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Pax Minachiana

The Emperor has released an official declaration justifying the nation’s tightening stance on Reman affairs:

“We, Octavius Nichephorus Junior Augustus, by the Grace of God and the Will of the People Emperor of Caero-Minachia, Defender of the Faith, Pious, Blessed, and Unconquered, etc., etc., etc., to Our most loyal citizens, the Senate, and all near and far to whom it may concern, especially to the Nations, Princes, and Potentates of Remus, Greeting:

In regards to the opposition foreign and domestic Our Majesty has faced in expanding the scope and purpose of the Reman Continental Union:

We assert, without reservation or hesitation, that the actions taken by the Government on the behalf of Ourselves and the Minachian people have been solely for the advancement of peace, prosperity, and welfare throughout the Continent.

Whereas the Continent of Remus has faced numerous political and civil conflicts over the last several years, including the political upheaval and religious violence in Kefalaria, the civil strife and purges of the aristocracy in Santomare, the insurgencies and changes of government in Trimainia, and the dynastic disputes in the Greater Vanya;

Whereas the wider world has faced similar turmoil, in countries including but not limited to Old Nurasalovsk, Obungunda, Ubizieten, Herzoland, and Katanga;

Whereas certain hostile powers seek to disrupt the civil society, moral integrity, and general peace of nations overseas, with the goal of preventing meaningful opposition to their own tyrannies and illegitimate expansions;

Whereas a Reman Continental Union has already been created with goals including the preservation of peace and prosperity on the continent;

And whereas Our most glorious Empire, ever-blessed by God Almighty, remains a shining beacon of civilization, of peaceable and moral society, of righteous and religious standing, of economic prosperity and political stability, of wealth and liberty, of military might and rule of law, of art and culture, of science and technological advancement;

Therefore, it is Our firm belief that Our nation has a duty and moral obligation to use her great gifts to advance just, righteous, and peaceable civilization both globally and in Remus especially;

That the Reman Union and other such tools that already exist and may be created should be directed and assisted by Our Majesty to secure a great and long-lasting Continental Peace;

And that similar methods be used, under the guidance of the Lord and through His servants the Empire and the Church and other such allies and compatriots to establish a global era of peace, prosperity, liberty, and morality.”

***

The decree has been echoed by numerous statements issued by the Imperial Government, including one by the Foreign Ministry refusing to retract the suggestion given to the states of Remus, and another by the Defense Ministry acknowledging the fleet near Kefalaria and refusing to recall it, citing an treaty between Minachia and Santomare requiring the former to patrol those waters and further citing that Imperial Navy ships are free to stay in international waters as long as they wish as per UN law. Another statement has claimed that all troops near the Vanyan border are there for regular security operations or training exercises in the Galerian Mountains.

The Emperor’s declaration has been hailed as a new manifesto for Minachian foreign policy, the solidification of a new doctrine of “Pax Minachiana:” that it is the Empire’s right and just duty to use its might to enforce peace and “civilization” both in Remus and, eventually, worldwide. Political analysts are saying that the doctrine will likely go down as one of the most impactful developments of Octavius IV’s reign and a cornerstone of his personal ideology.

Support within Minachia is far from universal, however: left-wing groups are heavily criticizing the extreme nature of the proclamation, and even more moderate groups are growing wary of supporting His Majesty’s direction for the country on the world stage. On the other side, the doctrine is highly popular among the Emperor’s right-wing supporters, and is igniting a new wave of nationalism for Minachia.

Decision
After a closed session, Duval declared her support for the Minachian move. She uses the newfound royal stability that has been found within the country as a reason to stand as strong as the Northern state has.

SECRET Loans to Kefalaria
In a secret message delivered to the government written by Gao Song, on behalf of the QPLA offers to loan Kefalaria with several anti ship missile batteries as well as a small flotilla of coastal patrol boats. The offer, on the basis of “pushing back unwanted guests that overstay their welcome” will come with crews that will assist and direct how to install, maintain and operate these such assets.

SECRET - Acceptance
The Kefalarians accept the proposal and invite the Quangsuhi to send the missiles via air or smaller ship to accommodate the naval limitations placed on the nation due to its status as an underdeveloped nation in the naval sector.

The Foreign Empress

The support received from “Queen” Duval of Trimainia (as she is known in the Empire) for Minachia’s new pan-Reman doctrine has been met with positivity by both the government and the public. The Foreign Ministry has applauded Duval’s commitment to continental stability, and commented on her success in putting down insurrections in her country (aided partly by Minachian forces and military advisors). The Minachian public, already viewing the foreign ruler positively in comparison to her predecessor, King Pierre, has also taken a new liking to Duval, giving her the nickname of “Imperegina,” a portmanteau of the words for “emperor” and “queen,” reflecting perceived similarities between her and Emperor Octavius.

Response to Kefalaria

In a rare televised appearance for a press conference regarding the Pax Minachiana Declaration, the Emperor’s brother and top advisor Lord Tiberius responded to the position taken by the Kefalarian government, and his statements were later echoed by the Foreign Ministry. In response to the Kefalarian prime minister’s accusations, the prince said “The only inflammatory thing here is the unreasonable and unappeasable remarks made by Kefalaria. Here me when I say this: Minachia will not break its existing agreement with Santomare, and it certainly will not do so to placate a state which thus far has a history of barbarism and religious persecution. The Empire moreover maintains its right under international law to deploy its ships in any manner consistent with peaceable use of non-territorial waters.” Tiberius later added: “To be quite frank, if we were going to depose the existing Kefalarian state and install a puppet, we would have already done so. The only threat to peace here, as it seems to me, is Kefalaria’s unwillingness to accept our legitimate use of international waters and their hostile reaction to being asked join an organization for the benefit of all.”

Silence
Kefalaria offers no response, but does not hide the deployment of the missile defense weaponry on its coasts and the semi-mobilization of its military to oversee things. The Minachian Embassy has been advised to keep to themselves, as they could elicit a negative response from the protesters outside their gates.

While not responding to the Minachians, they HAVE openly allowed a Quangsui military advisory team to land in Ionia while, generally, reminding the world that they are "free to do so under international law" as a clear mockery of the Minachian bully.

Stern Warning

The Defense Ministry has issued a public memorandum to Kefalaria, saying merely:

“We advise the Kefalarians to use restraint; retaliation often exceeds the first attack.”

Meanwhile, a task force has been quietly put on alert to be able to evacuate the embassy in Ionia at a moment’s notice.

SECRET

The undercover guards at the Minachian embassy have also been put on alert, and the embassy staff have begun removing sensitive documents.

The Defense Ministry has directed its special operations and defense intelligence forces to search for ways to destabilize Kefalaria and/or sabotage its defense forces in case of armed conflict. The Imperial Navy has deployed the ballistic missile submarine SMI Hydra to the fleet near Santomare.

No Intent
Kefalaria has shown no signs of intent to strike first, instead waiting for the Minachians to illegally enter their waters without permission.

A Deal! [Secret]

The Government of Herzoland after hundreds of days of blockade with neither side budging has drafted up a new deal that is a chance to settle the diplomatic crisis and war status with Treka.

This agreement is being sent out to all representatives of the CIS!

To all representatives of the CIS, the nation of Herzoland is interesting in an organization that is committed to trade from a non political angle. Herzoland finding itself at a geopolitical crossroads finds the CIS a much preferred alternative to the “political” sways that other nations wants to pull Herzoland into. While the naval blockade has yet to be lifted and nations primarily Treka have yet to end it on their own, perhaps we can come to an agreement. The Herzolandish Government would cease power to CIS representatives in exchange for rebuilding a brand new government in the hopes that the current crisis would calm down. Appeasing Treka is a good option however this will ensure Treka wouldn’t get away with bullying foreign countries just to install what is clear, a puppet government in them. The CIS is a non political organization with no unified political system, instead made up of different countries which Herzoland has been quite interested in recently. We hope that you highly consider this offer.

Olive Branch
In a surprising move from the Federal State Tangshi- the Quangsui Government has offered its hand in diplomacy to Novavastok. Yi Sukegei himself has offered to host leaders, politicians and lawmakers from Novavastok for talks in Xichang surrounding the possibility of a ‘Novavastok-Quangsuh Economic and Development Agreement’, which will include cooperation in the economic and political development of South Eastern Berinsky. In addition to this requests for talks on co policing the NR-Quangsuh strait and airspace have been lodged. Quangsuh has stated that it’s acceptance of Novavastok of a state has lead it to “Adjust to correctly respect the maritime, areal and land boarders of Novavastok as a sovereign state”.

SECRET
On a more sinister note, rumours among the circles of power for each nation hint at with Quangsuh “bending the knee” for the smaller state could be seen as a signal that there can only be peace and prosperity as long as ‘certain historical aspects are forgotten’.

Wednesday News Treka- Quangsuh, Hurricane Walter, Leaf Peepers

Treka orders major move in Quangsuh
The Trekan Government, in response to the Quangsui recognition of Novavostok’s territorial sovereignty, has made an unprecedented move. The Trekan Navy presence in Eastern Novavostok and Quangsuh has been cut in half. The remaining half has been ordered to end aggressive confrontations with the Quangsui navy. However when questioned about this move, Adebayo firmly reiterated Treka stands strongly against Quangsuh, but deescalating the region is in the best interest of the locals. Treka has however continued its military exercises near Konzask, proof that the tension in Berinsky is far from over.

Leaf Peepers arrive in droves
Treka has entered Fall, and with fall comes “Cruise Ship and Lead Peeping Season.” Treka is famous for having the worlds most vibrant autumn foliage, and the change of seasons brings in millions of tourists and billions of dollars to the country, most notably in the form of a significant spike in cruise ship arrivals, especially in smaller cities. The Department of the Interior has released a map of where and when the best foliage is visible throughout the country this year. It seems an early fall has appeared this year with much of the country approaching peak foliage right now.

Cat 4 Hurricane Walter: Evacuations in Somerset, Pemaquid.
A relatively quiet hurricane season, one following 8 years of record activity, has amped up its intensity with its first major hurricane (cat 3+). Hurricane Walter, which formed in the warm waters between Entaria and Corusconia, is expected to take the normal hurricane route south where they turn and impact northern Treka. Trade winds tend to blow them west the farther south they go which sometimes impacts Entaria. Hurricane Walter will ride the coast of Somserset as a category 4 storm with sustained winds up to 145 mph, possibly making brief landfall over Cape Sepulchre. It will then make direct landfall as a category 3 or 2 around the major city of Maen, in Pemaquid. A City who has been ravaged by hurricanes multiple times over the past 10 years. The city has gone from resort destination to neighborhoods full of destroyed homes. And this year they expect that to worsen. Somerset and Pemaquid have both issued evacuations for zones A, B and are preparing to evacuate zone C. The State of Pemaquid, issued a formal criticism of the Federal Government for its lack of action in hurricane preparation and recovery which it mostly leaves to the states. It cites the city of Maen as the prime example. Maen 4 years ago was Treka’s top beachside town, and it’s seawall defended it against cyclone impacts, where it still suffered, but it was able to rebuild. The seawall was destroyed after poor maintenance and heavy cyclone impacts. Now nearly half the city, especially downtown, has been severely damaged or destroyed by continuous hurricane and nor’easter impacts over the past 4 years. A nor’easter last winter made 7,000 Trekans, mainly in the Maen area, homeless for at least a week. The official statement from the State Legislature of Pemaquid claims “President Adebayo, cares more about his imaginary image as the worldwide defender of democracy and freedom, than he does about his citizens suffering from the worst string of natural disasters in Trekan History.” The president, nor any of his administration has responded as of late.

Bad news Overseas
While President Yi Sukegei, General Staff of the QPLA Qi Dong and Speaker of the house Yin Li were attending a state visit in Tung Wan, rumours, scandals and unrest festered in the absence of Quangsuhs senior leadership back at home. Reports of worker strikes at the Xianshui shipyards escalated when riot police violently dispersed the crowds. In other reports 6 members of senior positions within the party were arrested under charges of corruption. Media coverage had varied widely with outlets blaming the top down power structure for the unrest, other reports calling for the immediate return of the President and a crackdown. All this arose after the government announced it would be extending the work hours of ship construction workers to meet the high demand for vessels, including a Tungwanese Aircraft Carrier.

Herzoland welcomes SVIZ invitation

The President of Herzoland, Janek Koldeš released a statement today expressing his support for SVIZ membership stating that the organization has condemned the blockade and will continue to send aid and trade goods with the nation regardless of what happens. While not exactly ideologically aligned with all nations in the SVIZ, it has been shown that it is a non political organization and has questioned the clear political bias of Elparia. Herzoland has also taken into consideration the SVIZ’s stance towards political stability unlike “certain nations” that couldn’t care less.

Friday Morning News- Hurricane Walter, Herzoland Blockade

Treka’s Controversial Blockade, 9 months in
The Trekan blockade of Herzoland is nearing the 9 month mark. And with Herzoland looking for SVIZ membership, it has yet again taken the headlines in the news. So what’s happened? 9 months ago Treka’s navy, with the later assistance of the Minachian Armada and Trimainian Navy, began a full blockade of Herzoland. The blockade has cut Herzoland off from vital imports such as oil, vehicles, raw materials, etc. Treka agreed to let Food and Medical supplies in to sustain the population. All ships entering Herzoland’s waters are stopped by the Trekan navy. Treka also got the approval of neighboring nations to Herzoland such as Arells. Further hindering their imports. The situation was fueled by Herzoland’s brutal regime, refusal to obey Adebayo’s controversial ultimatum to end the authoritarianism running Herzoland, and suspected UN sanctions violations. It has resulted in tons of backlash towards Adebayo and Treka from within the country and abroad. However the move received notable support from a wide variety of countries such as Entaria and Kefalaria. Treka later acquired the support of the United Nations after weeks of heated debate in the General Assembly. So how has this blockade affected Herzoland? Well it’s hard to tell, but we have a pretty good idea. The blockade has in essence, brought Herzoland’s economy to its knees. The lack of fossil fuels is said to be the worst part for Herzoland. The government is forced to hold onto as much oil as possible, it’s likely causing the bankruptcy of companies who cannot run without vehicles moving their product. Treka is open to the idea of allowing humanitarians in to drive food out to people, but it’s probable the lack of goods being shipped throughout the country with the oil crisis is causing starvation, mainly in major cities. Ironically the rural farmland where horseback and walking are more common forms of travel have likely faired the best. Although they are still suffering from the lack of income. Trekan officials estimate societal collapse could begin in the cities as soon as the end of the year. With this, the Trekan government has refused to budge on the blockade. Adebayo commented on Sunday that he “will not bow down to a dictatorship” until said dictatorship is “eliminated.” He also said that Herzoland will face “serious consequences” should it join SVIZ. What those are, we have no idea.

The Damage, Hurricane Walter
Hurricane Walter’s impact was no what meteorologists expected. The hurricane made impact in Somerset as a category 4 hurricane, with sustained wind speeds of 147 mph. The damage in the Truro area was, bad, to say the least. Storm surge approached 16 feet. Entire neighborhoods were leveled by the storm. The death toll has not yet been released but local sheriffs and police departments have reported at least 74. The cost will not be known for months, but it’s likely in the tens of billions. The storm was expected to make its worse landfall after going back into the Sea and hitting Maen, in Pemaquid. But it didn’t. It shot further inland from Truro, and rapidly lost strength. The storm became a tropical storm as it approached the Merrimack border. And officially became a post-tropical cyclone over the city of Windham. Dissipating in the M’ikmaq mountains. A trail of flash flood damage was left behind the storm, impacting the I-50 corridor from Somerset into Merrimack around Windham. The total cost of the storm is still unknown. And it’s likely we won’t even have an idea until a month from now.

Northern Convenience

As global tensions continue to rise, and the world seems to be descended deeper into a cold war, the KCP has decided make a peaceful overture to one of it's more, controversial neighbors. Hollefjord and Konzask have always had a rocky relationship since the end of the Lorraine War, and for the most part had clashing foreign policy. Recently, this has started changing. With recent economic agreements in the arctic, recognizing both nations presence in the region, and agreeing to stay out of one another's respected "zones of control", coupled with a joint de-militarized zone in the arctic, prohibiting military vessels from either nation from patrolling the region to avoid unnecessary, and accidentally conflict. Furthermore, with the Trekan blockade of Herzoland, and continued marginalization within the United Nations (albeit, prompted from unprompted shouting, and very questionable remarks from the Hollefjordish delegate), Konzask has decided to extend a policy of "Allies of Convenience".

To say the two states will likely never rectify, or even compromise on one another's ideological differences, despite this fact, it's clear both countries have far more to gain as cautious friends, then petty enemies. With this policy of "Allies of Convenience" in mind, Konzask has proposed a more extensive trade agreement, allowing Hollefjord to export it's oil to Konzask, in exchange for Konzaskan agricultural and household goods. This isn't expected to change Konzask's dominant usage and import of Zhonghanian oil, however the extra oil source in closer proximity will allow for an increase of strategic reserves, and a much appreciated decrease in gas prices. In exchange of course, Hollefjord's rather precarious food situation can be effectively stabilized. This trade agreement was also fallowed up with the proposal to allow limited investment in both nations, in which both governments would agree upon pre selected areas in which Konzaskan and Hollefjordish companies can legally invest in, or build in, under regular supervision from government officials from both countries. KCP officials have stated that they hope this will keep northern tensions cool, and arctic waters free from military incursions.

Herzolandish Controversy

The KCP has recently stated their joy over Herzoland's acceptance into the organization. Konzask has re-iterated that the SVIZ is strictly apolitical, and economic, and that SVIZ operation in Herzoland will work with economic development, as well as economic reform, if government permitted.

Konzask itself has never really been fond of Herzoland, and has publicly criticized it's government policy on repeated occasion. However, Konzask's involvement in the situation only started after the nation was blockaded, decrying the action, believing it sets an unhealthy, and dangerous precedent, vowing to remain involved in the ongoing crisis until the blockade is lifted, even suggesting an enforced embargo from across the Laurel Pact would likely have the same intended effect without the need for a blockade. Now however, with the situation evolving, Konzask has decided to further directly involve itself in the growing situation by responding to Abedeyo's threat of "serious consequences" by stating that "Any further military actions taken against Herzoland will be met with military reaction from Konzask", further criticizing Abedeyo's statement as "dangerously imperialistic".

Economically, Konzask has also decided to get involved by finding ways to bypass around the blockade. This has come in the air force lending various military cargo planes for an airlift project. The planes are set to be loaded up with humanitarian resources such as food, medical supplies, bottled water, but perhaps most importantly, oil. The planes are set to stock up in Ruse, and fly for resupply in Southern Kement, and then make their journey to Herzoland. Some of these planes are set to also include personnel, such as SVIZ delegates, to discuss future investment plans and financial loans and injections into the Herzolandish economy to provide much needed relief, on top of key Konzaskan diplomats set to formalize relations between the two countries, discuss post blockade cooperation plans, as well as, showing Konzask's willingness to find a diplomatic solution to the process, hope to help the Herzolandish government reform from their rigid authoritarian framework, within the socialist framework to a more free, democratic system, without causing drastic, and deadly changes to Herzoland's own native system, many diplomats sighting that dramatic changes of economic and political systems only end in further economic collapse. Konzask has also offered to begin sending Herzoland significant financial loans to Herzoland to aid in keeping it afloat, with moderate interest. Although it would financially make Herzoland reliant on Konzask, it is also potentially a necessary sacrifice to stave off collapse. The SVIZ has also offered financial injections, but that debt would be needed to eventually be paid to them, rather then an individual country.

Toning Down the Rhetoric

Konzask and Quangsuh's hatred for one another is no secret. However as of recently, due to an ever changing geo political situation, anti Quangsuh rhetoric in media, as well as on the world stage as been toned down from Konzask's end. The KCP has decided to make it clear that this doesn't mean a change in position with Quangsuh, but have stated that they are willing to enter into a stage of détente

Secret – Operesheni Vimulimuli | Operation Fireflies – Part II
The Lyantido peninsula, located on the northern coast of Katanga, sits on the opposite side of the Kiboro strait to the town of Limuli, Jainoro. The peninsula lies between two waterways deemed strategically important by the 2KC Coalition military command; the Mbebi and Chagomba waterways. These waterways act as outlets for the Katumrime river which is navigable and widely used by pirates, merchant ships, and Katanga's riverine navy alike. Once the Coalition forces have crossed the Kiboro strait, they are to land at and subsequently capture the town of Nyadatu before advancing along the peninsula towards the city of Lyantido, located at the base of the peninsula.

It is all but guaranteed that the peninsula will be bitterly contested due to the presence of gas and oil platforms in the region. Whilst there is little expectation of any significant resistance from the small fishing town of Nyadatu, located at the tip of the peninsula, it is expected that as coalition forces advance further along the peninsula, and closer to the large port city of Lyantido, there will be a great concentration of Katangan forces. This assumption is becoming increasingly backed by evidence as Vaadekoenese surveillance aircraft have detected the buildup of military vehicles on key transport routes in the surrounding area.

Nyadatu, Katanga – 12/8/22 12:53 AM KST
It was only a few minutes past noon when Coalition forces landed at Nyadatu along with a multitude of positions further along the Lyantido peninsula, effectively surrounding the town. A series of clashes in the town's central business district took place between coalition forces and provincial militia forces stationed in the area, however, no civilian casualties were reported and the provincial militia forces quickly surrendered once it became known that the town had been encircled. By 12:53 AM, Katangan Standard Time, all resistance in the town had been extinguished and the surrounding area was firmly secured by the coalition forces.

The Battle of the Lyantido Peninsula – Part I
Once news of the ongoing offensive had reached the capital city of Danane, the interim president and leader of the military junta, Ahmed Akunyili, broadcasted an announcement on the ongoing situation on state television stating, "This afternoon residents of the small coastal town of Nyadatu were shocked to see foreign soldiers parading through the streets, carrying out an unjustified invasion of Katanga. This action is an unprecedented act of war for the Maritime West Selarian region, so we call upon world leaders to condemn our invaders, and convince them to cease this needless aggression!"

The Defense of Lyantido
The news of an invasion has prompted the provincial government of Lyantido to announce a state of emergency, ordering the evacuation of all major population centres located on the western end of the peninsula. Additionally, a flotilla of naval ships is to be sent out to the towns of Sebe, Kili, and Kamuso, which are all located between Nyadatu and Lyantido, in order to aid in the evacuation and provide humanitarian assistance.

With coalition forces capturing the town of Nyadatu, located at the tip of the Lyantido peninsula, Katangan police begin blockading the roads leading out of Nyadatu, constructing barricades and deploying spike strips on the aforementioned roads in an attempt to slow down the coalition forces as they approach Lyantido. Additionally, the provincial militia begins planting explosives on bridges along state highway 2 and all adjacent roads leading to the city of Lyantido, although they are likely not to be detonated until the evacuation of Sebe, the closest of the three aforementioned towns between Nyadatu and Lyantido, is complete.

Secret – A call for help
The military junta government of the Union of Katanga contacts the government of the Republic of Almawas, the only member state of the Kufukubwan Community that has remained neutral in the Katanga crisis, requesting that Almawas lodges a complaint regarding the ongoing invasion to the United Nations General Assembly on behalf of Katanga, which has lacked representation in the UNGA since the military coup and the establishment of the military junta earlier this year.

Response – Um... no...
The government of Almawas informs the Katangan administration that it will remain neutral in the conflict, and will therefore not lodge a complaint on behalf of Katanga. The government of Almawas also heavily urges the Katangan administration to negotiate a ceasefire with the Kufukubwan community as soon as possible to prevent the loss of life, which has been thankfully absent thus far.

Cursor Mane Dominicae - The Sunday Morning Courier
9 October, 2022.

Weekly news delivered to you by the Sunday edition of Minachia’s Evening Courier - Reporting on the Nation and the World.

Election Season in Minachia Begins to Ramp Up

Velitrae - The engines of Minachia’s political parties have been firing up as the nation moves towards the December 2022 elections, which will primarily feature the election of the second Assembly of the People, a still-new and unchartered political arena since the Emperor’s 2020 reforms. While still a way’s off, many analysts are already predicting a widening of the majority currently held by the right-wing Christian Solidarity Union and Optimates parties, as Minachian popular opinion has swung further to the right as a result of ongoing global events, particularly with the recent wave of nationalist sentiments as the Government has tightened its foreign policy in response to the Emperor’s manifesto on the Pax Minachiana. However, some have noted that certain constituencies, particularly those in large cities and across the nation’s typically more liberal southeastern coast, have shown rising support for the opposition Liberal-Social Party and even for the Social Proletarians, being described as a “knee-jerk reaction” by more neutral Minachians to what they see as a radicalization of rural voters and of those living in some areas of the former CSR, who are already known to have unusually far-right political leanings, even by Minachian standards.

Another centerpiece of this election is whether Joannes Norbanus will continue to serve as prime minister. Although he remains an unendingly popular leader, even amongst his political opposition, Mr. Norbanus has now been in power for fourteen years, and many, even those within his party, have speculated that he is growing weary of his position and is planning to retire. The Consular House has not made any indication that the prime minister plans to step down, but if he did, it would create nothing short of a political crisis in Minachia; Mr. Norbanus is widely regarded as a primary link keeping the CSU and the Optimates in a governing coalition, and the list of candidates to replace him is sparse, to say the least. Moreover, if he were to announce his retirement before the election, it could dramatically upset results for both of the conservative parties, but if he waited until afterwards, the ensuing public outrage that what was believed to be another two years of the Norbanus ministry would end might result in an unprecedented dissolution of the Assembly to hold another election. Either way, the political future of Minachia depends heavily on the decisions made by Mr. Norbanus and his top lieutenants in the coming months.

Minachia Holds the Blockade

Portown, Treka (World Report) - In response to the changes to the situation in Herzoland and the backlash to comments made by Trekan President Adebayo, the Minachian Foreign Ministry has released a statement that the nation intends to continue to support the Trekan-led blockade of Herzoland. The statement expressed the Imperial Government’s belief that “all pressure by civilized nations must be maintained against the Herzolandish regime, so that it may collapse and be replaced by a free society.” The statement also denounced Konzask’s bringing Herzoland into the SVIZ and the support it is rendering to that country, accusing the USSK of ”cavorting with a dictatorship of the worst variety” and of “placing [its] own political interests over the inherent liberty and dignity of Man.” The Government has also called on the UN to punish Konzask for violating sanctions placed against Herzoland.

Hurricane Aid to Treka

Hevitia - Various Minachian charities and relief groups, such as the Empress’s own International Disaster Relief Project, have offered to provide aid to the areas of Treka devastated by Hurricane Walter, including by collecting and sending monetary donations from Minachians, by sending shipments of emergency supplies, and by providing volunteers to help with damage assessment, repairs, food distribution, search-and-rescue, and other operations. The Apostolic Church in Treka has already gone to work in this endeavor, with parishes in affected areas opening up their facilities as shelters and food pantries, tithe money being redirected to support various emergency projects, and volunteers from across the world being flown in under the direction of the Holy See.

Notice of suspension of membership in the Council of Mutual Economic Assistance
Given the recent addition of Herzoland to the Council of Mutual Economic Assistance, the government of Vaadekoenië notifies the Safingrad-based international organisation that it will be suspending its membership effective immediately.

Although the government has neglected to give any reasoning behind its withdrawal, many speculate that the addition of Herzoland to the organisation collided with Vaadekoenië’s commitment to neutrality in international conflicts not involving itself, the Herzoland crisis being no different.

The government of Vaadekoenië has stated, however, that it will continue to maintain cordial relations with the states constituting the organisation and expressed interest in continued economic cooperation with Nyle, Niman, Konzask, and Zhonghan.

Herzolandish Reform

Konzask's distaste for Herzolands government is long standing, however with it's growing influence in Herzoland, and increasing involvement with the blockade, Konzask has been sending representatives, and diplomats to meet with Herzolandish dignitaries to recommend, and oversee reforms to Herzoland's political, social and economic system. Although SVIZ is an apolitical organization outside of the Safingrad Pact, SVIZ representatives have also made an effort to initiate economic reform and modernization within Herzoland in a sort of united front.

With Konzaskan diplomats and representatives recently arriving within Herzoland, suggestions for reforms have already begun their drafting. With dramatic immediate change being fruitless, and a one way trip to further irreversible fallout, representatives have proposed a transitional program in Herzoland, shifting Herzolands outright dictatorship into a temporary one party democracy. Although there would be one unifying party in charge of Herzoland, there would be term limits set within higher ranking positions within the party, including the leadership role, furthermore the party should have the majority of it's members be from the Herzolandish middle class, and have representatives from the lower classes as well. Within this party, the power of the the leader would be greatly reduced, shifting some of the power and influence to party dignitaries and cadres. This, again is made to be temporary, Konzaskan diplomats making not a need of "de-indoctrination" of the Herzolandish populace, as well as criticizing the blockade as, ironically enough, making meaningful reform significantly harder, as the anger and spite growing within the Herzolandish people will inevitably be re-directed towards the so called "Free World", as well as leaving the potential open for an even harsher government to take power. As it is temporary, the one party democracy, will be eventually transitioned to a fully fledged multi-party democracy in the span of 10 years, after sufficient "de-indoctrination" is able to be carried out, as well as helping the Herzolandish population become accustomed to a democratic system, Konzaskan dignitaries suggesting that should this reform be adopted by the Herzolandish government, that UN observers should remain present within Herzoland to monitor it's commitment to the reform, and ensure the transition into a multi-party democracy once the time does come. Socially, Konzaskan representatives have begun putting pressure on the Herzolandish government to adopt legal equality for the marginalized peoples within Herzoland.

On the other end, with economic reform, SVIZ representatives have also made their recommendations for reform, suggesting a policy of Kavarma Communism (the name coming from a Konzaskan pork and vegetable stew, meant to symbolize an idea of "consumer socialism"). This policy would inherently bring general amnesty to previously imprisoned political dissidents, and work to slowly de-formalize certain aspects of interactions between the wider populace and the Herzolandish government. Economically however, the reform is intended to begin de-centralizing the Herzolandish economy to a limited to degree, allowing the creation of private enterprises within Herzoland's services sector, as well as open Herzoland up to foreign market relations. Perhaps most notably, the reform is also intended to encourage market relations between Herzolandish firms, using prices as allocative functions and for firms to respond to prices to maximize profits, and use profits to budget new investments. The policy of Kavarma Communism also entails the the ability of producers the freedom to decide how much they produce, and how much they sell, as well giving firms greater autonomy in how they hire labor, and a new standard of more modern labor laws.

With the mounting backlash for Konzask's involvement, KCP officials have been quick to fire back against perceived hypocrisy to many Konzaskan diplomats, is abundantly clear, hastily pointing out both Trekas and Minachias past, positive relationship with Hao's Quangsuh, or their out right positive view of Northern Ubizieten, despite the state boasting a much older, more brutal military dictatorship, that is actively gunning down it's own citizens for daring to rise up against it, multiple dignitaries asking where the harsh retaliation against authoritarianism against them, pointing out how Treka and Minachia are willing to let people suffer under political persecution if it doesn't interfere with their geo-political ambitions, and how they quite obviously "play favorites" with the authoritarian governments they deal with. As Konzaskan representatives point out that it isn't an issue of resource allocation, because if Treka wanted, they very clearly could address both rogue states at the same time, while cracking down further against other authoritarian states, however simply choose not too. Filipova was also reported commenting that "I believe I can speak for most Elparians when I say that we are lucky to live in a world where gunboat diplomacy is extinct, however it's evident that Abedeyo's out of touch administration seeks to revive the old 19th century tradition". Konzask's UN delegate further commented that "We are a member of the Human Rights council, what Treka has done is further harm and clamp down on the Herzolandish civilian, when it is the government that should be punished, although they claim they only intend to harm the Herzolandish upper class and leadership, the harmful toll it's taking on it's people are evident. As members of the human rights council, it is our duty as a member of the international community to alleviate their suffering, and find reform for Herzoland that will lead to a long term solution, not holding their people at gun point for boastful foreign policy. If this was truly about reform, I have yet to see either Treka, or Minachia reach out to Herzoland to aid, or oversee the reforms they claim they want to see, yet we are the only ones to take that step, and it makes the blockade all the more disgusting". With all these statements put together, Filipova has announced her intention to undergo a state visit to Herzoland, aiming to personally document the harmful affects of the blockade on the Herzolandish people, as well as personally see to it that reform is applied, further accusing Trekan diplomats of being too afraid to begin negotiating with Herzoland.

(This article was originally posted on March 5th, 1973, on Koraamo, a newswire service operating out of Anersiko. It has been republished to coincide with the public release of Kaata ti Kansaani, a five part documentary serial focusing on the decline of Storal isolationism.)

[FORMER KOYRA SAVIKA PYORI DEAD AT 57]
Savika Pyori, who was Koyra from 1962 to 1964, died from complications related to cancer during the night. His short, controversial term was a pivotal moment in history, representing the last hurrah of Storal's isolationist factions, which had dominated politics since the early 1890s.

Despite presiding over such a critical time, Savika was an unlikely candidate to become Koyra, being third in line for the head of the left-wing Independent Storal party. He assumed leadership of the party following a freak accident which wiped out leader Naviike Taran and deputy leader Woyke Lalske a mere week before an election the pair were scheduled to lose by a narrow margin.

While initially liked by the public thanks to his more moderate positions compared to the party's previous leadership, his accession to both head of the party, and Koyra, unsealed a decade of factional infighting lurking just below the surface of Independent Storal. Following a diplomatic blunder, several resignations, and the collapse of Maaro's industrial sector in 1963 (partially attributed to a failed compromise brokered by Pyori), Independent Storal rapidly and explosively disintegrated in early 1964, paving the way for a landslide loss in a snap election dominated by scandals.

Independent Storal, Pyori's Legacy, and what's left of Storal's once prolific isolationist ideals live on through Independent New Storal, a minor party with a mere seventeen seats in the Storal Ka'Aska.

Savika Pyori leaves behind a wife, a father, and two children. The Storal Ka'Aska has decreed that a festival celebrating his passing shall be held three months from now in Storalis, as per tradition.

Reporting by Ivei Taran; Writing & Editing by Taro Saafoye.

Addressing the situation

Through the current crisis not much was said by the more upper class people in Herzoland but cracks have started to form as vying for reform and for some a chance to take power and implement new polices for a brighter and more peaceful future. Even those within the government have stressed their desire for at least some changes. This concerted effort has been behind a standardized law regarding the rights and wellbeing of workers which has been implemented. The ministry of the economy has commented stating, "We do not wish for war, we do not wish for bloodshed, as nations in the 21st century it is in the best interest that we should be striving for a peaceful solution and have recognized the faults within the system." One of these outspoken voices has been Rolf Mandic, a business owner and politician who has not been satisfied with the current situation and has advocated using his political influence for reforms from within. He has announced in the case of any form of election, his name will be on the ballot and has spoken on what he calls at appeasement. He has called for reforms such as the improvement of the standard of living and pushed for an election to be called, with his support only rising since. He has also ensured diplomatic talks with Treka can begin if an election is called and the Trekans agree to end hostilities. His approach to global affairs has been relatively neutral but will include an increase in trade with nations of the SVIZ and Hollefjord who have already considered trade deals once the crisis has ended.