Jounalio Nikoşia

[Rheinbund]

Rathenau Gruppe
Trier, Eiffelland

Our division Rathenau Renewable Energy already has a lot of expertise in the field of renewable energy. Also we are willing to cooperate with Nicosian experts.

Karlheinz Seifert, CEO Rathenau Renewable Energy

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

King: Urban is Ours. Urban said to be injured.

Syracuse

The King addressed the Kingdom today to announce the capture of Pope Urban. "We have, following months of trials and tests, taken Pope Urban into custody. Urban is ours" said the King, visibly emotional. The King stated that Nicosians captured Urban in the Northern mountains and he also mentioned that Pope Urban has been injured. "Despite our best efforts, at least one Nicosian has lost their life during this operation. In addition, Pope Urban was injured but is in stable condition. Urban is now receiving medical care in an undisclosed country. Upon his recovery, he will be transported to Nicosia for trial" said the King.

Some remain skeptical citing the much celebrated capture of Urban's body double. The King stated a full DNA test will be run despite other evidence. "We will erase any doubt. This is Urban. He will stand trial" said Chancellor Valdez in his last official press conference as Chancellor. Valdez, expected to retire last week, extended his departure date for unknown reasons.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Pope Urban appears in court

3rd District Courthouse, Syracuse

Thousands lined the streets as word spread that Pope Urban, leader of the Solaris nation and church, had arrived in Nicosia. In Syracuse, crowds were 7 or 8 deep at some points as many struggled to see the massive motorcade approach the 3rd District Courthouse in downtown Syracuse. The crowds remained quite silent as the 38 car motorcade made its way to the large courthouse that houses both the 3rd District Courts and 4th Magistrate Courts. Each of the vehicles disappeared into the security port so there was no visual of the Pope.

Witnesses stated that the pope arrived in his pewter mask and the garments of a Solaris bishop. The court released a transcript of the short proceeding, noting that some names have been held for their own safety.

Royal Justice Antony Pelimara: Does the defendant have the required representation, been informed of the role of the Court, and the charges against him?

Defence attorney (name held for security reasons): Yes, the defendant has been made aware.

Justice Pelimara: Is the prosecution aware of the role of the Court and the defendants awareness of the charges.

Prosecutor 1: Yes.

Justice Pelimara: Does the prosecution have any motions or preliminary requests at this time?

Prosecutor 2: Not at this time.

Justice Pelimara: Does the defence have any motions or preliminary requests of the Court or prosecution at this time?

Defence attorney: We do sir.

Justice Pelimara: Nods

Defence Attorney: We request a change in venue so that the accused may better defend himself and that an adequate amount of preparation time be afforded.

Justice Pelimara: Venue request is denied on the grounds of Article 467.3 of the General Magistrate and Justice Code. As for preparation time, you are hereby ordered to appear at this court 2 weeks from today at 915 AM to offer a plea for each of the charges brought against the defendant. I wish to remind both prosecution and defence that it will also be the final opportunity for any preliminary requests of procedural matter. We adjourn this 20th day of February.

Crowds were more vocal as the motorcade left the courthouse, some throwing shoes and bottles at the passing vehicles. Justice Antony Pelimara is fairly well known in legal circles as an experienced judge who often excuses himself from high profile cases. In 1994, Pelimara heard the infamous murder of Nicosian Actress Fallway Scott (real name Maria de Marco) in which she was found guilty. The Ministry of Justice has stated on numerous occasions that television cameras may be allowed in the courtroom at the Justice's discretion. However, Pelimara may not allow cameras in until the verdict or not allow them at all. As court transcripts of District Courts are mostly public record, many expect the transcripts to be released daily.

Many remain anxious to see if the defence requests a jury trial or panel of Justices. Experts say that each have their advantages. A jury, is more likely to be swayed on an issue. Justices are more likely to attempt to shed previous opinions and stick to the letter of the law. This decision will come in two weeks.


Military reports "insurgent explosion"

Northern Solaren

Starting Friday, the military began experiencing what it has been fearing- a broad and somewhat organized insurgency. NDF spokesmen have stated that 27 attacks occurred this weekend throughout EDF held territory in Northern Solaren. General Montesty of the 2nd Support Regiment stated that "we know that this has been brewing for some time now. We were just waiting for the moment. It appears from intelligence that they moved up their date as backlash for the capture of Urban. We expect insurgency to explode throughout occupied Solaren".

31 Nicosians were wounded in the attacks along with 6 killed. The NDF has estimated it killed between 30 and 40 hostiles during the attacks.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Elections announced

Syracuse

Following numerous attempts and several postponements, the King and the Constitutional Convention have agreed on an election date. The Kingdom's first true national elections have been set for June 4th. Those elected will officially take office sometime in August said a spokesman for the Constitutional Convention.

Voter procedures are still quite unclear. The Constitutional Convention has stated that voters may use their provincial election cards but critics say that this method is sloppy. Furthermore, districts have yet to be drawn. Many are worried that as the election date approaches, it will once again be postponed.

Royal Navy releases Tien Hau findings

Ajaccio

Following a lengthy investigation, the Royal Nicosian Navy has released its final 476 page report on the sinking of the Yujiner vessel 'Tien Hau'. The Royal Navy found that based on the impact area and damage that the initial explosion was most likely caused by the impact of a land based anti-ship missile. Nicosian records denote the lack of aircraft in the immediate area. However, the report does state that there is no way to prove it was a land based missile.

The Royal Navy report states that the primary cause of the sinking was a secondary explosion which 'severely weakened the keel and put a 7x34 foot hole in the ships hull on the starboard side. The report notes that 'significant portions of the ship's bow were destroyed when the ship reached the sea floor'.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Pope Urban enters a plea of "Not Guilty" to 17 charges.

3rd District Courthouse, Syracuse

Pope Urban stood in the 3rd District Courthouse today and entered pleas of not guilty to 17 charges. Originally, Urban had been charged with 44 crimes. The Prosecution dropped many of them but charges still include: terrorism, conspiracy, murder, violations of human rights, kidnapping, and piracy. Urban could potentially face capital punishment.

Pope Urban arrived at the courthouse at 430 in the morning under extremely heavy guard and in a motorcade of 51 vehicles. Press was allowed within the courthouse but not within the court itself. Justice Antony Pelimara stated that press will be allowed in the court for Urban's next appearance but broadcasting of any kind will not be allowed. The court released the transcripts of the short session.

Royal Justice Antony Pelimara: The defendant will enter a plea to the charges.

Defence attorney (name held for security reasons): The defendant enters a plea of 'not guilty' to all charges and requests the charges be reviewed.

Justice Pelimara: The charges have been reviewed extensively and the request is denied. The pleas will be entered. Does the defendant request trial by a certain nature.

Defence attorney: The defendant requests trial by bench.

Justice Pelimara: The request is noted and will be accepted. Does the prosecution have any motions or requests at this time?

Prosecutor: We request under Article 7 of the judicial code that we be made aware of any motions the defendant may have.

Justice Pelimara: Does the defendant have any motions?

Defence attorney: No, not at this time.

Justice Pelimara: I hereby order prosecution and the defendant to appear at this court in 3 weeks for opening and initial evidence. We adjourn this 14th day of March.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

EDF forces engaged in 'massive humanitarian effort'

Bargia, Solaren

Overall commander of EDF forces in Solaren, General de Castille, held his first press conference today in Bargia, Solaren. de Castille has been criticized for limiting media access to senior EDF military officers in Solaren. de Castille promised to ensure media access to senior officers but noted that media has not been restricted much since the opening of the war. General de Castille focused his conference on the humanitarian efforts underway.

"Currently, we are committed to a massive humanitarian effort for the people of Solaren. The people of Solaren face famine, disease, and the complete breakdown of an education system. Firstly, the EDF is currently responsible for thousands of tons of food being delivered to certain sections of the Solaris population. Second, we face a serious lack of access to healthcare. Nicosian and EDF forces are doing their best to provide healthcare to the Solaris people. However, those accepting care face serious threats from insurgents. We are doing our best to control the spread of violence. However, the areas controlled by communist forces are allowing elements of the insurgency to go unchecked; specifically those who target EDF forces. Finally, the education system in Solaren has collapsed. EDF forces are providing security to charities and NGO's that provide school services. Our goal is to ensure that the gap is bridged until a Solaris government can form an education system again. The youth will not fall between the cracks of war".

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Panic as multiple explosions rock Ajaccio, hospitals overwhelmed, chemical agents suspected

Ajaccio

A national curfew has been established as 4-5 explosions went off in downtown Ajaccio. Police and the military fear hundreds dead as it is feared a type of chlorine gas was released. Hospitals in Ajaccio are reportedly overwhelmed with the injured.

The military has begun setting up field hospitals outside city limits as full scale military patrols have begun. The government has reportedly ordered the close of all airports and mass transit centers, fearing further attacks.

More to come as information becomes available.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

212 dead, over 1000 show symptoms.

Ajaccio

Details are still coming through and panic is still prevalent as the death toll climbed to 212. "Our hospitals are full of the injured and those who think they are. The symptoms vary but we are close to determining a general idea of what is responsible" said Dr. Michael Vassallo, the current Response Commander. Overnight and in the early morning hours, the military closed public transport centers and began searching for survivors. Large portions of the city have been evacuated as at least 4 explosions occurred last night around 9pm. At least one has been confirmed as a car bomb.

"This disgusting attack will not go unpaid for" said the King during a press conference outside of Ajaccio this morning. "There is no justification for this attack. We will find those responsible, I promise this"

 

[Potenza]

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The Grand Duchy strongly condemns this cowardly attack. We also offer our condolences to the victims and their families specifically, and our condolences to the Nicosian people as a whole. The Ministry of Law Enforcement have placed a tight watch around the Nicosian embassy until further notice, and we also offer the use of our Carabinieri special forces units if the Nicosian so inclines for their help.

Franco Frattini
Foreign Minister​

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

King attends memorial for victims, many fear further repercussions

Ajaccio

With the final toll reaching 256, the King attended a memorial service for victims of the bombings which rocked Ajaccio. The attacks came in the form of 4 chemical weapons dispensing chlorine and phosgene agents. The military has placed blame on Solaris terrorists. Hundreds showed symptoms and hundreds remain in some form of medical care. The King did not speak at the service and declined to hold a press conference.

With the number and severity of attacks, many fear not only further attacks but a major impact on the economy. Niko Azabela, head of the Nicosian Hotel Association, expressed his concerns. "Nicosia has had a foot placed firmly on the support of tourism. If this becomes unstable, all of Nicosia's economy will be on the edge" said Azabela. While tourism has been down sharply, the tourism industry has remained in somewhat stable condition. Lower end hotels have seen a 30% drop in business with mid-grade hotels seeing a 22% drop in business. High end resorts and hotels have seen the lowest drop, at 18%.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Urban trial moves forward following delays

Syracuse

"Delays. Delays. Delays. Instead of calling it a trial they should call it a delay" said one man on the street outside the courthouse today. Following postponements for 'security reasons', Pope Urban sat in court today. At noon, the prosecution began presenting evidence. The evidence submitted ranged from videos, witnesses, and Solaris government documents.

According to the Nicosian justice system, each side is required to give a rudimentary overview of the evidence they intend to present. The prosecution spent the day by stating they had the evidence to back each charge and gave an overview of the evidence. Urban's representation objected to two of the proposed witnesses. The objection is under review as Pope Urban is set to speak Monday when his representation is given a chance to an initial challenge of the evidence.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

August Elections
Ajaccio

Buzz is growing as debates begin July 10th and campaigns are legally allowed to begin formal operations. The elections, on August 17th, will create the first ever national legislature. King will formally hand over most powers to the legislature on Sept 7th. So far, former Chancellor Carlos Valdez’s Orange Party (center left) appears to be leading in most preliminary polls. However, the Conservative Coalition is showing heavy support also.
In addition to power shift, the new constitution will take effect September 6th in a special ceremony at the Royal Residence.

Urban Trial
Syracuse

The first session of cross examinations began today in what is being called “the slowest trial in history”. “We simply have so much information and evidence that even as the trial continues, we are discovering more things about Urban’s regime” said the prosecutions spokesman, Antony Briozzi.
The first witness examined by Urban’s representation was Dr. Helmut Schneider. Schneider, a physician from Wiese, served as a professor at the Solaren School of Internal Medicine. Schneider was consulted by a “Colonel who showed up at my office. He was rather vague but asked about disease control in a confined area. Weeks later, I heard of the detention camps. Of course, this was not released in Solaris newspapers”. The defense argued that this was not direct evidence that such camps were pre-planned for the imprisoned Nicosians now known simply as ‘the kidnapped’.
Urban has not attended the past 3 court sessions personally but has been present via webcam. The judge approved the request after both defense and prosecution acknowledged threats against Urban’s security. Despite the prosecution’s confidence, many legal experts are questioning the strength of their case thus far. “There have been too many hit and misses. They have punched holes in their own case” said Fr. (SC) Richard Apoli, Assistant to the defense.


The changing face of the NDF
Syracuse

With the war continuing in Solaren, leaders are taking a magnifying glass to Nicosia’s military. “Nicosia is in an interesting place from a military standpoint. We are engaged in a conflict in which our military was not prepared for. This has only strengthened our need to remain in the European Defence Federation. However, per our membership, we must be able to meet the required contributions to such an organization” said the King on Wednesday. With losses being high in the war, Nicosian leaders are seeking to streamline the military.
“Our aim is to enlarge our reserve base while improving our standing forces” said General de Castille on a recent trip to Syracuse. In a released document, the crown intends to shift to an even more defensive position while maintaining a force that can be mobilized to meet our EDF obligations”. The plan shows a distinct focus on maritime security. Under the new plan, Nicosia would replace its current air fleet with mostly maritime patrol aircraft and increase the reserve forces by 15,000.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Nicosia and Solaren sign ceasfire​

Vesper, Cantignia

In a live feed from Vesper, King Alexander addressed the nation and stated that the EDF Coalition had reached a ceasefire agreement with the remaining Solaris leadership. The King is reportedly leaving immediately from an important conference to return to Nicosia. While details of the ceasefire agreement have not been made public, the King made it clear that the ceasefire would be effective at 5 AM local Torrence time. Jounalio has provided a transcript of the address and the video is available on the Jounalio website.

"Nicosians,

Today we rejoice together that an end is in sight for this terrible conflict. This momentous occasion marks celebration not just for Nicosia but for a world that sees a future without tyranny and terror. My heart goes out to the families of those who suffered at the hands of Solaris terrorist thugs and those who died bravely in battle for morality and Nicosia. My heart also goes out to the fallen soldiers of the coalition. While we have yet to sign a formal peace agreement, I feel I can assure Nicosians that it is imminent. We can thank G-d and our resolution for this occasion. The end is near. A new dawn approaches.

Goodnight"

Nicosians are reportedly already gathering in the streets to celebrate and there is reportedly several vigils for war dead also under way.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Nicosia and Polasciana set for major diplomatic meeting in September

Syracuse

A recent announcement by the Nicosian government has noted that in mid-September, diplomats from Nicosia and Polasciana will meet for an 'unprecedented meeting' to discuss future cooperation, the state of the world, and friendship. Nicosia has reportedly offered to offset the cost of refreshments by covering a portion of the tab with "pints" being at the top of the list.