Janes Defence Weekly [Defence News]

NEWS IN BRIEF


Panetta pushes for closer ties with New Delhi

The United States plans to significantly expand strategic and military ties with India, which US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta described as a “linchpin” of its revised Asia Pacific policy during a visit to New Delhi on 6 June.

"India is at the crossroads of Asia, at the crossroads of the new global economy and at the crossroads of regional security. We will stand with India at those crossroads,” Panetta said at the Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses on his first visit to India as defence secretary.

“Defence co-operation with India is a linchpin in this strategy,” added Panetta, who said this would be buttressed by both sides cutting through “bureaucratic red tape” to initiate greater military commerce, joint defence research and weapons development and expanded military exercises, he said.

Panetta added that he had asked “[Deputy Secretary of Defense] Ash Carter to lead an effort at the Pentagon to engage with Indian leaders on a new initiative to streamline our bureaucratic processes and make our defence trade more simple, more responsive and more effective”.


Japan, UK cement defence collaboration agreement

Japan and the UK have exchanged a memorandum to strengthen defence collaboration and build on an agreement undertaken earlier this year.

The memorandum exchanged on 3 June at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore and published since by the Japanese Ministry of Defence - outlines bilateral collaboration in cyber security and a commitment “where appropriate” to work together on the joint research, development and production of defence equipment.

It also calls for Japan and the UK to expand defence/military exchanges, share information and co-operate in a range of activities related to peacekeeping, defence science and technology, naval training and maritime.

The memorandum covers many of the activities outlined by a joint statement issued by the respective prime ministers of Japan and the UK – Yoshihiko Noda and David Cameron – in April 2012.

Whether you are engaged in procurement or need to keep a close eye on your competitors, IHS Jane’s brings you the latest intelligence on the business of defence: manufacturers, forecasts, global defence budgets, naval construction markets and more. Side-step the rumour mill and go straight to the heart of government departments and defence organisations as they map out ambitious new projects, thus ensuring that you’re in the right place at the right time when tenders are invited.

Both Articles taken from Jane's Defence Weekly Website

The French Republic Deploys to the Mediterranean






Paris, France: The French Republic has deployed a 13 ship carrier strike group to the Mediterranean which now sits only 14 miles off the coast of Syria as a clear and ominous signal to the Assad government, the ships are on a state of alert with a mandatory four aircraft in the air at any given point in time and all other aircraft on a state of alert and readiness to launch at any given point in time for operations against the Syrian Government. The deployment comes as word has leaked today into German press from a source high in the German Government that the Russian Federation has begun providing a strong level of assistance to the Syrian government with rumors that it might involve troops on the ground in Syria. This move by France is provocative and is notably done without any support from the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation or any of the French foreign departments joining in. The deployed assets have orders to turn away Syrian vessels that approach within two miles of the French deployment with permission to fire on the ships if they continue to come closer after the warning is given at the two mile mark.

The French Government stated today that the deployment is nothing sinister or ominous but instead is designed to project French influence into the region and to protect French interests and allies in the region. But sources close to the French military say anonymously that the deployment could be used as a launching off point for a future attack on Syria which has yet to be fully defined by the French government. Sources close to the Syrian Rebels are nervous about the deployment and that Western powers becoming involved could cause potential problems for the rebel movement against the Assad government. But more than anything analysts agree that this deployment is likely tied to the recent mobilization of Syrian troops near the border with Turkey on unknown operations involving a large number of Syrian elite soldiers. However with violence intensifying in the city of Aleppo there is worries that it could lead to the deposition of the Assad regime as military forces become more and more demoralized.

In the event that Assad were to fall there would likely be a power vacuum with pro-Assad militias facing off against the anti-Assad rebel groups which have been fighting the Assad government strenuously up until now which many analysts say could create even worse violence and problems for the Syrian people. Whether or not deployments such as the French one will help or hinder remains to be seen however it can be said quite positively that the Syrian Government must tread carefully as the eyes of the world and now the French are focused with pinpoint precision on the Syrian state. Sources close to the Turkish government admit that they are very nervous by this deployment but that they feel relieved that the French stand ready to protect them in the event of any further aggression, similar to the incident involving a Turkish plane being shot down by the Syrian military earlier this year, occur again.

Republic of France:


+2.00 Domestic Popularity (Standing strong for NATO allies and against human rights abuses in Syria)
-1.00 Domestic Popularity (Why are we getting provoking Syria? This makes no sense.)
+1.00 International Popularity (Western Nations and many European nations cautiously applaud this move, standing up for human rights)
-1.00 International Popularity (Many nations within the Middle East are scratching their heads on this one)
Deployment Costs will be given to you privately


Syrian Arab Republic

+4.25 Domestic Popularity (Stand up to France!)
-2.00 International Popularity (Syria is losing its support in the world and its standing among most nations is shrinking)

Russian Federation

Some Russian expats in the region are nervous by this deployment. Some people in Russia are raising questions about the leak from the German Press about a "secret Russian Federation deployment"[u]

NEWS IN BRIEF

UK Unilaterally Withdraws from Afghanistan: ISAF Faces manpower crisis
London, United Kingdom In a shock announcement at a Ministry of Defence press conference the British government announced plans to unilaterally withdraw forces from Afghanistan. Beginning immediately the UK will scale down its ISAF contributions to a mere 500 Soldiers, who will themselves be withdrawn completely by the end of 2012.

The withdrawals leave the NATO ISAF mission in chaos, struggling to find forces to fill the gaps left by the withdrawal of the second largest contingent in the ISAF mission, the 2014 withdrawl timetable has also been left in tatters. The Afghan security situation is almost guaranteed to take a significant blow from this development. Internationally the UK has also taken a significant hit in opinion polls, especially amongst the populations of its ISAF partners.

France Establishes Military Review Committee
Paris, France The French Government has established an executive committee for military reform. The committee which comprises representatives from all major armed services and relevant government departments has the objectives of: “Reviewing current standards of French military training and education to see how such training/education can be improved”, and “Develop a comprehensive plan for increasing the size of the French military to ensure that it remains capable of protecting French (and allied) interests, combating terrorism and rogue nations, and promoting peace and stability through strength.”


[EFFECTS]

Afghanistan
-10% Stability (Security holes left by sudden UK withdrawal)
Taliban certain to capitalise on this development in late 2012

France
-1 Domestic Popularity (“Now is not the time for an expanded military!”)
-2 International Popularity (“Peace through strength, that’s awfully Reaganite for a French Socialist, not to mention provocative”)
Committee Established

United Kingdom
-10 International Popularity (“What the hell are you doing? We can never trust you again!”)
+2 International Popularity (Glad at UK’s Withdrawal)
Withdrawal commenced, fully complete in Dec 2012, repost for further effects. UK force levels at 500

The Russian Bear Awakens From Its Summer Slumber



Tartus Naval Base, Syria: The Russian Military has made a very high profile and public deployment of over 17 ships vastly outnumbering the paltry 13 ships that the French deployed to the Mediterranean. The deployment includes several Akula class SSNs and other ships which have been seen within visibility of the French fleet providing a clear deterrence to the French over any military action in Syria with sources close to the Russian Military Command stating that "There are currently 20,000 Russian citizens in Syria in various roles. Some are government advisers, some are military advisers, and many others are businessmen. It is within the Russian constitution that we must act to ensure the safety of our citizens across the globe whenever they are threatened. The Ministry of Defense is currently viewing the deployment of a 13-ship strong French naval force to the Med as being a "potential serious threat" to the safety. As a result the Russian Ministry of Defense has ordered the Navy to conduct a deployment both to Tartus naval base and to the Med to ensure deterrence should France be planning any attack."

This deterrence has caused a buzz amoung NATO countries who see this as a classic throwback to the days when the USSR and NATO reguilarly squared off. Politicians throughout Western Europe are decrying this as senseless militarization of an already delicate situation calling on both France and Russia to stand down before the istuation escalates beyond the point of no return something that could spell chaos for the entire region should it escalate that far. Sources on the ground embedded with the Syrian Military report that the Syrian Military's morale has risen exponentially and that there is now talk of a new offensive against the Free Syrian Army in the works the likes of which the world has never seen before. And on the Free Syrian Army side there are talks of entrenchment and demoralization as many see this as a hopeless situation with the Russians closing in creating a barrier to prevent the French from being able to feasibly do anything in the region and as a result creating a hopeless situation for rebels on the ground.

The Russians have been very careful to leave their role to just monitoring the French fleet but that has not stopped the French from continuing their airborne patrols around the carrier strike group site many times bringing the Russian deployment into plain view during the course of aerial patrols. Our analysts are cautiously optimistic that some sort of talks will occur between France and Russia that will result in a de-escalation of the tensions that have build up in the region but some are believing that this will only result in a larger NATO build up which will pressure Russia to leave the area as they become outnumbered by NATO forces. Turkish military leaders reportedly are in the midst of a series of emergency military grade meetings to discuss options should the Syrians conduct operations to root out rebels that are taking refuge in Syria. And the Turkish are also reportedly in a closed door meeting to ensure their sovereignty and security is protected by NATO, many within Turkey feel as if the French have unnecessarily raised tensions by deploying these ships but others feel as if it is entirely necessary.

One thing is for sure, the Saudis are quickly growing tired of both sides with reports in their national news publications suggesting that Saudi Arabia a major US non-NATO ally may unilaterally install a no-fly zone over Syria without the help of the United States which is quite a feat considering that Saudi Arabia would have to clear the airspace of either the Islamic Republic of Iran or the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan or the State of Israel all 3 of which are not keen on allowing over-flights with the objective of installing a no fly zone in Syria. Even our sources in Israel say they would like nothing more than Assad to be overthrown but that any Saudi flights over its territory would be simply too provocative and would result in a very negative response from Israel. Likewise the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has commented publically stating that they view the path of Saudi Arabia to be that of needless aggression not in keeping with the tenets of peace found within the Qu'ran and the Iranians have always been at odds with Saudi Arabia to the point that our analysts believe it would be open war if Saudi Arabia used Iranian airspacei n any form.

Meanwhile in France protestors lined the Avenue des Champs-Élysées protesting the Hollande government's deployment of French vessels with many calling for talks to occur between Russia and France, people throughout France are upset that this could turn into a larger conflict between France and Russia and Hollande's approval ratings are beginning to slip with him losing three points already in just one day. The markets in France are also beginning to shake and sources close to the Hollande government state that this was not the way that insiders close to Hollande wanted to start the new term and Presidency but start it has and the tone and tenor of the deployment has caused many in the right wing to view Hollande differently as an individual who will preserve the sovereignty and security of France but also ensure that France's security extends to NATO allies something that the far right in France feared a Hollande government would not do. The situation however is tricky our sources tell us because if France withdraws now they will oncur the wrath of the French public even more so as it will cause the French to appear weak and bowing to the Russian Federation's demonstration of force. Many say that these are temporary protests that will go away as people see that France is determined to stay the course. Nevertheless something must be done to diffuse tensions in the region as many different influences seem to be on a perilous collision course.

Russian Federation


+3.00 Domestic Popularity: (Russians feel a sense of pride seeing their military go toe to toe with NATO
-1.00 Domestic Popularity (Most Russians in the Mainland think of this as senseless provocation towards NATO)
-4.00 International Popularity (Western Nations see this as senseless provocation)
+1.00 International Popularity (Some nations see this as Russia defending its citizens and view Russia postively
Russians are becoming jittery even more so worrying about a conflict that could involve Syria, France and Russia. But many are becoming reassured knowing that Russia is willing to go to extraordinary lengths to protect them from harm.

French Republic


-5.00 Domestic Popularity (People are really upset with this development. They see this as the precipice of a larger conflict with Russia which is something the people of France DO NOT want to see under ANY circumstances)
+4.00 Domestic Popularity (People on the right wing see this as Hollande gaining the courage to stand his ground. They are gaining a new respect for Hollande and his government as liberal supporters begin to feel shaky about Hollande)
+3.00 International Popularity (People around Europe are rallying behind the French and believe France is justified in deploying to the Mediterranean. They see Russia as an angry aggressor coming to defend a "madman" in Damascus)
French Markets Shaky, People Expressing Concerns but things overall are still very much secure only slight worries at this point by investors

David & Goliath: Syria Sends In Its Fleet to Defend Against French "Aggressors"



Damascus, Syria: President Bashar al-Assad made a rare appearance today as he broadcast to the nation of Syria. "My brothers and sisters of Syria, today we stand for not only our great nation, but for all Arab nations. I have given my blessing sending out brave men to confront yet another Western nation whom thinks they can dictate who rules, what puppet they can put upon the throne. We saw them do it in Iraq. I ask all of you Arabs, especially the ones living in oppression under the Saudi yoke, do we wish to live as free men who say no to the dictates of the West, or will we be lap dogs to curs such as the United States and France. At this hour, brave men from are navy are securing our waters from the French aggressors. We do not war with them. However, we will defend our territories. Our ships have been ordered to mirror the French movements while not leaving Syrian waters. If we are attacked or our borders violated, we will retaliate. You may ask, why do you provoke the French? Yet I respond, if we give ground here, next they will have troops on our shores, raping our natural resources so that they can have more luxuries while our people go without. If we lose the battle, we will die as not only heroes of our nation, but martyrs of all Arab nations. I ask you now to say prayers for our brave military who once again stand in harm's way to protect our nation. Thank you."

As the remarks were being read 19 patrol boats departed from ports across Syria along with two Syrian frigates accompanied from the air by 55 MIG aircraft which have been "harrying" the French air crews and many would suggest in a way that can be described as harrassatory towards the French. As the ships made their way to the international line they stopped short of the international line in clear view only two miles away from French ships which are also facing the Syrian ships only seperated by two miles. The minute that Syrian ships began nearing the French the Russian flag ship "Peter the Great" radioed the Syrians it is reported and urged them to not enter into the 2 mile radius of the French. It is believed also that the Russians have gone into full alert as these tensions have escalated between France and the Syrians.

Shortly into the standoff between the Syrian and French ships a light rain started which developed into a small storm creating a deep fog obscuring the distance between both Syria and the French vessels, it was during this fog that warning shots were fired by both the Syrian military and French military as the storm began to intensify after six hours the Syrian vessels returned closer to shore as waves began to create 25-30ft troughs and swells tossing the Syrian patrol boats around like little toy boats in a bathtub while the French vessels had to space themselves out to avoid collision between the maritime vessels. The storm would last for a total of twelve hours with planes effectively grounded both on the French carrier and also on the Syrian mainland. Currently the seas still rage and the storm is intensifying in strength with sea conditions building to what now scientific readings and sources in the French Ministry of Defence describe as 35-42ft swells. On the carrier the planes have had to be lashed down and secured as waves crash onto the deck with the ship plowing upwards and then downwards like an out of control yo-yo thats lost its string.

Because of these intense swells French vessels including the carrier while equipped for intense and rough seas have made preparations for sailing to Anatalya, a Turkish coastal city where could potentially remain docked currently until the storm system departs. Our sources state that members of the French Defence Ministry see this as a potential setback and are hoping for a clearing in the weather which does not appear to be in the cards currently as additional storm systems are pushing their way past the Greek straits into the Mediterranean creating turbulent sea conditions that have prompted civilian authorities to put out flood warnings in Syria, Turkey, Lebanon and parts of Northern Israel. Waves and surf pounding the coast of Syria has been moderate and is being buffeted by a sea-wall in the city of Aleppo which is currently held by the Free Syrian Army. The weather has certainly thrown a figurative "wrench" into the plans of both the French and the Russian Federation and the Syrian Arab Republic as it continues to throw waves around that toss boats designed for blue water activities as if they were much much smaller.

Ultimately though at the end of the day it was Syrian vessels "retreating" in the face of the bad weather while French vessels remained in rough seas to be tossed about like toy boats in the metaphorical bathtub. And it is worth noting that so long as these rough storms push through the likes of which have not been seen on this scale since August 1976 combat will be an impracticality as targeting will be hampered by severe winds and waves. Taking off in this weather for both France, Russia and Syria will remain an impossibility until the weather calms. The weather can only result in what analeysts describe as a stalemate as time waits for the weather gods to clear the way for combat in the clear

Syria

+4.00 Domestic Popularity (We are showing the French we are boss)
-2.60 International Popularity (You are alienating yourselves even further by bullying France. Many Western nations think Assad should resign as human rights coverage hits fever pitch on the news networks)
Rough Seas have sent the patrol boats home, Frigates remain at sea keeping an eye on French Naval Vessels

Republique du France

+/- Domestic Popularity (No Change, French are now mostly solidified against Syria seeing that Syria is trying to intimidate France while a civil war rages in their own backyard)
-2.50 International Popularity (France is percieved by many as causing unnecessary tensions in the region which are exasperating many of France's allies and causing some foreign relations to be strained. Hollande needs to make a statement on this soon)
Rough Seas could potentially send your carrier and the majority of your ships, whom would provide an escort for your carrier, to the port city of Anatalya in Turkey until the weather passes and calms

NEWS IN BRIEF


France Withdraws its Ships to Haifa: Syrian Military Commanders Hail This as a Surrender by France

The French have withdrawn their military forces to Haifa as storm swells strength to waves in excess of 45ft, (13 meters) in the Mediterranean as a storm cycle not seen since August of 1976 continues to push through into Lebanon, Syria, Israel and Turkey. The French carrier strike group is notably capable of withstanding heavy and rough seas but commanders citing concerns with the survivability of aircraft and other equipment made the decision to put into port rather than negotiate the rolling surf conditions. The storm has created some mild problems for the countries along the Mediterranean extending from Turkey to Syria to Lebanon to parts of Northern Israel with strong surf creating hazardous conditions and posing a risk for flooding some of which has already occured in the coastal city of Aleppo where waves have begun to breach a historic seawall in the battered city. This spells problems for the Free Syrian Army as heavy weather prevents entrenchment and has reportedly resulted in demoralization particularly as news hit that the French have left for Haifa.

It is worth noting that the Russian fleet remains resolutely in place despite the weather conditions maintaining their guard and visage of the coast of Syria while Syrian patrol boats were forced back to the coast yesterday as conditions grew too dangerous for continued operability of small size naval vessels. The Syrian Government has also reportedly recieved some sort of assistance from the Iranian government but at this time we cannot confirm what that support was or to what extent that support was giving. The situation is fluid and ongoing and we will bring updates as they happen.

Al-Shabab Threatens Attacks in Kenya

The rhetoric has heated up in Africa with militant islamist group Al-Shabab threatening attacks throughout Kenya after months ago Kenya deployed troops ((IRL)) to Somalia last October in an effort to fight the militant group and reduce its role within Kenya. Our sources close to the Kenyan government state that intelligence shows high probability of attacks which could target citizens of European nations in addition to Kenyan in high profile attacks against areas in Nairobi and Mombasa. These threats are being taken seriously with unconfirmed sources close to the African Union stating that emergency talks are underway between member states in the African Union regarding the threat of terrorism coming from Somalia something that the Somali government has told us is a "ridiculous misstep by the Kenyan government". Travel advisories have already been put in place by several Western European nations and many are watching this situation to see how it develops. Instability is certainly the last thing Kenya needs as it seeks to rebuild itself after divisions in that country after the last executive level elections.


Republic of France

-3.00 Domestic Popularity (We are retreating from Syria even though our ships can handle the rough seas? No excuse. Many people see this as weakness on the part of the Hollande government)

Arab Republic of Syria

+4.00 Domestic Popularity (Allah has sent the storms to drive the western aggressors away from us. We are victorious and we will defeat the Syrian Free Army now!)

Russian Federation

+2.00 International Popularity (People see the Russian deployment as the right move now with French ships appearing to retreat even if it is just because of the weather.)

Kenya

-4.00 Domestic Popularity (People view the prior deployment negatively now. Many people are worried about the terrorist attacks happening at any moment in any part of Kenya without any warning. People are scared to death and are afraid to do regular tasks now)

-5.00 Internatiional Popularity (Many people are afraid to travel to Kenya now. Tourism is suffering greatly)

Heavy Fighting Begins as Syrian Armed Forces Initiate Operations Against Aleppo


Above: Syrian Free Army fighters emerge from a vast tunnel network created around Aleppo and the surrounding towns enabling the fighters to engage in deadly hit and run attacks in the midst of fortified Syrian positions

Aleppo, Syria: Despite driving rains and constant wind sheer the Syrian Government has begun deployment of over 8,000 troops into the area surrounding the heavily fortified city of Aleppo. Already the Syrian Free Army has responded with hit and run attacks hitting the Syrian Army from behind and then vanishing into surrounding towns and cities before regrouping and hitting the west or east flank sometimes simultaneously causing confusion. The main problem is that high winds and gusts along with driving rain have created conditions in which Syria cannot get its aircraft into the air fast enough to respond. This has given the rebels on the ground advantage, but an advantage that did not last long as despite poor visibility and targeting options artillery began to rain down on the city of Aleppo. This artillery was often firing blind lining up its trajectory and its targeting for the coordinates of suspected rebel fortifications but wind and other factors pushing the trajectory over by sometimes a few miles causing shells to reportedly hit civilian populations and areas such as daycare centers, a hospital and a elementary school which rebels claim was in session at the time.

We also want to state that confirming what is destroyed and what is not destroyed and verifying the accounts of battle by both sides is extremely difficult if not outright impossible given the absolute lack of informational flow that exists within Syria right now. Our sources on the ground tell us that the city of Aleppo stands completely cut off but that Syrian Armed Forces are having an extremely difficult time keeping it closed of because of the hit and run attacks on all sides by Syrian Free Army "special tactics" groups which have resulted in heavy casualties on the Syrian side although we cannot confirm exact numbers at this time. Sources close to the Syrian Free Army state that they have inflicted massive casualties on the Syrian Armed Forces with upwards of 500 killed and 60 taken prisoner while sources close to the Syrian Armed Forces of course dispute this saying that they have instead killed over 1,000 Syrian Free Army and captured 200.

Currently we believe there is a stalemate on the ground, the city is surrounded by Syrian Armed Forces and armored units but those units cannot hold their positions long as they are stretched thin because of the constant non stop hit and run attacks which are inflicting damage at a high level. The Free Syrian Army inside Aleppo is reportedly demoralized with the fighters holed up and stockpiling for a last stand in which every man, every child and every woman would likely be charged with defense of the town a possibility that many within the Syrian High command are dreading already.

Syria

Results in private

Bombs & Starvation becoming normal in Sudan




Khartoum, Sudan: Khartoum's warplanes have been regularly bombing civilian targets in the Nuba mountains. The border region close to South Sudan is controlled by rebels and most humanitarian aid groups have left. It is Saturday morning and members of the local Catholic church choir from Gidel parish are seated on wooden benches under the shade of a tree. They are rehearsing for the next day's service. Gidel is situated in Sudan's Nuba mountains, not far from the border with South Sudan. The young men and women are focused on their singing, following the conductor's every gesture. Unusually for them, their eyes are not constantly raised to the skies above. They are concentrating on every note. Normally, they are watching out for Mig-29 fighter jets and Antonov transport planes on bombing runs. For more than a year now, the Nuba mountains have been turned into a conflict zone. Sudanese president Omar al-Bashir has been ordering his air force to attack his own population. The reason is that the region is now controlled by the opposition Sudan People's Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N ).

Barabas Kuku is the SPLM-N representative in Gidel. He says he is "trying to solve some of the people's problems." Sitting at his desk in a hut, he says many want to flee to Yida, which is just across the border in South Sudan. Others want to go even further south. Or to Kenya, or somewhere even further away. But if they are not carrying the right documents, which Barabas Kuku has to sign, then the refugees are stopped by the rebels at one of the numerous road blocks and sent back.
Thousands have fled the region in recent months, because it isn't possible to survive in the Nuba mountains anymore. The bombers seem to be deliberately targeting people who are waiting at wells for water or watching their herds. The victims include many women and children. And because people tilling the fields have also been killed or wounded by bombs, nobody wants to take their place out in the open. Local agriculture suffers as a consequence. The population is going hungry and international relief aid cannot get into the area because President Omar al-Bashir has closed the only road that leads out of Sudan and into the mountains. He has effectively blocked all forms of humanitarian aid and almost all aid organizations have left anyway because of the bombing.

Only a few priests and nuns from the El Obeid diocese remain in the area. The diocese runs a hospital in Gidel. 300 beds have been squeezed into premises which were built for 80. Lying on one of the beds is 22-year-old Malda. Her face, arms and legs have been badly burned. "I was hit by a bomb," she explains, while trying to move her facial muscles as little as possible. "I was in my hut when the planes came. I tried to find cover with my children, but is was too late." Both her children died instantly. Standing at Malda's bedside is Tom Catena, a US doctor. He is one of the few foreign nationals who have refused to leave despite the bombing. Recently, he has had to treat several patients with burns similar to Malda's. The doctor is convinced that these incendiary bombs are not conventional weapons. "If it is not napalm, then it is something very similar," he says. "Perhaps there is an additional ingredient which causes a huge ball of flame when the bomb explodes." This is the only explanation the doctor has for the terrible burns on his patients. The pattern of their injuries is always the same - burns to the face, both arms, both legs and the back. Eight-year-old Cholda is in the children's ward. He is covered with third degree burns. There is no skin anymore, just raw flesh. Nine-year-old Djaila is another air raid victim. She has been paralysed from the legs down since she was hit by shrapnel while fetching water from a well. 15-year-old Daniel Omar was hit while watching the herd. He lost both arms. All of the wounded are civilians.

South Sudan

-2.00 Domestic Popularity (The Situation is Tense, South Sudanese People are hoping it does not spill over the border.)


Story Taken From: http://www.dw.de/dw/article/0,,16150245,00.html

Suicide Bombing Attack in Nairobi Leaves 12 Dead, 8 Wounded



Above: Image taken in the aftermath of the attack

Nairobi, Kenya: 4 German Citizens, 3 Russians and 2 French and 2 British citizens are dead after a bomb blast ripped through a crowded outdoor market popular with tourists in a predominantly Kenyan but Kenyan of Somali descent neighborhood. The bomb blast occured mid-day as the mid afternoon rush began with people coming to buy fresh produce and tourist products. This particular market is well frequented by Kenyans and tourists alike with Kenyans hawking Masai trinkets and carvings and tourists coming to sample the cultural fare which includes native Kenyan cuisine on sale at discounted prices. But today a terrorist attack occured which sent the minds of the world back to the terrible and tragic US Embassy bombing of 1998. Already Kenyan authorities have begun to investigate the tragedy that is unfolding with multiple casualties and 8 confirmed wounded but dozens more injured still recieving treatment in area hospitals.

The investigators have already identified the cause of the explosion as being Al-Shabab militants angry at Kenya's recent attempts to aid the Somali government in eradicating the rebel and terrorist groups as Al-Shabab leaders called into the Kenyan government to confirm their responsibility in the incident but there is more. Later in the afternoon the leading national television station in Kenya recieved a chilling videotape promising that many more tourists would die if the world did not stop its involvement in Somali affairs including ending the policing of the waters outside of Somalia and interdiction of vessels that Al-Shabab claim is involved in Somali commerce but many western nations define as piracy. The stakes have risen with many German, Russian and French citizens leaving the country en-masse while others are checking in with their respective embassies many who are living in Kenya in fear of what could happen in the future.

Experts state that this demonstrates a rapid aggressive acceleration of Al-Shabab militancy in the region and adds to the growing prospectus of concern that many nations will have to look at which includes the Syrian Arab Republic and the troubles in Syria that many governments are focusing on. In response to questions about why foreign tourists were targeted Al-Shabab spokespersons released a statement stating that any foreign entity that does not respect the sovereignty of the Syrian Arab Republic fully will be subject to reprisal and "all tourists killed in this attack are guilty for the actions their governments have taken to interfere in the politics of each nation." Which is surprising as Russian citizens were involved, Russia has long been considered an ally of the Syrian government but Al-Shabab mentioned Russia specifically stating that the military presence in Syria is an inappropriate intrusion into Syrian sovereignty. An unidentified diplomat that we have linked to Austria commented "Who does Al-Shabab think they are to determine other nation's sovereignty" a sentiment that is being echoed in the halls of many Eastern European nations as they are hastily issuing travel adivisories warning their people to avoid Kenya and Somalia and surrounding nations at all costs as violence seems to be growing in that region.

Kenya

-6.00 Domestic Popularity (Kenyans are angry that the government did not keep this tragedy from happening)
-6.00 International Popularity (Travel warnings are being issued, people are afraid to travel to Kenya from all over the world not just Europe but places in Asia too)

65 Kenyans wounded, 1 Kenyan Killed. Multiple other foreigners maimed or dismembered in the blast, unknown what their nationality is yet
Deutschland (Germany)

-3.00 Domestic Popularity (German citizens were the highest number of people killed in these attacks, Germans are angry that this has happened many of whom are waiting for an official response on this)
German Expats extremely on edge in Kenya now

French Republic

-5.00 Domestic Popularity (The French already angry at the deployments to the waters outside of Syria are now very angry with many opponents of Hollande stirring the people up saying that Hollande has brought this attack on France by his "aggression")
-3.00 International Popularity (Many in the international community are stating that perhaps France triggered the targeting of tourists in this attack)
Many French Citizens are on edge in Kenya now

Russian Federation

-3.-00 Domestic Popularity (People know that Putin is a strong leader and they trust Putin that is why popularity has only slipped slightly. They are however expecting a response of some kind to know that Russians will be protected)
Many Russian Expats are Nervous & On Edge Now

United Kingdom

-6.00 Domestic Popularity (The Strong ties of Kenya to the United Kingdom are unmistakeable, people are expecting the British Government to protect its citizens from this attack.)
Many British expats are nervous and on edge now in Kenya

NEWS IN BRIEF

UK & Russia Deploy to the Somali Coast




The Russian Navy as well as the British Royal Navy have made seperate deployments to the Somali Coast with the Russian group deploying off the Somali coast and the British group deploying specifically to the Gulf of Aden. Both groups are in international waters and are there as a response to the attacks on citizens of France, Germany, Russia and the United Kingdom in Kenya by militant Somali group Al-Shabab. Within Somalia word of the deployment has reportedly energized Al-Shabab fighters with many of them regrouping and working closely to hide and entrench within Somalia while others along the coast are vowing to step up "maritime commerce" in other words piracy against the western ships in the region. This has put shipping companies on edge as many are further adjusting their routes than usual to take into account the military deployments and the Al-Shabab threats at new violencei n the area. In Kenya the military has conducted several anti terror raids arrest 13 individuals they claim are linked closely to Al-Shabab.

The deployment by Russia and the United Kingdom features standard strike vessels and is believed to be in place to strike at Al-Shabab targets within the country should things proceed to that point. Sources within the Russian Government state that the Russian fleet is waiting for a decision by the international community before striking while our sources close to the British Admiralty state that air strikes could be only a matter of days perhaps hours away as intelligence sources in both countries indicate that intelligence efforts are picking up in Somalia and Al-Shabab will recieve the same level of treatment given to Al-Qaeda militants. In Russia this has been met by support by and large as funerals are being held to mark the occurance of the tragedy and to bury the dead as remains even now return back home. At this point casualties have grown to 10 Russian citizens dead, 12 German Citizens and 14 French Citizens as the death count continues to rise. Germany is reportedly closely involved in helping Kenyan authorities with the response to the tragedy with the deployment of a German forensics team to determine the remains of those who were dismembered by the attacks.

Russian Federation:

+3.00 Domestic Popularity (Russians support this strong show of force and Putin is at the height of popularity in the large cities in Moscow)


Spanish Media Reports That Saudi Arabia Has Significant Ties to the Kenyan Bombings



Spanish media outlets both television and print are reporting that sources close to the Spanish government are in possession of intelligence linking Saudi Arabia to the Kenyan bombings in some form. These reports are vague at this time but many in Spain have begun to wonder to what extent this support was and any details that can be provided. Sources close to the Spanish Government say that support was provided financially by Salfists within Saudi Arabia to Al-Shabab militants and it is believed that this intelligence is in the hands of major world powers investigating the Kenyan bombings which have claimed lives of people from France, Germany, Russia and the United Kingdom.

Spain:

+3.00 (Spanish citizens like that the media has exposed something of this magnitude)

Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

-1.50 Domestic Popularity (People wonder why the government is not doing anything to prosecute those involved in terrorism. Saudi Arabia cracked down against Al-Qaeda, is Al-Shabab any different?)
-4.00 Internaitonal Popularity (People are shocked and wonder to what extent Saudi Arabia is involved in the attacks and why?)


4,200 German Troops Prepare for Deployment to Afghanistan



Over 4,200 German troops have begun saying goodbye to their families as they prepare for imminent deployment to Afghanistan following the departure of British troops which shocked many nations causing many allies to condemn the move as "irresponsible and reckless". The German military will be filling the void left by the United Kingdom and currently discussions are underway to determine the extent of German deployment to Afghanistan. Spirits are mostly high in Germany as people see this as a short term deployment to cover gaps caused by the British withdrawal from the region but others are looking at this with some level of skepticism as Germany overstepping its commitments. This move however has caused the NPD to gain more support in Northern Germany as many people point to the NPD's rhetoric of a strong Germany through proactive foreign policy as being played out in the policies of CDU leader Angela Merkel on the world stage. The deployment is expected to receive widespread NATO support and will involve close coordination with the Afghan government.

Deutschland

+3.00 Domestic Popularity (Germans see this as responsible usage of military force by Merkel.)
+3.00 International Popularity (Germany is stepping up to the plate, this pleases a LOT of nations around the globe)

Juba, South Sudan
Today the President of South Sudan issued the National Reserve Act of 2012 and with it took the first steps towards forming a military with the operational capibilities that will be needed to defend the nation from its neighboors.Many personnel in the Militia and the Paramilitary units that all fought for the common goal of a free and independant South Sudan were asked by the president of South Sudan himself to join the New Military.... "Dear Brothers in Arms we have achieved what many of us only thought was a dream however our work is not yet done, we must work together regardless of tribal ties in order to construct a united military in which we will protect the fruits of our struggles. This united military which will consist of 2 arms an Army and an Airforce will be the protectors of our Homes and families, while I know we have both Muslims, Christians, and religions from the past all followed by the people of South Sudan we must not let outside influences disrupt what our common struggle bore to us. I ask that every able body enlist as a volunteer for atleast a period of four years either in the Military, national guard or the national police force. This will allow our nation to retain independence and to help our brothers on the other side of the boarder."

South Sudan:
+3 Domestic Popularity (Becoming a United Nation)

Military Results:

+1 Armored Unit (From the Tank Operators of the Paramilitaries)
+4 Infantry Battalions (From Vetrans from the other units.)
- 1 Militia Units
- 2 Paramilitary Units

Georgia Withdraws Troops from Border, Russia Sends Massive $100,000,000 Aid Package to Georgia




Tibilisi, Georgia: The government has pulled back its troops in what it is calling a "Victory for the Georgian People" as words has come out that the Russian Government has given the Georgian government $100,000,000 in aid. The Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov made comments to the press today on the move "The damage done to both South Ossetia and Georgia is something that is extremely regrettable and, despite the circumstances, we would like to assist our brothers in South Ossetia rebuild this damage and provide an olive branch to the people and government of Georgia. War is something that no person should have to live through and it is the job of regional and world powers to assist the country in rebuilding what was damaged. When tensions are reduced to a normal level, Russia is looking forward to providing this assistance to our friends in Georgia, and their government despite our differences. In addition it is my hope and the hope of President Putin that Georgia will be willing to reopen relations with Russia and to reopen the Russian embassy in Tblisi. Tensions and conflict in the region have gone on long enough. We look forward to a bright future of cooperation and negotiation with Tblisi."

In addition to this the Russian Federation is providing aid to the Republic of South Ossetia in the form of reconstruction aid. The Russian government will be providing 200,000,000 US dollars to be used to purchase materials to repair damage done to buildings and to rebuild residential buildings in these villages. In addition 50 Russian construction advisers, being paid by the Russian government, are being sent to South Ossetia to provide advise and assistance for the rebuilding efforts. The purpose of the money for Georgia is to "assist in repairing war damage" in the border city of Gori and across the country. Russia bombed airfields and economic infrastructure, including the Black Sea port of Poti. Between eight and eleven Russian jets reportedly hit container tanks and a shipbuilding plant at the port. On 16 August 2008, Russian forces advancing towards Tbilisi exploded the railway bridge near Kaspi, about 50 km (31 mi) outside of the Georgian capital, thus cutting the link between Eastern and Western Georgia as well as the main transport link between landlocked Armenia and the Georgian Black Sea ports of Batumi and Poti. The cement factory and civilian area in Kaspi were also reportedly damaged by Russian air-raids. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that it "regretted the damage done to non-combatant targets that where caught in the crossfire of the war" and that it would be providing this assistance to help the Georgian people rebuild the damage done by both sides during the war.

This move however has caused rejoicing in the capital of Tbilisi in which thousands are pouring into the streets in what they are saying is a victory over the Russian Federation and many sources close to the Georgian government say that it is proof that the deployment to the border with South Ossetia was the right decision because it forced "The Russian Government to be held accountable for their monsterous actions against Georgia". Many military commanders have praised publicly the actions of the Georgian government echoing many of the same sentiments. However in Russia sentiments are taking a much darker turn with many in South Ossetia rejoicing at the aid but also questioning giving money to Georgia which many say will only be used to fund the rebuilding of Georgian infrastructure so they can come at South Ossetia once again. Russians in other parts of the Federation are reportedly disgusted by this move to provide funds to the Georgian government seeing it as Russia rewarding "bad behaviour". One anti-Putin protestor commented to the press in Moscow "Putin's United Russia is not seeming so United Anymore" words that could prove true if any further aid disbursements are provided to Georgia which could see the steady support for Putin over the last months turn into negative energy against United Russia something party insiders are brushing off as speculative hearsay.

Russian Federation

+3 Domestic Popularity (South Ossetia is glad for the support and aid.)
-5 Domestic Popularity (WERE REWARDING THEM? THEY DEPLOYED AND THREATENED US! People are angry in South Ossetia and areas near the disputed territories.)
+6 International Popularity (Many see Russia as doing the right thing, international support in Baltic States is starting to gradually thaw out towards Russia, improvements might be soon seen.)

Georgia

+4 Domestic Popularity (Georgians see this as a victory against Russia)
-3 Domestic Popularity (But many are also angry that Georgia would accept money from Russia)
Georgians Rallying In the Streets of Tbilisi

Baltic Nations

Gradually warming to Russia

Syrian Rebels Still Hold Aleppo But Food Supplies Getting Severely Low



Aleppo, Syria Startling reports are emerging from the embattled and now surrounded city of Aleppo which has become a sort of Alamo last stand location for rebels who are now trapped by President Bashir al-Assad's forces in Aleppo. The city is completely cut off by Assad's troops and now its beginning to be felt as food supplies are beginning to run extremely low in the city. Access to essentials like food, and medicine is next to impossible as the Assad military is not allowing any supplies or relief through for the residents of the city. Assad's troops have been surrounding the city for the past few months exchanging gun fire and artillery exchanges with rebels in the city in what now has become a dire set of circumstances for the rebels. Already Assad troops have reported seeing children as young as 5 and 6 years old charging out of the city in grenade and rifle attacks against Assad forces in a sight that brings tears to many soldiers stationed around the outskirts of the city.

The situation has become dire but there are reports that the heavily armed rebels might surrender if they do not recieve aid soon in what will be a devasatating blow for the rebels and the rebel movement which is counting on holding Aleppo for the strength of the rebel movement. Already attacks from the rear have forced troops to concentrate on the southern end of the city and artillery barrages have become lethal with hospitals and medical facilities taking the brunt as wayward shells hit everything from nightclubs to medical centers to apartment complexes. Already the rebels are claiming over 200 children ranging from newborns to 12 years of age have been killed by these artillery strikes. Rebels near the Turkish border have begun strong offensive attacks against Syrian military targets near Aleppo but have been limited by both the distance and also the strength of Syrian military personnel clustered around the city.

But it is these reports of children being killed that is turning more people against the Syrian army and Assad and causing an increase in defections by the Syrian military. Already there are reports of a new rebel army of strong size composed of former military units and leaders forming in the outskirts of Damascus with the goal of toppling Assad and bringing an end to crimes against children and what they refer to as "the innocent". The Assad regime has in the past as far back as 2011 referred to the rebels as "domestic terrorists" but now it is unclear how long the Syrian government can hold off the growing discontent. One thing is clear something must happen for the rebels in Aleppo to survive for if they fall it is seen as a way in which Assad can unify the country and take down all challengers to his power.

Syria


+4 Domestic Popularity (The conflict is almost over)
-8 Domestic Popularity (You are killing children. This is making your people angry and turning more support for the rebels)
-6 International Popularity (You are massacring the people of your country, you are losing incredible support around the world. Some leaders privately are comparing you with genocidal leaders like Pol Pot and Pinochet)

Fire Over Syria: United States Now Fully Engaged in Syria. Game On



Aleppo, Syria: A mysterious air drop occured in Aleppo with over 120,000 lbs of food supplies dropped into the city by low altitude B-2 Bombers making a humanitarian drop over the city of Aleppo. The bombers made it into Syria undetected flying high altitude approach but once within 2 miles of Aleppo they dropped their altitude to low altitude in order to make their humanitarian cargo meet their marks. and meet their marks they did. The rebels signaled to the pilots with a flare before the drop and then celebrated with four flares signalling a successful drop in the hands of the Syrian Free Army.

On the way out however the B-2's ran into significant trouble as they flew at low altitude from the drop zone the sky was black but immediately after clearing Aleppo airspace the skies lit up as the Syrian Air Defense system considered one of the best in the Middle East opened up using the S-300 air defense system the Russian equivalent of the Patriot missile system which tore massive chunks into the fuselage of the B-2 bombers and caused one plane to explode in mid-air killing the pilot and co-pilot instantly and two of the other B-2's to be forced down with both of their pilots ejecting. Once on the ground these pilots and crew who are highly skilled and trained in SERE (Survive, Escape, Resist, Evade) training made their way from the ejection landing area into a nearby town where they were captured by Syrian Armed Forces after a very minor gun fight ensued in which the pilots allegedly fired on Syrian forces and Syrian forces returned fire. The details of the small skiirmish are unclear with rebels in the area saying that the Syrian Armed Forces shot the pilots in the knee to make sure they would not try to escape while Syrian sources say the pilots fired first on Syrian military. What is clear however is that the American crews are fully in the custody of the Syrian Government and are being held at an undisclosed location.

The minute that these planes hit the ground it ignited a medium brush fire, with one of the planes hitting a children's hospital full to capacity with those wounded in the fighting going on in Aleppo, on the outskirts of Aleppo around 5-10 miles from the town. The high density of soldiers already positioned around Aleppo has resulted in the Americans being captured quickly however the fires are producing a thick black smoke that is obscuring vision and creating a cover for rebels who are using the humanitarian aid drops to regroup and resupply themselves in what rebels are saying was a massive morale boost to the extent that now the rebels feel like they can win this war and drive out Assad. Rebel forces indeed have used this cover of smoke to begin a new offensive including a massive mortar attack which has resulted in the deaths of 5 Syrian soldiers and the injuries of 15 Syrian infantry. But this intensive attack has caused Syrian troops to fallback into safe positions and to prepare for a new offensive with an even heavier hand against the rebels depending on the orders issued by the Assad government (Syrian player). The brushfires are being put out currently by fire response units and the Syrian Air Force has gone into a state of high alert with aircraft patrolling the border with Turkey and Israel and air defense systems also on high alert with commercial aircraft denied entry into Syria as a result of this state of alert that automatically went into effect.

Last year inn March testimony to Congress, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta warned of potential "severe collateral damage" in establishing a no-fly zone because Syria's air defense systems, which are far more sophisticated than Libya's, were located in populated areas. At the same hearing, General Martin Dempsey, chairman of the U.S. military's Joint Chiefs of Staff, warned that Syria had far more sophisticated air defense systems than existed in Libya. A small but vocal group of U.S. senators has called on President Barack Obama to take steps such as arming the Syrian rebels and imposing a no-fly zone. "The United States should work with our allies to defend the de facto safe zones the rebels have already established in northern Syria," Senator Joseph Lieberman

But now those Senators remain silent as sources close to Capitol Hill particularly Democrats are speculating that this was a serious and grave misstep by the Obama Administration which throws into question the strategy of the Obama Administration as it comes to Syria. But also on the other side of the aisle Republican lawmakers are applauding the "boldness and calculated judgment" that this action shows and many are quietly calling for some kind of action to rescue the pilots that have been downed. Ultimately however the American people may have the say as support for the President decreased by 5% in the national polls leaving the President at a January low of 35% down from December in which the approval rating was at 45% and climbing steadily up to 50%. Sources close to the Department of Defense are in shock and are reportedly reeling as they had not forseen the inevitable success of the Syrian defense network.

The only plane making it out was able to land on a highway in Turkey where the pilots were able to make it out of the plane before it exploded causing traffic delays near Anatalya a popular seaside town. The aircraft is believed to be totaled but can be repaired despite extensive damage to the plane which will require a total replacing of all hardware and systems on the aircraft and a rebuild of the shell as well. The aircraft is now at a secure location in Turkey and is accessible to the US government. The pilots has been taken to the US base in Incirlik, Turkey where he is being debriefed fully.

United States

-5 Domestic Popularity (People are scared and want to see clear and firm but decisive leadership from Obama now.
+8 Domestic Popularity (Republicans and Conservatives are pleasantly surprised to see Obama's inner war hawk emerging something they hadn't realized Obama to be capable of.)
+5 International Popularity (A lot of nations are hesitant but are agreeing that this was a bold humanitarian move by the United States. Something they like to see in contrast to the Bush Era of Cowboy Antics)
American lives are on the line and Americans are expecting an address from the President. If the President refuses to comment on the matter his polling will drop even further and he will run the risk of losing support from Democrats as well
-3 B-2 Bombers; 1 B-2 Bomber Severely Crippled (Exploded upon landing in Turkey. WIll need extensive repair likely for 8 months or longer to replace all the hardware. If it were a car, the insurance company would write it off as a loss.)

Syria

-9 Domestic Popularity (Assad let the United States in enough to arm the rebels? People are furious with Assad for not protecting them quicker.)
+7 Domestic Popularity (Military is surging on a high right now, they shot down Americans and now they are interrogating them. This is a source of NATIONAL pride for not just the military but hardliners in Syria too.)

Russia

-6 (This was an "oh monkeys and bees and lots of penis" moment for Russia. Russian military advisors in the country are scratching their heads wondering why they hadn't antiicipated this development. Back home people are questioning the point of Russian advisers in Syria.)

Islamic Republic of Iran

+8 Domestic Popularity (Anytime our allies shoot down an American is a good day for us. Let the Imperialists Burn. Iranians love the news coming in and the television images of the captured pilots.)

Obama Addresses The Nation; Russia Secures Release of 2 USAF Pilots. 2 Still Remain in Syria

Washington, DC: President Barack Obama addressed the nation today in a primetime address concerning the recent capture of United States Airforce Personnel in the Syrian Arab Republic following a humanitarian airlift for the Syrian Free Army and rebels currently in the embattled city of Aleppo. It has also come to our attention that the Russian Federation managed to secure the release of two pilots who were flown to Moscow and given treatment in Moscow before being delivered to United States Ambassador Michael McFaul who ensured their safe arrival back to the United States. As it stands there are still two American pilots whose condition is unknown in Syria and continue to be held in the Syrian Arab Republic.

Quote :

Sixty-five years ago, the western half of the great city of Berlin was held hostage by a dictator of immeasurable cruelty. Blockaded by the Soviet Union, the citizens of West Berlin were left with only thirty-six days left of food. These Berliners, over whom the worst conflict of human history still weighed heavy, were on the brink of annihilation. One week after the beginning of the Blockade, C-54s airplanes bearing the insignia of the United States Air Force landed in city. For almost a year, Americans and Britons in uniform fed the Berliners. This humiliated the tyrant who so much wanted to conquer the last free city in this part of the world, and the blockade ceased. The resilient people of Berlin did not render to evil. Today, In a different country of a different part of the world, a city is being held hostage by a man no less capable of cruelty to innocent men, women and children. The city of Aleppo stands, like Berlin behind the Iron Curtain, as a last province of democracy against tyranny in the oppressed nation of Syria.

For months, my administration along with countries of NATO and the rest of the world have watched as President Bashar al-Assad and his military used tanks, airplanes, and artillery to wipe out hospitals, bakeries, schools and whole neighbourhoods of innocent people. Average Syrians resisted and joined the Free Syrian Army and other organizations calling for the restoration of democracy to Syria. These freedom fighters have liberated several parts of the country, including its largest city and heart, Aleppo. In all this time, we confined ourselves to non-intervention convinced that intervention would be worsen the situation. Recent events prove this false.

Recently, Mr. Assad's military have surrounded the city of Aleppo, blocking all food, water, and medicine from entering the city. This blockade put over two million people on the brink of starvation, and Syrian democracy on edge of defeat. Simultaneously, Assad's forced bombarded the city with artillery, killing 200 children in moments. The situation cannot be worse.

As Americans, we cannot bear the site of my fellow man, good and seeking freedom to support himself and his family, be the victim of a madman's arsenal, which is why on the night of January 10, 2012, four B-2 stealth bombers flew over Aleppo, dropping tens of thousands of pounds of food and other aid to the besieged. The people of Aleppo successfully received the aid, and because of this risky operation, thousands if not millions of Syrians are still alive.

No matter how great this deed was, it came at a price. Two pilots of the United States Air Force, Captain William T. Rooney and Lieutenant Arnold F. Hallendale were killed when a Russian-made missile recently sold to the Syrian military brought down their aircraft. Two other bombers were brought down, and their pilots survived. I regret to inform the nation that these heroes were captured by Mr. Assad's men. Only one stealth bomber made it the return journey.

Active supporters of the Assad regime in Russia, Iran end elsewhere point the humanitarian airlift to Aleppo as intervention in an affair the United States did not seek to enter. The United States always seeks peace before war, but while we and our allies have sought diplomatic methods of bringing democracy to the Syrian people, other nations' governments have sabotaged these attempts. Russia's sale of missiles to Mr. Assad. Iran's training of his militias. Foreign military advisers teaching Syrian soldiers how to terrorize a nation. Yes, the United States has intervened. It has intervened in the most laudable of ways: bringing food, medicine, and water to the oppressed, and hope to the fighters of freedom. Mr. Assad responded by attacking those harbingers of hope, and he will pay the price.

As we lament for Capt. Rooney and Lt. Hallendale, who now rest in peace, and comfort their families and friends, we remember the sacrifices men and women made in winning our own freedom. Even in the darkest moments of our Revolution did our country's heroes not abandon their country. And so, the four brave American pilots now in Syrian custody will not be abandoned by his country, nor will the Free World abandon the Syrian people. Aleppo, like Berlin, was once on the brink of catastrophe, and like the Berlin Airlift, the Aleppo Airlift has delivered hope and life to democracy.

God bless you, and God bless the United States of America.

United States

+4 Domestic Popularity (Americans like to see the President speaking on a key issue like this. And they are glad to see 2 of the pilots returning home.)
-2 Domestic Popularity (Americans are still concerned about the fate of pilots who remain in Syrian Custody. They do not want to see these pilots executed or worse.)
-4 International Popularity (Non Western Nations, and many partners in Latin America and other areas view this still as a violation of Syrian sovereignty and are decrying the remarks Obama has made as "imperialist")
+2 International Popularity (Western Nations particularly those in NATO view this as a move that has bolstered the human rights of the rebels)

Russian Federation

+2 Domestic Popularity (We are humanitarian, we did the right thing returning the Americans to their embassy.)
+4 International Popularity (Many nations applaud Russia taking the higher route)


Syrian Arab Republic

-5 Domestic Popularity (We are now facing off against two forces. The United States and the Syrian Free Rebels. Many Syrians are concerned with recent turn of events)

News in Brief


Justice & Equality Movement Militia Attacks Sudanese Army Garrison in North Darfur, South Sudanese Involvement Implicated


After long months of relative calm since the signing of framework document to end the nine-year conflict in western Sudan in July 2011, Darfur is gradually again becoming a theatre of violence between rebel groups and the government forces. Today in a brazen move over 60 JEM militia members attacked and launched a brazen attack on a Sudanese Army garrison in a battle that raged on for over eight hours before Sudanese Military gained the upper hand with reinforcements and helicopter gunship support coming from a garrison nearby. The attack resulted in the deaths of 30 JEM militia members and the wounding of 18 JEM members with 5 JEM captured by Sudanese forces. On the Sudanese side losses were also heavy with over 40 killed in the initial assault and 13 wounded before reinforcements were called. Sources close to the Sudanese military are saying that two members of the attack were members of the South Sudanese Armed Forces particularly members of a crack militia unit fielded in combat to aid the JEM in establishing Darfur in its bid for independence. The attack unfolded very quietly with several jeeps crashing through a perimeter gate and members of the JEM spilling out and running into the compound unleashing small arms fire and throwing incindiary and explosive devices into the compound before the Sudanese military could properly put a response together. When the din of smoke disappeared the fighting intensified with rebels being pushed out into surrounding neighborhoods where fighting destroyed a local village marketplace and caused the death of several civilians in the homes nearby which were hit by rocket propelled grenade fire and small arms fire. Since 2011 there have been concerns that the JEM have recieved access to higher and heavier grade weaponry from rebels in Libya, but not until today has it been postively verified that JEM rebels to indeed have these weapons and now according to sources close to the Sudanese military have the support of the South Sudanese armed forces particularly the militia groups that are part of the land forces of South Sudan.

South Sudan

+3.5 Domestic Popularity (People want to see Darfur achieve independence just like South Sudan did)
-4.5 International Popularity (Nations are condemning South Sudan, if it is true, for increasing the level of violence in Darfur

Sudan

-4 Domestic Popularity (South Sudan is causing problems. People do not like this and they want to see something done)
40 Sudanese killed in the initial explosions and blasts at the onset of the attack. Sudanese military wants revenge for the deaths of their brothers
27 Civilians killed or wounded in the crossfire



Russia Motivates High Technology Students and Attracts High Technology Business's

The Russian State Duma has passed a new legislation which is in line with the continued policy of diversifying and modernizing the Russian economy. For years the Russian government has been working to move the economy away from its heavy dependence on natural gas and industry, and into a new high-tech era. The "Russian Silicone Vally" in Skolkovo is going to be a great start to that leap forward. As a result this new bill is two fold: The first is that it is going to provide foreign and domestic high technology companies which choose to set up in Skolkovo with tax incentives. Start-up companies (meaning new companies, not branches, and thus new ideas and new technologies) will only pay 1/3rd of the standard corporate tax rate in Russia for the first three years of their business. Following that three year limit they will then only pay half the state corporate tax rate for another 5 years. This is to incentive them to come to Russia to do business instead of elsewhere as it will make it cheaper than even starting a business in China.

The next group, branches of existing companies, will pay only half of the corporate tax rate for those eight years of them first being in Russia. This is to do the same thing, however it is to incentives people to start their own companies and come out with new technologies and not just produce existing technologies. These tax deals will be set up for companies who do business in Skolkovo, to concentrate the technology business there much like California's Silicone Vally (which it was based off of).

In addition the government will be announcing new projects for Russian technology companies. To enter into one of these projects you must be a Russian registered company that employs 80% Russian citizens, thus attracting business there as well. These contracts are as follows:
- A new GDP navigation system for the military to upgrade the current GLONASS system in both software in the satellites and hardware on the ground. This will be provided to both the military and the company would be allowed to sell the individual systems on the open market.
- New computer security systems for both government and private computers to protect against intense and drawn out cyber attacks.
- A military robotics system to create a series of bomb disposal robots to match those used by the US military and police forces. The company that wins the contest for the best robotics disposal system will get a 1,000 unit initial order as well as 100,000 US dollars in grants.

Attracting Students

The government is beginning a 5,000,000,000 US dollar grant program to students who study high technology including Graphic Design, Computer Programming, Computer/Technology Development, Technology Business, ect. Any student who chooses to study these will be able to receive a "Technology Grant" from the government as long as their grades remain 3.0 or better. This grant will pay for half of their tuition for 4 years of university. They must be Russian citizens and must be studying at a Russian university to receive this grant.

In addition Foreign students will be offered a new offer as well: If they go to school in Russia and apply for Russian citizenship by their second year of University, as well as file an intention to live in Russia; they will receive the remainder of their school paid for by the government. This is a 3,000,000,000 US dollar program annually. This is open to any foreign University student, not just a student in technology; and is set up to combat the low population growth of Russia as well as bring more students into Russia and keep them there.

Russian Federation

+4 Domestic Popularity (People like the increase of technology and the jobs that come with it. Once again Putin and support for United Russia are growing in the Russian Federation)
+2.5% GDP Growth (Lots of new tech companies)
+.05% Population growth
-8,500,000,000 US dollars (Estimated costs of the bill for both the incentives to business's and to students)
+8,000,000,000 US dollars to the education budget
Work on robotics and a new systems underway, check back in Q1 of 2016 for more results

Source Material for JEM story taken from: http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-10-06/libyan-arms-smuggled-into-sudan-threaten-renewed-violence-in-darfur-region.html; http://www.sudantribune.com/JEM-rebels-attack-army-garrison-in,42791

Polish defence minister resigns as Poles withdraw from Georgia

Polish Air Force operations in Georgia formally ended today as the last Polish aircraft returned and landed on home soil. The deployment, which consisted of 24 F-16 jets, was made at the request of the Georgian government at the height of tensions with Russia. However, with the situation between Georgia and Russia returning to pre-crisis levels, Poland has withdrawn her forces.

According to sources within both the Polish and Georgian government, although this was agreed by both parties, it was pushed by the Poles who were "very keen" to end this military deployment as soon as possible. Sources state that tensions within both NATO and the Polish government over this matter lead to a rethink, and the aid deal agreed between Russia and Georgia presented an opportunity to end this deployment "without losing face".

The fallout sees Polish Minister of National Defence Tomasz Siemoniak resign from his post. Polish government sources state the Georgian deployment was championed by him as soon as the Georgians made their initial request. In a short statement released to the press, he said that he would now "like to spend more time with my family". He is married with a daughter and a son.


Polish F-16's head for home

[EFFECTS]

Poland
-1% Government Popularity ("Bit of of a farce...")
+1% Government Popularity ("...but at least it's over.")
Air Force deployment in Georgia ends.
Defence Minister resigns.

Russia
+1% Government Popularity