark of fury from the Yuaneze government, who has pushed for complete de-internationalization of the region.

Swati and other prominent politicians have also warned that the influence and growing presence of ACWAC could lead to an emboldened effort by Yuan and its allies to undermine Tasiastan militarily, possibly even through an invasion.

"We will defend our territory through any means necessary," Swati said. "Any attempt by Yuan or her allies to encroach on our territory will be a direct provocation that we will forcefully respond to."

Pekastan's membership came on the 46th anniversary of the shootdown of Zian Airways Flight 127, which was a scheduled Zian Airways flight operating on the Bhalchi-Alutia route. On 2 May 1976, the Airsub 220 was shot down over Bhalchi, Tasiastan, by a Beleroskovian fighter jet. The plane had taken off from Bhalchi-Daar International Airport ten minutes earlier and was en-route to Alutia, Zamastan. However, it briefly strayed into Beleroskovian airspace and the Beleroskov Air Force scrambled to intercept the plane. The aircraft turned to change course and head on a different route, but the Beleroskovian fighter jet shot down Flight 127. All 276 people onboard the flight were killed, and the incident led to the eventual separation of Tasiastan from the UCSS.

The Alliance of Central and West Ausianan Cooperation (ACWAC), also known as the Shanghan Cooperation Alliance (SCA), is a mutual security agreement formed in 1996 between Yuan, Mandrao, Tosichi, and Barangadesh. These nations seek deeper political and economic cooperation. ACWAC is governed by the Heads of State Council (HSC), its supreme decision-making body, which meets once a year. Military exercises are also regularly conducted among members to promote cooperation and coordination against terrorism and other external threats, and to maintain regional peace and stability. ACWAC is primarily centered on security-related concerns, often describing the main threats it confronts as being terrorism, separatism and extremism, though it has stood against international pressure under such incidents as the Jinchon Sea crisis.

The organization is also redefining cyberwarfare, saying that the dissemination of information "harmful to the spiritual, moral and cultural spheres of other states" should be considered a "security threat". An accord adopted in 2009 defined "information war", in part, as an effort by a state to undermine another's "political, economic, and social systems". Over the past few years, the organization's activities have expanded to include increased military cooperation, intelligence sharing, and counterterrorism. Military exercises are regularly conducted among members to promote cooperation and coordination against terrorism and other external threats, and to maintain regional peace and stability. A Framework Agreement to enhance economic cooperation was signed by the member states on 23 September 2003. A long-term objective to establish a free trade area in the SCA was proposed in that same meeting, while other more immediate measures would be taken to improve the flow of goods in the region. SCA will prioritize joint energy projects; including in the oil and gas sector, the exploration of new hydrocarbon reserves, and joint use of water resources.

More Headlines:

• De Yuan conducts military exercise near border
• Parliament calls Tirikan massacres a genocide in latest stepping away from Tasoulas regime
• New nuclear facility construction hits funding bump, slows pace
• Flooding funding to continue despite CAI objections
• Court sentences 2017 Jaljur bomber to death

[St Lothario and the Libertines]

De Schippers Radiotelefoon

Schipperhaven, Sint Lothario en de Libertijnen
International Edition
2022.06.14

Sailing Team Capsizes, Rescued

Olympic sailing hopefuls Anne and Arndt Geelicht were rescued unharmed by the fishing trawler MV Smeltschaap after their Nacra 17 capsized and dismasted in the Galton Sea. The wife and husband team were practicing when an unexpected gust of wind struck the multihull racer as they tacked. Their boat was towed back to Schipperhaven by the Smeltschaap.

“We’re hopeful that we can raise enough donations to repair her,” Anne Geelicht responded to questions. “Either way, we’re going to the Olympics, if not to sail, then to observe. Ideally, we might just beg, borrow, lease or steal a Nacra to compete.”

Korman Generating Station To Go Offline

The Harvey Korman Geothermal Generating Station on the island of St. Libido will be going offline for a few weeks starting in August. Management states that the quality of steam from the boreholes is of insufficient quality for the turbines that were initially installed. “We’ve had to scramble to find turbines that can handle moist steam,” plant manager Erik Van Gogh explained. “Fortunately, we were able to purchase a scrapped liner whose turbines were in reasonably decent condition.”

The station will be offline as older refurbished turbines are installed to drive the generator sets. “Even though we have the old diesel backups, residents should expect brownouts and rolling blackouts, depending on loads,” Van Gogh warned.

Councillor Staap Disses Autogyros

National Councillor Julie Staap laid into fellow councillor Bjarne Stroustrup’s suggestion to acquire autogyros for a national maritime rescue air arm. “It’s true that autogyros can “hover” when flown into headwinds, and would be an ideal platform to observe and report from the leeward side of a stricken vessel,” Staap said. “But my esteemed colleague misses the point. The essential requirement is an airlift capability from a hover. Autogyros simply cannot lift crew in need of rescue like helicopters can.”

Staap conceded that the prohibitive costs of acquiring and maintaining any suitable helicopter lies outside of St. Lothario’s fiscal means. “I’m firmly of the opinion that the best way forward is to partner with another nation in the international community. We can provide a suitable parcel of land, if they would be willing to build, maintain, and operate a maritime rescue air station. Sparing one, or even two, helicopters and crews would not only benefit St. Lothario, but also all mariners in the North Samson Ocean and Galton Sea.”

Dog-Cart Parking Faces Regulation

Not three weeks after attorney Marjolein Galante thumbed her nose at Schipperhaven’s strict parking permit process, the National Council is poised to tackle the issue of dog-cart parking. The brazen lawyer successfully parked her dog and dog-cart in the crowded waterfront, much to the dismay of citizens who had adhered to the spirit of the law.

“The regulations quite clearly stated that wheeled vehicles maneuvered under the power of equines must adhere to parking regulations in the same manner as if they were motorized or towed by motorized vehicles,” Galante had previously stated. “My dog is neither a horse, nor mule, donkey, jackass, or zebra. She is a dog!”

Councillor Timo Verstappen has stated that he intends to introduce legislation to broaden the scope of the parking permit regulations. “Going forward, the regulations will include any wheeled, tracked, or runner-equipped vehicle under the power of any animal or team of animals, including people,” Verstappen declared. “Of course, Saint Nicholas and Ms. Galante will be grandfathered. I feel certain people will be much more receptive of the former instead of the latter.”

Medebrouwerij Blokdyk introduces Rakehell Mead

Schipperhaven’s largest meadery, Medebrouwerij Blokdyk, is now marketing its signature “Framboos de Berg Franion” mead as “Rakehell Mead” in the hopes of generating international sales. “We’re hoping to expand our revenues by selling our products in the international marketplace,” explained CEO Denise Blokdyk. “Our sweet raspberry mead tested best in sampling with international visitors to Schipperhaven. And the Rakehell branding conveys the sense of daring that seems to appeal to foreign drinkers.”

“Many of the berries, currants, and other flowering plants not only produce fruit flavorings that make Lotharion meads distinctive, but they also add subtleties through the honeys we use in fermenting,” stated Blokdyk. “As our local markets are saturated, we feel it is about time that the world beyond our borders have the opportunity to partake in our subtly crafted brews.” Medebrouwerij Blokdyk is now in the process of seeking international distributors to market their products.

Vandervoort Recommends Condemning Teheran

National Council Chairwoman Gretchen Vandervoort is prepared to recommend a National Council resolution condemning the nation of Teheran. “It’s simply unacceptable that another country would advise terrorist groups to act on its behalf, threaten to assassinate national leaders around the world, and rattle nuclear sabers. This is not the behavior of civilized peoples, regardless of their religious worldview.”

Given more pressing domestic issues at home, however, it remains uncertain as to whether or not the Council has the appetite to issue such a resolution. Councillor Julie Staap has intimated that this may be more international posturing by the Chair as Vandervoort positions herself for another electoral campaign.

Letter to the Editor

I recently visited the columbarium that houses the remains of my beloved Haakon. The stairs and central atrium within were absolutely littered with seagull droppings. This is no way to respect and revere the dearly departed. Surely the maintenance staff at St. Libatio cemetery can either invest in, or use, a powerful pressure washer to keep these memorials free of bird turds. — Mrs. Ingrid Hargaard.

[Terehan]

JATARAN WATCH | ساعة جاتاران
DEATH SENTENCES CARRIED OUT, MORE SPIES CAPTURED

CASAAT - President Asaad al-Shaad was present for the executions of 9 foreign nationals found guilty of illegal intelligence gathering against the Terehanian nuclear program. 1 Caspiaan and 8 Zamastanians, all of whom were found guilty and sentenced to death last week, were put to death by firing squad in the central square of Casaat. A crowd of thousands attended the execution, hailed as a triumph over international efforts to disrupt Terehan's nuclear ambitions. President al-Shaad called the carried out sentences a "joyous occasion for the exceptional strength of our nation."

The condemned, publicly named for the first time as Tommy Hawkins, Sam Jenkins, Leo Hall, Ben Day, Jacob Duncan, Lewis Fowler, Lee Gamble, Johan Richard, and Jakob Daksobottir, were led in procession bound together by chains. They were presented before their executioners, where they were made to don masks over their heads and to face a slated wall. Their names, charges, and sentences were individually read aloud, and they were collectively executed as the crowd cheered. The executions were televised on state broadcasts and live streamed on the Judicial Ministry's social media accounts.

Alongside the foreign spies, three top executives at Jilvia Oil and Gas Company, the organization that the foreign nationals were contracted for in Olharat, also had their death sentences carried out. They were charged for their roles in accepting the foreigner's contract work despite what the government calls "clear signs pointing to suspicious activity to undermine the Terehanian people."

Above: Tahisal Square in Casaat. Tens of thousands attended the public executions of 9 foreign spies found guilty of espionage against Terehan's nuclear program

Following the executions, several more prisoners were walked out and sentenced to death for charges of espionage. Their sentences will be carried out within the next month, according to officials. They were publicly identified as the following individuals;

• Jean Pierre Calixte, an oil contractor from Jumboestanexeniouth charged with espionage and sentenced to death by firing squad.
• Bogdan Vinogradoff, an oil contractor from the Slavic Union (All Russian Peoples) charged with espionage and sentenced to death by firing squad.
• Alexei Gilik, an oil contractor from Durnstaal charged with espionage and sentenced to death by firing squad.
• James Matrou, an oil contractor from Elbresia charged with espionage and sentenced to death by firing squad.
• Salma Veracruz, a banker from Isla de Rodriguez charged with assisting agents of espionage and sentenced to death by firing squad.
• Alejandro Devalva, a banker from Selle charged with assisting agents of espionage and sentenced to death by firing squad.
• Marco la Cassa, a banker from Paraboca charged with assisting agents of espionage and sentenced to death by firing squad.

In the case of these individuals, the government has stated that their activities were being consistently monitored while in Terehan and that they posed a "significant indication of espionage against our legitimate nuclear program." In particular, the prisoner from Durnstaal had been operating on oil rigs off the shore of Olharat with adept specialties in underwater welding and extending diving operations, which authorities say may have been used to conduct covert operations. It is also stated by authorities that Veracruz, Devalva, and la Cassa were key figures in the funding operations for foreign agents, as their banking connections allowed them to supply the spies with both housing, tools, and supplies in their espionage activities.

In nearby Vorrica, the Zamastanian Secretary of State met with some representatives of the Terehan government over the weekend attempting to secure the release of their spies, but those efforts were met with no success. The Terehanian government maintains that each individual detained is an espionage agent, and that the denying of their respective governments is only confirmation to the fact.

In the follow-up to the executions, President al-Shaad once again reiterated his call to fundamentalist groups like al-Fijar to carry out "the desires of God" on the nations who have been imposing strict sanctions on Terehan. He also once again issued د.ع6 million (Z$2 million) bounties for the assassination of world leaders, adding President Gilles Martin of Elbresia, President Akram Sulaiman of Emmiria, President Nikolai Cherdenko of Kossmil, and President Baldur Hirschl of Great Lutharia to the hit list.

[Sulifa]

SULIFA NEWS NETWORK BROADCAST
FARHAN CALLS ON COMPLETE INTERNATIONAL BLOCK OF TERAHAN

Visiting Tofino on Tuesday, Prime Minister Mohammed bin Farhan met with President Atticus Moreau as a response to Terehan after the mass execution of detainees who were arrested under the guise of being intelligence agents. The Zamastanian government, along with the Caspiaan authorities, still maintain that their nationals were not conducting any forms of espionage against the Terehanian nuclear program, which WEDA believes is seeking the construction of a nuclear weapons. Bin Farhan said during a press conference after meeting with Moreau that the Sulifan government was ceasing all diplomatic relations with Terehan, and called al-Shaad's "call to Islam" speech an "insult to Allah."

"How dare this tyrant claim to speak for the billions of faithful Muslims around the world?" bin Farhan questioned sternly, speaking to the press outside the Presidential Mansion in Tofino. "Al-Shaad will pay for these crimes against humanity, the blatant murder of these innocents, the subjugation and oppression of freedoms upon his people, and the false preaching that he uses to manipulate terrorists to his side."

Sulifa's government has sided firmly with the rest of WEDA in stating they will "keep all options on the table" in how they will respond to Terehan. Already, WEDA military units have mobilized from bases in Sulifa and have relocated to Saint Croix and Bens in order to be closer to Terehan in the event of a strike, which Moreau refused to rule out earlier in the week.

[Caspiaa]

The scene of a terrorist bombing in Helniemi, June 14th, 2022
TERRORIST BOMBING KILLS 28 IN HELNIEMI
DAKSOBOTTIR EXECUTED IN TEREHAN
PARLIAMENT VOWS REVENGE

Viitaniemi - Prime Minister Tullia Grönberg and Parliament are vowing revenge will be achieved after Tuesday's horrific events. First, a suicide bomber affiliated with al-Fijar detonated his vest in the lobby of the Ministry of Natural Gas Exploration in Helniemi, killing 28 people and injuring hundreds more. It is the first deadly terrorist attack on Caspiaan soil in over 40 years. This was then met with the anger-inducing news that the Terehanian government had carried out the execution of Jakob Daksobottir alongside 8 Zamastanian nationals who were accused of espionage against that nation's rogue nuclear program. Now, Caspiaan politicians and the public alike are calling on immediate action, with even King Oliver Lindholm making a rare public appeal to Parliament to take direct action.

Grönberg made clear that she has every option available to here, and she has requested to the WEDA Security Council that an immediate strike against Terehan in some capacity is warranted. This call is due to the correlation between the terrorist attack and Terehan's government, as President Asaad al-Shaad has openly called for terrorist networks like al-Fijar to commit attacks against WEDA member states. The terrorist watch level has been placed at the highest possible as security is beefed up around the nation.

"It's time to take action," Grönberg said. "We cannot let this slide. The evil that al-Shaad perpetuates will be met with appropriate response, and we will do whatever is needed."

Opposition leader Sann Hofstad released a statement on behalf of the Conservative Party, saying "Caspiaa's response to today's horrific attack and the unjust murder of Daksobottir will be as appropriately powerful as we can make it. The 28 souls murdered at MNGE today will be avenged."

According to authorities, a man identified as Terehanian-born Usmet bin Fattah entered the lobby of the Ministry of Natural Gas Exploration in Helniemi. He had previously posted on social media a praise of al-Shaad for endorsing his attack, saying among other things that "Terehan is the supporter of al-Fijar and the warriors of God. Warriors must rise and take heed of the mission ahead of us, God willing. Bring destruction. Bring a just sword down on Caspiaa." Bin Fattah detonated an explosive vest around noon, with the blast ripping through the lower level of the building and resulting in the deaths of at least 28 people and the wounding of more than 200 more.

"The horror and unjust terror we have seen today in Helniemi," King Oliver II said in a national address, "will never break our nation. Caspiaa is strong and we stand strong together, always. We will seek the harshest retribution alongside our allies. We will deliver a blow of vengeance."

Prime Minister Tullia Grönberg signed off on a largely unilateral series of sanctions passed by parliament against the southern Adulan nation of Terehan after authorities arrested 9 international oil contractors, including a Caspiaan identified as Jakob Daksobottir. Grönberg called on the Terehanian government and directly addressed President Asaad al-Shaad to release the detainees, who are being held under charges of espionage. The Caspiaan government confirmed that the other detainees, whom Grönberg referred to as "hostages" in her address, are Zamastanian citizens. Their names have not yet been released.

"The continued assertions by the Terehan government and yet another instance in the sudden and unreasonable detention of foreign nationals is an afront to diplomatic relations and efforts of friendly ties," Grönberg said. "We have implemented new sanctions in retaliation of this move, and the Caspiaan government demands the immediate release of Mr. Daksobottir and the other hostages held by President al-Shaad's regime."

The Terehan government has long been criticized for its nuclear program. While the Terehanian government maintains that it is purely commercial and intended for seeking an alternative energy source, WEDA officials have stated that the true intentions is to construct a nuclear weapon, much like the Zalluabedi program which was internationally scrutinized until an agreement to curb development was reached in 2013. The al-Shaad government began construction on a nuclear facility in 2018, but the first indications of malintent on the part of the regime came when the ZIS monitored a shipment of uranium which originated in Elastan, departed from a Barangadesh port, and arrived in the Terehanian port of Catahle without an active transponder.

In April 2019, two Zamastanian oil contractors were also arrested and charged with espionage against Terehan's at-the-time brand new nuclear program. The Zamastanian government, at the time under President Anya Bishop, denied that the men arrested were spies for the Zamastanian Intelligence Service, and they were eventually released in a prisoner exchange for a Terehanian citizen who had been detained in Tregueux on drug charges.

Comments [7,928] | E-mail
©GRANTIMES 2022

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7,928 comments

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OTHER HEADLINES

• Tullia Grönberg's reelection signifies next goal of the Conservatives
• Peacekeepers Return to Apatonia after Election
• TEREHAN - The Rogue Nuclear State
• DAKSOBOTTIR - The story of his life, family, work, and legacy
• Terror Warning Elevated Following Helniemi Bombing
• Human Rights Watch: Thousands Dying Every Day in Syraranto Clashes

[Great Lutharia]

ILHAVEIA TRIBUNE
--------------------------------------------------
MAN ARRESTED OUTSIDE HIRSCHL'S RESIDENCE
Additional security has been provided after a man attempted to enter President Hirschl's residence

Only hours after being named a target by the Terehanian dictator Asaad al-Shaad, a man was arrested outside the home of President Baldur Hirschl and was found to be carrying several long knives, gloves, and a ski mask. The man, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed by Lutharian authorities, reportedly said that "al-Shaad is going to pay me for this," a reference to the د.ع6 million (Z$2 million) bounty which was placed on Hirschl.

The President was in the residence at the time, but his chief of security says that he was not in any danger.

"The President's security is top level," said Jons Scoffield, Hirschl's chief security officer. "We were able to detain the suspect before he reached the front door, and he went away peacefully. Of course we will continue to monitor the situation and look out for all threats."

The breach came hours after 9 nationals from WEDA were executed in Terehan, and after a terrorist's bomb killed 28 in the Caspiaan city of Helniemi. The terrorist was also reportedly inspired by al-Shaad's violent pledges.

Over the weekend, President Baldur Hirschl ordered additional security to be placed around key transport hubs and government facilities after the President of Terehan called on terrorist groups to carry out attacks against WEDA member states and placed bounties on several heads of state. Hirschl also said that a report by the Shoassauan and Zamastanian intelligence agencies which detailed additional centrifuges being placed at a nuclear facility in Terehan, the sign of development of a nuclear weapon, could be outdated as Lutharian authorities believe al-Shaad may already possess nukes.

"It's just a matter of additional intelligence, but I'm incredibly worried about the prospect of a rogue nation like Terehan making these threats," Hirschl said. "WEDA stands firm together, and any attack inspired by al-Shaad's call to arms is misplaced."

Hirschl also made a plea to Muslims in Lutharia and around the world, saying "Al-Shaad claims that the Muslim world stands behind him, and that is simply not true. Islam is a religion of peace. Allah is a God of forgiveness. Allah is a God of unity. Al-Shaad does not represent peace, forgiveness, or unity. Lutharian Muslims are the cornerstone of our nation's diversity. They are normal citizens. They are our friends, our family, our neighbors, our coworkers, or comrades. Muslims do not follow the ramblings of a madman bent on world destruction. They follow the great love of Allah."

[Saint Astaba and Beck]

Goose Harbor Tribune
PM Quinten Calls Off Diplomatic Ties with Terehan

Prime Minister Ash Quinten demanded that the Terehanian government release all foreign nationals detained under the false pretense of espionage and stated that any and all Terehanian assets in Saint Astaba and Beck would be frozen. The island nation's connections with Terehan were already limited, but PM Quinten confirmed that he was recalling the ambassador to Terehan and that all consulate activities in their capital of Casaat would be suspended until further notice.

"We completely condemn these atrocious executions and the endorsement of terrorist activities abroad," Quinten said, referring to an earlier bombing in Caspiaa and an attempted assassination on the President of Great Lutharia. "Saint Astaba and Beck is a peace-loving nation and we will only ever engage with nations that love peace. It is clear that Terehan has broken any semblance of peace through this manipulative campaign of lies they have embarked on."

Quinten also hinted that Saint Astaba and Beck may apply to join WEDA in the coming weeks, a move which would be in stark contrast to almost 60 years of neutrality. SAB is in close proximity to Janapa and Zamastan, both of whom are WEDA members and have already established themselves as firmly against the Terehanian threats.

[Unified Sera Government]

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National Referendum Adds New Political Party: First In History of Nation

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The UNP’s official logo and poster was also submitted to Parliament.

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Teton Seesi (@TSee)
^{April 29th, 2022 | Kito’Bahari, Kado, Unified Sera}

KITO’BAHARI – The United States of Sera has only had four approved, official political parties since the inception of the nation 279 years ago. These four political parties arose directly from the four tribes that comprised the land area that would become Sera proper in 1741.

The usage of the words “official” or “approved” may be disingenuous to Sera’s political system as individuals are not barred from creating voting blocs or “parties” that push towards a certain goal such as passing legislation or rallying support for candidates. Yet, the law as stated in the Articles of Federation forbid unofficial parties from running for political office.

There have been several attempts by individual citizens, voting blocs, and even corporations to garner enough support to establish another, fifth political party whose ideals lie mostly apart from the centrist Koga, leftist Latinius, Conservative Mbaku, or Libertarian Sakhile. However, these coalitions have historically failed to convince enough people to petition for the establishment of another officially recognized party.

Until now.

Spurred on from the performance of King Tu’Aruc during his tenure as the High Chancellor and pointing other historical evidence of a single, strong leader, millions of Serans gathered together to push for a new political party. Typically, the paperwork required for such a massive shift in Seran politics would require several weeks of picketing, rallying, and ad campaigns, but with Khalfani out of the hospital and the future leadership of the nation uncertain, millions of Serans have rushed the process through the usual steps and broke the threshold for support in as a little as six days.

With this threshold reached and the organization, foundation, and platform of the party submitted to Parliament on day seven, Parliament was forced to recognize Sera’s first-ever added and newest political party: The Unified Nationalist Party or “UNP” in English.

The UNP’s political platform is based on “nationalism, militarism, authoritarianism, and economic self-sufficiency” according to the UNP’s official website and documents submitted to Parliament. The party also places a heavy emphasis on placing the nation above the individual, opposing liberalism and many of the ideas put forth by Sera’s conservative party.

The UNP spokesperson and now-Prime Minister hopeful Kaenan Bullock has gone on the record for the party and has announced his candidacy. When asked about the late addition, Bullock stated that: “The King going the extra mile by extending the deadline was obviously intended to give us time to get into the election. He values strong leadership and that’s something we’ve been lacking for decades. I think millions of Serans across the country believe the same. Our nation is on the brink of declining into degeneracy and collapsing into nothingness. We have a duty to our nation to not allow that to happen.”

Thousands of Serans lined the streets in support of the new political party.

Political opponents have come out of the woodwork to oppose the party and its values; going so far as to label those who subscribe to the UNP as being “un-Seran” and “people who hate the Articles”. Thus far King Tu’Aruc has not gone on record about the addition, but the current candidates in the upcoming election on June 7th have.

Mbaku hopeful Baraka Anansa has openly stated his distaste for the party by claiming that “they are co-opting Seran ideals to fuel an inherently freedom hating philosophy. This is against all of our principles in the Mbaku party.”

The Koga Party’s stand-out candidate, frontrunner, and former Prime Minister Nalo Nkechi has also voiced her concern with the “hurtful” and “dangerous” philosophy followed by the UNP. However, she has stated that “Serans are free to believe what they wish without censor if those beliefs do not put others in danger, but she accepts the will of the people.”

One thing is for sure: The UNP will face fierce opposition from Sera’s already established political parties.

Mr. Bullock was pictured inside of Parliament after meeting with other political leaders.

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National Debate Takes Place in New Meroe, Mwindo

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Mr. Khalfani entered the debate location with his wife in tow and the celebrations of his supporters.

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Teton Seesi (@TSee)
^{May 6th, 2022 | New Meroe, Mwindo, United States of Sera}

NEW MEROE – Candidates running in Sera's Prime Minister race have met in New Meroe to discuss several hot-button issues facing the nation. The debate drew a massive crowd within the New Meroe Civic Center which saw thousands of concerned Serans in attendance.

After the debate concluded, polling of those in attendance and responses to an online poll offered by the Seran News Network (SNN) indicated that the pack-leader and former Prime Minister Mrs. Nalo Nkechi actually fell quite substantially in popularity as Serans believed she was "too middle of the road" and "refused to commit to anything".

But as her numbers fall, the numbers for the new Unified Nationalist Party have exploded. Serans indicated that they appreciated the hard stance Mr. Bullock took on several issues including civil rights and terrorism. This came as a surprise to many political analysts who believed that the nationalist party would find it difficult to drum up support so close to the election. Though, PM Khalfani who was believed to be at the rear of the pack with no hope of winning has seen his numbers surge after being released from the hospital, and then again at the conclusion of the debate.

Serans described Mr. Khalfani as "remorseful" and that he had "learned from prior mistakes". It seems as though some Serans are willing to give the Prime Minister another chance to redeem himself as his numbers have now exceeded those by retired Major General Bakari Anansa, though MajGen. Anansa remains in hot pursuit.

The candidates debated topics ranging from religion to the military, the economy, the environment, and more. Below is a translated and condensed version of the debate complete with the guiding question and the responses given by the candidates. To see all of the questions discussed by the candidates over the course of the multi-hour debate, click here.

With Apatonia's recent election, will Sera continue to support the small nation militarily against guerilla forces?

Candidate Portrait	Candidate Name	Party	Response
	MajGen. Bakari Anansa	Mbaku Conservative Party	The United States has made an investment in the security of our southern neighbor. Whether rightfully or wrongfully we decided to get involved with the political situation and we must secure their safety for our own sake. I vow to increase military involvement in Apatonia should I be elected.
	Sen. Claudia Leontia	Latinius Liberal Party	The level of our involvement in Apatonia should increase past military intervention. We have a responsibility to provide infrastructure, financial, and technological support to Apatonia. Their success - and the success of our neighbors - is our success.
	Mrs. Nalo Nkechi	Sakhile Libertarian Party	Should I be elected, our forces will be entirely withdrawn from the nation. We have completed our military goals and we should not be interfering in the politics of a foreign nation; even if they share a border with us.
	Sen. Busar Chane	Koga Centrist Party	The political situation in Apatonia is delicate. We should continue our military support to ensure the continued existence of democracy in Adula, but to make such a guarantee we absolutely need to invest in their infrastructure.
	Mr. Kaenan Bullock	Unified Nationalist Party	Seran forces should have never entered into conflict with Lukonde's forces. Period. We need to turn inward and ensure that our people are protected and invest in Serans, not Apatonians, Timerians, Austrolians, or any other nation. Should I be elected, expect a full withdrawal of Seran troops.
	Akan Khalfani	Mbaku Conservative Party	The Seran government committed lives, vehicles, blood, sweat, and tears for Apatonia. Families were broken, the bodies of our soldiers broken and the scarred, and for some the ultimate sacrifice was paid in service to their nation and to the ideals we strive to protect. Should I remain in office, Apatonia can count on Seran forces to stay until the job is done.

Many Serans are wondering if churches and other religious institutions should lose their tax exemption. What will your administration do in that regard?

Candidate Portrait	Candidate Name	Party	Response
	MajGen. Bakari Anansa	Mbaku Conservative Party	The mere idea of taxing the Temple of the Sky [Heka'lu'anga] is blasphemous. Perhaps we can reevaluate taxing Islamic, Christian, and other denominations. However, the Sky Faith will never be taxed if I am elected.
	Sen. Claudia Leontia	Latinius Liberal Party	Yes. It is far past time that religious institutions paid their fair share. Every other institution, agency, organization, and company are required to pay taxes for the upkeep of our nation. Religious institutions are no different. Moreover, the protections enjoyed by religious institutions should be removed. There is no reason a church or religion should be involved in our government.
	Sen. Busar Chane	Sakhile Libertarian Party	Religion is inexplicably intertwined with our government and society. With that said, do I believe we should tax religions? Yes. Do I think we should go as far as my colleague Senator Leontia believes we should? No.
	Mrs. Nalo Nkechi	Koga Centrist Party	Religious institutions should be stripped of many - not all - of their protections under federal law. The choice should be left up to the states whether or not they want to tax churches. Federally though, I believe my administration would pursue taxing churches on a federal level.
	Mr. Kaenan Bullock	Unified Nationalist Party	Tiyamike created all men equal, but Serans are surely their favorite among the nations. We would dishonor them by taxing Sky Faith temples, yet we do more dishonor by putting Tiyamike in the same bracket as other faiths. Other faiths should be taxed, and should be taxed heavily.
	Akan Khalfani	Mbaku Conservative Party	The Mbaku Party - and all Serans - should believe in equality at all levels. If a company is required to pay taxes, if you are required to pay taxes, so too should all churches pay.

The current foreign policy has largely been non-interventionist for the past few decades and has only recently begun to shift. Will we see a change in foreign policy?

Candidate Portrait	Candidate Name	Party	Response
	MajGen. Bakari Anansa	Mbaku Conservative Party	It is necessary for the security of our nation to build powerful military alliances across Adula and abroad to ensure Seran interests are upheld. Sera should be self-reliant when it comes to resources, but to make sure our nation is prepared for a modern conflict, we should continue to build military alliances.
	Sen. Claudia Leontia	Latinius Liberal Party	The current course of our government is trending in the best possible direction for growth and development not just in Sera, but abroad. We should increase our cooperation with other nations and get out of our historically nigh-xenophobic ways and be a greater part of the international community. The only way we avoid world wars and nuclear exchange is through cooperation, not isolation.
	Sen. Busar Chane	Sakhile Libertarian Party	Yes and no. We should reduce our obligations abroad - specifically in Ausiana - and focus on trade and technology exchange. We should not have military allies halfway across the globe to protect our "interests".
	Mrs. Nalo Nkechi	Koga Centrist Party	Our current direction is the best direction we could be on. Although I do not agree with Prime Minister Khalfani on most things, in this regard I wholeheartedly agree that we should increase cooperation, but at a consistent and pre-planned pace.
	Mr. Kaenan Bullock	Unified Nationalist Party	Absolutely! Sera should be our only concern. The nations outside of our sphere of influence are non-consequential. Our people should be receiving the benefits of our labor, our veterans helped, our children invested in, and our students funded. But instead, we pour money down the drain in backwater nations whose regimes only last three years before being overturned.
	Akan Khalfani	Mbaku Conservative Party	Sera should be our primary concern, that much I can agree with. But Sera cannot be our only concern. We do not live in a vacuum and cannot go about our lives with that belief. Sera first, but others also.

The world is becoming an increasingly dangerous place. There have been an increasing number of terror attacks abroad and nearby. What will you do about it?

Candidate Portrait	Candidate Name	Party	Response
	MajGen. Bakari Anansa	Mbaku Conservative Party	Military intervention is the only way to ensure the safety of our borders. The nations who harbor these cowards, terrorists, and international criminals are complicit in their crimes and should face consequences. If a Seran is killed as a result of terrorist activity, we have an obligation to deploy the 707th Special Forces or the Valkiri Direct Action Group to neutralize them. I'm not saying full blown war, but what I am saying is this: we must do what these other nations are failing to do.
	Sen. Claudia Leontia	Latinius Liberal Party	Terror activity are a direct result of the failings of education systems abroad. As a developed and powerful nation, we have an obligation to do what we can to educate - not punish - the people who are most at risk of becoming radicalized. We must reach across to the other side and show them that we can and must coexist.
	Sen. Busar Chane	Sakhile Libertarian Party	Our borders must be secured, but these measures must be left to the states along the border.
	Mrs. Nalo Nkechi	Koga Centrist Party	Our current direction is the best direction we could be on. Although I do not agree with Prime Minister Khalfani on most things, in this regard I wholeheartedly agree that we should increase cooperation, but at a consistent and pre-planned pace.
	Mr. Kaenan Bullock	Unified Nationalist Party	Absolutely! Sera should be our only concern. The nations outside of our sphere of influence are non-consequential. Our people should be receiving the benefits of our labor, our veterans helped, our children invested in, and our students funded. But instead, we pour money down the drain in backwater nations whose regimes only last three years before being overturned.
	Akan Khalfani	Mbaku Conservative Party	Sera should be our primary concern, that much I can agree with. But Sera cannot be our only concern. We do not live in a vacuum and cannot go about our lives with that belief. Sera first, but others also.

Although there have been many laws passed recently that promotes the civil rights of chasteless Serans, do you have any plans to support or elevate those Serans?

Candidate Portrait	Candidate Name	Party	Response
	MajGen. Bakari Anansa	Mbaku Conservative Party	The federal government should not be ruling on the status of the chasteless or passing laws about their treatment. Those powers should be relegated to the states and the states only. That's all I'll say about that.
	Sen. Claudia Leontia	Latinius Liberal Party	All respect to Major General Anansa, he has done wonders for the security and defense of our nation and those are achievements I would never deny him. But his unwillingness to make real, palpable change that would actually make a difference in the lives of our most at risk and vulnerable members of society. I believe it's a dog whistle, that's what it is. A classist, discriminatory remark hidden under the guise of giving power to the states. We need sweeping change, change that will completely do away with this broken, horrible system.
	Sen. Busar Chane	Sakhile Libertarian Party	Once more I must disagree with Senator Leontia. What she calls "dog whistling" I call returning power to the states and local governments and empowering them to govern themselves. Our government needs to be smaller, not bigger.
	Mrs. Nalo Nkechi	Koga Centrist Party	There should be change to our system. That much is obvious. But we can't make drastic change across the board. The change, as sad as it may be, has to be thought about, planned, and executed properly. I truly believe this would be the best course of action for our nation.
	Mr. Kaenan Bullock	Unified Nationalist Party	There should be no "chaste" system at all. We are all Serans. The only people we should be weary of are the foreigners who enter our lands, break our laws, and pollute our environment. They don't care about us. We must be united against them, and to be united we have to be one people without "chaste", class, or political position dividing us. We are surrounded by enemies, we cannot afford to be fractured within.
	Akan Khalfani	Mbaku Conservative Party	I think all of us can agree that I have not been as forth coming with change as I should have been. I was under the mistaken belief that this should only be a state issue, not a federal one. But my time in the hospital has given me perspective, the high priest of the Sky Faith has given me clarity, and Tiyamike guidance. The Mbaku Party has always claimed that we are "Sera First", yet we have refused to make meaningful change in this regard. That must end. The Chaste system must end. I vow, to all the chasteless Serans listening, that if you give me another chance, I will devote my time in office to making sure that you are treated with the fairness and respect that all people should be.

Let's talk about the environment and the economy. Sera has invested heavily in green energy production since scientists established a link between human activity and climate change because Sky Faith tradition demands harmony with nature. Some say that these policies (such as investing in nuclear reactors and limiting mining, agriculture, and oil drilling activities) are hindering economic growth. What do you think?

Candidate Portrait	Candidate Name	Party	Response
	MajGen. Bakari Anansa	Mbaku Conservative Party	The scriptures are clear. Tiyamike demands we live in harmony with nature and do nothing to do extreme harm to it. As a conservative I hate the idea of big government regulation, however I am also a god-fearing Acolyte who strives to live by The Book. As a nation we may fall behind economically, but the commandment is clear, and I will not be the leader who leads this nation into sin or the leader who is responsible for destroying our environment. We will have economic growth, just a different way.
	Sen. Claudia Leontia	Latinius Liberal Party	I must reiterate that the government cannot be guided by religion in policy making. We have unnecessarily hindered ourselves and purposefully limited our own economic output because of religion. I respect it, I understand it, but I deny it. We can be one of the most powerful economic powerhouses on Iearth but we aren't because we refuse to dig a little deeper. Now, I'm not advocating for unregulated industry, but the level to which we limit these activities is extreme and unnecessary.
	Sen. Busar Chane	Sakhile Libertarian Party	I have to disagree with the Major General, frankly. I also think the good senator does not go far enough in deregulation. The measures for controlling the industry in Sera should be entirely up to the companies. The market and the people should decide to what extent people go when pursuing industry.
	Mrs. Nalo Nkechi	Koga Centrist Party	The economy has too much red-tape. We have, as Senator Leontia said, unfairly limited ourselves because we don't want to destroy our environment. That's a fair assessment, we have a pristine, beautiful environment and laws in place to protect it. Our cities are even are built with harmony with nature in mind. We can preserve our environment and stimulate the economy by pursuing our economic interests in moderation.
	Mr. Kaenan Bullock	Unified Nationalist Party	Our environment is integral to our commitment to our faith. To destroy it is to destroy our relationship with God. Corporations cannot be trusted to regulate themselves as Senator Chane suggests. Capitalist titans are greedy and out for themselves and this much can be seen in Skyline City. It's a cesspool! What I suggest is industry coming under the complete or partial control of the federal government. Who better to regulate the mining, digging, and agriculture than the government itself? Our interests as politicians is to serve you, the people. We won't charge you exorbitant prices for basic necessities! What's more, we should and ought to take the resources from the other, inferior nations around us.
	Akan Khalfani	Mbaku Conservative Party	I will say this: common sense regulations will do wonders. We can loosen the restrictions without completely throwing caution to the wind. We can live in balance, and the way we are living right now is imbalanced.... Mr. Bullock, I wholeheartedly oppose everything you just said! The nations around us are not "weaker" or "inferior". They are our neighbors! I pray that you do not lead our nation, you do not have any idea what it means to lead and your leadership will lead Sera to isolation and bloodshed. You are a disgrace to...

Mr. Khalfani's microphone was muted after his tirade against candidate Bullock.

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[Molenia]

Moirah Journal

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President Linke calls on oil refiners to produce more, cut profit margins

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KAUNAS - Molenian President Shayne Link has called on oil refiners to produce more petrol and diesel, saying their high profit margins are hurting consumers. Link made the appeal in a letter delivered on Wednesday to major refining companies, including Matret Petroleum, BesejeOil, Dollgas, and Molenia National. While he said the global trade backlog is “principally responsible” for the financial burden Molenian residents are facing, “historically high refinery profit margins are worsening that pain”.

“The crunch that families are facing deserves immediate action,” Link wrote in the letter, which was obtained by Moirah news agency. “Your companies need to work with my Administration to bring forward concrete, near-term solutions that address the crisis.”

Petrol prices in Molenia currently average about $5 a gallon ($1.32 per litre), the highest-ever recorded price, an economic burden for many Molenia and a political threat for the president’s fellow New Democratic members going into the midterm elections.

Broader inflation began to rise last year as the economy recovered from a recession, but it accelerated in recent months as energy and food prices climbed after the disrupted global commodity markets. The government reported on Friday that consumer prices had jumped 8.6 percent from a year ago, the highest increase in more than 40 years.

[De Yuan]

XI DEMANDS TASIASTAN RESTART PIPELINE FLOW, THREATENS ACTION

SHANGHAN - Secretary-General and Comrade President Xi Jingyi issued a demand to Tasiastan's government, calling on their officials to restart flow of the vital Naigal-Qiana and the Bhalchi-Maiwan pipelines after they were shut down two weeks ago in supposed protest of the expansion of ACWAC. President Xi said that if Tasiastan does not release the oil flow of those pipelines, which deliver much needed fuel to Yuan from Tasiastan's border oil fields, then Yuan and the rest of ACWAC may be forced to take action in the form of a strike.

"If Tasiastan refuses to turn the supply back on, which is a direct violation of standing treaties, we are prepared to seize those pipelines at the source," President Xi threatened. Military forces have already grouped along the low-land border between the Yuaneze city of Qiana and the Tasiastani city of Naigal. The northeastern border is largely flat river valley areas, while the southeastern border near Bhalchi is very mountainous.

President Swati has claimed that Tasiastan has not broken any deals, citing that all energy agreements were contingent on the neutrality of Tasiastan's neighbors. However, Pekastan and Kylastan joined ACWAC on their own accord and Tasiastan has since decided to self-isolate their diplomatic standing. They have even ceased hydroelectric flow heading into rivers which turn into Yuan, Barangadesh, and Haduastan, which not only cuts off energy but much needed fresh water supply for those nations.

"If we decide to act, it will be an act of nobility," said President Xi. "We will save tens of millions from starvation and the lifeline of the Louhezhan region."

[Shoassau]

L'Humanité De Shoassau

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LEITNER QUESTIONS YUAN IN CCA ON THE TREATMENT OF PANGCHU
Leitner led a group of dozens of nations in condemning the imprisonment of thousands of Pangchu minorities in Yuan.

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Michaud Domme (@BelmanEuvOfficial)
15 June, 2022 06:21 SHO| STAVENTER, SHOASSAU

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Leitner speaks to the press following the address to the CCA

Prime Minister Gabriel Leitner led a coalition of dozens of countries in voicing concern about alleged abuses in De Yuan's far southcentral Dengang region, and demanded that the Coalition of Crown Albatross rights chief publish a long-delayed report on the situation there. “We continue to be gravely concerned about the human rights situation in Dengang Pangchu Autonomous Region,” Prime Minister Leitner told the CCA Human Rights Council on Tuesday. Delivering a joint statement on behalf of 47 countries, Leitner pointed to a number of “credible reports” indicating that more than one million Pangchu and other Muslim minorities have been arbitrarily detained. Shanghan has admitted that there are camps but that they are “vocational skills training centres” and necessary to tackle “extremism”.

“There are reports of ongoing widespread surveillance, discrimination against Manda Pangchu and other persons belonging to minorities,” Leitner said. The joint statement also voiced concern about “reports of torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment, forced sterilisation, sexual and gender-based violence, forced labour, and forced separation of children from their parents by authorities”.

The concerned countries, Leitner said, “repeat our call on Yuan to urgently address these concerns”, and to “end the arbitrary detention of Muslim Manda Pangchu and persons belonging to other minorities”.

The group also called on Shanghan to provide CCA investigators and experts “meaningful and unfettered access” to independently observe the situation on the ground in Dengang. After months demanding “unfettered access” to Dengang, CCA Secretary-General Katherine von Wettin finally visited Yuan last month – the first visit by a CCA Chief to the country in 17 years. But she faced harsh criticism for not speaking up more forcefully against Yuan's alleged abuses prior to and during the trip, which is believed to have been heavily controlled by Yuaneze authorities. In Tuesday’s joint statement, the countries asked for “more detailed observations, including on the restrictions the Yuaneze authorities imposed on the visit” by von Wettin.

Yuan's Ambassador Shen Xiu reacted angrily to the joint statement, condemning the Shoassauan government and the other signatories for spreading what it said were “lies and rumours to attack Yuan”.

“We categorically reject these allegations,” he said, accusing the countries behind the statement of “hypocrisy” and “attempts to engage in political manipulation”.

He hailed von Wettin's visit, insisting it had “enhanced her understanding of Yuan's path of human rights development”.

Michaud Domme is the chief foreign commentator and journalist at L'Humanité De Shoassau.

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