[Zamastan]

Co-written via input from [nation]Xiomera[/nation]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Tuesday, November 19th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Naval Standoff

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
NAVY RELEASES FOOTAGE OF XIOMERAN INTERCEPTION
NEW DATA SHOWS NO SHARING OF XIOMERAN WARNING - ADMIRAL TAVOKA HAS BEEN ASKED BY PRESIDENT SAKZI TO RESIGN

Above: A Xiomeran warship is seen during an interception of the Zamastanian 2nd Fleet

As three nations have now condemned Zamastanian naval presence off the coast of Xiomera, the Navy Offices in Tofino have declassified and released over 82 hours of video footage and over 1,200 images in a huge data dump that appear to capture most of the exchange of military power in the South Xiomera waters. According to multiple sources from naval offices in Zamastan, the only ship in the 2nd Fleet that received warning from Xiomeran radio frequencies was the ZMS Harodia - Admiral Percy Tavoka's flagship. Part of the data dump showed that Admiral Tavoka refused to answer the Xiomeran warnings, and he neglected to share the information with the other commanders on board the other ships in the fleet. Thus, no other ship knew about the approaching Xiomerans until they were on top of the fleet. President Sakzi has reportedly spoken at length with the admiral and has asked him to resign.

The images and footage from the dump include the initial flyby's of Xiomeran jets, as well as the rapid approach of Xiomeran warships. The footage shows at least two Xiomeran ships coming within 30 meters of a Zamastanian missile cruiser at one point, which indicates to the point of the confrontation where both sides began circling, according to a senior defense department official. Both ships' alarms are heard blaring in the footage audio, indicating collision course warnings being triggered.


Above: A Zamastanian ship (left: ZMS Dill) and a Xiomeran Warship (right) nearly collide

It is believed that an error in the navigation charting systems on board at least one of the ships in the fleet led to the unintentional breach of Xiomeran waters by the Zamastanian fleet. President Sakzi and the Navy have both acknowledged the error, but have declined to apologize for the incident. President Sakzi has asserted that the approach through Xiomeran waters "was not severe enough and not one a direct enough line for it to have been met with such hostile retaliation." For the part of the Xiomerans, Defense Secretary Xochiqui accused the Zamastanian 2nd Fleet of being on a secret mission, saying it was "either to provoke a response from us, to falsely justify some kind of aggressive and unilateral military action against us of the sort that the Zamastanians are so famous for throughout their modern history, or of an attempt to conduct espionage against us and test our defenses. Either way, we will not take their bait, but we will defend Xiomeran territory and uphold Xiomeran sovereignty."

Empress Yauhmi snubbed the Zamastanian Navy by offering to assist them in their navigation skills. "To show we have no hard feelings over this incident and bear the Zamastanian Navy no ill will, we are sending complimentary copies of high-quality, current, and up-to-date GPS navigational and territorial maps of the waters of East Catica to the Zamastanian Defense Secretary's office and to President Sakzi's office as well. These maps clearly show where our territorial waters lie. Perhaps if the Zamastanian fleet has more accurate maps in the future, this problem can be avoided. Xiomera is always happy to help."

The International community has reacted quickly to the incident, with many nations clearly warning against further aggression by either side, while three - Xiomera, Kerlile, and Shen - have officially condemned Zamastan.

Zamastanian Four-star Admiral Kenneth Duron released a statement in response to the incident, saying "Two navies; two narratives - but one very real chance of accident or potential injury. There is simply no reason for vessels of this size to be in such close proximity. One of them - or maybe even both - was at fault. Both sides blame the other. But this kind of incident is becoming ever more frequent and it does generally seem to be the result of a concerted policy by Xiomera to challenge Zamastan and its allies naval operations whenever possible in the East Catican region. Their interference historically with our naval operations such as the examples in which their forces caused great loss upon ours in Bjeorg, points to this proof. Such incidents between Zamastan and Xiomera are rare in Catican waters, where the tensions tend to be between Zamastanian and Xiomeran ships-to-aircraft or aircraft-to-aircraft. But wherever it occurs naval brinkmanship of this kind is dangerous and unnecessary.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Wednesday, November 20th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Naval Standoff

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
DESPITE INTERNATIONAL CRITICISM, SAKZI REMAINS UNWAVERING IN RESOLVE
FIVE NATIONS HAVE CONDEMNED ZAMASTAN, BUT SAKZI REFUSES TO APOLOGIZE.
ZAMASTANIANS OVERWHELMINGLY SUPPORT MILITARY, ABOUT 60% SUPPORT MILITARY ACTION

President Sakzi refuses to apologize or back down from his assertion that Zamastan did nothing wrong in the South Xiomera incident on Monday, even as pressure from the rest of the IDU mounts for Zamastan to take responsibility.

Five nations - Xiomera, Kerlile, Shen, Rhand, and even Lauchenoiria in a surprise Wednesday announcement, have condemned Zamastan's actions in what the international community widely believes to be Zamastanian aggression in the South Xiomeran territorial waters. President Sakzi told Admiral Tavoka, who reportedly neglected to share Xiomeran expulsion warnings to the rest of the 2nd Fleet, to resign. The Admiral has also reportedly agreed to the President's request and is expected to announce the decision publicly.

In a speech on Wednesday afternoon, Sakzi spoke at length on why he believes Zamastan is not solely to blame.

"While, yes, our navigation systems led to this error, we believe that our naval commanders, with the exclusion of Admiral Tavoka, did everything right. They maintained course in the midst of an aggressive and very quick interception by Xiomeran forces, which included ships and planes with capabilities to damage or destroy our ships had we been caught completely off guard.

To assert that our forces were on some sort of "secret mission" is ridiculous. We do not want any resource Xiomera has, we do not need any intelligence from them that we don't already have, we have every advantage over them. We need nothing. So, pundits who say we were trying to provoke them into anything are also wrong."

According to a Tofino Times poll of 200,000 participants, Zamastanians overwhelmingly believe that the navy was not at fault. 79% say that Zamastanian vessels did the right thing by continuing on their course, and that their hesitations to engage is indication that they maintained the peace in an otherwise dangerous situation. 73% say Xiomera was the aggressor, while 25% say that Zamastan was the aggressor and should not have been on patrol in the South Xiomeran waters. In another surprising poll, nearly 60% of Zamastanians support carrying out military action on Xiomera. 34% support sanctions and nothing more, while 28% support a complete shutdown of diplomatic relations with Xiomera. Only 20%, or one-fifth of Zamastanians polled think Zamastan should normalize relations with Xiomera.

The Xiomeran government has stuck to their determination that the Zamastanian navy bears a far greater share of responsibility for the incident off the coast of Manauia Island. Xiomera shared an intelligence dump with Lauchenoirian authorities that "clearly demonstrates a prolonged and extensive incursion into Xiomeran waters" by the Zamastanian 2nd Fleet, Defense Secretary Xochiqui said.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Thursday, November 21st, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Naval Standoff

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
NAVY SENDS TWO SHIPS TO PATROL OUTSIDE XIOMERAN WATER TERRITORY
President Sakzi Says the Ships Will Not Breach Boundary, But Will Remain On High Alert

The Zamastanian Navy is strengthening its presence in the Southern Xiomeran Sea by deploying two Jarrus-class ships specializing in near-shore operations. This deployment of the littoral combat ships suggested that the Zamastanian strategy had switched from reconnaissance and deterrence to increasing its attack capability, a Tofino-based think tank said.

The ZMS Gideon Line left Kelowna's Lauri naval base on a mission on November 15, according to ship tracking information, while the ZMS Tomery conducted a joint operation with two other Zamastanian warships that were already in the region.

Both ships were active in the waterways east of Xiomera and Eiria, one of the world's busiest shipping routes, where Xiomera's claims over the waters conflicted with Zamastan earlier this week in an incident involving near-collisions and flyby's of naval jets. Zamastan has been condemned by many nations internationally for what was deemed a hostile breach of territory, while politicians on both sides of thought in Zamastan support President Sakzi's assertion that the navy did nothing wrong.

The increase of naval presence comes right after Xiomera deployed several new anti-ship variants of the XM-350 intermediate-range ballistic missile. The missiles were announced earlier this month as part of the Xiomeran "Defense 2020" plan. The XM-350-M is based on mobile launchers that can be hidden in locations which make it harder for opposing forces to locate and counter-attack. It is unknown whether the two Zamastanian vessels is in response to the missile systems.

Zamastan has frequently sent warships past the Xiomeran waters in what it describes as "freedom of navigation" operations for decades, though Monday's breach was the first time in several years that the warships of the two differing navies interacted.

Secretary of Defense Curtis Fondaden said on Thursday that Zamastan was conducting more patrols in the Southern Xiomeran Sea to send a signal to Xiomera.

Zamastan "rejects attempts by any nation to use coercion or intimidation to advance international interests at the expense of others," he said during a visit to the 2nd Fleet, which has anchored at the Holish Islands, the only Zamastanian controlled territory overseas.

He also urged nations with territory near Xiomera to assert their sovereign rights to put Xiomera "on the right path."

"The clear signal that we're trying to send is not that we oppose Xiomera per se, but that we all stand for international rules and international laws and that we think Xiomera should abide by them as well," Fondaden said.

Most vessels used in previous freedom of navigation missions were guided-missile destroyers or cruisers.

But littoral combat ships have unique advantages in the region, according to a report by the Southern Xiomeran Sea Strategic Situation Probing Initiative, a think tank affiliated with Zamastan Southwest University's Institute of Ocean Research.

The report said the ships' low draught gave them better access to shallow waters, which would help the effort to carry out reconnaissance missions in the scattered reefs of the Xiomeran waters. Their fast speed — up to 50 knots — was also an advantage in freedom of navigation missions, the report said.

Thanks to their modular design, the ships can also quickly switch to carrying out combat missions or anti-mine and anti-submarine operations.


Above: ZMS Gideon Line fires a Naval Strike Missile during routine tests

At the start of October, the ships being deployed test-fired naval strike missiles, each with a range of over 100 nautical miles (185 km or 115 miles) — the first test of the stealth missile in the region.

The ships' deployment represented a subtle change in the Navy's strategy in the Southern Xiomeran Sea, suggesting that commanders were starting to focus on practical ways to improve their strike capability in the region by "proactively seeking military deterrence and preparing for potential military conflicts," the report said.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Friday, November 22nd, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Naval Standoff

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
ZAMASTANIAN JETS INTERCEPT LEGIONAS' 3RD FLEET
Legionas Ships Were Patrolling International Waters in South Xiomeran Sea

A Zamastanian Zian-3R attack aircraft makes a low-altitude pass by LN Illustrious, November 22nd, 2019.

Zamastanian jets performed a fly-by of the Legionas 3rd Fleet, which was performing patrols in the South Xiomeran Sea at the helm of Xiomeran tensions with Zamastan. The jets at one point came within 30 feet of the flagship- LN Illustrious.

Tensions between Xiomera and Zamastan are high after a dangerous encounter between the Zamastanian 2nd Fleet and Xiomeran security ships, and the intervening period had seen an increase in the number of uncomfortable and even unsafe encounters between forces. Zamastan has been condemned by many nations in the IDU. Shen, Rhand, and Xiomera are now conducting joint-military exercises in response.

Images posted by the Legionas Navy shows how close the jets flew to their ships. While military law does not specifically state encounters and distance from differing navies in international waters, the incident is another in a spat of encounters that has put Zamastan on the edge of criticism on the world stage. In what has been interpreted as a dangerous escalation of military prowess by the Zamastanian Navy, polls from Zamastanian citizens shows that the public is generally content with their current state.

Even Cain Blackwater, liberal candidate for President and historical opponent to President Foley Sakzi, has stated his support for the military's actions.

"It's about time that our military begins to stand up for itself and doesn't get pushed around again. I commend President Sakzi, something that is rare for me to do mind you, for his unrelenting prowess in these times."

The flybys occurred during a routine Legionas fleet refueling, and the fleet is comprised of 38 ships total, including two aircraft carriers.

There were four Zamastanian planes involved in the flyby.



See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Saturday, November 23rd, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Naval Standoff

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
Navy Successfully Conducts Test Launch of New Anti-Ship Missile
Test comes nearly week after Xiomera tested their own "ship-killer" vessel

The Navy's new A-99 Anti-Ship Missile launches from the ZMS Hushdan

Zamastan has successfully tested their newest generation of Anti-Ship missile systems in response to what President Sakzi, Speaker of the Chamber Maxwell, GLP Leader Blackwater, and many other prominent Zamastanian politicians have described as a dangerous escalation of military activity across North-east Catica. This all comes nearly a week after a close encounter between the 2nd Fleet and Xiomeran security ships and furthering tensions, including a Xiomeran missile test of their own and a Zamastanian flyby of Legionas ships just yesterday.

While the A-99 anti-ship missile system has been public knowledge for a few months, today's test is the first demonstration of the weapon. The A-99, (dubbed the "Peregrine") designation, is mostly reserved for Zamastan's many types of ballistic missiles, which arc high into the atmosphere before plunging down at tremendous speeds. It has a range of about 2000-3000 km [1242-1864 miles] and is mainly designed for "big targets at sea", according to Secretary of Defense Fondaden, saying that the targets mentioned "almost certainly means aircraft carriers.”

"This missile will be efficient for attacking large enemy surface ships and high-value targets such as communications and command hubs," said Fondaden.

The test was carried out on ships off the coast of Zamastan, though it has been confirmed by the navy that the missiles are already being transported and installed for naval forces operating in and around the South Xiomeran Sea.

As the international community condemns Zamastan and labels it as the aggressor in the tensions in the South Xiomeran Sea, President Sakzi has remained stubborn against those criticisms.

President Sakzi spoke at length on Saturday, "I ran very publicly about a Zamastan-first policy. This includes the defense of our nation's military and for our security. I don't care about the condemnations, and as we've seen, my constituents in Congressional Hall as well as the Zamastanian people agree that we are in the right. This is about us - our nation."

Green Liberal Party Leader Cain Blackwater even stated his support behind the President on Saturday, saying "Sakzi, despite our differences, is right in this instance. We can't be pushed around. Seeing the Empire of Shen and Rhand join forces against us with Xiomera is a breech of our trading partnership with both of them and our alliance is clearly for not."

Online, pictures and hashtags in support of the military have reached top trending, including postings from Senator Euan Gunn and Leanne Dale - two outspoken critics and opponents of President Sakzi;




See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Sunday, November 24th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: ONGOING TENSIONS

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
"Aurora Program" Includes Zamastan as a Target
Lauchenorian Media Leaks Classified Kerlian Information on Secret Program

Lauchenoirian news media has leaked reports of multiple extensive attempts by the Matriarchy of Kerlile to undertake covert spy operations in numerous nations across the International Democratic Union. Multiple anonymous sources inside the governments of Kerlile and Lauchenoiria are confirming scores of sleeper agents have been sent from Kerlile into Lauchenoiria, Shuell, Laeral, Libertas Omnium Maximus, Eiria, Zamastan, Trive, Essena, Shen, Gardavasque and Anglia-Saxia. While the nature of specific missions by these sleeper agents are not known, there are fears that they may be programmed and trained to carry out terrorist acts. The Council of Kerlile denied any knowledge of the so-called “Aurora Programme” and claimed that the news leak was a deliberate attempt by Lauchenoirian Prime Minister Alvarez to discredit the government of Kerlile at a time when reform efforts in the Matriarchy have raised hopes of warming relations between the two nations.

Kirk Faulkman, Director of the Zamastanian Intelligence Service, and Brett Amberson, Director of National Intelligence, released a statement acknowledging the report and also acknowledged that an “Aurora-hunting” task force was being established. The Aurora Program was revealed during a disclosure at the Haven Accords in Sanctaria following the end of the Second Lauchenoirian Civil War.

"We are gravely concerned about these concerns, and ever since the revelations at the Haven Accords, we've had a safety program in place just to be sure. The confirmation provided by these leaks secures our worries. We assure the Zamastanian public - you are safe, we are on it. If there are Aurora agents in Zamastan, they are not safe."

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Sunday, November 24th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: ONGOING TENSIONS

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
"Aurora Program" Includes Zamastan as a Target
Lauchenorian Media Leaks Classified Kerlian Information on Secret Program

Lauchenoirian news media has leaked reports of multiple extensive attempts by the Matriarchy of Kerlile to undertake covert spy operations in numerous nations across the International Democratic Union. Multiple anonymous sources inside the governments of Kerlile and Lauchenoiria are confirming scores of sleeper agents have been sent from Kerlile into Lauchenoiria, Shuell, Laeral, Libertas Omnium Maximus, Eiria, Zamastan, Trive, Essena, Shen, Gardavasque and Anglia-Saxia. While the nature of specific missions by these sleeper agents are not known, there are fears that they may be programmed and trained to carry out terrorist acts. The Council of Kerlile denied any knowledge of the so-called “Aurora Programme” and claimed that the news leak was a deliberate attempt by Lauchenoirian Prime Minister Alvarez to discredit the government of Kerlile at a time when reform efforts in the Matriarchy have raised hopes of warming relations between the two nations.

Kirk Faulkman, Director of the Zamastanian Intelligence Service, and Brett Amberson, Director of National Intelligence, released a statement acknowledging the report and also acknowledged that an “Aurora-hunting” task force was being established. The Aurora Program was revealed during a disclosure at the Haven Accords in Sanctaria following the end of the Second Lauchenoirian Civil War.

"We are gravely concerned about these concerns, and ever since the revelations at the Haven Accords, we've had a safety program in place just to be sure. The confirmation provided by these leaks secures our worries. We assure the Zamastanian public - you are safe, we are on it. If there are Aurora agents in Zamastan, they are not safe."

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Sunday, November 24th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: ONGOING TENSIONS

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[/hr]
[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
"Aurora Program" Includes Zamastan as a Target
Lauchenorian Media Leaks Classified Kerlian Information on Secret Program

Lauchenoirian news media has leaked reports of multiple extensive attempts by the Matriarchy of Kerlile to undertake covert spy operations in numerous nations across the International Democratic Union. Multiple anonymous sources inside the governments of Kerlile and Lauchenoiria are confirming scores of sleeper agents have been sent from Kerlile into Lauchenoiria, Shuell, Laeral, Libertas Omnium Maximus, Eiria, Zamastan, Trive, Essena, Shen, Gardavasque and Anglia-Saxia. While the nature of specific missions by these sleeper agents are not known, there are fears that they may be programmed and trained to carry out terrorist acts. The Council of Kerlile denied any knowledge of the so-called “Aurora Programme” and claimed that the news leak was a deliberate attempt by Lauchenoirian Prime Minister Alvarez to discredit the government of Kerlile at a time when reform efforts in the Matriarchy have raised hopes of warming relations between the two nations.

Kirk Faulkman, Director of the Zamastanian Intelligence Service, and Brett Amberson, Director of National Intelligence, released a statement acknowledging the report and also acknowledged that an “Aurora-hunting” task force was being established. The Aurora Program was revealed during a disclosure at the Haven Accords in Sanctaria following the end of the Second Lauchenoirian Civil War.

"We are gravely concerned about these concerns, and ever since the revelations at the Haven Accords, we've had a safety program in place just to be sure. The confirmation provided by these leaks secures our worries. We assure the Zamastanian public - you are safe, we are on it. If there are Aurora agents in Zamastan, they are not safe."

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Tuesday, November 26th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: ONGOING TENSIONS

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
1st FLEET SAILS THROUGH SOUTH XIOMERAN SEA
Fleet's Presence Increases Military Operations in the Tension Zone

The Zamastanian aircraft carrier strike group, the 1st Fleet under the carrier ZMS Redeemer sailed through the South Xiomeran Sea early on Tuesday morning, Zamastanian officials told The Tofino Times, amid simmering tensions between Xiomera, several Catican nations, and Zamastan. The 2nd Fleet, whose course flared tensions in the region last week, is harbored in the Holish Islands, a Zamastanian territorial military outpost about 2,300 miles south-east of Xiomera.

Tensions in the South Xiomeran Sea have risen since the 2nd Fleet was intercepted by Xiomeran security vessels last week, prompting condemnations against Zamastan from multiple nations. Tofino has acknowledged a navigation error led to the intrusion into Xiomeran waters, but has blamed Xiomera for an excessive and dangerous response that could have turned violent quickly, which Xiomera has denied.

The commander overseeing Zamastanian naval forces in the South Xiomeran Sea told TTT last week that he would send an additional aircraft carrier through the critical waterway if needed.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Navy said the Redeemer transited into the Sea.

About a fifth of the world’s trade passes through the South Xiomeran Sea.

Zamastan has deployed thousands of additional military forces in the South Xiomeran Sea aboard the 2 fleets, including bombers and air defense personnel, to act as a deterrent against what Tofino says is provocative Xiomeran behavior.

Also on Tuesday, the Zamastanian military released a report that said Xiomera is likely to procede with more military drills with Shen and Rhand, and may be participating in an exchange of fighter jets and battle tanks from those two nations.

The report said that Xiomera was already in discussions with Shen, and Rhand to a lesser extent, to buy and sell military hardware.

The nearly 120-page report by the Defense Department's Intelligence Agency detailed Xiomeran military strategy and capabilities.

According to the report, Xiomera has and will continue to deploy increasing numbers of more accurate and lethal ballistic missiles in the future and field new land-attack cruise missiles. And over the next decade, Xiomera's military could consider taking part in multilateral peace-keeping missions and building permanent bases in allied countries, the report said.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Wednesday, November 27th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Apartment Explosion

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[/hr]
[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
4 Killed in Apartment Complex Explosion
Suspected Suicide Behind Explosion In Military Family Housing in Duncan

Police confirm four people are dead and others remain unaccounted for following an explosion and collapse at a military families apartment complex in Duncan, fire officials announced Wednesday night.

Sources tell The Tofino Times that an explosion and subsequent 3-alarm fire erupted at just past 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday at the Duncan Branch Apartments in the 8700 block of Siruny Ave. in Duncan, Redeemer's Land. Officials say that there was some sort of raid or warrant being undertaken by authorities on a resident of the apartment complex. Two of the deceased are Z.I.S. agents, one is a resident of the floor below where the explosion occurred, while the other remains unidentified at the moment. There are reports saying that the explosions may have been set by a suspect who committed suicide during the apparent raid.

Witnesses describe hearing a loud “boom” and some residents nearby even reported feeling their homes shake.

Firefighters at Duncan Fire Station 5, about one mile away, say they felt the explosion, and initially thought it was from a transformer.

As of now, 11 people have been injured from the incident and subsequently taken to nearby hospitals. In addition to those 11 citizens, we have learned that three firefighters are also injured.

The injuries range from minor to serious. Injuries that we know of include burns and fractures from those who jumped from windows. The firefighters' injuries are said to be from smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion.

Temporary shelter for those affected by the explosion has been put into place.

Chief Goldstein says the building explosion did result in one building collapse but says four additional buildings in that unit block are in danger of collapsing.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Sunday, December 1st, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Tensions

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
Ahead of Shen Military Conference, Zamastan Flexes Naval Might
The Navy sent a Task Force through the South Xiomera Sea and reinforced Troops on Holish Islands

Zamastanian naval forces moved through the South Xiomera Sea once again on Sunday morning with a contingent of five destroyers, three frigates, and five missile cruisers. An additional 400 troops were also deployed at the Holish Islands, Zamastan's territory about 2,300 miles south-east of Xiomera. The escalation comes as the Empire of Shen hosts a conference of "mutual-defense" with nations who have openly opposed Zamastan's actions in the region - some of which have critically expanded their militaries both before and after the events that began the rampant crisis.

"This is merely a deterrent and a show of force, not any preliminary stage to military action," said naval commander Ponnik Oberste. "This is a show authorized by the administrations of Zamastan to reinforce our forces and allies in the region. Xiomera's actions, as well as the now troubling motions by the Empire of Shen are deeply concerning to us."

Sailors aboard the ZMS Ophelia, one of the frigates in the task force, commented to TTT reporters who were joining the fleet to the Holish Islands.

"I'm not looking for a fight anytime soon, but if it comes to it, me and everyone on this boat is ready," said one.

"Depending on what the Shen Empire does today, I guess we'll see how close we are to war by the end of it," another commented.

The Shen Empire's conference is considered "a bad move," according to President Sakzi during a press conference today. The President commented that because the military conference, which is expected to shore up the mutual alliances between Catican nations who are opposed to Zamastan's foreign policy in relation to Xiomera, will cause a major blow to any deliverance of peace promises during the upcoming Peace Mediation Conference in Laeral in the coming days.

"I don't know how the International Democratic Union expects there to be a ceasing of hostilities and a road to peace if there is a continued military build up by Shen and her cronies. They may cite our own actions as a reason for the buildup, but I and many others will argue that we would have no reason to shore up our defenses if they hadn't followed through with such a dangerous move before the Laeral meeting."

The President continued, saying he "supports a pursuit of peace", but will "continue to flex the military force of Zamastan for as long as it takes for Xiomera and Shen to halt their own actions," which are "serving to increase tensions further."

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Sunday, December 1st, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Tensions

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[/hr]
[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
Sakzi Praises Legionas Prime Minister Moretti and President Muller Following Withdraw From Sharanfo Conference
Legionas Will No Longer Attend Military Conference In Shen

President Foley Sakzi praised Legionas Prime Minister Moretti and President William Muller after Muller announced that Legionas will not be attending the Sharanfo Conference, and instead will only attend the Maivers Conference in Laeral in order to pursue a peaceful strategy for stability in East Catica.

President Muller urged restraint and common sense to all leaders involved in the current crisis while speaking at the Press Hall at Parliament Square. The announcement came as a surprise for many in Legionas and has led to a visible shifting of power in the current crisis involving the militaries of many nations in the South Xiomera Sea and the Eastern Catican waters. The Legionas announcement leaves Shen and Xiomera with one less viable member of the conference, which some analysts have indicated may mean the crisis will be more fair to both parties when they meet for mediation in Laeral in a few days. The conference in Shen is expected to be delayed due to these developments.

"I commend President Muller and Prime Minister Moretti for their decision today," President Sakzi said. "It greatly furthers their humility and intent for peace, and I believe that this development will greatly improve our relations. I would also like to apologize for the deterioration of relations between our two nations because of this crisis. While I stand behind my nation at every step, I profoundly regret that our actions as a response to the Xiomerans has resulted in such a disappointing freeze in our diplomacy, and for that, I do take responsibility and apologize to Legionas while I thank you."

Sakzi also announced a change in military maneuvers off Legionas' coast: "As a sign of good faith, for the remainder of this crisis, Zamastanian naval vessels will not approach any closer than 100 miles towards the Legionas territorial waters unless requested."

"I have been mandated by Prime Minister Moretti," President Muller said, "to announce the following as he is in Sunemia to discuss various agendas with the Rayana Christson, the Sunemian Prime Minister. The Federation of Legionas, a bastion of democracy and human rights in East Catica, has pulled out from the Sharanfo Conference which is being held in Shen and will only attend the Maivers Conference which is being held in Laeral which we believe is the only conference that has the preservation of peace in the region as the main agenda."

The President was sure to maintain that their efforts would still be focused against Zamastanian agression, though not via a direct military path. "This is not to indicate that we are now backing down from Zamastan. We are simply moving towards peace and greater stability in the region which we do believe can be achieved."

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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The Tofino Times
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Monday, December 2nd, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Tensions

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
Xiomera and Eiria Pull out of Sharanfo Conference, Following Legionas Withdraw
Sakzi Thanks National Leaders Ahead of Laeral Meeting

President Foley Sakzi praised both the Chancellor of Eiria and the Empress of Xiomera on Monday for deciding to withdraw from the controversial Shen conference ahead of the planned Laeral peace conference.

"I would like to thank both the Eirian Chancellor and the Empress of Xiomera for their decisions to pull out of what would have otherwise been a disastrous conference," Sakzi said in a statement, "and I believe that they truly do want to pursue peace in one way or another. Our differences can be flushed out in further detail once we meet in Maivers in the coming days, but I greatly respect their actions that will ultimately benefit the safety of the civilizations of Catica."

Xiomera withdrew shortly after Legionas' announcement, and Eiria followed suit.

"If no one else is going to attend the conference, there is no point in having it," Empress Yauhmi announced in a statement. The Empress confirmed that Xiomera will consider attending a future conference in Sharanfo, should one be called following the planned talks upcoming in Laeral. Xiomera "will also continue with existing bilateral defense programs with Shen and Kerlile, and will pursue other bilateral and multi-lateral partnerships" regardless of what occurs at the Maivers Conference.

In an apparent sign of displeasure at recent developments from the Palace of Flowers, the Empress also confirmed that she will no longer be attending the conference in Laeral as previously announced. The Empress will instead focus on her upcoming state visit to Legionas, Kerlile and Eiria. Zamastan is expected to watch these trips with close interest as the Empress begins her first international trips since taking the throne.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Tuesday, December 3rd, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Rio Palito Border Arrest

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
Man Arrested At Rio Palito-Zamastan Border with Weapons, Ammo, and Explosives in Vehicle
Suspect was Captured After Abandoning His Car at Border Checkpoint

A man was arrested at the Rio Palito-Zamastan border on Tuesday night after a brief standoff which was prompted after he refused to allow officials to inspect his vehicle. Upon his arrest and subsequent inspection of the vehicle, authorities discovered several high-capacity magazine rifles, thousands of rounds of ammunition, and several explosives packed in the doors, trunk, and seats of the car. The suspect, who's identity is being withheld via the request of the Rio Palito government, is in his late twenties and may be associated with a mafia group operating in the casino-famous tax haven nation on Zamastan's southern coastal border.

Authorities say that the requested inspection took place during an hour in which they undertook only random checks to ease traffic flow, and that it was only because of luck that they stopped what could have been "a dangerous terrorist figure from entering Zamastan and possibly carrying out an attack or delivering the vehicle's containment to associates within Zamastan," according to an unnamed border patrol commander. The suspect argued with authorities over the requested check, and attempted to reverse the vehicle, but crashed into a car that was backed up behind his. Authorities then pulled weapons on the suspect, who exited his car and attempted to flee on foot before being tackled by an officer.

The officers found six semi-automatic rifles (which have been banned in most cases in Zamastan since a July Congressional bill passed almost unanimously) in the car, along with 2 pistols, a pump shotgun, and several thousand rounds of ammunition in metal and plastic containers. After isolating the vehicle, authorities also found several explosive ordinances, including explosive powder and grenades packed in compartments inside the car, in areas such as glove boxes, under seats, in the trunk, and even in the wheel wells.

The suspect's destination is unknown at the time being.

Smuggling is a major issue on the Rio Palito-Zamastan border, with authorities acknowledging that illegal drug trades, animal trades, and exotic merchandise are frequently smuggled. However, the rates of smuggling have decreased dramatically in the 21st century after sweeping border control measures in 2002 installed more effective protective measures for border officials and their ability to detect and prevent illegal smuggling.

The Rio Palitos-Zamastan border sees over 100,000 people traveling from either side each day, with many coming from Zamastan into Rio Palitos to experience the nation's tax haven commercialization and shopping districts, as well as the high end casinos and gambling centers in the nation's major cities such as Savona and the capital of San Beausoleil. Zamastan's relaxed immigration policies sees high percentages of refugees and immigrants passing through the border each year from Rio Palito.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Thursday, December 5th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Legionas PM Visit

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
Legionas PM to Visit Zamastan
"I would love to meet Moretti," Says President Sakzi

After several days of tense verbal standoffs stemmed from a literal military one, Prime Minister Moretti of Legionas is scheduled to visit Zamastan. The Prime Minister will be landing in Tofino and will meet with Zamastanian officials, including trade authorities and military leaders. The Zamastanian Ambassador to Legionas extended an invitation to Moretti from President Foley Sakzi, who requested to meet with him at the Zian Presidential Mansion for a lunch and discussion, as well as a welcoming ceremony normally set aside for esteemed state guests.

"I would love to meet Moretti," the President said today. "He's shown great prowess and leadership during his tenure and despite our differences, I've always appreciated the work he and his administration have done. Legionas has never been Zamastan's enemy, but though we are allies, we haven't necessarily been considered strong allies. I understand the position our navy put Legionas in several days ago, and I greatly appreciate Moretti's continued work to put it behind us. His actions in withdrawing from the Shen conference points towards his commitment to peace, and I regret that our current undertakings in the South Xiomera Sea brought our two nations to an unwanted tension."

The President was also asked about what the two world leaders would discuss. The President responded by saying the two would likely keep to a civil discourse and only mention the strengthening of relations rather than linger on the current military tensions underway in the Catican continental waters.

"Well, Prime Minister Moretti has his policies and I have mine. I hope to discuss bi-lateral energy and trade agreements. Oil is a great interest to both our regions, and Zamastan's offshore drilling is open, of course, to corporate cooperation. Legionas also has a large energy sector that we'd like to work in tandem with, so hopefully we can build off our already existing networks."

"As for the military status, I've already announced the new policies our navy has in regards to traversing Legionas waters - no less than 100 miles off their waters, which puts our ships on a longer course around Catica and thus is using more fuel, and I think that's a pretty considerate concession for the events of November 22nd."

Sakzi was referring to the November 22nd flybys of the Legionas fleet by three Zamastanian fighter jets. The event escalated already heated tensions and resulted in PM Moretti's condemnation of Zamastan and a heated exchange between several world leaders. After the Prime Minister withdrew from the military conference in Shen, Sakzi applauded the Legionas leader and apologized for the event. Following Legionas' lead, Xiomera and Eiria also withdrew. All nations are expected to meet in Laeral regardless.

The President was also asked about whether Zamastanian naval vessels would continue to perform the maneuvers that have been criticized by many nations in the South Xiomera Sea.

"No, they have been ordered to only move according to strategic refueling and positioning. They are to avoid maneuvers that may be deemed dangerous, we understand the serious nature of what has occurred. With that said, however, we are not backing down from the assertion that the Xiomerans greatly exaggerated the seriousness of the crisis. The 1st and 2nd Fleets will remain in the region, but they are to remain stationary. The Holish Islands are serving as a semi-permanent refueling and supply location for the fleets as the alternate positions."

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Sunday, December 8th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Farhen Brooks

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
Vulkarian President Farhen Brooks Meets With President Sakzi
The Two Discussed Vulkaria's Ongoing Civil Conflict, Trade, and the Xiomera Crisis

[img]/w/images/0/03/Farhen_brooks.jpg[/img]

The Vulkarian President, Farhen Brooks, met with President Foley Sakzi at the Zian Presidential Mansion on Sunday afternoon after sitting in on several hours of meetings with politicians in Congressional Hall. The Vulkarian leader, who has been commended internationally for his economic and civil policies but widely criticized for his handling of a rebel insurgency which has left thousands dead and tens of thousands more injured, met with Sakzi to discuss the ongoing insurgency, trade, and the Xiomera crisis.

[box]The Vulkarian Civil Conflict

• https://theidu.us/forum/viewtopic.php?f=...903#p18756

• https://theidu.us/forum/viewtopic.php?f=...903#p18847

[/box]

"President Brooks is a friend to the Zamastanian people and to the wider international community," President Sakzi said during their bilateral press meeting. "The allegiances to the safety and smooth transitions of international trade through the Strait of Vulkaria in 2012 assured a greater economic boom for every nation in the world, regardless of belief."

"As for myself and the Vulkarian people," Brooks said, "we are forever grateful to the Zamastanian people and their brave men and women in the armed forces. They've come to our aid time and time again."

Zamastan has sent forces to Vulkaria numerous times throughout history, most famously from 1982-1991 in the First War in Vulkaria, and in 1999-2005 in the Second War in Vulkaria. Those wars combined killed nearly 60,000 Zamastanian soldiers, and it is estimated that upwards of 3 million civilians perished in both wars. The Malvarian Liberation Front (M.L.F.), classified as a terrorist group by most nations in the IDU, is an ever-present force in Vulkaria to this day, according to Zamastanian Defense officials.

In May 2019, President Anya Bishop halted Zamastan's support airstrike campaign in Vulkaria, which had been ongoing since October 2017. The move was heavily criticized, especially since the rebel insurgency had begun making dramatic gains in territory before and after the halt. Zamastan's current status in Vulkaria is limited to protective ground forces for Zamastanian interests.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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The Tofino Times
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Friday, December 20th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Hapson

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
"Hapson" Breaks Grossing Record for December Zamastanian Release

Above: Dar'o Navicia as President Tomias Hapson in "Hapson" (2019). Directed by Travis Brondi

The historical biographical picture, "Hapson", directed by Travis Brondi, is being praised not only by critics, who have given it an average of 99% on the CaterRate Movie review site, but by general movie going audiences as well. Hapson opened on December 13th with a Z$143 Million opening weekend, the highest grossing of any December release in Zamastan. In the week it has been in theaters, it has grossed Z$534 Million, owed in part to the reputation it has received not only for its terrific acting performances, stunning cinematography, and excellent soundtrack, but for the fact that the story of Zamastan's first President and revolutionary founding father, Tomias Hapson, is told for the first time on the big screen.

Director Travis Brondi takes on the story of Tomias Hapson in this historical epic. With Dar'o Navicia in the role of the titular character, the film follows Hapson from his early childhood on a plantation in colonial Zamastan, his young adult years as a slave, his eventual escape with Avi Taures (who would also become President later in life) to join the uprising of forced laborers and oppressed colonists against the Skithan Empire. The film also follows his pursuits as President, seeing how his role created the traditions of future generations. Brondi is known for his storytelling and directing styles. He has won two Pine Awards for Best Picture; "Stigmata" (2018) and "The Informant" (2019), both of which were accompanied by several additional Pine Awards, with "Stigmata" winning a total of three and "The Informant" winning four. Dar'o Navicia is already grabbing attention for a possible Best Actor nomination for his role. He has previously been nominated for his work in a Chant Anderson directed film, "Lio" (2017)

Tomias Hapson was born into slavery on March 12, 1772, on a plantation in Maple Canal, Zamastan. In 1802, he met Avi Taures, who convinced him to join the fight for independence. For the next two years, the duo led a guerrilla rebel war against the imperial occupiers until they eventually were driven away. Hapson became the first President of Zamastan, and served for a staggering 40 years - the most of any President in history. As president, he set many examples and forward precedents on modern day politicians. His presidency was also known for his military conquests, foundations of infrastructure, and his setting of diplomatic relations. He was assassinated in 1844, exactly 40 years into his Presidency by Reginald Isser, a man who was certain Zamastan was headed towards a dictatorship. Hapson's legacy had never been made into a major studio motion-picture before "Hapson" released last week.

One of the staples of the film that is being praised is Hapson's personal life. Historical records have showed that Hapson did marry twice and father children, but Hapson's own personal writings have indicated moments of same-sex attraction. Film critics and activists have applauded the film's nod towards this, as a scene depicts Hapson having an intimate conversation with one of his aides as General of the Rebellion. More conservative critics have criticized the film for this inclusion, though Brondi defended the choice in an interview, saying "I thought that in order to tell the tale of Hapson, we had to address certain areas of his life that don't often get covered. The scene in question only lasts around 2 minutes, and it isn't immensely vital to the plot, so the criticism is basically a waste of time. I think Hapson's sexual identity isn't important in the overall scheme of things, and if it is, it should be a reminder that the father of our country was different from me - a straight, white man. If anything, it should be a lesson of the inclusive nature of Zamastan, something that has always been in our blood as a nation."

The film is also receiving praise for its massive battle scene that takes place in the second act of the movie. The film depicts multiple small skirmishes during the War of Independence, but it expands into the culmination of two fights: The Battle of Bonmuth and the The Battle of White Rock, which was the last major battle of the war.

Among acting performances, Dar'o Navicia's Tomias Hapson is joined by Lee Proverbs as Thomas Pétion, Jesse Simotand as Avi Taures, Priscilla Lindra as Ramona Sky-Hapson (Hapson's first wife), and Elliot Blackburn as Henry Tiller.

See "Hapson" in theaters everywhere.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
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Tuesday, December 24th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: The Other World

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
"THE OTHER WORLD" Breaks Zamastan Opening Weekend Record with Z$422 Million

The Other World released across Zamastan on Friday, December 20th, and broke the record for highest grossing record for any weekend opening, shattering the previous record holder, 2016's "Revolutionary Road"

"The Other World", the highly anticipated Josiah Brondi and Jesse Simotand superhero film, has already grossed Z$530 Million after a record shattering gross of Z$422 Million during its opening weekend. December is already looking to be one of the best performing months of Zamastanian cinema in years, as "Hapson", directed by Josiah Brondi's younger brother, Travis Brondi, has already nabbed Z$715 Million in the three weeks it has been showing. In addition, "Monty River", directed by Fred Durokisen and starring Caleb Giona, has also grossed over Z$200 Million. The projected earnings of "The Other World" set it on course to make Z$1 Billion by the new year, which would make it the fifth movie in Zamastanian history to join the Billion club, alongside "Revolutionary Road", "Sudden Punishment", "Cassious", and "Cries of Kelowna".

"The Other World", directed by Josiah Brondi and starring Jesse Simotand, Holli Wharton, Li Opah, and Brondi, as well as plenty of other supporting actors and actresses, is the much anticipated superhero debut for one of Zamastan's most popular comic book characters, Fusion. Reviews for the movie are so far overwhelmingly positive, both from critics and audiences.

Click for the plot (SPOILERS):

Thousands of years ago, the Guardian of Catica use the essence of willpower to create a mystical overwatching force called the Fusions. They divide the world into sectors, with one Fusion per sector. One such Fusion, Warren Tur, defeats the malevolent being Jarrax and imprisons him in the Lost Sector in a desert tomb. In the present day, Jarrax escapes from his prison after becoming strengthened by an encounter with crash survivors who had accidentally fallen into the dugout where Jarrax was imprisoned. Jarrax feeds on their fear to gain strength before pursuing and nearly killing Warren Tur, who escapes and crash-lands in Zamastan where he commands his power to find a worthy successor.

Thomas Dee, a cocky test pilot working for the Zamastanian Air Force, is chosen by the power and transported to the crash site, where the dying Warren appoints him a Fusion, telling him to take the power and speak the oath. Dee says the oath and is whisked away to the chambers of the Fusions, where he meets and trains with veteran Fusion member, Farhen Samson, who believes he is unfit and fearful. Thomas, disheartened by his extreme training sessions and Samson's doubts, quits and returns to Zamastan, keeping the power.

Scientist Richard Aammond is summoned by his father, Senator Robert Aammond, to a secret government facility to perform an autopsy on Warren Tur's body under the watchful eye of Amanda Dorian. A piece of Jarrax inside the corpse enters Aammond, giving him telepathic and telekinetic powers at the cost of his sanity. After discovering that he was chosen for the secret work only due to his father's influence and not for his own abilities, Aammond attempts to kill his father by telekinetically sabotaging his helicopter at a massive party. Dee saves the senator and the party guests, including his childhood sweetheart Carlonia Harriet. Later, at the government facility, Aammond uses telekenisis to successfully kill his father by burning him alive. Aammond also elevates Dorian high above the floor. As she's falling, Dee arrives and saves the injured Dorian by creating a pool of water which whisks her away out of further danger. During the encounter, Dee learns of Jarrax coming to civilization - Tofino, the source of Aammond's power.

The Fusions tell Samson that Jarrax was one of their own until he desired to control the essence of fear, only to become corrupted. Arguing that the way to fight fear is with fear itself, Samson requests that the Fusions forge the same power, preparing to concede the world's destruction to Jarrax in order to protect the Fusion. Dee appears and tries to convince the Fusions that fear will turn the users evil if its power is used, but they reject his pleas, and he returns to Tofino to try to defeat Jarrax on his own.

Dee saves Harriet from Aammond after a brief showdown. Jarrax arrives, consumes Aammond's entire life force, and then wreaks havoc on Tofino. After a fierce battle, Dee lures Jarrax away from Earth and toward the Sun. Jarrax is inadvertently caught in the Sun's gravitational pull and is destroyed, while Dee escapes. Dee loses consciousness after the battle and falls toward the Sun, but is saved by Samson.

The Fusions congratulate Dee for his bravery. Samson tells Dee he now bears the responsibility of protecting his sector as a Fusion.

In a mid-credits scene, Samson takes the power forged by Jarrax and places it on his finger, causing his eyes to turn yellow.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

MERRY CHRISTMAS, IDU!

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Thursday, December 26th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Amstelveen Bombing

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
EXPLOSION ROCKS VULKARIA's LARGEST CITY, KILLING 48 PEOPLE
M.L.F. CLAIM RESPONSIBILITY FOR BOMBING IN AMSTELVEEN

Above: Smoke rises over Amstelveen after a suicide bomb attack near President Farhen Brooks' re-election rally killed 48 people.

A suicide bomber killed 48 people in a violent attack in Vulkaria's largest city of Amstelveen on Thursday, the deadliest attack in the nation since the rebel insurgency restarted in summer of 2017. The attack happened 9 days before Vulkaria's presidential election, which various terror group commanders from the Malvarian Liberation Front and the Vulkarian National Army have vowed to violently disrupt, and follow collapsed peace talks between the national government, Zamastanian and Cadairian observers, and the more than 20 insurgent groups.

President Farhen Brooks, who is seeking a third four-year term in voting on January 4th, was due to address a rally in Amstelveen, the largest city in Vulkaria and the nation's economic hub, when a suicide bomber attacked a security checkpoint. The attack was in the city's downtown area, deemed one of the most secure locations in the nation.

The blast killed 48 people and wounded 142, said Gerard Ismah, spokesman for the interior ministry.

“When the people were entering the police camp, an man riding a motorcycle arrived on the highway and detonated his explosives, causing casualties,” said Amstelveen province’s police chief Daren Circlo.

“Do not take part in the puppet administration’s election rallies, because all such gatherings are our military target,” a spokesperson of the M.L.F. said in a video statement released following the attack. “If, despite the warning, someone get hurt, they themselves are to blame.”

Addressing the Amstelveen attack, Vulkaria's president lashed out at the Malvarian Liberation Front as the “coward enemy” for targeting civilians.

“I offer my heartfelt condolences to victims of today’s tragedies in Amstelveen and pray for speedy recovery of those who were wounded,” Brooks wrote on his official social media account. “We stand united in this hour of grief.”

While the rebel insurgency is largely contained to the north-west portion of Vulkaria and along the border region with Zerphique, occasional attacks and skirmishes have found their way into metropolitan areas of the nation, including Amstelveen and the capital of Vulkar.

Amstelveen is the largest city in Vulkaria with a population of over 2.34 million people, followed by the capital of Vulkar. It has history ranging back thousands of years with ancient sites, though the modernization of the city is recognized throughout the International Democratic Union. It has also been the site of uprisings and violence in Vulkaria's past, most notably the bloody Battle of Amstelveen during the Second War in Vulkaria.

Zamastanian forces suspended their airstrike campaign in early 2019 after a nearly year and a half bombardment, and while there is a presence of over 6,000 Zamastanian ground forces operating in Vulkaria, they have not engaged enemy forces since May 2018. 3 Zamastanian soliders have been killed in Vulkaria since 2017, when the M.L.F., V.N.A., and several other separatist groups (labeled as terror organizations by several nations including Zamastan, Vulkaria, Cadair, Laeral, Lauchenoiria, Legionas, Eiria, Shuell, United New England, and Libertas Omnium Maximus) joined forces and began an offensive to overthrow the federal government. Coalition forces of Zamastan and Cadair helped the Vulkarian government keep control, but small pockets of resistance remain in the Northern part of the nation.

General Kolman Bacckar of the Vulkarian National Army insurgent group and Van'a Kamoni as the leader of the Malvarian Liberation Front have been labeled as two of the most wanted and dangerous men in the IDU, responsible for several terror attacks across the IDU that have claimed hundreds of lives in the past two decades.

On October 18th, 2017, attacks in Zamastan's capital of Tofino killed 438 people, including 298 in the subway systems. Another 690+ people were injured, almost 400 seriously. Seven of the attackers also died while the authorities continued to search for accomplices. The attacks were the deadliest in Zamastan since the Alanis Pride Parade Bombing in 1982, which was also committed by M.L.F. terrorists and killed 102 people. Zamastan was placed on high alert terror watch for the first time since the end of the Second War in Vulkaria, during which 2 lone-wolf attacks took place at an office complex and a supermarket in Tofino and Jade Harbor that killed 8 people and wounded 22, including civilians and police officers.

On December 13, 2014, a suicide-bomber attacked a shopping center in Seahaven on Butterfly Island, Lauchenoiria, killing five people and injuring 11.

On August 28, 2019, 11 people died and 42 were injured after an attack by M.L.F. aligned Solas terrorists in Cardiff, Cadair. The terrorists stabbed multiple civilians who were attending the unveiling of a government office building.

On April 3rd, 2001, 2 suicide bombers attacked the city of Königsberg in Legionas, killing 20 and injuring around 100 people.

The Second War in Vulkaria (1999-2005) saw Zamastanian forces, supported by Cadair, Legionas, Laeral, Eiria and Osirisa, in a coalition force to destroy the M.L.F.'s capability to wage war. It was one of the deadliest wars in the history of the IDU, with nearly 2.3 million people killed, over half of them citizens. Of that number, Vulkaria's army suffered 103,500 dead and 467,240 wounded. The Coalition forces lost a total of 7,153 troops, including 3,246 from Zamastan, 972 from Cadair, 2,502 from Legionas, 394 from Osirisa, 30 from Laeral, and 9 from Eiria. The M.L.F. was highly armed, which was a political nightmare for Zamastanian intelligence who overlooked the massive armament of SAM systems the insurgents had possession of. Over the course of the war, 31 Zamastanian fighters and bombers were shot down, alongside 3 planes from Legionas and one plane from Laeral.

The war concluded with massive casualties to the insurgent forces: almost 721,000 were killed by the coalition. Their territory was greatly diminished, but they were allowed to keep a small territorial boundary in the northern portion of the nation after the Vulkarian government and Coalition observers signed a treaty to end the violence. No armed conflict erupted with the exception of a few lone-wolf attacks until the Summer of 2017.

Today, many consider the war to have been a vital necessity in stopping the M.L.F., though wildly mishandled by coalition forces, specifically Zamastanian forces. The negotiations that allowed the M.L.F. to maintain their own territorial boundary is considered by many to be the driving mistake behind why the terror group still operates today.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Friday, December 27th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: Amstelveen Bombing

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
Vulkarian President Farhen Brooks Announces New Military Operations Targeting Insurgent Forces
Yesterday's Bombing Claimed 48 Lives In Amstelveen

Above: President Farhen Brooks announces new military action against M.L.F. and rebel forces

Vulkarian President Farhen Brooks, who is believed to have been the target of yesterday's M.L.F. claimed bombing in Amstelveen, announced today that the Vulkarian Armed Forces would begin a new offensive into Northwestern Vulkaria, where insurgent forces have established their stronghold over the past two years. The M.L.F., V.N.A., and several other armed groups been in a violent state of rebellion against the Federal government since the summer of 2017.

"In response to the hostile and despicable, evil acts of the Malvarian terrorists," President Brooks said on Friday, "the Armed Forces of Vulkaria will be starting a new offensive to seize control of the city of Thunville, which has been occupied by resistance forces for several months. The government of Vulkaria recognizes the Treaty of 2005 as null and void, and will exercise the right of the federal government to reclaim the sovereign territory."

The President issued an executive order for the Armed Forces of Vulkaria to begin the offensive shortly before the announcement. It is unknown whether they will request assistance, militarily or otherwise, from coalition members such as Zamastan, Cadair, Legionas, Osirisa or Laeral.

The M.L.F. claimed responsibility for the bombing, and has reiterated its plans for resistance against government forces in both an outright armed conflict and continued attacks. More than 35,000 people have fled the region around Thunville over the past two weeks, the Vulkarian Government has said, amid warnings of air raids by Vulkarian government forces targeting the last major opposition bastion in the region.

"With the latest escalation of violence in northwest Vulkaria, civilians in the Lacarno and Monza provinces are again suffering from the devastating consequences of hostilities," it said.

Since mid-September, Vulkarian forces have pressed on with an assault on armed fighters in Lacarno and Monza, despite an August ceasefire deal and calls for de-escalation from Zamastan, Cadair, and Legionas. They are in support of the Vulkarian government, but have repeatedly tried to enforce and oversee stronger regulation of ceasefire agreements

The new military moves announced by President Brooks came as M.L.F. and rebel loyalists advanced on the ground.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Saturday, December 28th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: M.L.F. Warning

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[/hr]
[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
Van'a Kamoni Releases "New Years Threat" Video Recording, Showing Executions and Battle Footage
M.L.F. Leader Threatens to Attack International Locations

[img]/w/images/4/41/Van%27a_kamoni.jpg[/img]
Above: A surveillance picture of Kamoni in Vulkar in 2013.

The Malvarian Liberation Front's elusive leader and, to many, the World's Most Wanted Man, Van'a Kamoni, released a nine minute video to several media outlets across the IDU on Saturday morning. In the video, which is the first time Kamoni's voice has been heard in nearly a year, and the first time his face has been seen in almost three, Kamoni threatens to attack various international locations as a "gift for the New Year and the new decade."

"The International Democratic Union, the Coalition, the post-beams of the corrupt Vulkarian government, will all receive a gift for the New Year and the new decade," Kamoni says. "The blood we bleed will be redeemed by the blood we make you bleed."

The video is authentic and new, according to Zamastanian sources, as Kamoni references Thursday's bombing in Amstelveen, which claimed 48 lives and injured hundreds more. The video was timestamped, and was recorded on Friday night before being sent to media outlets such as the Tofino Times, Jade Harbor Tribune, Emerald Times, Cadair Chronicle, and the Aunistrian Times. The video also shows the execution of 4 people, believed to be hostages of the terror group. The M.L.F. has claimed responsibility for the execution of 4 people, saying the killings were in retaliation for the death of a M.L.F. commander, as well as a "sneak peak" of what their threat entails.

The execution showed members of the terror group standing behind Kamoni shooting 3 people and hanging an additional person. A voice-over says the killings are a “message for the upholders of Brooks' administration” and that all of those killed were Vulkarians.

Zamastan's State Department has released a travel warning for its citizens traveling abroad, specifically to Vulkaria (there has been a lasting travel warning since 2017, but has been upgraded today) and nations surrounding South Hespia.

Most nations have expressed condolences to Vulkaria following Thursday's bombing, and many have expressed their support. Vulkaria has reinstated a military offensive against the armed resistance by the M.L.F. and the V.N.A. rebels, and they have not requested international coalition help militarily or in the form of additional aid. Small skirmishes were reported on Friday and early Saturday as the military began the new offensive against the group.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Saturday, December 28th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: ATTACK ON COALITION FORCES

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
COALITION FORCES AMBUSHED IN VULKARIA, 11 DEAD
Zamastanian and Legionite Forces Ambushed By M.L.F. Fighters En-Route to Vulkarian Base

Above: Zamastanian troops return fire as M.L.F. insurgents ambush a coalition convoy

8 Zamastanian and 3 Legionite soldiers are dead following a violent and sporadic ambush in Northwest Vulkaria by Malvarian Liberation Front fighters on Thursday afternoon. A contingent of 40 coalition member troops traveling in a convoy from the capital of Vulkar to a Vulkarian military outpost near Thunville in the nation's volatile northwest region, where the Vulkarian army has begun a new offensive against enemy forces. 30 Zamastanians and 10 Legionite soldiers were in the convoy, which was traveling on a rural, forested road to the outpost when they were ambushed. The attack occurred approximately 200 kilometers west of the country's capital, Vulkar.

A Zamastanian official told The Tofino Times that initial indications are the coalition forces were ambushed by up to 200 fighters who are thought to be affiliated with the M.L.F..

The ambush began on a heavily forested, isolated road after a Zamastanian armored vehicle was hit with an I.E.D., killing two of the soldiers inside. As the soldiers in the column disembarked from their vehicles, a Legionite vehicle flanking the rear of the column was disabled by rocket fire. Enemy fighters near completely surrounded the column of coalition forces, raining fire down on them. In the chaos of the surprise attack, the coalition troops took cover and returned fire from behind their vehicles. Two Zamastanians and a Legionite were killed as the convoy was completely at a standstill.

As the battle ensued, three Zamastanian troops and two Legionite soldiers rushed down an embankment on the side of the road, providing covering fire as the five remaining convoy vehicles maneuvered back behind the disabled Legionite vehicle. The five soldiers in the embankment were killed as enemy fighters overwhelmed their position, and an additional Zamastanian soldier was killed as they tried to retake the position. The entire firefight lasted nearly forty minutes. A Tofino Times corespondent who was traveling with the column was injured by shrapnel.

It is believed that the coalition forces killed around 80 enemy fighters, according to body-cam footage and heat signature cameras on board some of the armored vehicles.

Zamastanian Hespia Command, which oversees military operations in Hespia, issued a statement Saturday saying the six wounded Zamastanian service members were "evacuated in stable condition to Tivi Regional Medical Center in Vulkar."

A Legionas spokesperson said that three of their troops were also killed in the ambush and that another two were injured.

Officials told The Tofino Times that Vulkarian military helicopters evacuated the wounded Zamastanians and Legionites along with those killed in action while also providing covering fire.

There are about 2,000 Zamastanian troops in Vulkaria, and the Zamastanian military has maintained a presence in the south Hespian country for over 22 years, with small groups of Zamastanian Special Operations Forces advising local troops as they battle two terrorist groups, the M.L.F. and the V.N.A. Legionas also has kept 300 soldiers in the nation since 1999. Since the end of the Second War in Vulkaria, 32 Zamastanian and 4 Legionite soldiers have been killed, not including today's ambush.

"Vulkaria is obviously an important partner of ours, we have a deep relationship with them," President Foley Sakzi said several days ago following the Amstelveen Bombing. "Their stability is the world's stability. We are committed to that relationship, we believe that they are as well. In fact, I think it's a very good success story," he added. The President has not yet released a statement on the ambush.

The Zamastanian and Legionas militaries have largely played a supporting role, providing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets in support of Vulkarian forces. And while the troops largely play a supporting role, military leaders acknowledge the risks they face.

"Clearly there's risks for our forces in Vulkaria," the Legionas Minister of Defense, Patricia Anna-Marie, said while declining to discuss the specifics of Saturday's attack, citing "ongoing partnered operations."

"Any time we deploy full forces globally we look very hard at the enablers that need to be in place in order to provide security for them and that ranges from the ability to pull them out if they're injured to the ability to reinforce them at the point of a fight if they need reinforcement," she added.

"We obviously are looking into everything that happened," Minister Anna-Marie said, "and we are coordinating everything directly with Zamastanian officials. We profoundly send our condolences to the families of our brave troops and the Zamastanian troops as well. This is the largest loss of life in our operations in Vulkaria since 2005, and that is the same for the Zamastanians."

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Saturday, December 28th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: ATTACK ON COALITION FORCES

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
President Sakzi Meets Ambush Survivors and Remains at Tofino International Airport
8 Zamastanian and 3 Legionite Troops were Killed In An Ambush By M.L.F. Fighters En-Route to Vulkarian Base

Above: Remains of Zamastanian Corporal Franklin J. Oberick arrive at Tofino International Airport

President Foley Sakzi met the survivors and the remains of soldiers involved in Saturday's ambush in Vulkaria. 8 Zamastanian troops were killed, alongside 3 Legionite soldiers, when M.L.F. affiliated fighters attacked their convoy on an isolated rural road in Northwest Vulkaria.

"We will forever remember the sacrifice of our men and women in the armed forces," said President Sakzi on the tarmac of Tofino International Airport. Flights were suspended for two hours and diverted to Arinals International Airport 6 miles away as the procession was underway.

"Their bravery is documented for the world to know. Amidst enemy fire, Corporal Franklin J. Oberick, Sergeant Mark J. Uri, Private Percy A. Amoro, and two Legionite soldiers ran towards the terrorists and provided enemy cover as the rest of the convoy retreated. They were killed when their position was overrun, but they managed to hold off the enemy and take dozens with them. Their sacrifice saved so many lives," the President said. The President also talked about the other soldiers killed in the attack, talking about their childhoods, their military careers, and their final moments. He spoke directly with the families, spouses, and children of each soldier killed and also met with the survivors of the ambush.

So far, the Administration's mission of aiding and observing Vulkarian troops has not changed. There is no plan, according to the Defense Department, to move towards a combat role in the wake of the ambush or the Amstelveen bombing on Thursday.

The eight Zamastanian soldiers killed in the ambush are:

Captain Gregorry D. Guteres
Corporal Franklin J. Oberick
Sergeant Bren P. Norris
Sergeant Mark J. Uri
Private Percy A. Amoro
Private Jeffrey H. Morinia
Private Margaret W. Willeniam
Private Jacob V. Harryman

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Sunday, December 29th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: ZAMASTAN STRIKES BACK

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[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
ZAMASTAN STRIKES SEVERAL SITES LINKED TO M.L.F. MILITIAS
Airstrikes Come Two Days After Ambush Left 11 Coalition Troops Dead

Above: A site targeted by Zamastanian gunships in a strike in Northwest Vulkaria on Sunday

Zamastanian forces conducted airstrikes in northwest Vulkaria against several facilities the Defense Department says are linked to M.L.F. militia blamed for a series of attacks on joint Zamastan-Legionas military convoys throughout the region in recent weeks, including an ambush that killed 8 Zamastanian and 3 Legionite soldiers.

The strikes occurred at about 11 PM on Sunday, a source familiar with the matter told The Tofino Times. They stand as the first significant military response in retaliation for attacks by this specific militia branch of the terror group, that have injured and killed numerous Zamastanian military personnel in the past few years, according to Zamastanian officials.

A defense department spokesperson described the strikes against the group as "precision defensive strikes" that "will degrade" the group's ability to conduct future attacks against coalition forces.

Defense Secretary Curtis Fondaden briefed President Foley Sakzi Saturday before carrying them out with the President's approval, according to a Zamastanian official familiar with the strikes.

At least 25 people were killed in the airstrikes, according to a statement Sunday from the Vulkarian Armed Forces who observed the strikes and positioned around the sites following the strikes.

See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes

[Zamastan]

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[/hr]Zamastan | World - IDU | Politics | Economy | Opinion

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[/hr]
The Tofino Times
Click Here to Visit The Tofino Times Website
Monday, December 30th, 2019

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[/hr]VOL. XXXII .. Num. 6320 | In the News: A Tumultuous Political Year

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[/hr]
[color=#FF0000]BREAKING NEWS
A Tumultuous Political Year
3 Presidents, Too Many Stories

Above: President Zacharias Castovia, President Anya Bishop, and President Foley Sakzi

In January 2019, a Presidential scandal set the stage for what would become a year of political turmoil for the Imperial Republic of Zamastan.

On January 13th, President Zacharias Castovia was accused of bribery charges by Congressman Cormac Hammer. Those charges were eventually debated in Congressional Hall, and despite being found to have committed no wrongdoing, several members of the President’s staff, including Chief of Staff Emily Miranda, were found guilty of their own misconducts. President Castovia resigned amidst that turmoil, leading the way to an emergency election that put BCP Congresswoman Anya Bishop into office on January 23rd.

In February, President Bishop hosted the 2019 Tofino Leaders Summit, which saw heads of state and other important foreign dignitaries from 15 nations visiting Zamastan to discuss economic and energy policies. During the conference, President Bishop had a fiery encounter with a Kerlian delegation, threatening them with tariffs if they interfered with the Aelurian independence referendum, and hinting at harsher action. Experts have stated that this could have been one of the driving forces behind much of the foreign diplomatic disputes between the two nations during the remainder of Bishop’s administration.

In March, flooding ravaged the river valley’s of Pahl and Redeemer’s Land, causing nearly 100 deaths and billions of dollars in damage. President Bishop’s administration began to be heavily criticized because of a perceived lack of care for the lower-class communities that were overwhelmingly affected by the flooding.

In April, Zamastan performed their first self-launched manned space mission. Prior to the launch, they had sent people into space with allied rockets, but April 17th’s launch was a huge step forward for Zamastan’s space program and overall scientific endeavors.

In May, protests erupted across Zamastan in response to President Anya Bishop’s economic policies. The “PoverTea” Protests were on record for being the largest ever protests in Zamastanian history. They lasted until November.

In June, Speaker of the Chamber and BCP member Foley Sakzi stunned the political spectrum and much of the world by announcing a 2020 Presidential bid against fellow BCP President Anya Bishop. The move shifted towards a deeper partisan divide in the Blue Conservative Party, but Speaker Sakzi gained a huge 30 point lead in the polls.

In July of 2019, journalists from the nation of Xiomera who had hidden in exile in Lauchenoiria, Laeral, and Zamastan, were the topic of an extradition crisis. Bishop denied the extradition of the journalists back to Xiomera and imposed sanctions on the nation. In response, the Xiomeran government did the same. Following a hack on Kerlile's national broadcasting service, Kerlile also imposed sanctions on Zamastan. The trade war continued into mid-september, when it finally died down after a mediation conference hosted by Eiria settled the dispute. Bishop was widely criticized for her role in the dispute, mostly for her reluctance to begin negotiations and her impulsive persistence to add more sanctions and tariffs as the dispute progressed.

In August, following a series of deadly shootings in Zamastan, one of which killed 11 people in a nightclub, Bishop signed legislation passed 428-72 in the Congress that banned most kinds of semi-automatic rifle style weapons and initiated a buy-back program. This move was widely praised by nations such as Sanctaria and Laeral, which had their own gun control measures.

On August 31st, the world watched in horror as Zamastan was struck by a magnitude 8.3 earthquake struck the coastal valley region of Zamastan, devastating the city of Kelowna and killing over 4,300 people. The international community rallied behind Zamastan and assisted in rebuilding. This as widely considered by Zamastanian experts to be one of Bishop's most showing signs of a lack of leadership, as she greatly assumed politics and blamed party and politician for the poor preparation for the earthquake. Meanwhile, 2020 Presidential Race opponents including GLP Cain Blackwater and BCP Foley Sakzi assisted in rescue relief efforts.

In September, almost half a million classified war documents spanning the First and Second Wars in Vulkaria, the 1991 Bjeorg Conflict, and the Gladysynthia Crisis were leaked by hackers onto the internet in Zamastan’s largest ever data breach. The documents highlighted more than 60 instances of falsified enemy casualty figures, 4 instances of covered-up war crimes, and more than 3,000 instances of misconduct.

In October, a Gladysynthian military operation on the border sparked fears of a reignited conflict in the region.

In November, Bishop ordered military forces to intervene in violent “PoverTea” protests, resulting in the deaths of three protesters and injuries of hundreds more. A condemnation and resulting Vote of No-Confidence removed a resolute Bishop from office - the first time a President had ever been removed from office in Zamastanian history. An emergency election put Foley Sakzi into the Presidency, meaning Zamastan had seen 3 Presidents in one year.

President Sakzi’s time in office, however, has already been tumultuous. A naval standoff in the South Xiomeran Sea has led to an international condemnation of Zamastan, and a recent flare up of violence in Vulkaria has reignited fears of further Zamastanian military involvement, especially following a bombing in the Vulkarian city of Amstelveen targeting the Vulkarian President killed 48 citizens and an ambush on coalition forces that killed 8 Zamastanian soldiers.


See full article here: https://zkcastor.wixsite.com/thetofinotimes