2021: A Brave New Decade (IC)

by **Chewion** » Tue Oct 12, 2021 8:42 am

2021: A Brave New Decade

OOC||Map: Coming soon

The 2020s. A decade set to be nightmarish and a turning point in the history of humanity. Climate Change is the existential threat that must urgently be tackled in this decade, and humanity must learn to cope with the constantly growing population that does not look likely to slow down let alone stop growing anytime soon.

In Asia, the Chinese Dragon is emerging as the regional hegemon, pushing regional nations to choose sides between them and the West while internally the regime battles against resistance in Hong Kong and ethnic tension in the far West, while also pushing claims on Taiwan, stoking regional flames. In India, the nation is dealing with religious unrest and rapid economic growth and modernization as well as increasing tension along the border with Pakistan, particularly in the Kashmir Region. Japan has continued to cause consternation with its neighbors after proudly displaying the Rising Sun flag at the Tokyo Olympics.

In Europe, Euroskepticism is on the rise in many European nations. The successful Brexit referendum led to the charge showing Euroskeptics all across the continent that leaving was possible. In Spain regional tensions threaten to explode between Madrid and Barcelona while Poland and the Visegrad Group continue to openly defy the EU.

In the Middle East, tensions between Israel and Iran are at an all-time high. Adding to this is the emerging regional cold war between Saudi Arabia and Iran. In Yemen, the civil war still burns as a testing ground for this regional cold war.

In Africa, ethnic and religious tensions pose a danger all over the continent. In the Congo, warlords fight over land and resources like coltan offering fortunes on the international market. In the Saraha and Sahel regions, remnants of ISIS and other organizations ravage the land and people. Ethiopia and Egypt are at each other's throats over the construction of the Grand Renaissance Dam by Ethiopia. Yet there are lights of hope that still sparkle.

In North America, Canada is dealing with ever-increasing political divides much like the US to the South. Inside the US tensions between Republicans and Democrats have never seemed worse. In Mexico, the Cartels fight hard against the central government in Mexico City their corruption touches most parts of the nation.

In Latin America, the dictator Nicholas Maduro still clings to power even as his position is contested by Juan Guaidó. In Colombia, an unstable peace agreement official holds peace between the government and FARC.

How will the nations of the world tackle these issues? How will their pasts define their future, which nations will come out on top during this decade, and how will future generations remember this critical decade?

In this roleplay, you will take the helm of the nation of your choice. You have the ability to change the history of your nation from 1991 onwards within realism and with a few major event exceptions as well as anything states in the OP or other applications.

Major Unchangeable Events:

Fall of the USSR as a Communist state
Formation of the EU
9/11
08 Financial Crisis
Syrian Civil War starting
South China Sea Disputes
Brexit
Anything Mentioned in the OP.
CORONAVIRUS DID NOT HAPPEN IN THIS TIMELINE

Leadership:

OP: Chewion
Co-OPs: The Manticoran Empire

Rules:

IEC:

The IEC (International Entity Council) is comprised of the OP, Co-OPs, and anyone else accepted into it. The IEC is responsible for making the IEC post that includes multiple events and members can serve as an NPC nation in conferences so long as they do not have a direct interest in the negotiations.

by **The Manticoran Empire** » Wed Oct 13, 2021 12:20 pm

Statement of the American President on the US withdrawal from the Open Skies Treaty

Throughout history, war has been a constant worry. Every government in history has been forced to ask the question, “What is my neighbor doing? Where are their troops? What are their intentions?” For centuries, all anyone had to go on was guesswork and the word of spies. But guesswork is spotty at best and espionage is a dangerous field. So, at the height of the Cold War, with the threat of nuclear annihilation hanging over the world, the Open Skies Treaty was crafted. Though initially rejected, it was eventually agreed to and ratified in 1992. It ushered in an era of calm, allowing NATO and the Warsaw Pact to see what the other was doing without fear of reprisal. It allowed there to be certainty about intentions and actions.

Or it did, until my predecessor made a grave error. On the Twenty-second of November of 2020, the United States formally withdrew from the treaty. It was the last in a series of disastrous foreign policy moves made by my predecessor, a series of moves that have had lasting consequences. It is my intention to correct those errors and I will start with the Open Skies Treaty.

I am asking the USSR and the nations of NATO to forgive this lapse in judgement and I am asking the United States Congress to once again ratify the Open Skies Treaty. I ask this in the interest of continued cooperation with our NATO allies and continued peace and cooperation with the USSR.

I will also ask for the support of NATO and the USSR with expanding the membership of the Treaty. Continued peace and stability on an international level depends on access to information. Misunderstandings about the movements of military forces can and do lead to conflict and loss of life. In the interest of creating a better, more peaceful world for future generations, I encourage the nations of the world to consider ratification of this treaty. And I encourage all nations to pursue diplomacy and dialogue before resorting to rash measures.

by **NewLakotah** » Thu Oct 14, 2021 2:04 pm

Operation Barkhane

Northern Mali

The situation in Mali had been tense for some months. 4,000 French soldiers were stationed in Mali, the epicenter of French efforts in the Sahel region. Over 6,000 French soldiers and a number of other coalition partners were deployed across the region in an attempt to eliminate the last pockets of radical terrorist elements that persisted in the region. Talks between various African governments had been ongoing for some time now. Mainly between the relatively more stable governments of Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal to further military, economic, and political ties between them and France. France had increased their military presence in the region to act as stabilizers in case of terrorism and to relieve some pressure on the local military forces and to engage in close military training and cooperation to advance the abilities of the local African militaries with French expertise.

For General Pacal Facon, commander of French forces in Operation Barkhane, the situation was incredibly complex. Managing African politics and military affairs and now with this influx of economic aid packages flowing into the region, all the while dealing with a very active terror force in Mali was no cakewalk. Nonetheless there had been progress made. The economic package had seen real effects over the past 3 years and with French officials meeting with African leaders to both see if more economic cooperation could occur through La Francophonie or through a next-tier level of that organization that would see increased trade, political ties, and military ties in the region between France and their former colonies.

For now, that was not Facon’s issue to deal with. His issue was purely militarily. French forces had seen a new surge of nearly 500 troops since 2020 enter Mali, with a total of 1,000 more across the entire Sahel region. Facon had saw fit to distribute these troops to support, train and advise the local military forces as well as to force project deep into still hostile territory. The goal being to establish a larger number of smaller bases alongside Malian and other coalition partner forces in the region with French military forming the main thrust in these forward bases. Most of these were to be in the Northern Mali region, the region most friendly to the terrorist groups that had almost taken half the country before French intervention. These forward bases would also provide better access to on the ground intel to feed back to the French Air Force who could then launch better targeted airstrike against enemy positions. In all, the French Surge in the Sahel was now well underway.

On the civilian side of things, the money set aside for cooperating nations to invest into economic development, including infrastructure, as well as money to invest in creating a better security ring around the region has already been put to good use so far. Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal, and of course, Mali, had been some of the main recipients of this. Efforts were ongoing to expand French economic cooperation and trade between these former members of French Africa and France itself.

The actual plan was still in early stages of unfolding. The current mission was still quite simple. Education, infrastructure, corruption and violence were key factors in limiting the effectiveness of trade and development. By committing French troops to work alongside the to secure the region against radical terrorism as well as investing into an economic program that would increase trade and cooperation, the hope was that the region would move upwards, together with France alongside it. Ending the region’s long held standing as being a safe haven for terrorism and radicalism and promoting common trade between France and her former colonies would forge a stronger relationship and a better international position for them all in the future. For now, however, that end goal seemed far away. French forces were still engaged in active fighting across many countries in the region and were thinly spread. Still Blanchet had made things quite clear; France was committed fully to the security and development of the region.

TO: President Orlov of the Union of Soviet Sovereign Republics

FROM: President Jean-Pierre Blanchet of the French Republic

It would be our pleasure and in the interest of both of our nations to hold a summit to discuss our future and to discuss the future of Europe. We coordially invite you to visit Paris as soon as you are able to conduct a joint summit on the future of European and Soviet cooperation in Europe in economic, security terms, as well as creating a joint cause in the fight against climate change.

We eagerly await your reply

Sincerely,

Jean-Pierre Blanchet

President of the French Republic

US to rejoin Open Skies Treaty; French Foreign Minster applauds action

Under former President Donald Trump, the United States had exited the Open Skies Treaty, a treaty that bound NATO and Europe along with the USSR in a a treaty to share intelligence and to allow for better cooperation and less chances of misunderstandings between all of the world's powers.
In response Foreign Minister Jardin applauded the current US President Wilkerson on his statement to rejoin the Treaty saying, "This treaty is designed to create better and more healthy forms of communication between all nations. We are glad to welcome back the United States to the treaty and endorse his proposal as a NATO ally to expand the Treaty further, to foster a better environment for cooperation and peace."

by **Chewion** » Thu Oct 14, 2021 4:34 pm

Domestic Affairs

The Kremlin, Moscow, USSR
January 20th, 2021
8 PM MST

President Orlov sat in his Kremlin office watching the flat-screen TV as nearly 5 thousand miles away the new US President was being sworn in. Having just been sworn in himself only ten days prior, Orlov now hoped that he would be able to work well with his new American counterpart, but for now, his focus was on a more domestic matter.

Just then one of the phones on his desk started to ring. Answering it, Orlov listened as the voice on the other end informed him that they were ready for him in the Kremlin Situation Management Room. Normally the Soviet President would handle these matters at the National Defense Management Center at the Ministry of Defense but Orlov had felt that traveling there and back would be nothing more than a waste of time.

Karshi-Khanabad Air Base, Karshi, Uzebekistan SSR
January 20th, 2021
8:05 PM MST (10:05 Local Time)

Sitting on the runway of Karshi-Khanabad Air Base, a dark and winged silhouette sat as a few Soviet Airmen did a final check over the vehicle before giving a thumbs up and walking away and back to the control room. A moment later the engines of the Sokol Altius started up before it slowly crept started down the runway before picking up speed and lifting gently into the dark skies before banking South, a direction it would stay for a little longer than an hour.

Near Lashkargah, Helmand Province, Afghanistan
9:20 PM MST

High up in the sky, the Altius scanned the road below. Back in the USSR, a Soviet pilot sat comfortably as he gently guided the Altius through the air and kept a diligent eye on his screen. Finally, he found what he was looking for, a convoy of three pickup trucks heading away from Lashkargah. HUMINT had pegged this group as several of the higher-ups in the Helmand province’s Taliban that the coalition had been seeking for some time now. A clear priority for elimination.

Checking with the information he had on the target, and feeling certain that it was the target, the pilot turned over his shoulder and asked his CO to confirm. After a few minutes and one last call to higher-ups, the CO gave a thumbs up before the pilot calmly took a breath and pressed the trigger.

Moments later, on the ground in Helmand Province, a single, jarring explosion erupted where three trucks had once been.

International Affairs

January 22nd, 2021

President Orlov sat at his desk reading over the after-action reports from the Altius test. So far all tests had come back positive for the UAV and Orlov hoped that it would be fully operational in the armed forces relatively soon. However, the President now turned his attention to a letter that had come in during the night from the new American President, inviting Orlov to a meeting in Washington D.C.

Perhaps this one will be serious about the commitments his nation made. Orlov thought and, truly, hoped for.

Picking up his phone, Orlov to his executive secretary to send back a reply gladly accepting the American's invitation and expressing hope for continuing and growing warm relations between the two nations. Now, with that over with, another pending letter needed the President's approval before sending.

To: President Miloš Zeman
From: President Vasily Orlov

Greetings my friend,

I write you today in order to extend an invitation to you to attend a bilateral meeting in Moscow. I believe that both our nations share a long history and relationship and it is one that I am keen on making even warmer and mutually beneficial. I believe that there are many areas in which we can benefit each other and, through us, the wider European and World community.

Sincerely,

President Vasily Orlov

To: President Roland Wilkerson
From: President Vasily Orlov

Greetings my friend,

I want to congratulate you and extend a warm hand of friendship. First, let me congratulate you on your inauguration and wish to extend to you an invitation to meet with me in Moscow and sincerely hope that we can forge a warm and close relationship between our nations. I greatly look forward to your response and discussing the various matters at hand.

Sincerely,

President Vasily Orlov

To: President Jean-Pierre Blanchet
From: President Vasily Orlov

It would be my honor to visit and meet with you in Paris in the coming weeks. I believe that there is much for our nations to discuss and ways in which our people, Europe, and the wider world can benefit from these discussions and cooperation.

Sincerely,

President Vasily Orlov

by **Hypron** » Thu Oct 14, 2021 5:35 pm

December 31, 2020, Chitose AFB, Chitose, Japan

"Vector 7, this is Chitose ATC, begin test of AAM-4 TDR. Drone-controlled F-2 taking off now from Misawa AFB. Goal is takedown of target. Weapons hot." "This is Vector 7, engaging target. beginning test run." Lt. Colonel Moriyama Keiichi of the 201st Tactical Fighter Squadron has been scrambled early in the day to test a Japanese long-range modification to the AAM-4 medium-range AAM. Other than the one AAM-4 TDM, he is carrying a standard loadout for a F-15J Kai on a intercept run.

Vector 7, this is AWACS Sunrise, we will be guiding you in the air for the duration of the test. Keep current heading South until given further instructions." "Roger, Sunrise, keeping course and awaiting further instructions." After about 3 minutes of waiting, a radar contact gets detected at 85 km. "Sunrise, Vector 7 here, I have a bogey 85 kilometers south of our position, is that the mission target?" "Vector 7, this is Sunrise, bogey is target F-2 hostile, extend to 125 kilometers and engage from max range, we will keep target illuminated. "Roger, opening to 125 and then committing to intercept."

After extending the range, he locks on with the first live-fire test prototype of the missile. "Sunrise, Vector 7, target locked, ready to fire." "Vector 7, intercept at will." "Vector 7, fox 3." The missile fires from underneath the aircraft. After about a minute of flight time, the missile detonates the F-2, due for retirement due to age but found a better purpose. Vector 7, target splashed, return to home plate" "Roger, RTB."

January 1, 2021, Japanese Ministry of Defense, Shinjuku City, Tokyo, Japan

Minister of Defense of Japan Nobuo Kishi was finishing up his defense spending report to be presented to the Prime Minister later in the morning. "New training opening up, the ordering of the final phase of the 2014 Naval Expansion Program, the development of the AAM-4 TDM project, with the first prototype tested successfully earlier this morning, and the ordering of 20 more F-15J Kai fighters from Mitsubishi. Alright, I think that will just about do it." "Sir, your due to be in the Prime Minister's official residence in 30 minutes." "Oh yes, I must be going."

Prime Minister's Personal Residence, Tokyo, Japan

There was a quiet among most of the residence. But, in the main cabinet room, the cabinet of Prime Minister Taro Kono was assembled to hand over budget reports for FY2021. Overall, the Prime Minister had nothing to complain about in the nearly 2 hour meeting, with most of the budget changes for FY 2021 being minor expense hikes that can be afforded. However the last to go was the Minister of Defense.

"Mr. Kishi, what you are suggesting is increasing the FY2021 defense budget to 7 trillion yen. While we can afford this, Mr. Motegi has raised a interesting point. Japan already has bad relations with most of our neighbors, and our only allies are to the east. Expanding the defense budget will alienate us from the rest of the continent, and with a ever-growing China, alienating ourselves from what few allies we might can already have is a terrible idea." "But sir, all the budget calls for is expanding our missile defense capabilities, overhauling our AAM capabilities until the JNAAM can be released, expanding the JASDF by purchasing more modern aircraft, and finishing the 2014 Naval Expansion Program. This budget is necessary in order to counter the expansionism of the Chinese Communist Party by overhauling our defensive capabilities, while not breaking the Constitution."

"Hmmm, alright, I guess I can authorize these budgets for the 2021 fiscal year. But, if any of these projects fail in any way, Mr. Kishi, it will be on your head. Dismissed, go back to your jobs."

by **American Pere Housh** » Thu Oct 14, 2021 7:39 pm

Seoul,South Korea
President's Office

President Kim Gi-hyeon is reading his messages on his IPhone 12 after finishing up his paperwork for the day. One of the things he noticed was Japan's proposed increase in their defense budget. Kim would have to notify the Japanese government that his government will not oppose any increase in their defense budget. He would be hypocritical if he opposed the raise since South Korea has been steadily increasing their budget since the North set off its first nuclear bomb and because of the growing threat from China. Ever since 1991, South Korea has been steadily decreasing its trade with China and steadily increasing its trade with the US, Taiwan, Vietnam, Europe and Japan to where they are South Korea's 5 top major trading partners with China falling to only 2% of SK's trade.

Kim sees that the United States has decided to rejoin the Open Skies Treaty and is pleased about it. He wonders if South Korea should ratify the treaty but decided to deal with it at a later time. On Afghanistan, Kim has read reports of a possible offensive by the Taliban so if the reports are true, he would need to inform Presidents Orlov, Wilkerson and the other leaders of the NATO alliance.

To President Orlov of the USSR
From President Kim Gi-hyeon of South Korea
Encryption: Military Top Secret

To whom it may concern,

It has come to my attention from intelligence sources inside Afghanistan that the Taliban is plotting a major offensive that could begin as early as May. As South Korea is one of several nations that has a large contingent of troops in Afghanistan with 15,000, we thought you should be notified and we will also be notifying President Wilkerson as well. I ask that we meet at a place of your choosing so we may discuss the situation.

To President Wilkerson of the United States
From President Kim Gi-hyeon of South Korea
Encryption: Top Secret

To whom it may concern,

It has come to my attention from intelligence sources inside Afghanistan that the Taliban is plotting a major offensive that could begin as early as May. As South Korea is one of several nations that has a large contingent of troops in Afghanistan with 15,000, we thought you should be notified and we will also be notifying President Orlov as well. I have asked President Orlov for a meeting and I invite you to said meeting.

by **Arvenia** » Thu Oct 14, 2021 8:58 pm

To: Union of Soviet Sovereign Republics
From: Czechoslovak Federative Republic
Subject: Bilateralism
Encryption: High
Dear President Vasily Orlov, I thank you for extending an invitation to me to attend a bilateral meeting in your country. Even though our countries share a long history and relationship, my country is more aligned with NATO and had been affected by communist rule. However, there is hope that our relations would remain strong and that we can benefit each other. We hope for peace between West and East. I will look forward our meeting.

Sincerely, President Miloš Zeman

To: United States of America
From: Czechoslovak Federative Republic
Subject: Congratulation
Encryption: Low
Dear President Roland Wilkerson, I congratulate you on your inauguration. I sincerely hope we can forge a much stronger relationship between our countries, both diplomatically and economically. I will look forward your presidency. I also congratulate you on bringing your country back into the Open Skies Treaty.

Sincerely, Prime Minister Václav Horák

by **Mifan** » Fri Oct 15, 2021 11:32 am

Somewhere in Iraq

The militia looked out at the convoy that was heading down the road. They didn't know the destination, not that it mattered to them. They were here to ambush the convoy and take whatever supplies they could carry. They were all on the ground, waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike. Their officers, members of the Quds Force, waiting to give the order. They trained these men, armed them, and they weren't going to just throw them away in a reckless attack if it could be avoided.

The convoy continued down the road, and one of the Iranian Officers gave the order. An RPG was fired, aimed at the lead vehicle. The shot missed, 50 meters to the right of the convoy. Another RPG was fired, hitting the vehicle behind it, causing an explosion which killed the occupants and stopped the rest of the convoy.

Iraqi troops jumped out of their vehicles and returned fire in the direction of the RPGs; the militia fired in kind. The Iraqi soldiers fought like lions. They couldn't risk getting back in their vehicles, for fear of more RPGs. However, even with their fierce fighting, they didn't realize that they were being flanked. They were only fighting part of the militia, while the rest waited on the other side of the road, silent, waiting to strike. When they were ordered to attack, they struck hard.

The firefight lasted for 15 minutes. The Iraqis had either surrendered, fled, or died. While the group looted the dead and vehicles for supplies, some asked about what they'd do with the soldiers.

"Kill them." The Officers turned and began to leave, the sound of pleading and gunshots being all that's left.

Iran-Afghanistan Border

Ever since the Invasion of Afghanistan, thousands of refugees had fled the nation for safety, with Iran being one of the nations chosen. The influx of refugees over the years caused tensions between the two nations, as refugees had a hard time gaining citizenship and were restricted in the areas they were allowed to travel to.

In the eyes of Iranian citizens, while it was sad these people were being forced out of their home due to the West and Soviets occupying their homes, they no longer wished to pay for the cost of these people. Thousands of refugees had been deported over the years, but even then, it still wasn't enough. Many wished the government had done what Pakistan did, build a massive fortified border in order to curb the flow of refugees. Even though there were few border crossings, there were still ways for people to go around.

Border Guards began to turn away refugees; not wishing to strain Iran even more. Requests were sent to Iran for the construction of a fortified border in order to stop the flow of refugees, but the request was denied, as the resources, for such a fortified border, had been allocated for the Iraq border. Refugees would also be able to go through Turkmenistan and enter the nation through that border, making any fortified border, moot. Tehran didn't wish to waste resources on such a thing. However, the guards were told, across the border, they can use any means necessary to keep refugees out of the nation.

Headquarters of the Armed Forces, Tehran, Iran

Within the military's headquarters, a meeting was being held. Ever since 2010, the military has reformed itself to operate on more of a brigade level, instead of a division one. However, even with brigades being used much more, there was still some issues that had to be hashed out. Within the military, there were numerous armored divisions and brigades, however, most didn't have the needed amount of armored capabilities to actually qualify as an armored unit. The only unit within the military with enough armor to be worthy of the name was the elite 92nd Armored Division.

The question was whether the Division should be expanded to 25,000 men, broken into five brigades, or downsized in order to allow other units to receive more equipment. Expanding it would pretty much be putting most armored equipment in one unit, which would limit flexibility across the entire military, but would allow for the Division to pack more of a punch than ever.

On the other hand, spreading out the equipment, would allow for other units to operate in a much more efficient manner.

After many hours, it was decided to expand the 92nd, as it would be cheaper to outfit one full division and easier for logistics. The 92nd was also the main division that would handle much of the fighting against Iraq if another war was to start. With much of Iran being mountainous, the 92nd would need to use the flat terrain of South Western Iran, as well as the flat terrain of Iraq, to spearhead an offensive when the time comes. Having the unit full of armor would ensure it could breakthrough any Iraqi defense.

Nuclear Facility, Iran

As cars drove in and out of the facility, guards, heavily armed, checked each vehicle and occupant carefully. This was the case at many nuclear facilities. Many in the world assume that Iran is enriching uranium in order to create a Nuclear Weapon. They'd be right, but Iran would never come out officially and say such a thing. The government does want a nuclear weapon, especially with Iraq on the border, but the use of Nuclear Power, in general, is extremely beneficial.

Oil wouldn't be profitable forever, and with Saudi Arabia and other oil producing states, effectively having complete control over the price of oil, Iran needs to replace oil with something else in order to survive. While the huge natural gas reserves would help, sanctions, from nations of the world, make it difficult for the nation to profit.

So, nuclear energy was the answer. While the government continues to look for ways to diversify the economy, Iran, itself, shall become less reliant on fossil fuels to power the nation. Nuclear Power would bring the energy needed for the nation to live, as well as the military means to protect Iran from foreign aggressors.

by **NewLakotah** » Wed Oct 20, 2021 5:01 pm

Paris, France

It had been rainy virtually all day and it hadn’t let up as the large airplane rolled up along the runway. This hadn’t kept the press or the entourage to greet it at bay in the slightest. The military had maintained a strong presence at the scene, coordinating security with the local and national police. Overhead, 4 Raphales had escorted the Russian aircraft into landing and buzzed around at a fair distance overhead. On the ground, the gendarmerie and other security forces had secured the terminal and the runway. Of course, the Honour Guard was on the scene, alongside a throng of the most important political figures in France. The President, Blanchet, standing tall and at the front watched as the President of the USSR, Vasily Orlov stepped down alongside his own entourage of important Soviet figures and his own personal security force.

Alongside the President was the Foreign Minister Antoine-Baptiste Jardin, a short rather unkempt looking man in his mid-forties. Blanchet heard the sound of dozens of camera shutters clacking away behind him as President Orlov made his way down the steps to where the French Guarde was standing ready to receive him in grandeur fashion. Orlov smiled for the media as he made his way down towards Blanchet, who, for his part, was keeping his front-page ready smile plastered onto his face, regardless of the discomfort it might be making him feel. The media was a fickle and foul beast at times. One wrong picture of a grimace at the Soviet President or of him looking a fool in front of him and they would have a field day. Not just in French media, but in media across the globe. For this was no ordinary state meeting.

At least, Blanchet hoped that it wouldn’t be. He hoped it would spell a different tune, one that held the future, in many ways, in a balance. France and Europe were looking desperately to escape the American and British joint shadow that had cast over the continent since the end of the Second World War. While there was certainly no great love for the great power to the east, at the very least it was, formally, a European nation. With Britain out of the European Union and America preoccupied with Afghanistan and Asia, now seemed as good a time as any for France and Europe to engage their long rival to the east. It may be mercenary to play the two great powers in the world, who had long dominated European politics, against each other for personal and private European gain. But it was, however, merely politics.

Orlov had by now reached Blanchet, who stuck out his hand and gripped the Soviet leader’s hand in a strong handshake.

“Mr. President. It is an honour to welcome you to Paris.”

Orlov returned the strong handshake as he replied in fluent French “It is an honor to be here, Mr. President. I hope that this meeting between us is greatly beneficial.”

“I hope the same.” Blanchet replied.

Blanchet smiled as they stopped together to pose as the the media picture frenzy hit a fever pitch as the two of them shook hands. After the moment’s pause they were led by members of the security force. Jardin extended his hand as well

“Foreign Minister Antoine-Baptiste Jardin, Mr. President. You are most welcome.” He said. Within moments the entourages were back on the move, moving to the line of cars that would escort the entire ensemble to the meeting location in the heart of Paris.

Palais de l'Élysée
Paris, France

The media was escorted out after their photographs had been taken thousands of times as the two Presidents smiled together as they shook hands, each standing in front of their seats placed just opposite of each other. Now, however, it was time for business. Blanchet motioned for Orlov to take a seat as he moved to take his. Jardin and the rest of the President’s staff also moved to take their seats, sitting somewhat back from the duo.

“Well, President Orlov. As I said, thank you for making time to visit Paris. Now, however, we shall get down to business, yes?” He said, his forced smile fading into less a photograph-worthy one into a more honest one.

“Perhaps I should begin. We stand on the precipice of a new era, I feel. And I feel that tensions between Europe, particularly France, and the USSR have never been, shall we say, good.” He chuckled softly before continuing. “But I do believe that there is a place and time for cooperation between us and yourself, I hope that you agree.”

Orlov returned a polite smile as he said “It is my pleasure to be here, thank you for the invitation. To your point, I wholeheartedly agree. It’s been my long standing position that the USSR and EU, France in particular, only have things to gain from increased cooperation. To that end, I would like to offer our assistance in your Operation Barkhane. I am willing to commit an initial 2,500 ground troops and additional air support.”

Blanchet nodded. “I believe we can reach an agreement on Soviet military support for our operation, as long as they fulfill the general interests and abide by our ROE of the mission in North Africa. So to that end, I believe we have an agreement. Moreover, I believe it is very possible to increase cooperation between our economies and beyond. Cooperation between our space agencies should also be an equal point of joint cooperation. On the economic side, I believe we can find suitable ground for economic engagement that supports Green energy and Green industries to encourage cooperation across the European Continent.”

“What would the details of that green cooperation look like?” Orlov asked.

“It would mean a reduction, or an elimination, of trade restrictions and barriers for green energy and industries that are working to reduce carbon impact. Carbon capture and storage, green tech, and energy platforms between the EU and USSR. The USSR has a powerful manufacturing base, as does large parts of France and the EU. Together, they can expand their reach, impacting millions of new customers and creating a new platform for reducing waste and working to control climate change and its impact through trade.”

“Very well. I think that is something we can come to an agreement on. I would also like to propose that the EU and USSR agree to build at least one more natural gas pipeline. Ensures that Europe gets its energy needs while transporting it via one of the safest methods possible. I do understand that you can’t unilaterally do this but I would like to have your voice supporting such an idea.” Orlov said before taking a sip of water.

Blanchet nodded. “I don’t think such a proposal would be rejected by the EU. While France would not benefit directly, the EU would generally benefit. We are willing to commit our support.”

“Very well, it is appreciated. Now, I wanted to bring up one other defense matter. The USSR would be interested in loaning naval base space from you on Reunion Island. Presuming of course you were ok with that, the main use would be a refueling and resupply station for our navy.” Orlov said.

“ I suppose…” Blanchet said slowly. “That can be allowed on a limited basis.”

“More likely than not we would only have ships docked on a temporary basis. The main presence would be soldiers dealing with supplies and fuel etc. Now I want to bring up space cooperation, I believe that we can both greatly benefit from working together and perhaps even moving towards a new, bigger, better international space station that can serve as a world hub for travel to the moon and beyond.” Orlov said using his hands to describe the space station.

“A limited permanent presence, with no armed military force minus the ships, can be arranged. On space I fully agree. Only together can we progress. I believe we should make a joint statement with the goal to land a person on Mars.”

“Very well. I think the last area I wanted to discuss was Iran. Our intelligence services strongly believe that they are working towards a nuclear weapon. This is something the USSR can not allow. I wanted to know where France, and if possible the EU as a whole, stood on this matter.” Orlov said with the true concern evident in his voice.

“Generally speaking, France and Europe stand against more nuclearization of the world. Denuclearization should be a priority in this century, to say the least. Though I am sure you have a much stronger voice when it comes to Iran, since you are far closer allies than we are in the West. Hopefully we can manage to find a solution to prevent an arms race from Israel or Iran because of this.” Blanchet replied.

“The USSR and Iran have drifted greatly since the communist era. Our Supreme Soviet refuses to allow them arms sales even. The reason I am telling you this, and I trust in your ability to keep this confidentiality, is because I see a very likely scenario in the not too distant future that will require direct intervention on our behalf to ensure a nuke is not developed on our borders. I do not want this, but again, I will not allow a nuclear Iran.” Orlov said.

“I agree though I don’t believe rash action is likely to have any good outcomes. Hopefully a peaceful solution can be found through direct dialogue with the Iranian government.

“That is my preference as well. Which is why I am strongly considering hosting a summit in the USSR over the issue. If such a summit were to occur, I would like you to attend. I believe you can act as a more neutral voice of reason in the room.”

Blanchet nodded. “Should Iran be willing to come to the table, we are more than willing to participate to ensure a more peaceful situation in the Middle East.”

“Very well. With that, is there anything else you wish to discuss?” Orlov asked.

Banchet shook his head. “No, but I am sure we will have plenty to discuss in the future. Hopefully we can continue to grow our relationship between East and Western Europe.”

Orlov smiled as they both stood. “Thank you, I hope so as well.”

The two men exited the room together as the assembled media gathered together to photograph them one more time as they stood in front of the flags of the USSR, France and the European Union in between the two.

Blanchet smiled as the two stood shaking hands one more time. Blanchet though for a phrase that he hoped would resonate with the media and would stick on the front pages of his country and the international community’s media.

“Today is a good day for peace and unity!”

by **Arvenia** » Thu Oct 21, 2021 1:54 pm

Lidové Noviny
January 22, 2021

Crackdown on Streaming Dominance
CZECHOSLOVAKIA - Due to streaming services becoming more common, traditional television and cinema have been seeing a large decrease in views and ratings. To combat this, the Czechoslovak coalition government will be cracking down on streaming services, but not in an authoritarian manner. Rather, this crackdown only seeks to keep television and cinema alive, while subjecting streaming services to strict regulations. Aside from a decrease in TV and movie ratings, the biggest concern in regards to streaming is the apparent expensive subscription fees. Thus, the government seeks to force streaming services to lower their subscription fees in Czechoslovakia, as well as prevent upcoming movies from premiering on those services, mostly to allow said movies to first be shown at Czechoslovak movie theatres before they appear on streaming services. Also, the government seeks to have most Czechoslovak entertainment excluded from streaming services so that said entertainment could be shown on Czechoslovak television. The government has stated that Czechoslovakia has "yet to be prepared for the future". The government has planned to make a legislation that will be focused on this "benevolent crackdown" in order to save traditional media from an "uncertain future".

Anti-Government Protests Erupts in Prague
PRAGUE - While the government is focused on its streaming legislation, anti-government protests have erupted in Prague, mainly directed at the Action of Dissatisfied Citizens (ANO), which is part of the current coalition government. The protesters have accused both the party and its subsidiaries of corruption. They demand that ANO must be removed from the coalition government and that its leadership should be facing corruption charges. They claim that ANO is slowly destabilizing Czechoslovakia through both political and economic corruption. They said it is due to Andrej Babiš, the head of ANO, being the country's current Finance Minister, which had enabled him to cause such corruption to happen in the first place. The protests have largely been organized by various opposition parties and grassroots movements. Andrej has denounced the claims as being false and slanderous. Currently, the protesters have been clashing with both law enforcement and ANO supporters.

by **The Felan Federation** » Wed Oct 27, 2021 4:46 pm

Democratic People's Republic of Korea

Change in North Korea

It has been nearly several months, since North Korea' leader Kim Jong-un had been seen in public or the Korean Central News Agency had broadcasted or published anything of substantial effort - all that the Global World would hear was the same thing as always. 'Everything is fine' or 'our glorious soldiers are engaging in battlefield exercises in Region X, Y or Z'. Although, despite this explanation there had been several conflicting reports delivered by several different reporters from the KCNA. Some of them reporting on how the Supreme Leader was doing fine, was occupied, touring the nation or overseeing military affairs. All of them switching between them, he or she - leading some outside observers thinking that there might be brewing some civil discontent. Considering that there was signs, sounds and even some pictures taken from space of demolished and destroyed buildings, vehicles and soldiers of the KPA fighting against other units in similar equipment. Some of them...didn't get back up or were removed, after said 'mock' battle was over.

However, on this day in particular, a date which would go down in history - was when KCNA tuned in and looking their 'chipper' attitude as always, before things went directly to the office of the Supreme Leader. Whom wasn't Kim Jong-un, but his sister Kim Yo-jong instead. The months of silence and misdirection had come to an end, as the woman in question would soon begin speaking in the tone and mannerism common in North Korea. In this in particular, she was explaining in quite detail what had happened in the months since the disappearance of Kim Jong-un: how the 'rebel' leadership had poisoned their 'great leader and her brother', on how the man known as Kim Pyong-il was in the heart of the matter. Namely, it went into the usual communist rhetoric - describing how several military officials had agitated up their dislike on her succession, how they had attempted to put a murder as leader of their great nation and how thanks to the 'bravery and sacrifice' of their men whom remained loyal to her and her people, they had emerged victorious and how the rebels would be punished according to the law.

Although - instead of stopping there and continuing the common attitude that was 'accepted' about North Korea, she would continue on. As the woman spoke on how she would be taking over things and planning several 'reforms and changes' in the upcoming months for her people and for her nation. Instead of offering small concessions and minute differences - she started out things with a literal bombshell.

"...our nation has been robbed. It has been sucked dry. It has been betrayed by those...whom had gotten everything and gave us nothing! The policy of Songun...has ruined our way of life, our culture, our economy. The months have proven, that we can not trust completely in them to have our best interests. It's time...we end the policy of Songun. It's time for a new policy...a New Juche, a new way...that will not force us to abandon everything for someone whom will betray us in the end..."

In short detail, Kim was explaining how she planned on reducing the affairs and controls the military had over the state. Reduction in the size of their armed forces and how she planned on reforming the Korean People's Army into an organization meant to protect the people and not serve their own interest. Beyond the rhetoric, which utilized the 'military rebel elite' as the scapegoats for all of the issues, corruption and problems that had plagued North Korea - the biggest point was her promise to reduce military spending and see to it, that new hardware would be developed, bought or built and that the people would see an improvement in the lives that had been 'stolen by the military elite'.

Afterwards, she began to explain HOW such policies would work in practice - words that would completely shatter the belief that had been held about the North Koreans. As her 'New Juche' policy wished for a détente with the West - primarily with South Korea, Japan and especially the United States of America. "...it's time...we end this...conflict. While we...the people of North Korea...shall always seek to be self-reliant, continue social progress and attempt to achieve our dreams...it's better done as friends...rather than enemies with the West. As a gesture of good faith...I hereby declare...that within a week up to three weeks...ALL foreign nationals, soldiers and other members of foreign agencies...are hereby granted amnesty by my word and deed and shall be allowed to return to their homelands. For America themselves...I hereby grant them leave to come and collect their dead and lost that have remained within our care since the end of the Korean War..."

Upon speaking such words, she would continue on - how the speed and extradition would now rely upon the actions of the foreign countries, and how soon they wanted their people back - as she explained her desires to improve trade and exchange with the West while continuing their ideals of self-reliance or New Juche. Meaning that while she was willing to open up trade, tourism and travel - she was doing things in a very 'Chinese' way that ensured that control would rest with the state, but foreign investment and companies would be soon welcome inside North Korea.

All the while - she would speak directly, words that would change the situation in the world completely. As Kim Yo-jong would explain in detail - how in the interest of cooperation and ensuring world peace would seek to end the hostilities that have kept North Korea isolated from the world and thus she would seek a mutual protection and cooperation scheme...in exchange for North Korea surrendering their nuclear program. The first time, since the foundation of the government had North Korea itself offered up an olive branch to the world - instead of demanding one themselves.

"...that is all...goodwill to us all..."

by **New Provenance** » Thu Oct 28, 2021 1:36 am

South China Morning Post
January 20, 2021

PARAMOUNT LEADER LI KEQIANG CONGRATULATES NEWLY INAUGURATED U.S. PRESIDENT, TALKS OF HOPE FOR CLOSER TIES

BEIJING, JAN. 20 - Paramount Leader and General Secretary of the Communist Party Li Keqiang spoke before reporters from SCMP and other major Chinese news outlets where he congratulated U.S. President Roland Wilkerson on his election victory last November and his inauguration earlier that same day. While President Keqiang has expressed numerous times his dissatisfaction with the failure of a Democratic candidate to win the 2020 presidential elections, he nonetheless congratulated the New Federalist candidate on his victory and expressed his 'strong and firm hope' for closer US-China ties as the world walks into the new decade.

During his press conference to reporters, the Paramount Leader mentioned the South China Sea disputes and the growing US-China trade war, but stated that he believed that 'common ground between the state and America can be found with relative ease'. He glossed over more controversial topics the US was critical of like Taiwan and Hong Kong, and refused to answer questions from reporters on it. When asked why he refused to comment on the two issues, the Paramount Leader simply asked, 'are we talking about Hong Kong SAR or the election of President Wilkerson?'

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi also delivered his congratulations to the newly-inaugurated President Wilkerson and called for closer US-China relations, mimicking the same statements the Paramount Leader had made in his press conference mere hours earlier, and hinted at the possibility of China proposing a bilateral diplomatic meeting between the United States and China before the end of 2021.

STANDING COMMITTEE OF THE NATIONAL PEOPLE'S CONGRESS PREPARES FOR ANNUAL ADDRESS BY THE PARAMOUNT LEADER

BEIJING, JAN 20 - The 175-member Standing Committee of the National People's Congress serves as the Chinese legislature's upper house and acts similarly to the entire United States Congress, as it has the ability to pass, repeal, draft, and design laws without the consent or support of the lower house, the National People's Congress. The Standing Committee is responsible for electing a new General Secretary and Paramount Leader for the People's Republic of China, and most recently assembled from December 4 to December 9, 2020, to discuss the victory of then-President-elect Roland Wilkerson of the New Federalist Party. The Standing Committee gave Wilkerson a classified rating, which designated whether or not the Chinese government saw him has friendly, neutral, or hostile.

On January 20th, the Office of His Excellency the Paramount Leader of the People's Republic of China released a formal statement to the public wherein it was declared that the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress would be assembling in the Great Hall of the People, the Chinese legislative building in Tiananmen Square. The Standing Committee, according to the statement by Paramount Leader Li Keqiang, will be assembling in Beijing for the annual address to the nation by the Paramount Leader, wherein the head of state details in length the achievements of the Party and the state in the past year, and outlines the plan for the next year.

The Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee have already arrived in Beijing, with the full Committee expected to arrive by January 24, ahead of the Paramount Leader's highly anticipated annual national address on January 28, 2021, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

by **New Provenance** » Thu Oct 28, 2021 11:15 am

South China Morning Post
January 25, 2021

NATIONAL PEOPLE'S CONGRESS STANDING COMMITTEE PASSES RESOLUTION ON NORTH KOREA FOLLOWING RECENT LEADERSHIP CHANGES

BEIJING, JAN. 25 - After the convention of a special session of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, Paramount Leader Li Keqiang announced via television that the upper house of the Chinese legislature had passed a 'Resolution on the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, January 24', announcing China's stance on recent leadership changes in North Korea and addressing the possibility of Korean reunification 'under the command of Seoul', which the Paramount Leader rejected as 'implausible and against the interests of world peace'.

The resolution formally invited Kim Yo-Jong, the presumptive Supreme Leader of North Korea, to talks in Beijing with the Paramount Leader and other officials amidst what seemed to be the aftermath of a brief power struggle between the late Kim Jong-Un and some of his top military commanders, who had attempted to rebel against him. The document affirmed the strong Beijing-Pyongyang relationship and the trust between the two countries 'which has stood and will forever stand the test of time and tension'. It asserted that while détente with the West was welcomed, China was always there if North Korea needed assistance, whether it be physical or financial.

The resolution, however, also 'fully and utterly' rejected Korean reunification 'under Seoul's undemocratic and unfit government' as 'absolutely implausible' and 'against the interests of North Korea, China, and world peace'. The Paramount Leader also supplemented this at a speech he gave in Shanghai today, the day after the Standing Committee of the NPC had passed the resolution on North Korea. During the speech, Paramount Leader Li Keqiang pledged China's full support for Kim Yo-Jong's regime and recognized her as the sovereign head of state of the DPRK. He also affirmed that China was and would always be there if North Korea ever needed assistance, and stated that China was ready to ship $25 million worth of food and supplies into the country as the rumors of a widespread move closer to closer to reality, as a 'gift to the newly elected government of the DPRK'.

President Keqiang repeatedly asserted that China 'could not and cannot accept' a reunification of the Korean peninsula 'under Seoul's government', and stated that it wished for North Korea 'to remain fully sovereign and independent, as a free nation working for its peoples and citizens, towards a better future for themselves and the world'. Keqiang's speech also touched over North Korea's proposal to surrender its nuclear arsenal in exchange for a mutual protection and cooperation scheme, which he and the Foreign Ministry would denounce as it 'gave up North Korea's means of national defense and protection'.

While the Paramount Leader continued to urge détente between the DPRK and the West, the surrendering of nuclear weapons by North Korea just seemed implausible to the People's Republic of China, since it could mean the demise of the communist regime and the moving of the pro-Western South Korea to the Chinese border, threatening Beijing's interests and regional security as a whole.

by **The Manticoran Empire** » Thu Oct 28, 2021 5:38 pm

NATIONAL
DAILY
NEWS

Volume 40, Issue 1
January 2021

News

North Korean Leadership change makes Korean Unification possible, PRC announces opposition.

Peter Thoroughgood, AP

Seoul--The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, most commonly known in the West as North Korea, has released an official statement regarding the several months of unrest and military movement at the end of last year. According to North Korean state media, Kim Jong-un passed away at some point last year, alleging the former Supreme Leader had been poisoned by rebellious generals who then attempted a coup. Kim Jong-un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, appeared on state media, explaining the short-lived civil war and the consequences for the arrested conspirators. Towards the end of her address, however, Kim Yo-jong made a surprising announcement.

According to new Supreme Leader Kim Yo-jong, the North Korean government would unilaterally reduce military spending, decrease the size of its armed forces, grant amnesty to foreign nationals and operatives held within North Korea, and grant the United States leave to collect war dead and missing from the Korean War. Furthermore, the North Korean government would begin a gradual liberalization of the economy, described as similar to the Chinese liberalization policies of the 1980s and 1990s. Towards the end of her statement, Kim Yo-jong made a truly historic proposal. North Korea would cease its nuclear program and dismantle its nuclear arsenal in exchange for a program of mutual protection and cooperation “with the world”. It is believed by many analysts that the specific target of that offer is the leadership of South Korea, a nation that has lived under the spectre of North Korean aggression since 1950. However, Kim Yo-jong also mentioned the United States and Japan, indicating a historic willingness to engage in multilateral peace negotiations, negotiations initiated by the North Korean Government.

But while the North Korean Government has expressed a historic willingness to reduce tensions and encourage cooperation and trade, the People’s Republic of China has taken a different stance. In a session of the National People’s Congress Standing Committee on the 25th, the Chinese Government provided their stance on the Korean situation. While the NPCSC applauded the North Korean move towards detente and offered political and financial support during the troubled times ahead, they also stated that unification of the two Koreas would be “against the interests of North Korea, China, and world peace”. Among the NPCSC’s reasons were allegations that the South Korean government was “undemocratic and unfit” to play a leadership role in a unified Korea.

Several analysts have disputed the Chinese position, arguing that a unified Korea would help stabilize the region by removing one of the most volatile borders in the world as a potential conflict zone. Others have argued a reunified Korea is feared by the Chinese Government as it would refuse Beijing’s influence. Most analysts have pointed to surveys such as the Democracy Index, an index which examines how citizens of a nation feel about their level of freedom and political involvement. South Korea has an average Index score of 7.86 out of 10 since 2006, with their score in 2020 being 8.01, indicating a healthy and full democracy. In contrast, the United States had an index score in 2020 of 7.92, indicating a flawed democracy while the People’s Republic of China had an index score of 2.27, indicating a strict and authoritarian state.

When asked about the North Korean statement, President Wilkerson had this to say, “I welcome this change in leadership in North Korea. The people there deserve a government that will recognize and protect their rights and avoid pointless threats and saber rattling. I look forward to meeting with North and South Korean leaders in the future as we work towards a peaceful Korea.”

When asked about the Chinese position, President Wilkerson said, “I think the Chinese are being very shortsighted in their approach. The Korean Peninsula has been a hotspot for conflict since the ceasefire agreement in 1953. A unification of North and South under the leadership of South Korea would reduce the risk of conflict in the region significantly and improve the standard of living for tens of millions of North Korean citizens. I think the real reason behind the Chinese announcement is that they fear losing influence in the region. We’ve seen this repeatedly in the last few years. The Chinese government has been building up its military forces, expanding and attempting to enforce territorial claims in the South China Sea that not only have no legal basis but have been declared unfounded and illegal by the Permanent Court of Arbitration. The Korean situation is just another example of Chinese leadership attempting to bully Southeast Asia into accepting their hegemony in the region.”

When asked how his administration would respond, President Wilkerson said, “That will require careful thought. Rapid and rash reactions will only inflame tensions and make a peaceful settlement more difficult in future. Before I approach Congress with any proposal, I intend to meet with President Kim and Prime Minister Taro to discuss what they think of the situation. I can make the American people this solemn oath. I will not lead this nation into another twenty year war. Not if I can achieve a peaceful solution.”

President Wilkerson is currently in Moscow for talks with Soviet President Orlov.

Premier Keqiang talks of closer ties with US, remains silent on disputes, internal unrest

Akron Davis, Reuters

Beijing--Chinese General Secretary Li Keqiang spoke before Chinese news outlets on the 20th, congratulating President Wilkerson on his election and inauguration and stating his hope for closer ties and a resolution of differences. He made brief mentions of the South China Sea dispute and the ongoing trade war, though he quickly moved on from those concerns, stating that he considered common ground easily found. He refused to comment on more controversial situations, like the Chinese military build up, alleged concentration camps for religious and ethnic minorities, brutal crackdowns on political dissidents in Hong Kong, and the growing allegations of Chinese companies stealing corporate secrets from US and other western companies.

President Wilkerson was unavailable for comment when the story initially broke but the White House Press Secretary, Daryll Minyard, did provide a short statement from the President. “While the President couldn’t make it to this press conference today,” the Press Secretary said, “he did want to make a few points clear. The first is that, while he shares Premier Keqiang’s hopes for closer ties and a peaceful resolution of disputes, he is less certain about the ability to find common ground in the South China Sea. The Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled on that dispute in 2016 and the United States will stand by that court's ruling. Secondly, the President wished to emphasize to the Premier that the ongoing Chinese military build up, including the massive expansion of the Chinese Navy and Air Force, as well as the construction of illegal military bases in the South China Sea, is the primary factor increasing tension in the region. If a peaceful resolution is to be found, it will only be found when the Chinese Government SHOWS its willingness to negotiate. Words mean little when followed by contradictory actions. Third, the persecution of religious and ethnic minority populations and the brutal crackdowns on protesters and political activists are intolerable. Governments so willing to abuse their own citizens are seldom trustworthy participants in negotiations. We learned this in 1938 when Adolf Hitler ruled Germany and again in 1945 during negotiations with Josef Stalin’s USSR. If common ground is to be found, the Chinese Government has to demonstrate that it is worthy of holding the World’s trust. And finally, the continued illegal actions of Chinese companies, involving the theft of corporate and state secrets from the United States and other nations, MUST end. This point is non-negotiable and a prerequisite for further discussion on other disputes. What we are laboriously trying to say is that words are meaningless. If Premier Keqiang is serious in his desire for peace, he needs to take action to make that happen.”

Iran backed militia launch further attacks in Iraq

Kurt Vaughn, AP

Baghdad--Members of an allegedly Iranian backed militia group attacked and massacred an Iraqi Army convoy. This is the latest in a series of clashes between the Iraqi government and Iranian backed militia groups in the wake of the Second Iran-Iraq War. Iraqi President Uday Hussein stated that the continued operations of Iranian backed militias were a violation of Iraqi sovereignty and promised retribution. The Iranian government continues to deny any involvement in militia activity in Iraq.

French forces begin renewed peacekeeping, stabilization operations in Mali

Adam Allen, AP

Paris--Several thousand French troops have begun increased operations in support of French peacekeeping and stabilization efforts in Mali, focused largely on combating terrorist groups in the area. Expanded French offensive operations with local security forces are being combined under the new plan with increased financial and political support for economic investment and infrastructure projects. This increase in operational tempo is a part of President Blanchet’s commitment to the security and stability of French speaking African nations.

Czechoslovak government crackdown on streaming services incite ire among streaming services

Zachary Gabriel, AP

Prague--The passage of a law by the Czechoslovak government, placing more stringent regulations on streaming services in a bid to keep more traditional forms of media afloat. This move, while celebrated by many in Czechoslovakia, has been met with ire from streaming outlets, many of whom are headquartered in the United States. Companies like Netflix and Hulu, as well as major studios like Disney and Paramount, argue that the regulations stifle competition and make quality television more difficult for Czechoslovakian citizens to access. Supporters of the bill argue that it benefits the Czechoslovak economy by keeping Czechoslovakian media outlets in businesses, allowing those in film and television careers to keep their jobs. It remains to be seen how this law will impact streaming outside of Czechoslovakia or the Czechoslovak economy.

Sports

Economy

Science and Technology

Entertainment

Defense and Foreign Policy

by **New Provenance** » Thu Oct 28, 2021 10:35 pm

South China Morning Post
January 27, 2021

PARAMOUNT LEADER LI KEQIANG ADDRESSESS THE NATION, UNVEILS FIVE-YEAR REFORM PLAN

BEIJING, JAN. 27 - His Excellency Li Keqiang, Paramount Leader of the People's Republic of China, General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, stood before the 175-member Standing Committee of the National People's Congress earlier today, where he addressed the People's Republic of China and the world at large during the second annual national address by the Paramount Leader for the second decade of the 21st century. The speech, to put it simply, shocked many in the room and all over the country, but is expected to pleasantly surprise many abroad. "China enters this new decade with a spring in its step, a new idea in mind, a new China in motion' the Paramount Leader exclaimed at the start of his speech.

Below, his full speech can be found:

"Comrades, friends, ladies and gentlemen, greetings to you all! 2020 was an extraordinary year. China is the first major economy worldwide to achieve positive growth, and its GDP in 2020 is expected to step up to a new level of 100 trillion yuan. China has seen a good harvest in grain production for 17 years in a row. China has seen breakthroughs in scientific explorations like the Tianwen-1 (Mars mission), Chang'e-5 (lunar probe), and Fendouzhe (deep-sea manned submersible). Construction of the Hainan Free Trade Port is proceeding with vigor. The 13th Five-Year Plan has been accomplished in full. The 14th Five-Year Plan is being comprehensively formulated. We are accelerating the pace to set up a new pattern for development, and are deeply implementing high-quality development. These great successes are not the creation of the central government alone, but instead by cooperation with the ordinary peoples of China. Greatness is forged in the ordinary. Heroes come from the people. Every person is remarkable. We could not have made these massive achievements without you. Because of you and our people, our workers and soldiers, citizens and children, I am proud of our great motherland and our people.

To expand on the 14th Five-Year Plan. It is the intention of the central government to create a better China, a dream China, wherein all peoples work equally and with full determination and loyalty to the state. As such, this Plan will be vastly different from those of the past. We look towards the future, rather than to the past, as a reference point in the creation of this 14th Five-Year Plan. This Plan not only serves as the bringer of economic prosperity and riches to the nation, but also to establish a stable, centralized People's Republic which works for the people of China and all its citizens and children. We will maneuver the central government from being a strong-willed guardian of the people to an understanding mother of the state.

This 14th Five-Year Plan introduces provisions granting rights protections to Muslims and Christians within our borders. The persecution of Christians and the destruction of their places of worship shall halt by the end of this year. Those wrongfully imprisoned in concentration camps by my predecessor will be released over the next five years, and the accumulation of new prisoners will be halted by the end of this year. Indeed, I recognize that China has committed a great wrong. However, this is not something which negatively affects the state. The Communist Party is not a party which works for itself, but for the people. I recognize the Party's wrongdoings in the hope that the people of China and the world re-establish and re-affirm their strong and tight trust in the Party leadership and its ability to lead.

The 14th Five-Year Plan also introduces additional reforms to the state governance system and the state economy, to further growth and prosperity, and reduce the wealth disparity and ensure equality among all members of our great and prosperous society.

Everywhere were vibrant scenes of confident, resilient people making the most of every minute. In 2020, China made the historic achievement of establishing a moderately prosperous society in all respects and achieved decisive success in eradicating extreme poverty. Through 8 years, under the current standard, China has eradicated extreme poverty for the nearly 100 million rural people affected, and all the 832 impoverished counties have shaken off poverty. These years, I have visited 14 contiguous areas of dire poverty. The unremitting efforts of the folks and the wholehearted contribution of the poverty-eradication cadres often come to my mind. We still need to stay tenacious like a bamboo deeply rooted in the rocks, keep our feet on the ground, and work hard to paint a magnificent picture of rural vitalization, and steadily march ahead towards the goal of common prosperity. This year, we celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone, among others, and 30 years of the development and opening-up of Pudong in Shanghai. As I stood on the southern coast as the spring tide surged and on the colorful bank of the Huangpu River, my mind was filled with a myriad of thoughts.

We are not alone on the Great Way and the whole world is one family. After a year of hardship, we can understand more than ever the significance of a community with a shared future for mankind. 2021 will see the 100th birthday of the Communist Party of China. Its 100-year journey surges forward with great momentum. Its original aspiration remains even firmer one hundred years later. From Shikumen in Shanghai to the South Lake in Jiaxing City, the small red boat (where the first CPC congress concluded) bore the great trust of the people and the hope of the nation. The boat has sailed through turbulent rivers and treacherous shoals, and has voyaged across violent tidal waves, becoming a great ship that navigates China's stable and long-term development. The CPC bears its eternal great cause in mind, and the centenary only ushers in the prime of life. We adhere to putting people at the center, stay true to our original aspiration, keep our mission well in mind, break the waves and sail out for our journey ahead, and we will certainly realize the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. At the historic crossroad of the "Two Centenary Goals," the new journey of comprehensively building a modern socialist country is about to start. The road ahead is long; striving is the only way forward. We have strived, broken through brambles and thorns, and crossed ten thousand rivers and thousands of mountains. We will continue to strive, march ahead with courage, and create brighter glory! At just this moment, the festive lanterns have been lit, and family members gather for reunion. The new decade is coming. I wish our land to be splendid, our country to be prosperous, and our people to live in peace. I wish you all a harmonious, smooth and auspicious year, full of happiness!

Thank you!"

by **Hanovereich** » Fri Oct 29, 2021 1:57 am

Prime Minister makes statement on defence deployments

By Harper Jackson
BBC News
23 January 2021

The Prime Minister, George Saunders, has made an announcement on deployments to East Asia. This follows the recent developments in China and North Korea.

He appeared with Foreign Secretary William Hague and Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, as he announced that HMS Ocean, a helicopter carrier, will be deployed to Singapore, 'to defend and secure allied interests'.

He also stated that this is 'not aimed at any one nation', but rather 'an effort with our allies to defend East Asia against any and all threats'. Responding to a question from the BBC, Saunders stated that 'the carrier will leave HMNB Portsmouth on the 3rd of February, and arrive by June.' He also confirmed that it will join Naval Party 1022 at the British Defence Singapore Support Unit.

He also made the following statement when asked whether this meant that Britain would not sit down on the negotiating table:

"No. This does not mean we are not willing to sit down and get through a peace deal. And from what we have seen today, China is definitely willing to sit down. And we have full confidence in the American President. But we need to prepare for whatever happens. China may be showing signs of a readiness to sit down, but it may be delaying tactics. It may be a trick. It may genuinely be a sign of goodwill. If it is, there will be no harm done in sending the helicopter carrier.'

The Foreign Secretary, William Hague, then added that further deployments around the world could be expected, such as a battalion of The Rifles to Bermuda, and a squadron of Typhoons to Diego Garcia. He declined to say whether this was actually aimed at the recent announcements from China, but did state that 'China is definitely going to be a target, as will be North Korea'. He then praised the efforts of 'our armed forces, to protect and defend allies around the world. We will look to expand our overseas deployments', further hinting that Britain would deploy more units to places around the world. If they did, one of their top priorities would be the current situation in Afghanistan, as well as the Iran-Iraq conflict, and the situation in Czechoslovakia.

In related news, the Institute for Government, a British think tank, has called for tougher action to be taken against China. They have published a list of proposals, which has been sent to Parliament, which includes a new post within the Foreign Office to monitor threats to British and allied interests; the formation of an ad hoc semi-formal office within the Cabinet Office to decide on a course of action, rather like a war cabinet; and the withdrawal of British forces from Afghanistan to focus on other threats domestically and internationally. The Foreign Affairs Select Committee will meet to discuss these proposals on the 27th.

by **New Provenance** » Fri Oct 29, 2021 5:53 am

South China Morning Post
January 29, 2021

CHINESE FOREIGN MINISTER WANG YI EXPRESSES 'SUBSTANTIAL WORRY' OVER BRITISH NAVAL DEPLOYMENTS, REVEALS THAT CHINA IS WILLING TO COMPROMISE OVER THE SOUTH CHINA SEA

BEIJING, JAN. 29 - China's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, spoke at a press conference with the British ambassador to the People's Republic of China observing where he expressed to reporters from SCMP and other international news corporations 'substantial worry' over British naval deployments to Singapore and air deployments to Diego Garcia, explicitly asking the British Government whether or not the deployments were directed against Beijing. Foreign Minister Yi stated:

". . . The People's Republic of China is most definitely open to sitting down with countries such as Japan and South Korea to cool down Asian tensions. The leadership of President Keqiang is vastly different from the leadership of Xi Jinping, and the President wishes to convey that to foreign leaders through his speech to the National People's Congress two days ago [..] The British naval deployments to Singapore is of substantial worry to China. I ask the British Government and their Prime Minister: Are they interested in diplomacy or confrontation? If it is the former then they should withdraw their naval ships and sit down with the Chinese Government on an equal table. China is interested in sitting down with foreign countries, but not while we're being held effectively at gunpoint, or with their warships threatening our seas."

Foreign Minister Yi again affirmed in a public statement on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China that the Keqiang government was more willing and open to détente and cooperation with Western countries, and the reaching of an equal compromise over the South China Sea and the controversial Nine Dash Line. When asked by reporters about Keqiang's previous stance on the South China Sea, which resembled that of Xi Jinping's, the Chinese Foreign Minister replied, stating:

"I am sure you all know that a person can have a, uh, change of heart. That is what happened with the Paramount Leader and the members of the Foreign Ministry, myself included. The previous government under Xi Jinping pushed a hardline stance on the Nine Dash Line issue with the West which did more harm than good for the state and the people. It is in the interests of the Chinese central government that the welfare of the people be put first, and reaching an equal compromise with Western nations are vital to achieving this goal of the Communist Party, which has so long been neglected by past administrations."

Paramount Leader Li Keqiang, the President of the People's Republic of China, General Secretary of the Communist Party, and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, supported the Foreign Minister's comments in a public letter released by the central government the next day, on January 30th. The statement explicitly stated that China was now willing to compromise over the South China Sea and the Nine Dash Line issues 'as long as China's legal boundaries and interests are respected rather than ignored'.

Perhaps controversially for communist hardliners within his own party, President Keqiang also stated that he recognized that the Nine Dash Line was 'too much to ask for' and asserted that China was willing to drop it in favor of a more 'equal and favorable' agreement.

by **Arvenia** » Fri Oct 29, 2021 12:12 pm

Lidové Noviny
January 26, 2021

Possible Reunification in the Korean Peninsula
KOREA - Kim Yo-jong, the new Supreme Leader of North Korea, has announced plans for reunification between North Korea and South Korea. This followed the poisoning of Kim Jong-un and a brief civil war in North Korea. Kim Yo-jong also wishes to reduce military spending, decrease the size of the North Korean military, liberalize the North Korean economy, dismantle North Korean WMDs, grant amnesty to foreign prisoners and allow the US to collect dead US troops from North Korea, as well as engage in multilateral talks with the US and Japan. While this was a good start to possible reunification in the troubled region, the PRC has expressed strong opposition to such plan, mostly due to the fear of losing influence. The Czechoslovak government welcomed the potential democratization of North Korea, while condemning China for opposing Korean reunification.

Li Keqiang Addresses China
PRC - Li Keqiang, the executive head of the People's Republic of China, have spoken before Chinese news outlets on January 20, 2021. He congratulated Roland Wilkerson on the latter's inauguration as the 46th President of the United States, stating hope for closer ties with the US and briefly mentioning the South China Sea dispute. However, he avoided mentioning controversial issues such as the build-up of the PLA, the alleged theft of corporate secrets from Western companies, crackdown on political activism in Hong Kong and discrimination against various ethnic and religious minority groups. This has caused concern among members of the Czechoslovak coalition government, with Prime Minister Václav Horák expressing hope for democratization in China.

Pro-Iranian Militia Attacks Iraqi Troops
IRAQ - A pro-Iranian militia has recently massacred a convoy belonging to the Iraqi Army. The incident is the latest in a series of clashes between the Iraqi military and various pro-Iranian militias following the end of the Second Iraq-Iran War. The Czechoslovak government condemned the incident and called for the preservation of Iraqi sovereignty.

Streaming Legislation Causes Backlash
CZECHOSLOVAKIA - The decision to regulate streaming services in Czechoslovakia has been widely criticized by streaming services such as Netflix and Hulu. Similar criticism also came from major studios such as Disney and Paramount. These companies accused the Streaming Regulation Act of stifling competition and making it difficult for Czechoslovak citizens to access quality television. The Czechoslovak government addressed the criticism and promised certain changes to the act. At the same time, the Czechoslovak government also said that the Streaming Regulation Act would help keep traditional media alive, while streaming services must accept certain guidelines in order to remain operational in Czechoslovakia. Right now, the Streaming Regulation Act is still a proposal and a referendum will be planned prior to this year's general election.

Official Statement of the Czechoslovak Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Regarding North Korea, the Czechoslovak Federative Republic commends Kim Yo-jong for her contribution to peace and democracy in the Korean Peninsula. The Czechoslovak government will be delighted to see both North Korea and South Korea unified under a single government.

Regarding China, the Czechoslovak Federative Republic is greatly concerned with Li Keqiang's speech, especially with the lack of comment regarding Chinese military expansion, corporate espionage, crackdown on political activists and discrimination against both ethnic and religious minorities. The Czechoslovak government wishes that he addresses those issues next time. The Czechoslovak government is also worried by the Chinese opposition to Korean reunification and wishes for the Chinese government to withdraw such opposition for the sake of regional peace.

Regarding Iraq, the Czechoslovak Federative Republic condemns the pro-Iranian militia that attacked the Iraqi Army. The presence of such militias is a clear violation of Iraqi sovereignty and the Iranian government should stop meddling in the internal affairs of Iraq. The Czechoslovak government wishes to support any effort by the Iraqi government to protect Iraqi sovereignty and curb foreign interference.

Regarding the Streaming Regulation Act, the Czechoslovak government pleads with all streaming services and major studios to not be worried about the upcoming proposal. The government promises to make certain changes to the act, while also expecting all streaming services to accept certain guidelines in order to remain operational in the Czechoslovak Federative Republic. The act is expected to keep traditional media alive and avoid an uncertain future. As of this writing, the act has yet to be voted on.

by **Mifan** » Fri Oct 29, 2021 3:31 pm

Islamic Republic News Agency

Mass Deportations

Another wave of mass deportations took place this week, as the government continues to fight the flow of refugees trying to escape the hardships of war. Ever since the Invasion of Afghanistan, in 2001, our nation has taken the brunt of refugees, which only continues to increase as the war on our border drags on.

While the border with Afghanistan is heavily regulated, refugees, determined to find safety and a better life, enter by the thousands. While many pose no threats and very few commit any crime, many of criticized the government for wasting money of foreigners and allowing them to steal jobs from local workers.

While no study has officially been done by the government, it can be understood while some would feel this way. As such, government officials announced that another wave of deportations would begin and continue throughout the entire year.

Expansion of Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant?

It comes to as no surprise that green energy is the way of the future. Oil is a finite resources that will not survive forever. Our government knows this and has been working on expanding nuclear energy since its foundation.

Earlier, today, plans of expanding the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant, were revealed. While two, new, reactors are already under construction, the government wished to push for a fourth one, that would be completed by 2030. When asked about the decision, an official had this to say.

"Clean energy is the way of the future. Nations across the world have their own way of procuring it. Some prefer the use of wind farms and dams. Others, use nuclear energy. If we have the technology and the means, why not use it? Why not build a better future for our children and provide them a clean world and the power to sustain it?"

When asked about the Darkhovin Nuclear Power Plant, the government was less optimistic about it.

"Sadly, due to the close proximity to Iraq, there isn't much reason to expand the facility. There has actually been much discussion in closing the facility for good, and concentrating all efforts on Bushehr. Outside of that, I don't have much else to share."

The government has opened up offers to foreign companies to help expand the facility.

Shi'ite Militia Fight Back Against Oppressors!

News of a victory by our Shi'ite Brethren has reached Tehran. The vile dictator, Uday Hussein, ordered an attack on a Shi'ite village in South-Eastern Iraq, under the suspicions of supporting a militia group. The convoy that was sent to attack the village was destroyed by the militia, as soon as they caught wind of the attack.

While we don't know what happened in the fight, we do know that our fellow Shi'ites were able to once again prove that Uday Hussein does not represent the will of his people, and does not care for those who may be different from him. These attacks against innocent villages just show the barbarity of such a man.

Tehran, Iran
Office of the Supreme Leader

Qasem Soleimani, leader of the Quds Force, looked over towards where the Supreme Leader was sitting. It wasn't the first time he had been in this room, but meeting the man who controls an entire nation, always sends a shiver down his spine. He could never know if he had done something wrong, or if he'd be praised. He had been in command of the Quds Force for years and always had to report directly to the Supreme Leader. Many look at his relationship with the Supreme Leader as a close one, as if they were friends. While there may be some truth to that, it only makes the fear of failure or disappointment worse.

"Qasem," Ali looked at the commander, "I hear that you've destroyed an Iraqi convoy. The news is already spinning the story to make the militia seem like heroes. You and your men have trained them well."

"I thank you for the praise, but they aren't completely ready. Small attacks and ambushes aren't going to topple the regime anytime soon. We haven't even begun any full-blown offensive. If we tried, we'd lose in a matter of days."

"There's no need for such a thing. These small battles will slowly weaken Iraq's government. Their people will not wish to continue fighting if they keep hearing news about their dead. When the time comes, and they overthrow him, we'll be able to incorporate the Shi'ite majority regions into the nation. They must be protected."

"I doubt the rest of the world would see it that way."

"What the rest of the world wants; matters little. I've read their news articles; Czechoslovakia even announced support for Iraq. If they wish to aid Iraq, let them; it'll only show their true colors, just like how the Americans supported Saddam in the first war. As long as our people believe what we tell them; we shall continue to spread the true faith."

"Then we shall provide more stories for our media. I see they already told what really happened." The Supreme Leader nodded. "If you wish for the militias to do a full blown offensive; such a thing will take a lot of time. Outside of faith and our influence, many of these groups aren't too united."

"Them fighting for us is all that matters. We won't need them soon anyway."

"What do you mean?"

"Our scientists have told me that we'd be able to produce a nuclear weapon within 2-3 years. Of course it would be only a prototype, but if all goes well, we'd be able to produce more to satisfy our needs. No nation would ever be able to threaten us again. Iraq. America. Nobody." The Supreme Leader grinned widely. "If they complete their task, we must give each scientist a massive bonus for all their hard work. The Islamic Republic must thank them properly." His grin disappeared soon. "But for now, continue to work with the militias. Go to Iraq if you wish; I have other things to focus on. The economy needs to be worked on even more. Hopefully the Assembly will provide something that will fix our economy." Qasem nodded his head and left the room, thinking about what to do with the force under his command and how to bring more bloodshed to Iraq.

by **American Pere Housh** » Fri Oct 29, 2021 8:09 pm

Yonhap News Agency

New Korean Leader seeks peace with the West, South Korea

The South Korean Government welcomes the possibility of reunification between North and South Korea though the President has stated that the new Korea must be a democracy. President Kim Gi-hyeon spoke with one of Yonhap's many reporters, "The news that the new DPRK leader has pledged to reduce her nation's military size, scrap North Korea's WMDs and seeks peace with the West, Japan and South Korea has made me a happy man. As a sign of goodwill towards North Korea, I would like to personally invite North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Yo-jong to Seoul so may discuss topics important to our two nations.

President Kim Gi-hyeon condemns Chinese leader's Statement on Korean Reunification

South Korean President Kim Gi-hyeon openly condemns the Chinese President's statement on possible Korean reunification, "As President Wilkerson has said, China is afraid of losing the only influence they have in East Asia. If North Korea wishes for reunification then there is nothing the Chinese Government can do to stop it short of war."

South Korea condemns Iran, pledges support to Iraq

The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs issues a condemnation of Iran after an Iraqi Army Convoy was massacred by an Iranian backed militia. South Korean Foreign Affairs Minister Chung Eui-yong has stated that he and the President have spoken with the Leadership of the National Assembly about a new round of sanctions against Iran and they have agreed. He also stated that Iraq has South Korea supporting them.

by **New Provenance** » Sat Oct 30, 2021 12:58 am

South China Morning Post
February 1, 2021

BEIJING BLASTS SOUTH KOREAN STATEMENTS, ANNOUNCES DEPLOYMENT OF A CHINESE NAVAL TASK FORCE TO THE YELLOW SEA

BEIJING, FEB. 01 - In an official press conference at the Great Hall of the People, Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi blasted South Korean statements and its condemnation of Chinese remarks, declaring the administration of Kim Gi-hyeon 'a government of rapid imperialists'. The Foreign Minister asserted that the unification of the Korean peninsula under South Korea's 'authoritarian' government, stating that the moving of the 'far-right South Korean frontier' to the Chinese border would be seen 'as a direct provocation against China and her people'. Foreign Minister Yi threatened to withdraw the Chinese ambassador to South Korea and ensure Korean reunification does not happen 'by all means available' should South Korea continue to 'push for an unreasonable demand such as reunification under their command'.

In response, Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission Gen. Zhang Youxia announced through a formal statement from the Ministry of National Defense the deployment of a Chinese naval task force, titled Task Force Orange, to the Yellow Sea, which spans between the Chinese city of Qingdao all the way to the island of Jeju, which is a recognized territory of the Republic of Korea. Task Force Orange will be dispatched to the Yellow Sea on a high alert level where it will conduct naval exercises to simulate amphibious landings and sea-to-ground operations. The composition of Task Force Orange is as follows:

2x Type 094A ballistic missile submarines
1x Type 095 nuclear attack submarine
2x Type 039B conventional attack submarines

Shandong Type 002 aircraft carrier
4x Type 054A frigates
2x Type 055 destroyers

A People's Liberation Army (PLA) Ground Force spokesperson also reported that a force of 2,590 regular army personnel was dispatched to the port city of Qingdao along the Yellow Sea for ground military exercises, most probably also in retaliation for SOuth Korean statements.

by **Hanovereich** » Sat Oct 30, 2021 10:11 am

Foreign Sec. denounces Czechoslovak censorship bill

By Aryan Fraser
BBC News
26 January 2021

Foreign Secretary William Hague sent a clear message to Czechoslovakia today, when he denounced Czechoslovakia's new Streaming Regulation proposal, which plans to strictly regulate media companies in the country.

Appearing in Parliament, William Hague called for the Act to be voted down, the peaceful resolution to the recent anti-government protests in Prague, and supported the reactions from media companies such as Netflix and Disney.

He responded to a question from Sir Henry Cotton, MP for Nottingham East, when he said:

"I welcome the question from the Right Honourable Gentlemen from Nottingham East. The United Kingdom stands firmly with the Czechoslovak people protesting and showing their will to bring about a democratic government in the country. This bill is nothing more than an attempt at censorship, (hear, hear), and we will not, under any circumstances, support the bill. We are moving to further, tougher action against Czechoslovakia. This bill will turn the nation into a state of surveillance, (hear, hear!), and we will not tolerate it."

He went further to say that, if needed, the UK could take the 'nuclear option'- in this case, not recognising the Czechoslovak regime, cutting diplomatic relations, and starting an embargo of British goods to the country.

Yellow Sea deployment: PM orders military deployment

By Aryan Fraser
BBC News
2 February 2021

In light of the recent events that has happened in China, namely the deployment of nuclear submarines and naval vessels to the Yellow Sea, the Prime Minister has directed Strategic Command to do the same.

The United Kingdom will send one Astute-class nuclear powered submarine (Ambush), one Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarine (Vanguard), one Albion-class landing platform dock (Albion), two Type 23 destroyers (Kent and Iron Duke), and one Hunt-class mine countermeasure vessel (Middleton). There is widespread speculation that a detachment of Royal Marines (the Royal United Services Institute believes that it will be a detachment from 42 Commando and a Wildcat AHI helicopter on HMS Albion) will support them, to counter the reported army personnel China is readying.

It is unclear whether the ballistic missile submarine will carry nuclear warheads.

They will join HMS Ocean on deployments to Singapore. They will form Naval Party 1029, with the designated task of protecting allies in the region.

All of this was given in a statement by the Ministry of Defence today. Appearing in a press conference was Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, Chief of the Naval Staff Sir Antony Radakin, and Commander Strategic Command Sir Patrick Sanders.

by **The Manticoran Empire** » Sat Oct 30, 2021 10:57 am

NATIONAL
DAILY
NEWS

Volume 40, Issue 1
Early February 2021

News

South Korea condemns Chinese statements on unification, China retaliates

Peter Thoroughgood, AP
February 2nd
Seoul--As the North Korean government continues its efforts to liberalize itself, there has come additional tension in the region. President Kim Gi-hyeon released a statement early January 30th, in which he expressed his support of the new North Korean regime and condemned the statements of the Chinese Government, specifically statements calling the South Korean government authoritarian, comments previously reported on by this author.

In response, the Chinese Government issued their own condemnation of South Korean comments. Despite a statement on the 29th of January indicating a willingness to negotiate and reduce tensions with its neighbors, on February 1st the Foreign Ministry, through Foreign Minister Wang Yi, issued its own condemnation of South Korea’s comments. Minister Yi called the President Kim Gi-hyeon’s government, “a government of rabid imperialists”, further stating that the Chinese Government viewed the “far-right South Korean frontier” expanding to China’s border with a North-South reunification “as a direct provocation against China and her people”

The statements on February 1st would have been right at home with Chinese foreign policy decisions under Xi Jinping but are at odds with other statements released on the 20th, 27th, and 29th of January, where Paramount Leader Li Keqiang expressed his willingness to back down from many of China’s more aggressive territorial stances, such as the Nine Dash Line in the South China Sea. Of particular concern are Minister Yi’s promises to withdraw Chinese ambassadors and prevent Korean reunification by “by all means available”. The consistent Chinese opposition to Korean reunification, a possibility presently recognized by both North and South Korea as a long term goal to be reached at a later date, has been called by both President Wilkerson of the United States and President Kim of South Korea an indication of the CCP fearing a loss of political and military influence on the peninsula, as a united Korea is likely to be far more pro-West than pro-China, given the population disparity between North and South.

In Moscow, President Wilkerson spoke to the press about the situation, shortly after leaving another working day with Soviet President Orlov at the Kremlin. “It is deeply concerning that the Chinese would react to a perfectly reasonable South Korean response with a sizable military deployment. The Chinese Government was the first to condemn the South Korean government, even before the South Koreans had a chance to do or say anything. And the South Koreans did the one thing the CCP consistently refuses to permit. They stood up for themselves. They pushed back against the CCPs allegations and what did the CCP do? They deployed troops and warships. This is precisely what I warned them about last week. Words are easily spoken and, much like sandcastles, ultimately meaningless unless supported by actions. The Chinese Government has said they desire peace and yet their first reaction has continued to be aggressive posturing. If Paramount Leader Keqiang is serious about his commitment to reform and peace, then he must show the world through his actions, not his words. Thus far, he has failed to show us he is any different from Xi Jinping.”

When asked how the US was going to respond, President Wilkerson said, “We must send a clear message to the Chinese that their aggression will not be tolerated as well as a clear message to the South Koreans that they are not alone. To this end, I am ordering Carrier Strike Group Five to increase its readiness for deployment and I will be instructing a task force to be assembled and deployed within 48 hours.”

US 7th Fleet deploys task force to East China Sea

Akron Davis, Reuters
February 4th
Tokyo--Following the deployment of a Chinese battle group to the Yellow Sea, the US 7th Fleet, based in Japan, has received and executed orders from President Wilkerson to deploy their own task force to counter the Chinese aggression. The task force, consisting of the destroyers John McCain, McCampbell, and Mustin, as well as the cruiser Shiloh, left Yokosuka Naval Base early this morning. The remaining ships of Carrier Strike Group Five, including the aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan, have recalled their crews from shore leave and are reportedly ready to leave port at a moments notice.

The task force, designated TF-70.1, is being deployed to reassure the South Koreans and deter further Chinese aggression. Operations will include anti-submarine and anti-aircraft warfare exercises. When asked how the operation could be viewed by the Chinese, Rear Admiral Will Pennington, commander of Task Force 70 (which Carrier Strike Group 5 is considered by 7th Fleet), said, “I hope it is a shock to their system. It’s purpose is plain: to send a message. That message? Back off. I hope they see it, understand it, and follow it.”

The task force’s deployment comes after two weeks of confusing statements and equally confusing actions on the part of the Chinese government, sparked in large part by the change in leadership in North Korea. At the center of the growing dispute is the potential for Korean reunification, long held as a goal of both the North and South Korean governments. The Chinese Government is steadfastly condemning any attempt at reunification that would see a government similar to South Korea’s, namely a healthy, liberal democracy with an active voting population. According to Chinese leaders, such a government would be seen as a direct threat to China.

Hussein accused of attacking Shi’ite community prior to convoy massacre

Kurt Vaughn, AP
February 1st
Baghdad--Iranian news media is claiming that an Iraqi Army convoy, attacked and massacred by allegedly Iranian-backed Shi’ite militiamen on January 20th, was in the area to attack a Shi’ite village, alleged to have provided support to pro-Iran militias. The Ba’ath regime has categorically denied the allegation, promising retribution.

Shi’ite militia activity has been on the rise for years in the wake of the inconclusive Second Iran-Iraq War. As equally devastating as the First Iran-Iraq War, the second war killed between 381,000 and 1,375,000 soldiers, with upwards of 125,000 civilian deaths. The War’s inconclusive outcome and high cost has seen Iraq and Iran remain on a near war footing for the last several years.

While the Iraqi government has not yet taken its retribution, many analysts agree that it will probably target Shi’ite Iraqi communities near the border with Iran.

Royal Navy expands deployments to South East Asia

Adam Allen, AP
February 2nd
London--The Royal Navy has announced the deployment of a larger task force to Southeast Asia in response to Chinese naval deployments in the Yellow Sea. The task force, including the helicopter carrier HMS Albion, the missile submarine HMS Vanguard, the attack submarine HMS Ambush, the destroyers HMS Iron Duke and HMS Kent, and the minesweeper HMS Middleton, has been assigned to join HMS Ocean, currently deployed to Singapore. The force, designated Naval Party 1029, has an unspecified mission but many believe the force will operate in support of US and South Korean operations in the area.

The Chinese government has not yet released a statement on the matter.

Protests mount as Czechoslovak government moves forward with regulations

Zachary Gabriel, AP

Prague--The British Government has added its voice to the chorus decrying the proposed Streaming Services Regulation Act in Czechoslovakia. The British Foreign Minister called it an attempt at censorship and promised the British government take strong action against Czechoslovakia should the act be passed.

The act, proposed by the Czechoslovak legislature, is intended to keep traditional media services, like movie theaters and cable television, functioning in a world increasingly dominated by internet streaming. Proponents of the bill argue it will keep the Czechoslovak economy stable by preventing, or at least delaying, the death of traditional media. Critics of the bill argue it stifles competition and steals the freedom to choose from the Czechoslovak population. Streaming services around the world, most notably Netflix and Hulu, have been vocal in their opposition to the bill, sentiments echoed by studios like Disney and Paramount.

US Space Force unveils new military space shuttle

Lelia Murphy, AP
February 6th
Vandenburg--The Space Force has unveiled a functional military space shuttle today, stating in a press release that the craft has been operational since 2019 and making manned launches since 2020. The reveal comes in the wake of increasing concerns regarding anti-satellite weaponry and concern over Chinese intentions.

According to details from the Space Force, the ship is similar in size to NASA’s retired space shuttle but employs a nuclear thermal propulsion system and an aerospike engine, which the Space Force has claimed increases fuel efficiency and provides greater thrust than the previous Space Shuttle engines. The ship is stated to carry a crew of 11, all of whom are officers with 13S Military Occupational Specialty Codes.

The unveiled ship is claimed by the US Space Force to be the first of currently 4 orbiters of the Schriever Class, named for General Bernard Schriever. The USSS Bernard Schriever is presently at Vandenberg Space Force Base, undergoing post mission maintenance following the completion of a still classified mission. According to the Space Force, one other ship is in orbit right now, confirming what has been rumored by many space-watchers since mid-2019.

Sports

Economy

Science and Technology

Entertainment

Defense and Foreign Policy

by **New Provenance** » Sat Oct 30, 2021 1:07 pm

Great Hall of the People, Beijing, February 4 2021
People's Republic of China

The noisy, bickering assembly room where the Standing Committee was gathered immediately hushed themselves up as Paramount Leader Li Keqiang entered the room, flanked by Foreign Minister Wang Yi and the Vice Chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC). The Paramount Leader took his seat at the head of the table while the Foreign Minister took his left-hand seat and the CMC Vice Chairman his right-hand seat. The room turned to watch the Paramount Leader, the most powerful man in China, who was at that moment adjusting his glasses and reading a prepared document.

"This meeting of the Standing Committee, Fourth of February, is assembled." the Paramount Leader said, in a rather bored tone. With that the room tensed up, and everyone's postures straightened.

"I'm sure you are all aware of the situation in the Yellow Sea." the Paramount Leader asked.

"Indeed, your Excellency." replied Li Zhanshu, the Chairman of the Standing Committee. The other members at the table nodded their heads in silent response.

"Indeed. The United States and the West have deemed it fit to deploy their naval warships to the Yellow Sea to either start a Third World War or try and bully us into surrendering and allowing America to become the regional superpower, both of which are unacceptable. However, I don't think we can risk a conflict with anyone, whether it be a British ship or an American ship, not yet. We must wait several months at most before deciding to risk confrontation and conflict like this. Hence, I would like to request permission from this Standing Committee to withdraw the Chinese fleets to Qingdao and negotiate a cooldown of tensions with the United States. The British haven't arrived yet so they don't matter." stated President Keqiang.

The room stood silent, perhaps in shock or celebration. Some even had their mouths agape. Then, after several seconds, Chairman Zhanshu spoke up, saying, "I believe you're right here, your Excellency. We must, as embarrassing as it is, seek compromise with the Americans and the South Koreans."

"Perhaps a meeting with American and South Korean representatives are in order as well, to negotiate this compromise?" replied Wang Chen, the Secretary-General of the Standing Committee.

The rest of the room murmured in assent.

"We move on to a formal vote, then." said the Paramount Leader, before the room voted 'Aye' or 'Nay' on the proposal to reach a compromise.

Hallway, Great Hall of the People, Beijing
People's Republic of China

Paramount Leader Li Keqiang and Foreign Minister Wang Yi walked side by side as the members of the Standing Committee filed out of their meeting room. The vote had gone well, with only two members rejecting the Paramount Leader's proposal. To the surprise of all, Keqiang had not reprimanded them for being disloyal to the Party leadership and praised their 'critical thinking'. All of this was done in private, of course.

"Sir, do you think the Westerners would see this as China being weak?" asked the Foreign Minister, concern dripping in his voice.

"I- Almost certainly. They speak of peace and equality but they sure won't treat China equally if we were to sit down with them. They support their allies and ignores the legitimate interests of their enemies. 'Tis the sad truth about the West." the Paramount Leader replied.

"Yi, I'll be the one to announce this- this change. It is my responsibility to bear." Keqiang added.

Foreign Minister Yi merely nodded and the two continued to the Paramount Leader's office two flights up the stairs to discuss how exactly to word the statement revealing this new decision by the Standing Committee. Accompanying them were Wang Chen, a communist hardliner, and Cao Jianming, a reformist.

To be continued . . .

by **Chewion** » Sat Oct 30, 2021 1:34 pm

Vasily Putin
February 2, 2021

VLADIVOSTOK -- Admiral Sergei Avakyants today has announced that, acting on orders from President Orlov, that a naval task force will be leaving Vladivostok shortly in order to, in the words of Admiral Aavakyants "monitor and ascertain the nature of recent developments in the region". The Soviet task force will include the SNS Kuzbass attack submarine, SNS Admiral Lazarev battlecruiser, SNS Marshal Shaposhnikov destroyer, SNS Admiral Tributs destroyer, SNS Sovershennyy corvette, and the SNS Smerch corvette. The Admiral did say that the ships were not intended for any particular purpose besides providing a presence and gathering information on the situation, however, this deployment comes only hours after President Orlov was quoted by reporters in Moscow as saying "The PRC should not resort to acts of military aggression over the Korean Peninsula. I am calling on all parties to refrain from any sort of military solutions in this matter. I would be more than happy to host multilateral talks over the issue of the Korean Peninsula in order to avoid any unpleasant situations in the region."

In addition to this, the Far East Military District has been moved to Alert Level 2, which is the highest level possible without active conflict. This level means that air force units in the district must be ready to deploy within 15 minutes and ground and naval forces ready to deploy in less than three hours. In addition, we have noticed an uptick in Border Guard patrols in the region.

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Dimitri Petrov
February 4, 2021

MOSCOW -- Around lunchtime today, officers from the Federal Ministry of the Interior conducted raids and arrests in the Republic capital cities of Baku, Alma-Ata, and Ashkhabad. Among the arrests was the Prime Minister of the Azerbaijan SSR, Ali Asadov, Prime Minister of the Kazakh SSR, Askar Mamin, and Prime Minister of the Turkmen SSR, Kurban Berdyev. In addition, several republic-level bureaucrats in the three republics and high-ranking staff of the three premiers were also taken into custody.

Shortly following the raids and arrests, President Orlov released the following statement to the media.

"My fellow Soviet citizens, today acting on evidence from a long-running investigation by the Interior Ministry, federal police have arrested the Premiers of Azerbaijan, Turkmen, and Kazakh along with various staff members and officials. These arrests are a direct result of the overwhelming evidence collected that points to rampant and unchecked corruption that has been prolific in particularly these three Republics. It is my pledge to every citizen of the Union, in every Repulic that this administration will not allow corruption to go unchecked at any level. Corruption must be completely eliminated. God bless you and may God bless our Union."
-- President Vasily Orlov

Spokespeople from the Supreme Soviets of the three Republics say that the Republics will fully cooperate with Federal investigators in handing over any additional evidence and some sources even say that local authorities might bring their own charges against the Premiers after being emboldened by the Federal authorities actions. In addition, the three Republics Supreme Soviets have announced emergency sessions where it is widely believed that the three PMs will be officially removed from their positions.

Vice-President Rashid Meredow, himself a Turkmen by birth, had been put in charge of the newly created Presidential Anti-Corruption Special Task Force earlier this year. In a brief exchange with reporters outside his office, the Vice-President said that the Task Force had aided the Interior Ministry in the investigation and that the levels of corruption were simply stomach-churning.

Already people in Baku, Alma-Ata, and Ashkabad have taken to the streets celebrating the arrests of their corrupt leaders with many openly hopeful that President Orlov will be able to help usher in a more free and fair future for them at a local level.

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Andrei Chekov
Febuary 4, 2021

MOSCOW -- Today, the Supreme Soviet has passed S.S.B 2132 known commonly as the "National Right to Life Bill" which states that abortions shall not be performed after a heartbeat is detected. The bill places responsibility and punishment on the abortionist and states that knowingly violating this law shall result in permanent medical license suspension and a $10,000 fine. Two counts of violating the law also carry a minimum prison term of 3 years and up to 10 with all previously mentioned penalties as well.

Abortion rights activists have denounced the new bill as draconian and an assault on the women in the nation. Pro-life groups, however, have contended that nobody has the right to kill an individual human being. In addition to this new law, several more laws have been passed providing easier access to adoptions, increasing government aid to new parents, and funding government-operated daycare centers in several major cities with more set to open over time.

President Orlov is widely expected to sign all of these bills into law later today at a ceremony hosted at the Kremlin. In a short statement, President Orlov was quoted as saying "Children are gifts from God. Nobody has a right to end a child's life before it has even started. Here in the USSR, we will not allow the sickening practice to continue any longer."

DIPLOMACY

To: President Ronald Wilkerson, Paramount Leader Li Keqiang, President Kim Gi-Hyeon, Supreme Leader Kim Yo-jong
From: President Vasily Orlov

My colleagues,

I write you today with hopes of ensuring peace and stability in the region and wider world. In recent days tensions have soared over the Korean Peninsula and understandably so as it is a very delicate issue indeed. That is why, I would like to propose a multi-lateral summit to be held in the city of Vladivostok at our mutual earliest conveniences so that we may, through dialogue, resolve this matter peacefully.

I look forward to your responses.

Sincerely,

President Vasily Orlov

2021: A Brave New Decade (IC)

2021: A Brave New Decade (IC)

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