Baltusia

[Elena1012]

Powering the Real Deal; Beginning efforts at exploiting Uranium.
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September 10th, 5651
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The Uranium sector continues to be a developing sector for Baltusia. It's providing jobs, and stability when such stability is desperately needed. But like every state, Baltusia faces the question of energy. While the mountains present enough oil to power the nation, it would require building up the industry, and while it will eventually have to be done for s healthy diverse economy, why do that effort immediately when uranium is right there, waiting and primed for the greatest task of all time? Powering the future. Some states look to green energy. We say, if it's green and glows, it's good for us.

As such, Congress has passed the National Energy Sovereignty Act, formally declaring the uranium sector to be a strategic sector, and thus incredibly important to the state. While the private market will still have its fair share, the state will keep a close and keen eye on the sector. The Baltusian Energy Department will be tasked with ensuring oversight of future plans for nuclear reactors, despite their hefty cost. Furthermore, Nuclear Infrastructure and Development Zones will be established, being priority areas for nuclear reactors to generate surplus power for cities. Doing that will allow their power to go to rural communities since they'll be covered by said reactors. The goal is to keep NIDZs close to the TSR for logistics. 

To ensure smoother developments, the Uranium to Energy Pipeline will be enacted. Not a literal pipeline, but an effort to ensure what uranium the state mines is diverted for these upcoming nuclear reactors, and allow domestic enrichment and processing. Again, expensive, but necessary for the prosperity of the Kingdom and Baltusia. To ensure Baltusians can thrive, First Minister Merridan has sponsored the National Educational and Nuclear Development Act, which will directly sponsor the education of upcoming nuclear workers. The goal will be to encourage new workers to understand and be trained in managing nuclear reactors. 

It will take time for full results to yield themselves, but these efforts will be worth the effort for a prosperous Baltusia under the Real Deal. The Kingdom must secure it's energy sovereignty. For liberalism, for the king, and for democracy!
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The Public Broadcasting Corporation is a state owned media outlet, looking to provide an unbiased, political neutral, independent news network for Baltusians. It is based in Rutledge.

[Elena1012]

Continuing the Real Deal; Helping the masses.
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June 17th, 5652
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The Real Deal has guided Baltusia since 5645, and it's been doing well. But the work is never done. First Minister Merridan has continued to work tirelessly in ensuring that the Real Deal continues on, and today, we have great news. As we await the development of nuclear reactors, the Real Deal continues to provide development and support for Baltusians. Today, another expansion has come through Congress. Despite the Libertarians opposing, their efforts at opposing the Real Deal for the sake of libertarianism has failed. As such, let's review these new benefits.

Houses. It is a personal castle for every Baltusian. Progress has been made to ensuring Baltusians are housed, not just the wealthy. The AHAP has offered zero percent interest mortgages for first time homeowners. But it isn't enough. Liberalism demands the uplifting of all Baltusians. For every Baltusian family looking to buy a house, they shall be eligible for a one time grant for down payments. Furthermore, for high demand areas, a rent freeze will be enacted via the Emergency Renters and Home Support Act. While libertarians decry it as unconstitutional and violating the social market economy, and decry it as meddling in the free market, they have been duly ignored. For urban and semi urban communities, they will receive support in development. Supporting local shops, beautification, public space upgrades, and ensuring local communities thrive.

But how can you thrive in your castle if you can't afford a family? The Real Deal will step in and help. The Affordable Family Act, which was fast tracked into law (As per the clauses within the EPSA) due to the opposition trying to oppose the necessity of liberalism, will provide support. For starters, free Public Pre-K education will be guaranteed. Fully universal. For those without an education, they will be available to receive support from the Royal Job Corps via Vocational Training. If they aren't apart of the RJC, they will still qualify for Vocational Training assistance. 

The right to liberty, health and happiness is guaranteed via the constitution. But materially? Work is needed. And in his endless commitment to the public health, First Minister Merridan has looked to guarantee happiness and health. For health, food. Food is life. And no Baltusian should starve. Farmer markets will be subsidized in every major town provided they sell their goods at affordable rates. Alongside that, via the Social Assistance and Development Act, the every Baltusian will be eligible for cards that will act as a voucher for purchasing essential goods such as soap, baby formula,  etc etc. The genuine essentials. Alongside health, a guarantee of happiness. A national fund will be created, the Baltusian Cultural Union, which will support cinema, art, literature, and theater. Provided that these works don't support extremists and are compliant with the EPSA. Furthermore, free museum and library passes. Simple and small, but everyone loves museums, and everyone especially loves libraries. Without knowledge, the torch of freedom and liberalism dies. Finally, sports. The recent North Seleyan Games has shown that there is a demand for sports on a broad level. And First Minister Merridan hears. Stadiums will receive renovation grants, youth athletic programs will be established, and community sporting events will received funding.

But what about mobility? All these programs are amazing, no doubt but they don't work if no one can reach them. In comes the Transport Pass, ensuring that public transportation fees are incredibly subsidized and cheap depending on your income. Alongside that, guaranteed Paid Leave Off. No parent should choose between their child or work. That is not liberalism. It is slavery. It is extremism. But Merridan is a liberal. Not a dangerous socialist. Private companies and corporations will receive tax breaks and even subsidies if they adopt flexible work schedules, such as working from home, a 4 day work week, or hybrid sectors. The First Minister wishes to work with the private sector, not antagonize it like an overzealous socialist.

These efforts will be vital to continuing the development of Baltusia and the Real Deal. 
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The Public Broadcasting Corporation is a state owned media outlet, looking to ensure Baltusians are kept up to date with developments, counter extremist thought and ensure a harmonious liberal society. The PBC is based on Rutledge.

[Elena1012]

Merridan Administration signs contract with Monarch Dynamics for extra security; "The Military is for War, Monarch Dynamics is for prosperity".
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June 28th, 5653
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The Baltusian Armed Forces have seen better times. Before the syndicalists, Baltusia was arguably over-militarized. Too militarized. Autarky under libertarianism, mass militarization under a stable continent. It provided plenty of jobs, but it also scared our neighbours. When the syndicalists took over, they cut things down. Too much. Now the BAF was left with rot. Too much. While it's still capable, it's clear that they are not an institution made for dealing with the possibility of insurgents. War? Absolutely. But there hadn't been a war that Baltusia was involved in for centuries. The last war was the First Kundrati War, which saw fighting in Likatonia and Lodamun. As such, war is incredibly unlikely. But domestically? We all remember when a madman tried to assassinate our First Minister and kill democracy. But what could be done? Militarizing the police? Baltusia has standards. It is not a police state like what you'd see in some dictatorship in Dovani. Deploy the military? What are we, the syndicalists? It would seem like there would be no solution to the possibility of insurgents. Until the free market provided. Monarch Dynamics, a newly formed Private Military Corporation has recently received a contract from the state for covering security and potential counter insurgency efforts, should the need arise. CEO Jamie Green and First Minister Aiden Merridan shook hands, and signed the deal earlier today in Johnston.

So, what does this mean? Monarch Dynamics will bring efficiency to keeping Baltusia stable. CEO Green has made sure to clarify that Monarch Dynamics isn't a collection of thugs in gear, but highly trained professionals. They are,  after all, professional security contractors. They will be responsible for supporting law enforcement should the need arise, help train the BAF, provide security for Baltusians should they contract them, and help ensure not only stability, but the Real Deal continues on safely. This cooperation between the private sector and the state shows the power of liberalism over syndicalism. Without Merridan, the Real Deal would be at risk, and without Monarch Dynamics, stability would be inefficient and freedom threatening. Not only that, but it will create jobs. A win for the economy is a win for the people.

While the opposition decries this as a private army for the government, remember that stability has no price. And liberalism doesn't engage with tyranny. This is making security and stability more stronger and efficient. Alongside the prior developments, Monarch Dynamics has gone out of its way to assure the public that it means prosperity and security. For example, they don't take in randos. They aim to keep that professional example. For legal and obvious reasons, we can't exactly state where they get their recruits, but trusted sources inform us that it is from secure areas. Furthermore, Schwarzwald has found itself home to Monarch Dynamics, holding not only the home of the corporation, but also MonDyn Academy, which is responsible for training contractors. For Baltusians interested in taking their chances at MDA, should they excel and graduate from it, they can quickly find a career in Monarch Dynamics. The benefits of such a career include full benefits, such as family relocation plans, scholarship plans for loved ones, retirement plans, and above average pay.

Monarch Dynamics will surely bring prosperity to Baltusian stability. As their motto says, "Your Command, Our Crown". Baltusia commands the crown of Monarch Dynamics. We the people do. 
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The Public Broadcasting Corporation is a state owned media outlet, looking to ensure Baltusians are kept up to date with developments, counter extremist thought and ensure a harmonious liberal society. The PBC is based on Rutledge.

[Elena1012]

State visit between Baltusia and Kundrati; Economic deal signed between the two states.
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December 22nd, 5653
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The Real Deal is great. That much is certain. While it's solved many problems, trade with foreign countries is still vital for any self respecting liberal democracy. Same for economic deals. While First Minister Merridan is no laissez-faire liberal who will sell out the working class, he isn't an autarkic liberal. Autarky killed the economy under the SUAS. It won't kill the Kingdom. And so today, in Johnston when President of Kundrati, Jozef Otčenáš arrived today in Johnston at the Royal Palace, it wouldn't be a stretch to say many were shocked. First Minister Merridan and President Otčenáš would meet and while the monarch was claimed to not be involved in the talks besides simply greeting the Kundrati President, a deal was announced. The uranium deal signed between the states during the last administration will be extended for another 15 years, and tariffs between the two states will be dissolved. Alongside this, mutual visa work permits will be authorized for both countries, loosening of trade restrictions and banking in both countries.

After the President departed, First Minister Merridan was quick to address the nation with the following statement. 

I understand that there are those both at home, and especially abroad that are worried by the implications of this deal. Especially given the past of Kundrati. I know our dear friends across the Lucid River will especially be worried if not disappointed at this development, and I want to tackle those concerns head on. While yes, Kundrati has a questionable history, it has moved on from fascism. This new democracy must be given a chance. There are many concerns and criticisms to be held about Kundrati, but the same can be said about any country. Those concerns are not unfounded, but can we call ourselves a free society if we don't give a stranger a chance?

Foreign Minister Joe Burger was quick to support, instead arguing that Baltusia reserves the right to engage in diplomacy with any state, and reassuring that while there are concerns over whether Kundrati is still fascistic or not, Baltusia reserves the right to engage in diplomacy with all states of Terra. Coincidentally, CEO of Monarch Dynamics, Jamie Green announced that Monarch Dynamics had secured a contract with Kundrati, and MonDyn Contractors would be employed to act as security for privately owned uranium mines, and 5000 PMCs will be contracted. They will be responsible for protecting Kundrati dignitaries abroad and private mines in Baltusia. Alongside that, they'll be sent to offshore refineries and mines.

Domestically, the Libertarian Party, Constitutional Reform Party and Movement of 39-40 have each issued a unified statement of concern and worry over the development, arguing that by engaging with Kundrati, the Merridan Administration is only serving to legitimize a state that engages in human rights abuse. While these claims are currently unfounded, it must be made aware that treating diplomacy with idealism and ideals results in dead ends as seen with SAUS. Pragmatism will ensure economic development and growth. Diplomacy with all states will ensure growth and prosperity for Baltusia. Even if controversial. 

Whatever the case, while no one can confidently say whether a friendship exists with Kundrati, the current relationship is amicable and cordial. In time that could change for better or worse. But it's likely that the bad press potentially looming from Kundrati is sure to be a headache for the administration. Citizens, the torch of liberty required pragmatism and uncomfortable decisions to be made to ensure the torch isn't snuffed out by extremists. Only an extremist will oppose the growth of Baltusia. We hope our foreign friends and allies understand this decision just as our free citizens do.
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The Public Broadcasting Corporation is a state owned media outlet, looking to provide an unbiased, political neutral, independent news network for Baltusians. It is based in Rutledge.

[Elena1012]

Foreign Minister Joe Burger resigns for "health reasons"; Baltusia and Gaduridos reach agreement.
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January 18th, 5654
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It has just been announced by the Merridan Administration that the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Joe Burger, has handed his resignation to the Administration, citing "health concerns". This comes after a rather controversial diplomatic move abroad as both Kalistan and Gaduridos have raised concerns about Baltusia engaging in diplomacy with Kundrati. As the administration looks to find a suitable replacement, First Minister Merridan has gone down to Ciudad de Gadur to meet with Foreign Minister Victor Goryi Jaramillo to smooth things over. 

Quickly, a deal was reached. Baltusian markets would be open to Gaduridos, alongside priority for Gaduri companies to invest into Baltusia and ownership. After the meeting, Merridan would meet with the press and give the following statement.

I know everyone has concerns. I understand. Truly. Kundrati has a dark past. While they are questionable in the present, my administration wants to show the world that we mean it when we say we will work with everyone. I'm glad to have visited Gaduridos. It shows we can talk things over, smooth things out, and ensure mutual prosperity for all nations involved. The resignation of Mr. Burger was regrettable, yes but health comes first. Even if conspiracy theorists will say that this comes from his mistakes. I wish him well in retirement. Nonetheless, I extend the same offer to Kalistan to negotiate and smooth things over. Just as our friends in Gaduridos have done. What can we achieve if we don't communicate together? Nonetheless, I am pleased with Gaduridos being willing to engage in diplomacy, and being open for negotiations.

As Merridan returns back to Johnston, the Sovereign of Baltusia, King George Alvarez has begun a public tour, looking to rally the people and rally national pride by visit military bases as well. However, while officially, negotiations didn't include any other provisions, it's likely that Baltusia will put more effort into vetting who leaves the country, especially from certain corners of the world. In any case, the establishment of basic economic ties is a win as previously, the syndicalist government made economic ties impossible, but given the obvious fact that they are gone, this can be called progress. Whatever the case, with Burgers resignation and Merridan negotiating with Gaduridos and extending the same offer to Kalistan, interesting times are ahead.
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The Public Broadcasting Corporation is a state owned media outlet, looking to provide an unbiased, political neutral, independent news network for Baltusians. It is based in Rutledge.

[Elena1012]

Congress passes the SAFE Act; Domestic fascism holds no home in the land of liberalism.
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March 18th, 5654
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Fascism. It's a dirty word. As dangerous as syndicalism. As utterly incompatible with freedom as syndicalism. While opponents who seek to undo the Real Deal and bring Baltusia into chaos, the Merridan Administration is looking to ensure fascism holds no home in Baltusia. Last month, Congress began drafting the Stability and Freedom Enforcement (SAFE) Act, looking to counter any potential influence of Fascism, and root it out. Today, the SAFE Act fully passed. While the Libertarians claimed it infringed on liberties and the Baltusia First Party claimed it was a coordinated campaign against nationalism and especially themselves, let's be realistic. Fascists will tear apart our free state should they ever find a home here.

As such, the SAFE Act allows the Royal Security Bureau to surveil, monitor and investigate any political organization with credible links or ties to hate groups, fascist groups, or enthonationalist groups. Alongside this, known fascist sympathizers are disqualified from office permanently. Any political party that advocates for fascism, enthonationalism, or ultra nationalist ideology will be cracked down on, and banned. The SAFE Act will keep liberalism safe from those who dare to plot it's demise.

Alongside this, the Department of Education will be given direct support for ensuring anti fascist education is taught in schools. All schools. Fascism will be weeded out. Root and stem. Annual reportings will be mandated from non profits, universities and news agencies on potential fascist threats and potential infiltration. These measures ensure Baltusia will never fall to the plague of mankind.

The Department of Communication and Media Regulations will be granted the power to flag, suspend and remove online content that is deemed to be sympathetic to fascism or hate groups. Any employers who hire known fascists will face harsh punishments, as a general ban will be placed on hiring or employing convicted individuals of hate crimes or fascist organizing within state institutions. And should fascist influence be found within Baltusian institutions, Congress will be granted the authority to dissolve, restructure, and purge institutions deemed to have been tainted by fascism. The Democratic Tribunal will be created, responsible for hearing all appeals on such cases and will answer to the First Minister and Congress. As such, an investigation is being launched on the Baltusia First Party and whether they are fascistic or not.

While opponents may claim that the SAFE Act is coming from working with a fascist state, those claims are unfounded. What the SAFE Act is doing, is making sure that our young democracy continues to thrive and survive. Extremism is a death sentence for democracy. It already attempted to kill Merridan 4 years ago. It cannot kill our democracy. With elections next year, First Minister Merridan will do what he can to ensure prosperity for Baltusia.
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The Public Broadcasting Corporation is a state owned media outlet, looking to provide an unbiased, political neutral, independent news network for Baltusians. It is based in Rutledge.

[Elena1012]

Readjusting Foreign Policy; Looking westwards.
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May 3rd, 5654
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The Merridan Administration has looked to make foreign policy a key point of governing since last year, and has looked to shift up the current foreign policy. While previously, it was largely isolative but focused on North Seleya, it did see few developments outside of Seleya. However, the Merridan Administration has announced a change. Citing recent worries, the current foreign policy is "undesirable". As such, efforts will begin towards shifting away from North Seleyan Centric diplomacy and looking to a new direction. Westwards. Such as Majatra, Artania and Makon. The Merridan Administration has argued that new vectors for trade are needed when the status quo shuts the door. 

For starters, the (new) foreign minister, Archie Carr has been sent to Bekenial to begin reviving relations between Baltusia and Hutori, especially looking to cement economic ties. While so far, progress is slow, it is still progress. Afterwards, it is likely that the Foreign Minister will travel to Artania to begin negotiating with states there to expand the trade volume, and bring about economic cooperation with other Artanian states. When asked about the shift in foreign policy, First Minister Merridan claimed that such a move wasn't influenced by recent events in Northern Seleya, but simply a pragmatic move to continue developing the economy without interference. While the Real Deal is capable of continuing on, the Merridan Administration has claimed that rejecting autarky will ensure continued prosperity and ensure the Real Deal can continue without interruptions

So far, the Administration has been specific on telling the press who trade will be conducted with, but has reassured the public that trade with Makon and Artania will provide more wealth for Baltusia, development, and ensure continuing prosperity and stability.
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The Public Broadcasting Corporation is a state owned media outlet, looking to provide an unbiased, political neutral, independent news network for Baltusians. It is based in Rutledge.

[Elena1012]

Baltusia offers to negotiate with Kalistan over security concerns; Amidst this, Baltusia looks to reassure Lodamun.
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August 13th, 5654
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To say things have been tense in Northern Seleya is an understatement. With Kalistan looking to draw some distance from Baltusia, economic pain for both sides has been expected and has arrived. While Baltusia looks abroad for new partners, the Merridan Administration is committed to maintaining cordial relations with Northern Seleyan States, and maintaining prosperity. In an event to ensure relations don't deteriorate or unnecessary economic harm continues to affect Baltusia and Kalistan, First Minister Merridan has looked to propose the Lucid Accords, in which both Baltusia and Kalistan can smooth out valid concerns over national security, and economic sovereignty. While it is of the opinion that Baltusia has the right to sovereignty and trade with free nations, it must come without economic, or diplomatic harm. Hence, the Lucid Accords will ideally ensure Baltusian and Kalistani diplomats can find a mutually beneficial outcome. Baltusia is willing to ensure Kalistani concerns are addressed, and met. Especially in regards to the possibility of infiltration from unideal residents.

The First Minister had this to say about the proposal.

I under that Her Majesty in Kalistan has strong opinions about Kundrati, and our deal with them. Absolutely, I understand. I can't blame her at all for being upset. That is why I want to negotiate with Kaliburg. The Lucid Accords will help ensure that our two great nations don't fall back into hostility like we saw in the syndicalist era. Kalistan has valid concerns. Just as valid as any other nations concerns would be. Should Kaliburg accept the proposal, we can make solid ground in finding a mutually beneficial outcome for both parties. We are fully committed to, and fully willing to work with Kalistan to ensure their national security concerns are met. Whether it be strengthening border checks, stronger vetting, or working with Kalistani border authorities to ensure no undesirable individuals cross the border. No one wants to go back to the hostility that we saw with the syndicalists. No one wants that. Should Kalistan accept, I look forward to the negotiations. The last thing any of our nations deserve is continued economic pain. I am absolutely sure we can hash out an agreement that limits or even outright ends any economic pain whilst ensuring security concerns are not barely met, but shot out of the water. No nation should have to fear for its security. Kalistan is not exempt from that. I do hope Kalistan agrees to the Lucid Accords. We can work out a mighty fine deal. I'm sure of it.

However, Lodamun has looked to establish economic relations. With the syndicalists gone, the door is once again open for economic ties between Lodamun and Baltusia, but because of the Kundrati deal, lines in the sand have been drawn. And to that end, the Merridan Administration has looked to address those lines in the sand, and not challenge them, but welcome them. The Merridan Administration has looked to reassure Lodamun that no actors from questionable regimes will be involved in any economic deal between Lodamun and Baltusia, and ensure that ethical trade is not only kept, but maintained long term. The Baltusian Commercial, Trade and Integrity Council be responsible for ensuring Lodamunese concerns are met, addressed and acknowledged. The First Minister has looked to ensure that economic ties with Lodamun and Baltusia are enjoyable to both parties. As the First Minister continues to work towards resolving the diplomatic scene, we can only hope for success.
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The Public Broadcasting Corporation is a state owned media outlet, looking to provide an unbiased, politically neutral, independent news network for Baltusians. It is based in Rutledge.

[Elena1012]

Rogue gunman strikes at Royal Palace; King Alvarez confirmed safe as Merridan urges calm.
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March 2nd, 5655
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Crisis has struck Johnston as it was reported by the Royal Guard that a gunman had attempted to assassinate the King yesterday. Fortunately, the attempt failed, and the King was left with no injuries. The Royal Guard reported that unfortunately, some members of the Royal Guard were killed in the process of defending King George Alvarez the First. The gunman was killed by the brave and valiant Royal Guard, and interior security. Little is known about the gunman, and the Royal Security Bureau is currently conducting an investigation into finding out who it was, and what security flaws allowed such a risk to happen. A state funeral will be organized for the deceased Royal Guards who gave their life serving not just their homeland, but their Sovereign.

First Minister Merridan upon being informed of the situation, quickly arrived at the Royal Palace, risking his own safety to not only assess the damage, but reassure the King personally. In a statement to the press, the First Minister had this to say;

I give my personal thanks to the Royal Guard for ensuring the King remained safe during this traumatic time. To the ones who unfortunately were killed in the line of duty, my heart goes to their families and I assure you, we will honour them. I will personally see to it that a state funeral is held for them. Our King is safe. The gunman is dead. We must remain calm, and assured. I speak for all of the government when I say this, we are with the people every step of the way.

The Royal Palace has released a statement reiterating that the King was not harmed, and is in good health, but was deeply shaken by the incident. As a result, security around the Royal Palace will be doubled until the King adequately feels comfortable and safe. The King has refused to give a statement, only praising the Royal Guard and vowing to honour the deceased. The First Minister has vowed that no expense will be spared to ensure adequate safety measures are taken to ensure that His Majesty is safe from any and all threats, internal or external, realized or potential. 

The Minister of Internal Affairs, Lauren Atkinson has assured the public that the RSB will thorough investigate any and all leads and work with the Royal Palace in doubling security, and making sure no cracks emerge. While rumours have been speculating of a potential republican plot because of this attempt, Mrs. Atkinson has assured the public that if any plot existed, the RSB would be quick to snuff it out, citing measures such as the EPSA and SAFE Act ensure Baltusian safety and prosperity. 

As the chaos comes to an end, we must remind citizens to remain calm, mourn those who gave their lives for our King, and take comfort knowing that His Majesty is safe and sound. First Minister Merridan is expected to address Congress later this week regarding the incident.
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The Public Broadcasting Corporation is a state owned media outlet, looking to provide an unbiased, politically neutral, independent news network for Baltusians. It is based in Rutledge.

[Maartenws2]

Merridan Estate Raided; First Minster Arrested