le Soleil- News from Bourgogne and the World

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Marchand: No combat troops to Cyclopeia.

Chagny

While Burgundian ally Eiffelland has decided to give military support to Cyclopeia, First Consul Marchand made a pledge and stated that "no combat troops or large contingents will be committed in this conflict". First Consul Marchand also stated that he "consulted heavily with our allies in Eiffelland and they understood our position". Marchand stated that there remained potential for military advisers to head to Cyclopeia. Bourgogne has called for the involved parties to come to a peaceful resolution though some nations have criticized the Burgundian call for peace.


Is this the harshest winter in a decade? No. Coldest in a century.

Auxerre

As winter storms shut the Auxerre airport, many scientists are following this season with great interest as some say this is the coldest in 100 year. Scientists have noted a small increase in snowfall over last year in Auxerre. The Ducal Meteorological Society plans to publish a full report at the end of this month which will detail the severity of this year's winter. While there was no specific and overwhelming low temperature, the Society says that the long-term tempertures were lower over a longer period this winter which resulted in the title of coldest in a century. The Society noted this is not universal for the region as much of the cold was the result of coastal winds which lowered the temperature.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

le Soleil Radio interview with His Grace, Duke Maximilien

Chagny

M. Combray: Thank you for taking time out of your schedule Your Grace, it is a real honor

HG Duke Maximilien: No trouble at all

M. Combray: If I may begin, it has only been a short time since you helped lead the nation in bringing down the oppressive Republican machine. In this time much has happened since your last interview. What if anything are you most concerned about as of recent?

Maximilien: The region is in transition. Potential Germanic unity in terms of agenda, a fragmented Francophone bloc, and regional civil war. Anyone not concerned with these things are not paying attention.

Combray: Fragmented Francophone bloc? Can you explain?

Maximilien: When Belmont attempted to bring Francophone nations together, at a recent summit that I have commented on before, they bullied representatives. It pushed us from Belmont but pushed us further from each other as well.

Combray: Where would you like to see Belmontien-Burgundian relations in the next 5 years?

Maximilien: It is mostly up to Belmont's government how we proceed.

Combray: Since helping to establish the new government, you have openly supported and some say pressured the new government to continue with some Republican policies. Can you comment?

Maximilien: I have argued for changing or totally altering some policies that I believe were beneficial such as modernizing the military and some work programs as well as limited welfare...one subject that the new government and I did not come to terms with. Listen, I have no real power to make domestic policy but I can voice my opinion on matters.

Combray: But you do have power in foreign policy...

Maximilien: Power? No. I cannot set official policy. I am permitted to have a limited hand in helping to form foreign policy. Sure, I have the power to declare war but that is the only real action I am able to take. I am responsible for appointing ambassadors. That is true. However they must be approved by the legislature.

Combray: Do you wish you had more power?

Maximilien: Sometimes, but don't we all? I understand my role and accept it. I worked hard to help bring an elected government back to Bourgogne which the Burgundian people deserved and not an oppressive one.

Combray: Personally, how do you feel about what have some called the 'growing communist and socialist threat"?

Maximilien: Listen, if socialists can be elected, that is fine. It is about ensuring the democratic process. Internationally, that is different

Combray: How so?

Maximilien: It is not my job to set foreign policy, as I have said before.

Combray: Well Your Grace, thank you for your time.

Maximilien: You're very welcome

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Unrest erupts as referendum for elections receives overwhelming support

Chagny


Riots broke out in Auxerre and Brienne today following the passage of a referendum by 64%. As new parties have emerged, unrest in the recent month has grown. The new parties formally announced their platforms yesterday, causing many to fear of a return to the oppressive nationalist republic.


NEW PARTIES AND ANNOUNCED GENERAL PLATFORMS (for detailed platforms, please see page 3A)

Workers Party Bourgogne: Socialist and communist agendas with the removal of the Duke and transformation to people's republic.

New Nation Republic: Far right and has called for a return to the Republic and limitations on immigrants and slashing of public funding. Actively calling for the arrest of members of the Worker's Party

Ducal Party Bourgogne: Monarchist party seeking to place Duke in power with an elected legislature controlling budget issues.

Nation Bourgogne: Another far right party that has called for continued Colonial administration of the Green Peninsula and the retention of the Duchy but devolving Ducal power to ceremonial and the sole actual responsibility to appoint ambassadors.

Union Party: Seeks to create Frankish union while retaining minimal independence.


Following the riots, Duke Maximilien took to the airwaves repeatedly over the course of 3 hours to urge calm and respect the virtues of democracy. The current government has declined to comment aside from a formal statement promising to remain accountable to the democratic process. Over 300 have been detained following the rioting.

 

[Serenierre]

Grand Council for Diplomatic Affairs
DIRECTORATE FOR GALLIAN AFFAIRS
Top Secret

The Imperial Government extends its support to His Excellency The Duke of Bourgogne in these difficult times. We further wish to advise our good friends in Gallia that given the current political situation, it would not be wise to encourage subversive elements (such as Marxists and Republicans) to manipulate the democratic ideals of a civilized nation to destroy the values of tradition and continuity. The Imperial Government stands in solidarity with the Duchy of Bourgogne if it decides to undertake any actions to stabilize the situation. Furthermore, we offer immediate aid in the form of riot prevention equipment and rubber pellets for riot disbursal. Stability in Bourgogne is of paramount importance to us.

 

[Rheinbund]

Aussenministerium
Trier, Eiffelland

We fully support His Grace Duke Maximilien of Bourgogne in turning Bourgogne into a well-functioning constitutional state, where disputes are solved with words instead of weapons. A well-functioning constitutional state where everybody works towards a solution that suits all people in the best way is the only way to achieve long-term stability, and to let the economy prosper. We will monitor the situation in Bourgogne carefully.

Rudolph Kögler, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Vice-Chancellor

 

[Volkova]

You must be registered for see images

​

The Royal Government of Wiefel supports His Highness Duke Maximilien of Bourgogne in these times and we hope it will be resolved by political means.
The political scene in Bourgogne is of great interest in Wiefelburg.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Riots continue as government urges calm, sets date for new elections

Changy

Chagny finally broke out in hearty rioting on Sunday, forcing police to control rioters with force and tear gas. Police have refrained from using military support and rioters seem to be avoiding touristy venues such as museums. Government officials have expressed concern for citizens as well as tourists; especially as the main tourist season is about to begin.

The referendum for new elections has been accepted by the government but has set elections for 'sometime in June'. This announcement appears to have placated some rioting elements but demonstrations have increased. It is unclear as of yet what cohesive message demonstrators are attempting to send.

 

[Serenierre]

Grand Council for Diplomatic Affairs
DIRECTORATE FOR GALLIAN AFFAIRS
Top Secret

The Imperial Government asks its counterpart in Chagny to ensure that the diplomatic missions of the Empire, and indeed of other nations, are provided with the appropriate security measures. Further, given the tense situation in the region, vis-a-vis Danmark, we would advise the Burgundian government to actively crackdown on subversive elements which seek to destabilize the state. The Imperial Government cannot stress upon the importance of such decisive action. The ultimate fear in our minds at this hour remains that subversives would manage to usurp Sikandari oil shipments headed for Bourgogne, which would be an immediate grounds for us to reconsider our oil shipments. Regardless, the Imperial Government reaffirms its support for the Government in Chagny.

 

[Rheinbund]

Aussenministerium
Trier, Eiffelland

We echo the words of the Government of Sikandara. It is of utmost importance that the riots stop before they destabilise the country or maybe even the region. We will guarantee the safety of the Sikandari ships in the international waters of the Long Sea. The territorial waters of Bourgogne is the responsibility of Bourgogne though. We cannot operate there, unless the Government of Bourgogne allows us to do so.

Rudolph Kögler, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Vice-Chancellor

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Republican demonstrators storm Auxerre radio station. In standoff with police

Auxerre

You must be registered for see links

Radio Auxerre was broadcasting a speech from the Duke today, which was urging for calm, when over 100 demonstrators seized the 3 story building and are reportedly holding 2 people hostage. Other reports 3 were being held hostage until it was apparent that one of the three hostages was pregnant and was supposedly released. The Duke has entered into a closed door session with the ministers of government and the Consuls. Military troops have been brought in to guard museums, embassies, and government buildings as well as ports. With the exception of events in Auxerre, most demonstrations have remained peaceful over the last 12 hours.

Grand Council for Diplomatic Affairs
DIRECTORATE FOR GALLIAN AFFAIRS
Top Secret

The Imperial Government asks its counterpart in Chagny to ensure that the diplomatic missions of the Empire, and indeed of other nations, are provided with the appropriate security measures. Further, given the tense situation in the region, vis-a-vis Danmark, we would advise the Burgundian government to actively crackdown on subversive elements which seek to destabilize the state. The Imperial Government cannot stress upon the importance of such decisive action. The ultimate fear in our minds at this hour remains that subversives would manage to usurp Sikandari oil shipments headed for Bourgogne, which would be an immediate grounds for us to reconsider our oil shipments. Regardless, the Imperial Government reaffirms its support for the Government in Chagny.

All government facilities and ports are being protected to the maximum. We will deal with this situation as it evolves.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Republicans and far right extremists seize legislature, city halls. Declare new government

Chagny

Around 0400 hours, hundreds of republican legislators and supporters stormed the National Legislature in Chagny. In a coordinated effort, they also took control of Changy's city hall. There are reports that similar attempts were made in both Brienne and Auxerre; which have supposedly failed. The current situation is unclear but First Consul Marchand has issued a statement urging citizens not to follow illegitimate leadership and he cites the upcoming election.

 

[Serenierre]

Grand Council for Diplomatic Affairs
DIRECTORATE FOR GALLIAN AFFAIRS
Official Statement - Unclassified

The Imperial Government is immediately withdrawing its diplomatic mission and staff from Bourgogne due to the current takeover of the national legislature by forces hostile to the ideals of tradition and continuity. This is a gross violation of democratic norms and is wholly unacceptable to us. We do not recognize vandals and hooligans masquerading as leaders. The Imperial Government further urges its counterpart to launch a crackdown against these elements present in the nation, and offers the services of our own Imperial Military to work in conjunction with the Grand Ducal Army to quell this traitorous uprising.

CLASSIFIED STATEMENT
The Imperial Government warns the Bourgogne Government that if it does not control the situation, we shall immediately cease to honor our obligations with regards to the supply of oil and other petroleum products to the Grand Duchy. We are not willing to risk our shipments being hijacked by Republican rebels. Proactive steps are required by the legitimate representatives of the Burgundian people.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

To: DIRECTORATE FOR GALLIAN AFFAIRS
From: His Grace's Ducal Government, Chagny

We share in your concerns but wish to reiterate that our ports have been totally secured by police and military forces and Chagny's diplomatic district is under an intense security blanket. Should you cease oil delivery, it would be a harsh move which punishes us and not the traitors who have attempted to usurp the government.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

First Consul Marchand: It is out of my hands

GOVERNMENT DISSOLVED AT REQUEST OF FIRST CONSUL MARCHAND

DUKE OPERATES GOVERNMENT UNDER EMERGENCY POWERS


Chagny

"Though this government came into being with the highest of moral missions, it is obvious that we have failed the Burgundian peoples. We are not the only ones to fail. The radical republicans, seeking to return to the dictatorship full of perverse misery, have betrayed their country and the will of democracy and the majority. It is with heavy heart that I must announce that this government will be dissolved at noon this day. I met with His Grace this morning and made the request that he operate the government under emergency powers until the next elections. I must reiterate that this minority of radicals has tainted our democracy and wishes the clock to be rolled back against the greater will of the people. We must not lose sight that our people want stability and the Burgundian peoples want peace. It has been my honor to serve you and hope that one day, I may continue to serve. God Bless Bourgogne"

Words of First Consul Marchand on le Soleil Radio at 10 oclock this morning. Police have flooded the streets of Burgundian cities as the Duke reluctantly took control of the government. Hundreds of police from surrounding areas of cities have been mobilized to secure key points such as ports and power stations. Reportedly, an ultimatum has been delivered to those who have seized the legislature building and city hall; though details are unclear. The influx of police has also cut the number of protesters drastically.

 

[Serenierre]

Grand Council for Diplomatic Affairs
DIRECTORATE FOR GALLIAN AFFAIRS
CLASSIFIED STATEMENT

I am pleased to take note of the swift response from the Burgundian Government to our private communication. The Imperial Government has understood the sensitivity of the situation and is in solidarity with our most noble friends in Chagny. However, we urge the Burgundian Government to also understand that patience in Shahdara is a rare commodity when it comes to assurances being issued by members of the Burgundian government. But in the interests of not disrupting the struggle against the rebels, we shall continue our shipments, provided the following conditions can be absolutely secured.

(1). The Burgundian Military is to take over responsibilities for all ports in the country.
(2). The Ambassador of Sikandara is fully briefed of the security measures in place to prevent Sikandari oil shipments being usurped by republican rebels.

I hope the Burgundian state can appreciate the stance we have with regards to republicans and other subversives and hope that our long-established friendship is not harmed by the current events. A swift response would be appreciated. Enclosed herewith is a draft statement we shall issue if the Chagny government agrees to our conditions.

DRAFT STATEMENT TO BE ISSUED UPON COMPLIANCE BY BOURGOGNE
The Imperial Government, following definitive actions from our friends in Chagny, has thought it prudent to withdraw our earlier statement of a complete withdrawal from the country of our diplomatic missions and staff. However, the diplomatic presence of the Empire of Sikandara shall be down-scaled to allow for a better provision of security to our representatives. Further, the Imperial Government offers the Government of Bourgogne a loan to help in tackling the violence.

Ms. HAMIDA HAZURI
Director for Gallian Affairs

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

His Grace's Ducal Government, Chagny

We feel as though the Sikandara is being quite condescending. We assure our friends in Sikandara that the ports are secured by the Bureau des Opérations Spéciales in conjuncture with regular police. We find it troubling that Sikandara seems to wish to dictate our security policy by potentially hurting the Duchy further by cutting off oil shipments. We are perplexed at"patience in Shahdara is a rare commodity when it comes to assurances being issued by members of the Burgundian government". You refer to a long-established friendship; yet you do not have confidence in our nation to handle its own affairs. If your nation hopes that our long-established friendship is not harmed by the current events, it would be wise not to discontinue oil shipments. Discontinuing oil shipments would be a mistake as our ports are 100% secure. The Ambassador of Sikandara is invited to any of the hourly security briefings the Duke is now receiving. We wish to note that no loan is required and if oil shipments senselessly cease, Bourgogne will (with great sadness) take our business elsewhere.

Regards,
Claude Darc
Dean of Staff to His Grace Duke Maximilien II
Count of Morteau, Knight of the Burgundian Order, Knight of the Republic

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Police retake legislature, city hall. Take on rioters

Chagny

Police across the Duchy have taken on rioters today; moving quickly to confront them. In Chagny, police stormed the legislature and city hall and have made 253 arrests in those two locations. There were reported fatalities, though the numbers have not been released. Critics say that the police moved in swiftly and brutally and gave no real chance for many to surrender peacefully when the police stormed the legislature. Reports indicate that police had military support but no soldiers took part in operations. The Duke has issued a partial curfew in Chagny from midnight-5am.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Grand Duchy declared

Chagny

As the number of rioters declines rapidly across Bourgogne, the Duke made a formal proclamation in which Bourgogne will now be formally known as the Grand Duchy of Bourgogne. The proclamation notes that it could be costly in terms of new currency, passports, and textbooks and provides a section by which these will not be totally replaced for several years. The proclamation also implies that His Grace is now a Grand Duke. Duke Maximilien included in this proclamation that elections will be held as scheduled and any attempt to interfere with elections by further rioting or subversive action will be dealt with harshly.

 

[Serenierre]

Grand Council for Diplomatic Affairs
DIRECTORATE FOR GALLIAN AFFAIRS
CLASSIFIED STATEMENT

We are pleased to take note of the response of the Bourgogne Government in asserting the authority and writ of the state. The Empire of Sikandara fully endorses the Government of Bourgogne under the Grand Duke. As such, we feel confident in the abilities of the Military of the Grand Duchy and would like to organise a joint-training exercise between our two militaries.

 

[Holy Frankish Empire]

Grand Council for Diplomatic Affairs
DIRECTORATE FOR GALLIAN AFFAIRS
CLASSIFIED STATEMENT

We are pleased to take note of the response of the Bourgogne Government in asserting the authority and writ of the state. The Empire of Sikandara fully endorses the Government of Bourgogne under the Grand Duke. As such, we feel confident in the abilities of the Military of the Grand Duchy and would like to organise a joint-training exercise between our two militaries.

We would be pleased to take part in such an exercise, though we will have to postpone exercises for some time.