Popular Post Baltica Posted February 27, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted February 27, 2022 Reportedly, at exactly 12.41 PM, during a meeting between the National Council regarding the replacement of the former president Algridas, the meeting was stormed by members of the DNPB. The garrison of the city had been infiltrated by the party, and with their support, they were able to storm and take control of the national council. At gunpoint, the members of the National Council were forced to sign a treaty, which dissolved the previous Republic of Baltica, and declared the New Republic of Dokestva. General Kazimiras was killed during the occupation of the Council. However, Nekolas Armenas had not been present in the meeting during the DNPB occupation and managed to escape the city and flee to Western Baltica alongside some members of the former government. Upon reaching Sveaja they declared their own Republic of Raskia, and began mobilising troops to secure all Ras lands and secure them from the Dolch. Officially, the Republic of Baltica is no longer an entity, and much of both the military and local governments have been left on their own. Republic of Baltija When Nekolas fled Goja and declared the formation of Raskia, the Eastern Ras in Kretia decided that Nekolas’s want for independence rather than reunification was rightfully wrong. Instead, they united under Gedrus Izas, who led the previous riots in Kretia. They do not want equal rights for both Dolch and Ras, but want all the power to be transferred to the Ras, and reform under the state of Baltija. Their proximity to the remnants of the former Baltica Government had given them great influence over Eastern Baltica, and their heavy military presence in the form of their heavily militarised followers, makes it seem like they have the potential to rush down central and Eastern Baltica, which remains largely in Anarchy. Kauni Military Occupation Zone Shortly after the formation of Raskia and Dokestva, the Rifle Corp of Baltica organised themselves around the large city of Kauni, where they, alongside the local regional government, decided to declare the Free Republic of Kauni. This was an attempt to secure the region from occupation from both sides, and possible destruction of their lands. Just like the previous Baltican Civil War in 1960, fears around the possible destruction of the high-value Farmland in Kauni is prevalent, and Kauni has taken serious precautions in trying to find a peaceful resolution between both sides. Of course, this is unlikely, and the Rifle Corp is preparing a serious defense along the Kauni river valley. Baltican Republic The National Council in Goja was stormed. Kazimieras was assassinated. His second in command Arunas led the rest of the Baltican Mechanised Corp as well as the Tank army and vowed to restore Baltica like it was before. He took back the former capital of Goja from the DNPB. From Goja he's somewhat been able to establish a weak control of South East Baltica. But his control is being contested both by the Ras Nationalists in the North and Dolch in the West. Although his military is powerful, it's both slow and small. Not to mention, he has only but a few dozen of his generals and commanders left, and most of the army has fractured along ethnic lines. He himself fears that the heavy presence of Dolch in the South may cause them to rise up alongside the DNPB and force him to retreat to Kolone or even Belgorta where he is vulnerable to a Ras invasion. Already fighting has been reported between the Dolch and the remnants of the Baltica military in Southern and Western Visagris, and Raskia has been making a slow advance towards Palingia and Kursenai. What's left of the Baltican Navy has gone rogue, and set up a base on the Island of Utva off the cost of Dokestva. They have been shelling and raiding transport ships in the Amber Lake, and even fired on some coastal towns like Tyver. The Air force is almost non-existent, most planes were either sabotaged by the DNPB during their occupation of Goja or are in the hands of Arunas who barely has the oil to make them lift off. The central Highlands are in anarchy, and no doubt this will be a long war. All sides are seeking international aid in their battle to reform Baltica, but only time will tell if these attempts will be successful. (Current Map of the Civil War) 20 Link to comment
Seylos Posted February 28, 2022 Share Posted February 28, 2022 TO: Free Republic of Kauni FROM: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Seylos The people of Seylos are dismayed to see that Baltica has again been plunged into the horrors of civil war. At this point, most factions have presented themselves as poor options for leadership of the nation. The Kingdom of Seylos wishes to provide military and humanitarian support to provide for the people of Kauni during the perilous times. It should be worth noting that such support does not carry forward to supporting aggressive actions against any other factions in the civil war, and seeks to establish Kauni as a safe place for potential refugees to able to evacuate to with the proper support. We also hope to establish a no-fly zone over Kauni to prevent air attacks that could harm civilians during any campaigns from any side. We of course wish the same goals as the Kauni, the facilitate a peaceful diplomatic resolution of the conflict before it has the chance the claim many innocent lives. We also wish to deploy two hundred Seylosian soldiers to the city of Kauni as a means of deterrence and as a peacekeeping force to ensure that military action from any side does not significantly damage the city. Again, we wish to reiterate that these military forces will not participate in any offensive action the Free Republic of Kauni wishes to embark on in the future. 9 Link to comment
Popular Post Delamaria Posted February 28, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted February 28, 2022 (edited) To: The Free Republic of Kauni ( @Baltica ) From: The Commonwealth of Delamaria CC: ( @Seylos , @Ahrana ) It is with great disappointment that we must witness another Baltican Civil War, and even more so to see many of the combatants unwilling to yet find a peaceful resolution. We are particularly concerned at the ethnic basis around several factions fall, as you must know this can lead to violence against civilian populations and grievous war crimes. Therefore, following the example of our allies and friends in Seylos and Ahrana, we propose that a small armed contingent be deployed to Baltica. At this time the Delamarian Government can only permit Delamarian Air Force support, to which an airfield would be most helpful, and a small unit of Delamarian infantry, comprising a maximum of 99 troops. However with congressional approval which we expect to arrive in the following week, we can permit up to 300 peacekeeping troops to prevent unneeded violence and crimes against the civilian population. Thank you for your time and we look forward to cooperation in the matter. Yours sincerely, William Patton, Vice President of Delamaria. Edited February 28, 2022 by Delamaria (see edit history) 14 Link to comment
Popular Post Stedoria Posted February 28, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted February 28, 2022 (edited) Lofot Stüta Reiganefe DokestvänaOfrixhaedje di Sopoirtaedje å Govienmint d'DokèstvaOffer of Support to the Government of Dokestva Edited March 20, 2022 by Stedoria (see edit history) 13 Link to comment
Popular Post Mahana Posted February 28, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted February 28, 2022 From: The Federal Democratic Republic of Mahana To: The Baltican People In response to the recent crisis in Baltica, and not wanting to align with any side of a conflict that is not for the Mahanan Government to pick a side, candles have been lit in Jutpandi, a sign of respect and sorry to the people of Baltica. As well as this, the government have lit up the parliament building in the traditional Baltican tricolour as a final show of respect from the Mahanan people to the struggling Baltican people. Yours faithfully, Bodhan Singh Head of Foreign Affairs 13 Link to comment
Popular Post Florentia Posted March 2, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted March 2, 2022 (edited) Edited March 3, 2022 by San Castellino Forgot to saye goodbye. (see edit history) 10 Link to comment
Popular Post Baltica Posted March 3, 2022 Author Popular Post Share Posted March 3, 2022 (edited) Baltica Emergency Broadcast Warning this is not a test. The following transmission is from the Baltican Emergency Broadcast System, operating at 1200 Megahertz. This is not a test. The Baltican Republic as we know it is no more. The state has officially transitioned into civil war. All governmental services have ceased function, and fighting is imminent throughout the nation. Seek shelter, and be wary of former Government members, including former personnel of the Baltican Land Army, Navy as well as Air force and Military police. Station 1200 MHZ, will from now on operate as a Information and Warning channel, and will broadcast all available information to its listeners. Pay attention, the following message will be relayed by former members of the Baltican Emergency Response Team. This is Sharunas Rigis, and what is left of the Baltican Emergency Response Team. As you may know the nation has officially dissolved, and has fallen into heavy fighting. Although most governmental organisations and structures have ceased all function, me and my team plan to continue relaying information to all those who need us. The following update includes all that we know so far, from both our sources in what's left of the official government, and regular civilians who chose to risk their lives for the safety of others. So far the war has been reportedly much slower than expected, especially compared to the first Baltican Civil War. It seems that the anarchy in the Midlands, and the former military occupation of strategic areas has occupied the various sides that have formed after the break up of Baltica. This was especially seen in the so called “Republic of Dokestva”, where a large leftover remnants of the Baltican military occupied the southern province of Govir. The battle for the city was reportedly extremely bloody, and most of the dolch troops had fought in heavy urban conditions in order to occupy the city. After four days of fighting, the dolch would come out victorious and move into the region, completely incorporating it into its territory. Most people embraced their Dolch overseers, as the region was notoriously majority dolch. This was primarily the justification for the slow advances in the North by Dokestva, but the southern armies are making a return north, and we hope that the Ras communities in the area take special precautions. Dokestva has shown a pattern of both removing and seizing property of Ethnic Ras, as well depriving Ras majority areas of both food, water and electricity. We recommend that Ras living near the Dokestva to flee to more secure regions of Baltica, primarily the West, Kauni or East to what's left of the government. To those who have yet to be informed, it seems that multiple nations have begun sending so-called “peacekeepers” to the provisional government of Kauni, and with their aid they have set up a “no fly zone” and defensive perimeter around the Kauni River. We advise to avoid coming into contact with the “peacekeepers”, as their full intention is not yet known, and multiple civilians have told us that the Kauni troops have denied both Dolch and Ras access to their territory. A group of refugees have set up camp in Grigiska, which has led to the city becoming extremely overcrowded. The Kauni troops have also cut off their electrical grid from the rest of Baltica, leading to blackouts in Ladija, Dukstaja, Ignalis, Kavkari and multiple villages in the central areas of Baltica. We suggest either again, begin travelling to either the remaining government in the East, or try to make your way to the West and into Raskia, which has made it clear that they will take in all refugees that flee to them. Finally, we would like to end this first Broadcast, by warning Dolch in the Greater Kretia region to FLEE SOUTH. The Ras Nationalists of Kretia have shown a clear trend of both killing, and expelling Dolch out of the territories they capture. If you are a Dolch living in those areas, we strongly advise to seek shelter or flee, it's extremely dangerous, and multiple reports of civilian killings have been reported. This has been the Baltican Emergency Broadcast, please remain calm and have hope. Baltica will persevere… (Speculative map of the militaries advancements.) Edited March 3, 2022 by Baltica (see edit history) 14 Link to comment
Aurora Posted March 5, 2022 Share Posted March 5, 2022 (edited) TO: The Free Republic of KauniFROM: The Directorate of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Fina It is deeply saddening to see a proud country such as Baltica succumb to civil war once more, and to see its own people suffer from the ethnic divides which have splintered the former Republic is the most troubling aspect of this unnecessary conflict. While Fina does not wish to involve itself with any faction, and would typically avoid doing so, we see Kauni as a potential sanctuary for humanitarian efforts within Baltica, where relative peace shall be maintained. As such, Fina declares its support for the Free Republic of Kauni and all humanitarian action therein. In accordance with this declaration, Fina will send a multitude of non-perishable food items, water, medical supplies, and other essential supplies to the Free Republic of Kauni provided by the Finan government to aid in humanitarian efforts. Similarly to previous countries, Fina will send its own force of 100 volunteering soldiers as peacekeepers to Kauni to defend and maintain peace within the city, in cooperation with the government of Kauni and other such forces within the city. We hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to the conflict in Baltica and hope that all Balticans may find safety and refuge. Sincerely, Simona Sundberg Director of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Fina Edited March 14, 2022 by Fina (see edit history) 9 Link to comment
Popular Post Baltica Posted March 6, 2022 Author Popular Post Share Posted March 6, 2022 (edited) Free Republic of Kauni The Free Republic of Kauni is one of many factions participating in the greater Baltican Civil War. However, unlike most, who either fight for the prospect of gaining freedom from their oppressors, or simply wish to rule Baltica themselves, Kauni wishes to avoid both the bloodshed and decimation of their territory. The previous civil war had seen the entirety of Kauni destroyed, set alight by the Monarchists when they fled the lands. The process of rebuilding was long, and even some parts of the old city still display the burns that it sustained so long ago. When Dokestva declared independence, most expected Kauni to join it, mainly from its large Dolch communities. Arguably the only reason it didn't, was because of the intervention of the old Baltican Military. Of course, with Kauni being one of the most important industrial and agricultural hubs in the whole nation, it not only had a large number of troops protecting, but was also one of the headquarters for the Ras Motorised Division. After the declaration of independence by Dokestva, both the military and the regional overseers, united and declared Kauni a Free Republic, of the former Baltican Republic.(Flag of the Free Republic of Kauni) Currently the nation is ruled by General Simas Jancious and Head Secretary Juozas Vejas. Together with the Ras Motorised army, and the various advisors from their territories, they are beginning to construct a grand defence of Kauni. The Kauni river was decided as the main line of defence, although Kauni holds grand territory across the river, if it's required the Military and Civilians are more than ready to abandon their positions and flee to the river. Explosives have been planted extensively across key bridges and infrastructure links, with forests having been turned into expansive citadels. Taking Kauni will be by no means an easy task, for any of those who try to take it, but it has come with great sacrifices. Refugees have had to be refused, as all resources have been placed into constructing the defense and no more remains to support those who seek help. Additionally, they have removed the possibility of seeking alliances with any of the other factions, who have all made it clear they want nothing to do with the “remnants of the old Baltican Republic”. As such, Kauni has had to beg the international community for support. Multiple nations like @Ahrana @Delamaria and @Seylos have supplied the nation with experienced Peacekeepers, intent on both aiding and training the Kauni troops for battle. Rarely are Balticans trusty of outsiders, especially not old, and interconnected communities such as the Ras, but desperate times call for desperate measures. (Images of Peacekeepers leaving for Kauni) The international community has begun providing the Kauni people with both equipment and the necessary food rations to sustain themselves. Recently, discussions between the Kauni administration as well as the Peacekeepers have led to the setting up of a "No Fly Zone", based in the former Prenai International Airport. It has allowed for air vessels to enter Kauni with a significantly lesser risk of getting attacked or shot down, and has allowed for a greater amount of supplies to enter the Republic. By far the biggest risk to Kaunis security is neighbouring Dokestva, which has shown clear intention of occupying Kauni, mainly to secure their Northern flank from the Ras, who equally want Kauni in order to secure their Southern Flank. Kauni possesses not only a strategic advantage, but a geographic one as well. It makes it a prime target for invasion, and its time in Baltica as an entity is numbered at best… Edited March 6, 2022 by Baltica (see edit history) 11 Link to comment
Popular Post Ateenia Posted March 7, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted March 7, 2022 From: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ateenia To: The government of the Republic of Baltija The news about the fall of Baltica was met with great unhappiness in the Ateenian government and brought fourth a new problems to our kingdom. It is for that reason that Konráðið, on its yesterday's meeting, brought up the topic and discussed on whether the kingdom should involve itself in this war. While the Konráðið did not reach a consensus on sending Ateenian men and women to die on Baltican soil for your people, like many other countries of the wurld have already decided, they did reach a conclusion that the Kingdom of Ateenia is able and should offer aid in your fight for freedom. It was agreed that the Ateenian government will offer 10,000 G&I A81 assault rifles to arm your men with weapons we are capable of producing and offering ammunition for. The Kingdom of Ateenia will also be offering MRE's for both soldiers and civilians, and medicine to heal the injured. It is in both of our interest's that the Republic of Baltija will overcome this civil war and emerge victorious, to ensure that this region remains stable and free. May Baltija come out on top, so that these lands can continue being our homes and not anyone else's. Signed Torvi Helgidóttir Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ateenia 12 Link to comment
Seylos Posted March 8, 2022 Share Posted March 8, 2022 The Seylosians had decided to take a different approach with this peacekeeping endeavor. Usually in situations like these, Seylos would push into a conflict zone and establish a zone of control to take in refugees as things spun out of control, usually in contested areas where the various sides wouldn't try to challenge them. However in this instance, with Kauni's goals being that of merely holding the line and keeping their citizens and infrastructure safe was the perfect opportunity to insert a peacekeeping force with little risk. It surprised Seylos that so many countries were willing to support Kauni, but it didn't surpise Seylos in the slightest that the Dolch were being supported by the usual actors. Their biggest concern was twofold, the Velaharians and Stedorians supporting the Dokestva which could potentially find themselves in conflict with the Kauni peacekeepers. The second being the Ateenian support of Baltija. Even if all the sides sidestep Kauni, the civil war could only be horrifyingly bloody. The decision had been made then to send Brigadier Cameron Ryley, the leader of the Seylosian Marines that had first landed in Liechnenfax to defend the city against the horde of Sentists. His experience was deemed as critically necessary for the Seylosian presence in the city, and hopefully would make any future potential aggressors think twice before moving on an attack for the city. As the general who had held back a hundred thousand enraged Sentists with five hundred troops, he wasn't an opponent to be taken lightly. And his troops were veterans of the Sentist War, eager to make sure the horrors of Ceris didn't happen in Kauni again. When they had arrived they were greeted with both a mix of excitement and skepticism. The Kauni weren't exactly thrilled to have foreigners going about their lands, but they weren't stupid either, they needed the help desperately in order to ensure that the territory wasn't burned to the ground in the impending conflict. However the Seylosians had one major stipulation that the Kauni had been hesitant to allow given the current crisis. They wanted to ensure that refugees had a safe harbor amongst the chaos, and had requested they refugees be allowed into the area around Viewa, as they were predicting the majority of the fighting would be in central Baltica near the city. They of course offered guarantees that these refugees would be cared for by the international peacekeeping force, but the Seylosians were staunch in their belief that there was little point in providing peacekeeping for a territory that may not see the full scale of destruction of a civil war. While they had not heard back yet on this, Brigadier Ryley was optimistic that the Kauni would allow them this. To sweeten the deal, almost half of the Seylosian military force was from the Royal Army Corps of Engineers to help take the pressure off the Kauni as they prepared their defenses. The battle lines had already been started to be drawn and only time would tell if the peacekeepers could hold Kauni against the chaos. 8 Link to comment
Popular Post Baltica Posted March 10, 2022 Author Popular Post Share Posted March 10, 2022 Republic of Dokestva Dokestva is one of the largest and most powerful factions within the Baltican civil war conflict. Years leading up to the war, Southern Baltica was undergoing a mass transformation, from a mainly rural and poor region to a heavily industrialised and increasingly urbanised state. In 2012, under pressure from both Jonas and the DNPB, the National Council was forced to unify the half a dozen Dolch Provinces into a single unified province known as Dokestva. It became a regional powerhouse, and it's the reason why the Dolch has such a head start in the civil war, having already formed an impressive army and having one of the best staffed regional councils in all of Baltica. Initially, Dokestva was halted from advancing North by various military insurgency groups that were leftover from the old Baltican Army. These insurgencies occupied large areas of rural land, in the Province known as Govir. The Southern Tuneyev army, which made up the bulk of Dokestvas forces, engaged with the military groups, commonly referred to as the Govir Baltican Army. What followed was a three long day battle, in the small town of Govir. Urban warfare meant that casualties were high on both sides, but expectedly Dokestva would come out on top, either killing, imprisoning or offering amnesty to most of the soldiers. Few fled even further south, to a small group of hills around the Transbaltica border. With the threat in the south all but gone, the army began moving North, where Jonis and his staff began preparing for Operation Otto. (Operation Otto Plans) Operation Otto, Involved the Newly United Northern Battalions beginning their first into the North. The main priority was to force the Kauni troops across the river, whilst taking the valuable oil fields in southern Kauni. Then, a force comprised of Both Dolch and @DPR Velaheria troops would take the city of Kavkari, and prepare for an encirclement of one of the Government's strongholds in Janikis. It was expected that the share numbers of the Dolch, combined with the training and equipment from Velaheria would allow for a quick and easy advance, after which the gateways to the greater North would be wide open. The operation commenced in the early morning, with the 52nd Infantry Army entering Kauni territory. Immediately the army was spotted by the Kauni defenders situated South, and the two clashed. The Kauni defenders used their trucks and civilian vehicles to quickly maneuver around the slow Dolch Infantry, hitting them from the sides and exposed back. Heavy casualties were suffered by the Dolch attackers, who had not expected to see a large mechanised force from the Kauni garrison. After the initial shock, the Dolch battalion would be rallied and was able to blow up two trucks with heavy grade explosives, which caused the Kauni troops to retreat. What was expected was for all the Kauni defenders to retreat across the river, but in reality, they only gave up non-defensible points but kept their bunkers as well as forts both across the river, but also in their oil fields. The military staff wished to attack the fields either way but were stopped before they could after it was decided that they should instead wait up for their () allies and attack the fields with superior troops. The largely failed offensive did stop the planned encirclement of Janikis, and instead, the Dolch troops simply took the unoccupied Kavkari, and decided to bunker down. The capabilities of the Dokestva military staff are being questioned, and the state is leaning more towards acquiring further help, equipment as well training from the Velaherian troops. Hopes are not high for the next offensive… 10 Link to comment
Popular Post Rhodellia Posted March 11, 2022 Popular Post Share Posted March 11, 2022 (edited) A few days after the outbreak of hostilities in Baltica, the Rhodellian government made its first (and so far only) official response to the conflict: a single social media post by Prime Minister Philip Seymour. The Rhodellian government’s involvement in the Second Baltican Civil War does not currently extend further than that. The governments of many other countries — namely Seylos, Delamaria, Velaheria, Stedoria, San Castellino, Fina, Ateenia, and Ahrana — have already made generous contributions to the situation in Baltica. They sent scores of peacekeeping troops, military aid, and humanitarian aid. Meanwhile, all Seymour could offer were his ‘thoughts and prayers’. On March 7, 776 Members of Parliament convened in the Reichstag to vote on Rhodellia’s course of action in regards to the Second Baltican Civil War. Seymour proposed to send RT$50 million in humanitarian aid to the Free Republic of Kauni along with 1 battalion of troops (accompanied by additional combat service support and combat support units) to join the multinational peacekeeping coalition gathering in Kauni. Like he implied in his earlier Wit, Seymour saw a kindred spirit in Baltica’s peoples, and in their fractured nation a mirror image of his own country. He reminded MPs of how Rhodellia was shaped by its centuries-old ethnic conflict between colonists and indigenous Native Aurelians. He reminded them of how Rhodellia lost three-quarters of its territory after the Second Great War, the Gold Valley Uprising, and the formation of the Native Aurelian Free State. He reminded them of how Rhodellia’s enemies brutally took revenge on the non-Indigenous peoples left behind, stripping them of their rights, seizing their lands, massacring them in pogroms, and subjecting them to all sorts of other barbaric abuses. He drew many similarities between Rhodellia’s past and Baltica’s present. Seymour asserted that, by intervening early in the Civil War and joining the multinational coalition in Kauni, Rhodellia had the power and moral obligation to minimise lasting damage to Baltica and restore peace and stability to Central Argis. This was met with immediate resistance. Leader of the Opposition Karl Hartmann, of the far-right ‘Rhodellia First’ party, posed two questions to the Reichstag: “Why potentially spend billions of extra thalers and hundreds of Rhodellian lives seeking glory in a distant war on the far side of the planet, a war that has absolutely nothing to do with the Rhodellian people? Why should Rhodellians suffer from another war, when their own government should be prioritising the welfare of its own citizens and fixing its own nation’s mounting internal crises?” Assuming a Tooth-to-Tail Ratio of 1:3, Hartmann estimated that maintaining 2,000 troops as far away as Central Argis would cost Rhodellian taxpayers anywhere between an extra RT$1 to 2 billion per annum. According to Hartmann, deploying to Central Argis would constitute nothing more than an unnecessary burden on taxpayers, an avoidable waste of precious lives, and a dereliction of duty. Opinion among MPs was, to say the least, divided. Heated but passionate arguments erupted over national priorities, cost–benefit analyses, the morality and ethics of foreign interventionism, and Rhodellia’s role in the Wurld. On one hand, Rhodellia would get the rare chance to demonstrate its commitment to freedom and democracy, gain international prestige, and grow its relevance on the Wurld Stage. On the other hand, sending military and humanitarian aid overseas would divert much-needed funding, equipment, and professional troops away from the frontlines of Rhodellia’s own wars against the Native Aurelian Free State and the insurgency in Nordwalde Province. As much as Seymour wanted to pledge tangible support to Kauni and the humanitarian and peacekeeping missions deploying there, he failed to win enough support within the Reichstag to make it possible. In a crushing defeat for Seymour, out of 776 MPs, only 184 (roughly 23.7%) voted in favour of intervention in Baltica. Most of the Reichstag agreed that matters at home were far more important; their duty as elected representatives was not to serve Baltica and its suffering peoples, but their own needful constituents in Rhodellia. As the situation in Baltica stands at the moment, there is insufficient justification for the Kingdom of Rhodellia to directly intervene in the conflict. "We are not about to send Rhodellian boys nine or ten thousand miles away from home to do what Argic boys ought to be doing for themselves.”, Seymour conceded. Nevertheless, Seymour pledged that Rhodellia would continue closely monitoring the situation in Baltica; the civil war was not something it could just afford to take its eyes off of: Over one thousand Rhodellians have already queued up outside the Seylosian embassy in Friedrichstadt to volunteer for the Seylosian Foreign Humanitarian Corps (FHC). As part of the FHC, the successful candidates will be operating in various roles such as security experts, medics, surgeons, nurses, truck drivers, engineers, explosive ordnance disposal specialists, interpreters, and ordinary relief workers. Over one thousand Rhodellian war tourists may already be en-route to southern Baltica. Rhodellia's largest online war tourist communities seem to have collectively agreed upon rendezvousing with the remnants of the Baltican Army faction and organising their own volunteer brigades. And from there, they would wage an insurgency against the Republic of Dokestva, and aim to build a truly democratic Baltican Republic from the ashes of war. Rhodellian companies such as Forward Logistics AG and Kurier Logistics GmbH are already negotiating with certain Argic countries and laying the logistical groundwork to transport and sell military equipment to certain factions. And It is likely that two notorious Rhodellian arms traffickers, Otto von Rotesfeld and Egmont Winkler (a.k.a The Second Horseman), are already sinking their dirty fingers into the Baltican pie. The Rhodellian government may have abstained from intervening in Baltica (at least for the time being), but Rhodellian private enterprises and ordinary Rhodellian people are already making moves of their own. Going forward, the Second Baltican Civil War can only get wilder. Edited March 11, 2022 by Rhodellia (see edit history) 10 Link to comment
Popular Post Baltica Posted March 12, 2022 Author Popular Post Share Posted March 12, 2022 Baltican Emergency Broadcast This is the Baltican Emergency Broadcast System, operating at a frequency of 1200 Megahertz. The following information has been provided by anonymous sources, located within the former nation of Baltica, and is being disclosed to the general populace to ensure our safety in this ongoing conflict. Please pay full attention. The following broadcast will begin shortly… The Baltican Civil war has now been going on for over three weeks. All factions have expanded heavily since the beginning of the conflict, and currently, all former Baltican land has been secured by either one of the documented five factions that now exist. Fighting between them has been minimal, but is now expected to rise exponentially, as sides have begun to fight directly for territory and strategic key points. In the South, Kauni and Dokestva engaged in the largest battle of the war so far, which has come to be known as the battle of Letus, which began in Southern Kauni and resulted in the retreat of Kauni from the area. The fighting saw a combined 2,000 Casualties, and the destruction of a few vehicles. Although it was a Dolch victory, it has been made clear that their military has been largely overplayed, and that they may not be as capable as most thought. However, to counteract this, Dokestva has been pursuing closer relations with the Democratic People's Republic of Veleharia, and as of now anywhere between a few hundred to a few thousand of their troops are aiding in the Dolch war effort. Just two days ago, they moved into the city of Kavkari, and seem to be preparing for something, with both troops and weapons beginning to make their way to the town. Most concerningly of all, the Dolch troops have gathered around the Kauni oil fields, situated in the south, and a worrying number of both Artillery and troops are beginning to gather in the region from both sides. The potential for a large battle is evident, and we urge people to make their way from the area. (Images of Refugee Camp) The recent conflict, however, has pushed Kauni towards pursuing closer ties between the other possible factions of the war. Raskia in particular has pushed for talks, especially as its army moved into Ignalis and Ladija. The general secretary of Kauni, Juozas Vejas participated in a discussion with Raskias current president, Nekolas Armenas, where the two made it clear that they wished to improve their relations and avoid conflict between each other. They would go on to sign the Dimira Pact, ensuring that the Northern Border of Kauni remains a demilitarized zone and that Dolch refugees fleeing to Raskia would be able to do so whilst not being harmed. Additionally, Kauni has begun sending grain and other foodstuffs to Raskia, in exchange for both guns, materials and soldiers. The Emergency Broadcast urges Refugees fleeing from either Baltija or Dokestva to flee to either Raskia, or Kauni which can both provide safe stay in specially reserved and protected areas in either nation. Our own sources have shown that the Ras do in fact not harm Dolch fleeing to them for help. Concerning, a Ras rebellion has begun in the East, in territory controlled by the Former Baltican Government. This Rebellion, partially aided by Baltija, has spread to encompass most of the Baltican border to the Nation of Fina, and any refugees wishing to flee to Fina (Especially Dolch ones) are advised to avoid these areas AT ALL COSTS. It's extremely dangerous and the likelihood of death is immense. Similarly, Baltija has expanded greatly during the following two weeks. Cities such as Drougai and Ramagaly are now under the control of Baltija, and again have been reported to be extremely hostile to Dolch people. At this point, we advise not to flee to the Baltican Government either, as they seem to be near collapse, and again, to those seeking shelter we advise to either go to Kauni or Raskia, or if you are Dolch to Dokestva. We are also sending a general warning out for coastal settlements, as a group known as the Baltican Free Navy, operating from the Island of Osentia, have actively been raiding and attacking coastal cities and settlements. They often kill and steal, and have shown to be especially bloodthirsty. They are hostile to both Dolch and Ras alike, and their motive is not yet known. This concludes the second Baltican Emergency Broadcast, operating at a frequency of 1200 Megahertz. Stay safe, seek shelter. Keep your devices on for future broadcasts and warning updates… (Current Map of the conflict) 11 Link to comment
Rhodellia Posted March 18, 2022 Share Posted March 18, 2022 (edited) The Convention for a Free and Democratic Baltica Vibrant crowds bustled around the central boulevard of Gottesberg’s Victoria Louise Convention Centre, queuing up at food vendors; wandering in and out of adjoining event halls; coping with AMFC Cup results; and showing off their weapons and tactical gear. While sipping coffee out of paper cups, they scrolled through military field manuals, numbers and basic phrases in Ras, and the Republic of Baltica’s iiWiki article on their smartphones. It looked just like any normal non-business convention. But few outsiders would guess this inconspicuous gathering to be the prelude to an undue escalation of an already-chaotic civil war on the opposite side of the planet. The vast majority of these convention-goers are members of the Rhodellian ‘war tourist’ community. In Rhodellian culture, ‘war tourists’ are people who independently travel abroad to participate in foreign wars, in flagrant disregard for the Assembled Nations Mercenary Convention. Most of them are Rhodellian Army veterans who served at least one tour of duty in Nordwalde Province — a given, considering Rhodellia’s longstanding policies of universal conscription and frequent troop rotations. For any number of reasons (including some they may struggle to put into words), they are willing to leave their civilian lives behind to test their luck and embrace the suck on another battlefield. So when a high-intensity conflict breaks out anywhere in the Wurld, they march to the drumming of artillery fire like bees to a honeypot. The conveniences of the modern age have made war tourism more accessible than it has ever been. With just a smartphone and internet connection, war tourists can conduct open-source intelligence, network with each other using social media, get organised over VoIP and instant messaging platforms, plan routes to their battlefields of choice using web mapping platforms, apply for transit visas on consular websites, book commercial flights with travel agents online, and more. For Rhodellians, there are even travel agents that specifically cater to war tourists, offering services such as organising the transport of personal weapons, liaising with international arms dealers, and (when possible) establishing communications with factions in a given war. Globalisation, digitisation, and the modern media landscape have enabled a strange new generation of militaires sans frontieres. When the Second Baltican Civil War broke out in February 2022, Rhodellian war tourists were quick to spring into action. On Threadit and other online spaces frequented by war tourists, they wasted no time in sharing news articles relating to the war, linking to PDFs of military field manuals, optimising each others' inventories, brainstorming viable routes to Baltica, and preparing advice for an expected wave of newcomers to their communities. With (You)s, upvotes, feedback loops, and memetics, they quickly built and collectively agreed upon an overarching goal: to join the ailing and desperate ‘Govir Baltican Army’ faction as foreign volunteers; wage an insurgency against the Republic of Dokestva; and establish a new faction that truly stood for freedom, democracy, and humanitarian values. It was an ambitious goal to be sure. But if they were going to get evaporated by Velaherian air strikes due to a complete lack of air superiority and modern air defences, they at least wanted the international media to report that it was for a noble cause. The aforementioned IRL gathering at the VLCC — The Convention for a Free and Democratic Baltica — was organised by a group of Baltica-bound war tourists from the th/wartourists subthreadit, the largest online war tourist community with almost 100,000 registered members. After opening a JustFundMe page and starting a crowdfunding appeal, they could collectively afford to rent out the Auditorium, the North Gallery Meeting rooms, and Event Halls N1-N5 and S1-S5. These spaces enabled convention-goers to network with each other in person, purchase new war gear and supplies directly from arms manufacturers' stalls, meet with representatives from war tourism-specific travel agents, and familiarise themselves with key figures among ‘The Resistance’. Among the Special Guests invited to speak at the convention were General Alexandras of the Govir Baltican Army and retired Rhodellian Army colonel Sigfrid Nolüdajol (Dolchic: Siegfried Ritter von Nordufer). When President Jonas’ Dokestvan Army destroyed the majority of the Govir Baltican Army in the Battle of Govir, General Alexandras and his surviving troops retreated to an old bunker somewhere in the hills of southern Baltica. Faced with total annihilation, Alexandras did what no other faction in the civil war has; he set aside his classic Baltican xenophobia and publicly appealed for foreign volunteers to refill the ranks of his army. The first to make contact with Alexandras were the Rhodellian war tourist community and delegates from its support industry. The organisers of The Convention for a Free and Democatic Baltica invited Alexandras to make a live appeal via an online video conference call, an offer he accepted. With his former headquarters in Govir now a smouldering ruin, Alexandras was reduced to speaking from inside a small and sparsely furnished office within the bunker. His camera feed was broadcasted to a big screen in the VLCC’s auditorium; instead of pity and laughter at how far he had fallen from grace, a crowd of roughly 2,000 attendees applauded him. Many of them wore camouflage and full battle dress; having not expected much of 'random civilians', Alexandras looked visibly surprised to see that many Rhodellians in the Auditorium were better-equipped than his own soldiers; many brandished weapons, tactical gear, and military accessories comparable to those sported by foreign interventionist forces in Kauni. And this boosted his confidence to speak. Alexandras’ segment would last roughly an hour. He briefly conversed with the event organisers, spoke of how the Baltican Civil War was progressing from a Baltican’s perspective, and talked about how dire the Govir Baltican Army’s situation had become, and (without going into too much detail) shared his general plan to fight an insurgency against the Dokestvan military and retake Govir. He also conducted an impromptu Q&A session with the crowd members at the organisers' behest. Alexandras answered quite a lot of questions. This involved going over instructions on how to rendezvous with GBA operatives on the Baltican border, giving details on how the GBA’s Training teams will evaluate their skills and assign them to different units once they reach the bunker, and some vague answers about his motivation for rebelling against the Baltican government. When asked about his apparent intent to establish a democratic constitutional republic, he just said that it ‘sounded like a nice idea’. Alexandras concluded by saying that he looked forward to greeting the crowd at the Baltican border, and that it would be an honour to be the first Balticans to ever fight alongside Rhodellians. After Alexendras, it was Sigfrid Nolüdajol’s turn to speak. Colonel Nolüdajol’s Speech (Transcript) Sigfrid Nolüdajol is a Rhodellian knight, former Infantry officer, and second-generation Stedorian immigrant. He served in the Rhodellian Army between 1992 and 2018, retiring as a decorated and respected Colonel. Since retiring, he became an award-winning author, writing several bestselling books including ‘18 Hours’, ‘Forlorn Hope’, and ‘Kriegpolitik: Why Rhodellia can never find peace’. Nolüdajol is also a loving father of three with eight grandchildren. Nolüdajol was invited to speak at The Convention for a Free and Democratic Baltica because his former military rank made other Rhodellian war tourists joining the Govir Baltican Army turn to him for leadership. Because Nolüdajol's mother immigrated from Stedoria, that counted him as a Stedorian citizen jus sanguinis, which makes him subject to Stedorian law and thus liable to be arrested and prosecuted by Stedorian authorities should they catch him fighting for the insurgency against Dokestva. Nolüdajol's speech was livestreamed onto The Convention for a Free and Democratic Baltica's official Volkscast channel. The broadcast was watched live by 3,466 concurrent viewers, but is bound to reach a wider audience as the video is shared and reposted on social media. Nolüdajol told the speech in Standard Dolchic, but community volunteers were quick to upload Laimiaic and Anglish subtitles to make it more consumable for an international audience. “I am Sigfrid Nolüdajol — ‘Siegfried Nordufer’ in Standard Dolchic. And I am a retired Colonel who served 26 years in the Rhodellian Army. Like many other soldiers, I went career because I wanted to make a positive difference in the Wurld and be a force for Good. And it is for that same reason that, a few days from now, I — like many people sitting in this very hall — will be shipping out to fight in the on-going civil war in Baltica as a foreign volunteer, and not for any of the established factions you’re seeing on the news. “As of today, the war we’re diving into will have gone on for two weeks. Much has changed in that time. Territories switched hands. New players stepped into the fray. Fighting intensified by the day as all the factions got on war footings. The crisis in Baltica captured the Wurld’s attention and got everyone and their grandmother praying for peace in Central Argis. But as the situation stands at the moment — even with all the foreign peacekeeping forces and humanitarian aid flooding into the country this early into the conflict —, the only course charted for Baltica is one of self-destruction. “The ideal ending for Baltica is for its Ras and Baltian Dolch populations to reconcile, reunify, rebuild, and revitalise their shattered nation into something greater than ever before. “This seems to be the ultimate goal for every party involved. As I understand it, the leader of each major faction — Arunas of The Baltican Republic, Nekolas Armenas of The Republic of Raskia, Jonas of The Republic of Dokestva, and Gedrus Izas of The Republic of Baltija — wants to be the last one standing on the battlefield, so Baltica can be reborn according to their own personal visions. Meanwhile, all the international forces intervening in the war at least want the swift restoration of peace and stability to Central Argis, and they’re trying to facilitate the process by supporting these factions. But there’s one big issue here: “Without exception, all of the existing major factions are terrible, terrible options for Baltica’s future. “To start off… Arunas vowed to restore The Republic Baltica ‘as it was before’. His goal is to preserve the same xenophobic, isolationist, and systemically racist dictatorship where a small Dolchic political elite can freely trample on the rights of their majority-Ras constituents. Arunas champions a flawed model of government, one that has already backfired spectacularly, having failed to resolve longstanding ethnic tensions and prevent the catastrophe his country is facing today. “Izas and the Republic of Baltija, with its extreme Ras Nationalist ideology, are already facing international condemnation for systematically killing and expelling ethnic Dolchs from captured territories. I don't know exactly how big a scale this ethnic cleansing is happening on, but even just one count of genocide towards creating a pure Ras ethnostate is one atrocity too many. For Baltija, its people's thirst for revenge is so entrenched into the state's ideological foundation that lasting peace with the Dolchs will never be an option. “Jonas and the Republic of Dokestva are shaping up to be Izas and Baltija’s Dolchic counterparts in that they are not above resorting to ethnic cleansing and mass murder. In pursuit of a Dolchic ethnostate, Jonas is systematically oppressing the ethnic Ras under his territory by seizing their properties; expelling them from their own lands and neighbourhoods; and deliberately starving Ras-majority areas of food, water, electricity, and other critical supplies. And as General Alexandras and various other sources can attest, Jonas has shown absolutely zero restraint in his recent conquest of Govir Province; his utter devastation of the provincial capital of Govir will likely be the template for his future military endeavours. And to top it all off, he’s also being backed by Velaheria’s repressive Starinburg regime. “Despite being the clear favourite of the Free Wurld, not even the Free Republic of Kauni is all that good for Baltica as a whole. The concerns of its co-rulers, General Simas Jancious and Head Secretary Juozas Vejas, lie no farther than the boundaries of Kauni province. According to a Baltican emergency broadcast, Kauni showed no reservation waging unprovoked economic warfare on the neutral and unaligned populations of Central Baltica by cutting them off from Kauni's electrical grid, which they are dependent on. And until we get more reports regarding blackouts and brownouts from the affected areas, who knows what kind of damage and suffering was inflicted? “So far, the only major civil war faction that has not raised any red flags is Armenas’ Republic of Raskia. But, in all likeliness, that’s only because it’s likely still mobilising its population and does not want to incur the wrath of the international coalition gathering next door in Kauni. I doubt that Raskia’s Ras-majority population is willing to just let centuries of bad blood with the Baltian Dolchs go unresolved; in the mind of the average Raskian, they probably still have a score to settle with their former oppressors. The odds are that Raskia will turn out to be just as rotten as the rest should a convenient opportunity present itself. “None of these major leaders have a viable vision for Baltica's future. None of them are inherently capable of building a democratic, unified, and stable Baltica from the ashes of this war. None of them constitute a practical long-term solution for Baltica’s crisis. “And the international forces throwing their support behind these terrible candidates in hopes of facilitating the peace process will need to brace for disappointment. While their humanitarian intentions and philanthropy are undoubtedly admirable, their grand strategies essentially amount to polishing a turd. “Even if they are acutely aware of just how flawed their strategies and preferred candidates are, they are powerless to do anything else. International law dictates that legitimate states can not just go around conquering sovereign nations and installing leaders favourable to their interests, even if those interests are objectively good. They are forced to take the least worst options available. “At the moment, there is no ideal candidate for the international community to work with. “And that’s where independent foreign volunteers, who operate outside of international conventions, can intervene. “The best way for us to help the Baltican people, to ensure lasting peace and stability in Central Argis, and to make an actual positive difference in Baltica is to enable them to reject the existing candidates for power and substitute them with one that is actually good. We must help the Balticans establish a brand new faction: a constitutional democracy built on a robust foundation of modern humanitarian values: a government of the people, by the people, for the people. We must help the Balticans build a shining beacon of hope that the rest of the Free Wurld can conscientiously support and wholeheartedly accept into the international fold. And it must not be corrupted by petty dictators from the pre-war political and military establishments or the inherently rotten political system weaponised by the previous Baltican government. "Make no mistake: We are marching to Baltica to help its peoples wage a Just War of Liberation. Some may say it's not our place to butt in and tackle a problem Balticans should ideally be fixing themselves. But to that, I say it's not our place to stand idle while an entire nation suffers. “This open-source nation-building project — collectively crafted by a surprising many innovative, intelligent, and motivated minds from across the online community — is ambitious to be sure. But in small and gradual steps, I believe it is feasible. Arome was not built in a day. “Thankfully, we do have a starting point. Admittedly, it’s no longer ideal due to recent developments in the war, but it’s the only shot we have. So far, General Alexandras and the Govir Baltican Army are the only Balticans willing to cooperate with foreign volunteers in the creation of a free and democratic constitutional republic in Baltica. Therefore, the first steps towards the nation’s salvation will likely be to join the GBA in their insurgency against the Republic of Dokestva and liberate Govir Province from Jonas’ oppressive rule. “We will be fighting a radically different war than what most of us are accustomed to as veterans of the Armed Forces of Rhodellia. We will not benefit from Rhodellia’s advanced Command and Control systems, GPS, and perhaps even the Internet. We won’t have tanks, air support, artillery, or even motorised logistics, at least not in the early phases. I wouldn’t even imagine our situation as a role reversal with the Nordwalde Separatist Movement we’ve been fighting for decades; it will feel as if we’ve reverted back to the Stone Age, to less civilised times. “But in spite of our technical inferiority and the loss of force multipliers we took for granted in the Rhodellian military, I am confident that we can thrive in our new operational environment. We will be bringing along with us a more sophisticated understanding of modern warfighting, superior training and practical experience cultivated over decades of continuous exposure to symmetric and asymmetric warfare, and our uniquely strong warrior spirits as Rhodellians. And these are far more powerful than any weapons system the enemy can possibly throw at us. While I’m never one to advocate underestimating one’s enemy, I can at least say that the enemy does not know war as we do. “But whether our fate is death or glory on the battlefield, when you board that plane to Argis, know that you’ll be fighting for a righteous cause. You’re not doing this on the orders of someone higher up the chain of command, nor are you carrying out the bidding of some self-interested politician. You are fighting of your own volition. You are independently choosing to make a stand for liberty, democratic values, and human rights; to protect those who are too weak and vulnerable to defend themselves; and to help your fellow Man in their time of need. This self-sacrificing altruism, this innate willingness to fight for the Greater Good, lies at the very core of what it means to be Rhodellian. “Remember, everyone, the best hope for a free, democratic, and prosperous Baltica lives and dies with us. So let’s give this crusade our all.” Edited March 20, 2022 by Rhodellia Hyperlinks to referenced posts + some minor writing improvements (see edit history) 8 Link to comment
Baltica Posted March 20, 2022 Author Share Posted March 20, 2022 (edited) Battle of Black Sands The Dolch had been preparing for weeks. After the casualties they suffered after the incompetent and rushed offensive into Kauni, the Dolch generals had been forced by the government to wait for the full transfer of the southern Armies to the north, and the preparation of new supply lines. Finally, it was ready, the full Dolch war machine ready to steamroll southern Kauni. Their main objective was to capture the Mirtuni refining facility, which was responsible for refining the tar sands extracted from the Mirtuni quarry. It was one of few oil sources in Baltica, and if taken could allow Dokestva to begin utilising their armoured vehicles once more, and open up the possibility of utilising the former Baltican air force. Not only is it a strategic resource, but also a tool by which Dokestva can exert control over Kauni, for the facility contains huge amounts of toxic waste, produced from the refining process. If it was released into the river, or possibly groundwater stores it could contaminate the whole of the Kauni river. Of course, the Kauni government themselves couldn't allow for such an important objective to fall into the hands of Dokestva, and so reluctantly prepared a grand defence. In the early morning, over 18,000 troops had been amassed all over Mirtuni, all kept in significantly smaller quadrants to make it harder for the expected enemy air to hit them. Artillery as well as scattered around partial hills and clearings in forests. Kauni did its best to garrison the facility, managing to amass 5,000 troops. The coalition air force had also been put on alert and their presence on the battlefield would be the thing to turn the tide of the battle if utilised correctly. (Commemorative Photo of Army Group Geon) In the early morning, the shells began to pepper the Kauni garrison, hitting from multiple angles, but avoiding the actual refining facility. Small groups of organised men began to push from the East, making a head-on rush for the refinery, whilst soldiers in the South occupied the actual city of Mirtuni, with little resistance. Dolch soldiers from the west did not make a push and instead fortified their position and made good use of their artillery. The first major encounter took place between small battalions of Dokestva and the mechanised troops of Kauni, who used their speed to quickly attack and disorganise the small groups of soldiers. The Dolch troops were caught off guard, and some scrambled into a short retreat. The motorised chased the Dolch shortly before having one of their cars blown up by an anti-tank gun, causing the motorised to give up the chase. Additionally, a coalition airstrike was able to heavily damage the artillery that had been stationed in the west. The first day of the Battle ended in Dokestva taking some territory and the city of Mirtuni, yet their offensive was greatly halted. When fighting picked up again the next day, it saw the Dolch Eastern army attempting another advance to the facility. This time they were met head-on, by Kauni forces. The battle that ensued lasted for hours, but the superior training and equipment of the Kauni defenders proved to be more effective, and the Dolch troops were again retreating, but now also getting bombarded by Coalition airstrikes. Meanwhile, the southern army that had taken Mirtuni, proceeded to push further from the centre, capturing important road links, and forcing the few Kauni troops stationed there out. Additionally, the west, which had been hit hard by enemy CAS, was able to somewhat recover, although most of the artillery had been damaged beyond repair. As such the Western Army attempted an advance of their own, which proved largely ineffective as the initial inactivity of the western army allowed for the Kauni garrisons to set up an especially capable defence. By day three, Jonas ordered that the area be taken no matter what, having already lost more supplies and men than he was planning to. Generals on the field themself were doubting their ability to take and hold the refining plant, hoping to instead destroy it, but Jonas’s orders would come first. The plan was to have the Southern Centre army push deep into the area and link up with the Southern Army, where they could then both commence one final push for the refining plant. The plan saw some early success, with the southern army again making huge advances, but again the inability of the Eastern army saw their push completely collapse. A gap within the army had opened up, something that the generals would fail to notice in time, and it was exploited by the mechanised troops. They would pierce deep into enemy lines, effectively encircling over 500 troops, who were then forced to surrender. The loss was devastating to morale, especially for the Eastern army which had been pushed back three times. General Yurgis (Commander of the Southern Army) would then take full control of the Eastern Army, hoping that his success in the South would be mimicked in the east. Again everything was made worse by the constant bombing from the Coalition airforce, which had reduced the western army to nothing more than a garrison and was heavily impacting supply lines leading into the area. The final day of the offensive would determine everything, either forcing the Dolch to retreat or Kauni to abandon their positions. When the fourth day finally came, the now Centre army (Comprised of the Eastern and Southern Armies), decided to perform a risky manoeuvre. They would attempt a grand push, using all their troops, knowing that Kauni did not have the numbers to repel them all. The Centre East would push first, successfully attracting the attention of the Kauni defenders who engaged them. The Southern Centre, which had advanced much closer to the actual battlefield, would themselves begin a rapid advancement. The west too, successfully rallied, and were beginning to make the first move towards the refinery. Kauni mechanised forces worked around the clock, quickly traversing and attempting to slow the advance of the Dolch. Coalition air too would attempt to slow down the troop movements, yet it proved ineffective. Surprisingly, the west was able to push to the Mirtuni quarry and was in eyeshot of the refinery itself. General Leonas of the Kauni troops had to decide between either retreating or risking getting cut off from the bridge leading out. Eventually, after a hasty discussion, it was decided to retreat, but before they did they would attempt to transport as much oil, and toxic waste as they could, whilst setting fire to everything they couldn't take. Air bombardment continued nonetheless, providing necessary time and cover for the Kauni forces to make their escape across the bridge, which was then blown up after all troops had made it across. It had taken over four days to capture a facility that was now destroyed, but at least out of enemy hands. The flag of Dokestva now flew over Mirtuni, and its quarry was now theirs. Even if the facility was destroyed, and wouldn't be built back, it was another asset out of the hands of Kauni, and hopefully a way into negotiations. Only time would tell if all the death was worth it ... Edited March 21, 2022 by Baltica Previous post was accused of Metagaming (see edit history) 6 Link to comment
Stedoria Posted March 20, 2022 Share Posted March 20, 2022 Pened Sifane Sigfrid NolüdajolLete å Citweyin Sigfrid NolüdajolLetter to Citizen Sigfrid Nolüdajol (@Rhodellia) 9 Link to comment
Hinterlands Posted March 21, 2022 Share Posted March 21, 2022 Coils of cigarette smoke drifted lazily into the high ceiling of the meeting room. Parliament Tower is well known for it's extravagant fittings and features, most of them preserved since the 1910's when the building was made. The most popular of these by far are the bountiful ashtrays, which are currently being put to use by the assembled politicians. Chief Executive LaCroix sighed, flicking ash into the tray. "The other nations of Argis and beyond have already mobilised. We're wasting precious time to do what's right." Wyndham-Smyth, leader of the opposition, leaned back and smugly retorted. "It's none of our concern. Who cares? These backwater northlanders can't stop themselves from crumbling every few decades. Leave them be." This back and forth had been ongoing in some shape or form since the first information regarding the war had slid its way across the desks of everyone of any importance in Parliament Tower. Usually a token gesture of support for any vaguely democratic state and condemnation of the authoritarian ones would follow, and the raging tempest of the 24 hours news cycle would wash any concerns away, quick to leech onto whatever happened next. This time, however, was different. The clouds of war were blowing in from the East, and if the intelligence gained by the Confederate Bureau of Intelligence was correct, was being whipped into a crescendo by Anglican support into Dolchland. The war in Baltica could be the lone spark to ignite a tinderbox, and LaCroix was more than aware of how the Hinterian sluggishness would be perceived. "This war is making us look like a rabble of unorganised, sloppy morons!" LaCroix barely contained his anger. "Seylos and Delamaria have peacekeeping forces in place, f*cking Rhodellian teenagers got their boots on the ground before we even bothered booking this meeting room. I am not asking for an invasion of Baltica. Sending humanitarian aid is the right thing to do. Should to time come when Anglica mobilises, we need real allies who we know we can trust and who can trust us. This nation cannot continue to exist riding on handshakes at trade discussions." Wyndham-Smyth exhaled, blowing a cloud of acrid cigarette smoke upwards, where it seamlessly merged with the silvery haze hanging over the room. "Foreign intervention isn't popular now, Frankie, you know this. The polls indicated that, and the members of parliament under my party will vote against this." "You mean the corporations think it isn't popular." LaCroix retorted. "Couldn't help noticing your new car, I didn't know campaign contributions came on four wheels these days. Cooperation is key. When the war comes, and there will be a war, all the shiny new cars and blank cheques in the wurld won't help you when Anglia sails up the DeBrie river. The corporations will flee the sinking ship and you'll be left holding the can. Today I will make an announcement in Parliament, and we will vote on our role in Baltica. Vote yes or vote no, but vote for yourself, not for the corporate interests. I can't bear to see this country sold off piece by piece to them." With that, LaCroix rose from his seat adjourning the meeting. Three Hours Later The Parliamentary Chamber was rumbling with muted conversations, an unusual state for the room, which was usually filled with jeers and shouting from politicians in support of their leader or decrying a member of the opposition. Both leaders had made passionate speeches regarding war action. LaCroix argued it was the right thing to do, and that Argic friendship was needed in these dark times, to serve as a beacon of freedom, democracy, and human spirit against authoritarianism and rampant colonialism. Wyndham-Smyth argued that involving Hinteria in petty northern squabbles was not a move supported by the economy, and went against a policy of official neutrality that had made Hinteria prosperous and wealthy throughout the tumultuous 1950's. A silence fell over the chamber as the Speaker of the Chamber cleared his throat, preparing to announce the result of the electronic vote. The TV cameras in the galleries above the chamber zoomed in, focusing on the speaker and the large screen behind him that would display the results of the vote. "The results have been counted. In the matter of involvement in the Baltican situation, the motion to send a delegation of peacekeeping troops and humanitarian staff to support the Republic of Kauni in conjunction with the forces of Delamaria, Selyos, Ahrana and Fina has passed." The chamber erupted, with cheers, jeers, and outrage spreading across both sides of the house. LaCroix sat at the front of the governing party's section, applauding and smiling, all the while returning the icy glare of Wyndham-Smyth from across the room. For the first time in living memory, Hinterian troops were in the battlefield, albeit in a supporting role. Compared to the minefield of Hinterian politics, Francis LaCroix knew where he would rather be. 8 Link to comment
Rhodellia Posted March 22, 2022 Share Posted March 22, 2022 (edited) 14 Lettow-Vorbeck Street, Rabenwald, Rabeswalde Province, RW1 4QT, Kingdom of Rhodellia 21 Levolutasüt, Kapojvar, 1KP 121@Stedorian People's Republic Dear Mr. Ernö Bartok, I hope this letter finds you well. It is an honour to be acknowledged by name by the national government of my ancestral homeland. At the same time, it is regrettable for it to have happened under less-than-amicable circumstances. But it is most unfortunate that taking an action that will actually help our Baltian Dolchic brethren in the long run — stopping a racist and murderous despot from dragging the Baltican people further into Hell — will brand me and other freedom fighters of Stedorian heritage as enemies to the Stedorian People’s Republic. As I previously stated in my speech at The Convention for a Free and Democratic Baltica, the so-called ‘Republic’ of Dokestva is fundamentally incapable of providing any remotely positive future for Baltica’s peoples. Dokestva is built on a regressive ideological foundation of hatred, xenophobia, and racism. Its blatant, systematic, and unapologetic oppression of its Ras minorities is not conducive to national unity, national stability, or good optics. Jonas Banis himself is an unelected president and petty dictator who, as the son of the late President Algridas Banis, likely only rose to power through nepotism and corruption. He rules primarily through a monopoly on violence granted by the support of former Baltican military personnel who defected along with him. Dokestva's state monopoly on violence is not legitimised through the popular consent of The People formalised through a fair democratic process. And it is not regulated by a robust system of checks and balances such as a genuinely independent judiciary not subject to armed intimidation. There is no real civilian control over the military. Dokestva’s inherently backwards and regressive nature will ultimately prove to be its undoing. If you wish for a glimpse into what a Dokestvan-dominated Baltica will look like, just look at the ruin it recently made of Govir. As Dokestva rejects modern democratic, humanitarian, and liberal values that are embraced across the Free Wurld, most of the international community will not embrace a Dokestva-dominated Baltica with open arms. Even now, it faces a powerful and still-growing multinational coalition backing its enemy, the Free Republic of Kauni. If Dokestva’s blatant crimes of apartheid against Ras people and excessively destructive conquest of Govir Province are any indication of how it will conduct itself in the future, Dokestva will only stoke further rejection and hostility from most of the Wurld; a Dokestva-dominated Baltica will sooner collapse again from further ethnic violence and international sanctions than rebuild and prosper with foreign investment and cooperation. Continued support for Banis and Dokestva will only do more harm than good for the Baltican and Stedorian peoples. If the welfare of Baltica’s peoples, or at least its Baltian Dolch population, is truly the goal of the Stedorian People’s Republic, it would find it better to withdraw support from the inherently flawed and self-destructive nation building project that is Dokestva, use official condemnations of 'President' Banis for committing crimes against humanity as an internationally applaudable out, and put Stedorian state resources to more productive use supporting a more progressive alternative. If Stedoria distances itself from Dokestva, which is increasingly drawing most of the Wurld’s ire, Stedoria can better-cement itself as being on the right side of History. There is no salvaging the Dokestvan regime. For the good of all Balticans, Dokestva Must Die. Though I am a man of proud Stedorian heritage, I was born and raised in the Kingdom of Rhodellia. The defence of liberty, democratic values, and human rights is central to Rhodellian national identity and culture. Therefore, I can not, in good conscience, permit an ultimate Dokestvan victory in the Baltican civil war. The Baltican people deserve better. It is for this reason that I will stand by my previous words and the Rhodellian ideals I was raised to uphold. I will go overseas to help the Baltican people cleanse their own land of tyranny, and I will help them establish the democratic constitutional republic they so desperately need to succeed in the 21st century. Or I will die trying. I sincerely thank the Stedorian government for having the courtesy to repeat their recent warning to Stedorian expatriates with Stedorian citizenship by descent in a personal letter specifically addressed to myself. It is a terrible thing that fellow compatriots and Dolchic peoples may have to spill each other's blood. But I hope the Stedorian government can mitigate this tragedy by acting on the increasingly apparent fact that Dokestva is not a hill worth dying on. Best regards, Sigfrid Nolüdajol Edited April 3, 2022 by Rhodellia Minor improvements (see edit history) 7 Link to comment
Baltica Posted March 27, 2022 Author Share Posted March 27, 2022 What Is Baltija ? Baltija is perhaps the most interesting combatant in the Baltican Civil War. It had come into existence after a violent split within the Ras Nationalist Party. The Ras stronghold in Kretia, which had always been the centre of radicalism as well as spurred Ras Nationalism, would create a monster the likes of which Baltica had never before seen. This state is currently ruled by the infamous Gedrus Izas, a rebel leader who had led the previous riots in Cidra and the Blockade of Kretia. He and his followers declared it their mission to reclaim Baltica for Balticans. Rallying what people they could find, their hordes of militiamen stormed Northern Baltica. Kretia fell in immediately, and so did Dragai and Klenia. The men still loyal to Raskia were either rounded up, managed to escape to neutral land. With it Baltija was born, and its path to total domination over Baltica could begin. This ambition, however, is not shared by all. This radicalism that has been so rampant among Baltija is largely restricted to the equally infamous White Stork Army Group or as it's better known, the VSA. An army composed of only the best troops, who had stormed Kretia when the chaos of the war had just begun. (VSA Emblem) The VSA would go on to lead multiple military operations against both Baltica as well as the neutral zones, seeing considerable success in both. Their ties within Ras sympathiser groups within the Baltican army would see an influx of troops as well as equipment into Baltija, fueling their expansion even further. of course their expansion was by no means a peaceful one, as the VSA would go on to commit multiple “Incidents” as they began growing their influence in the unclaimed. Notably, in Ramagaly, the Dolch citizens (After unsuccessfully trying to rebel against VSA occupation) would be sought after and "eliminated". Many were able to escape to Kauni or Dokestva, but thousands perished as the VSA sought their revenge. Who knows how many atrocities the VSA has committed, as few can escape their grasp, but no doubt their horror and bloodthirsty has caused fractions deep within Baltija. Although Baltija may appear as an extremely powerful and bloodthirsty nation, its populace does not follow its ambition. Largely, the people outside of Kretia itself are quite against what is happening to the Dolch, seeing it as no better than what the Monarchists had done during the first war. It's also becoming ever more apparent that rifts within Baltijan government itself are beginning to form, with a large portion of the less radicalised members pushing for a stop for the seamless killing of Dolch civilians and Gedrus general distrust and anger towards Raskia. This group have dubbed themselves Interwar, although their numbers, as well as influence, remains limited to a few areas in the West, and relatively weak army groups. This group has been able to reach out to Raskia, and made big plans of assisting them in a possible liberation of Baltija, no matter how unlikely it may seem. Their cooperation has provided a rare insight into Baltija itself, and how divided it remains, despite the tight grip of Gedrus and his conspirators. However, the Interwar is not the only thing causing fractures within Baltija. The growing ambitions of the VSA, and the Baltijan army, in general, has led to them organising a rebellion within the old Baltican government. This rebellion would soon grow out of hand, to the point where it grew into a state of its own. This “state” would doubt itself Belgerta, after the city which was now its main stronghold. Commander Vytas Mantas of the VSA south army would assert himself as the lead ruler of Belgerta, becoming the first practical “Warlord” of Baltica. Due to Baltija relying so much on the VSA, this state was allowed to exist, and Vytas’s influence in southern Baltica began to grow rapidly. With fractures like these, the legitimacy of Baltija is at its lowest point yet, and with the giants of Raskia and Dokestva beginning their advance into the very heart of Baltica, Baltija has a long road ahead of it… 7 Link to comment
Seylos Posted March 28, 2022 Share Posted March 28, 2022 After Delamaria, Stedoria, and San Castellino declared their support for the neutral zone, Brigadier Ryley had decided it was enough support to rush out and secure the proposed zone area. The 1st Engineer Company, part of the 3rd Battalion forces that had made its way to Kauni, rushed from its position at FOB Kopali and made its way north east towards the proposed neutral zone. Elements of the Foreign Humanitarian Corps (FHC) had already been gathering in Viewa in preparation for humanitarian operations, and were waiting for the engineers to secure the zone and begin setting up shop. It's there that Major Charles Blakely, the 1st Engineer Company commander, made contact with Dr. Mona Attaway, the field leader of the FHC group in Kauni. From there the two groups convoyed together, the engineers taking the lead, heading east towards the neutral zone. Along the way they passed a Delmarian company that was protecting that route into Kauni, making sure to let them know of the quick developments that had been going on. By midnight, the engineers has declared the zone secure enough for the FHC to begin moving in their personnel and supplies, and the exhausted groups took the rest of the night to take a well earned rest. By the next morning, the engineers had begun their work in earnest, preparing all the necessary infrastructure that would make up the backbone of the camp. A cluster of three mobile trailers were set up at the camp's headquarters, housing a few of the administrative and logistical staff from the FHC. Several cargo containers had been hauled in to serve as temporary supply storage for the humanitarian supplies for the camp, and had been placed near the trailers as more trucks had started to come in. From then on the FHC staff and engineers set themselves on the long task of deploying as many tents for the refugees as they possibly could, they knew it was a matter of time before refugees would begin to pour in, especially as the area would most likely be considered the safest haven for the displaced in the country. The engineers though did have a time limit for their presence, before the FHC had to take over operations and security completely. As a neutral zone, Seylos has promised it would set up its camp, but the soldiers that were there were only supposed to be on site to help setup the camp then leave. Before they left however, Dr. Attaway had made the request of building some sort of landing strip nearby, so supplies could be ferried in by air instead of solely by land. Major Blakely has seized upon the opportunity to remain in the area, mostly to protect the vulnerable camp, and had promised Dr. Attaway a runway that would be able to accommodate even the largest cargo transports. Dr. Attaway had no idea how they were going to accomplish such a task in a reasonable time, but instead had simply tanked the Major for his hard work in building up the camps infrastructure. ---- It had been six days since their arrival, and Dr. Attaway had brought all the important officers and FHC members into a meeting in one of the trailers that served as the camp's headquarters. "Thank you all for coming, I know it's been one hell of a week," Dr. Attway started, "I've brought you all here to gather the status of the camp as the week ends. Major Blakely, I'd like to start with you and your engineer's progress?" "Progressing well ma'am. Most of the important bits for the camp have been taken care of, of course now we are focusing our attention on the airstrip. I've withdrawn fifty of my people, but the others will remain here to continue the construction project on the airstrip." Attaway took a deep breath, "While I appreciate the concern for the camp, are you sure this is the best use of your engineer's time?" "Without a doubt ma'am," Blakely replied, "Should supply lines by land from Kauni become impossible to maintain, this camp's only hope would be aerial resupply. And of course the longer my engineers remind here, the longer they can assist in protecting the camp from any overzealous attackers." Attaway didn't want to argue with the Major again, so just nodded, "Yes, thank you Major. I'd of course ask that your people complete their project as soon as possible. Chief MacBay, I hope your security personnel are settling in?" She had directed her question to the camp's security chief, Euan MacBay, a burly Alban in his early forties who almost had trouble sitting in his seat. He had served in the Royal Army almost two decades ago, and instead of going private he had joined the FHC security detachment and been with them ever since. "I'd say so ma'am. As much as I was concerned about these Rhodellian volunteering en masse, the bastards that they let through are some tough ones for sure. Half of bloody @Rhodellia is trying to get some of that war tourism pie. At least whoever was doing the recruiting was smart, we've only been assigned the war veterans with more... amicable personalities. Rather have them here with us than gallivanting about for some piss poor cause burning down villages. Bloody war tourism, strange thing." Attaway couldn't help but stifle a chuckle at the man's upfront nature, but she held her composure "So you're satisfied then?" "Aye, I was expecting a mess, but I've got our people in line. Security of the camp is is good hands ma'am." MacBay replied with a smile on his face, his arms crossed almost in triumph. "I'm glad to hear it. Dr. Grahame, how is the camp handling the current influx of refugees?" Dr. Grahame was a short man, in his late twenties who almost fit the perfect visual expectation of an office administrator, "It could be better doctor, word spread about the camp much faster than we were expecting. If initial counts are correct we have around ten thousand already in the camp, with several hundred more waiting to be processed. I'm confident we can handle it, but with these projections this camp could grow to massive sizes." "Can your people handle that Chief?" Attway asked MacBay. "Don't you worry about it ma'am. We've got another hundred volunteers on the way who've been vetted all the way. We'll keep it peaceful. Though if you could ma'am, get those police trainers over from Seylos as soon as you can. I've got good natured folk working for me, but they've only received soldier's training. They've taken the strict ROE well, but they could use some lesson on manners." 9 Link to comment
Popular Post Baltica Posted April 2, 2022 Author Popular Post Share Posted April 2, 2022 The Kauni Agreement The Battle of Black Sands saw Dokestva push directly to the Kauni river, forcing the Kauni troops to retreat across it. Now came the question of what will happen next, and for a while nothing did. It seemed Dokestva was focused on their planned offensive against Baltica, capturing Janikis with the aid of Velaherian troops. But no matter how much conquering they would do, Kauni was a dagger aimed right at its back. If it chose to allow Ras troops from Raskia to flow into it, they could easily funnel troops into the plains surrounding the Kauni river, and desimitae Dokestva. Although Dokestva now had the advantage of directly bordering the river, the many generals aimed to pursue a long-lasting solution to the “Kauni Question”. The invasion was out of the question, not only because of the heavy presence of coalition troops but also because the previous casualties suffered in the Battle of Black Sands clearly showed that fighting Kauni would be no easy matter. The only solution it seemed, would be to make peace with Kauni. The army, situated across the Kauni river, would reach out to Kauni troops and urge them to arrange a meeting between diplomats. In the early night, a Dolch representative from the Murtuni garrison would meet a representative of the Kauni Southern Armed forces, and the Dolch representative would provide them with the apply named “Treaty of Kauni”. (Kauni Parliament meeting) The treaty was purposely long and written somewhat hastily, but listed a distinct number of demands. First and foremost, Kauni would make a formal promise not to allow any Raskian troops to be stationed within its borders, and would not take any Raskian volunteers. Secondly, it would close off its border to Raskia entirely, not allowing even personnel to go through it. Lastly, it would remain neutral in any conflict involving Dokestva and Raskia. These demands were very much intrusive of Kaunis right as a somewhat legal state but would also make cooperation between themselves and Raskia extremely difficult. However, in return for these demands, Dokestva would pledge never to invade Kauni, nor take any of the core territories of Kauni beyond the Kauni river. In addition, their border would undergo small demilitarisation, with a reduced number of soldiers allowed to be present on the border. Dokestva would also be open to trade with Kauni if it chose to pursue it. Of course, the territory that Dokestva had already taken, mainly Murtuni, will be kept by Dokestva. The message was shortly relaid to the Kauni government and was met with mixed results. Some wanted to accept the deal to remain neutral in the conflict, arguing that the continuous fighting between themselves and Dokestva would prove costly and unnecessary. Others argued that it was destroying the relations that they had already pursued with Raskia, and that signing the treaty would make them more compromised, as it would isolate them from their biggest ally. But eventually, the decision was made to agree to the deal, but guarantee Kaunis agreement to pursue greater intervention in the Baltican conflict as a whole. When the two representatives met once more, the Dolch agreed to the extra clause, and the Kauni Agreement would come into effect, making an uneasy peace between Kauni and Dokestva, but only time will show if this deal will be kept… 10 Link to comment
Velaheria Posted April 3, 2022 Share Posted April 3, 2022 23/4 Residential area, Janikis, Dokvetska, Former Baltica The Velaherian forces have been aiding the Dokvetskan forces in repelling and move forces deeper into baltican and kauni territory for quite some time now, thus Colonel Anhard Dohönst, had decided to brief the high command i.e the Velaherian People's Army Command, in Bastaria, by informing them of the events that have happened since the Velaherians had captured the city of janikis and what their future plans were, regarding the situation of baltija and of kauni, and whether if the velaherian motorized forces would invade baltija with the dokvetskans or not.. The Colonel has kept regarding the situation that the VFDB (Velaherian Forces deployed in Baltica) finds itself in, the first of which is, the lack of domestic support for the dokvetskan regime, as several men of the velaherian support group have found themselves being resisted by the ethinic minority groups inside the dokvetskan controlled areas, and even some forms of illegal activities have been carried out against the velaherian forces, which have caused concern for him, though through some forms of repression they could fix this issue in no time. Despite this, there is also a problem of training the dolchic army to fight against the other armies, which hasnt gone quite as expected, as the equipment losses for the dolchics has been pretty significant in the recent operations, the main reason behind this was the lack of training and the mass conscription of unfit people into the military, as per the colonel's thoughts, though these issues plagued the velaherian people's army's reserve forces as well, so it is not that big of an issue. As per the future plans of the VFDB, the colonel said that the VFDB would now focus more on routing itself along with the dolchics towards baltija while it can, though the first priority would still be to pacify janakis and shell the frontlines of baltija and the remnant areas, that are left to be brought under dolchic control, though only time will tell what would happen next. With this the colonel ended his brief to the Military command and went on with his day, inside a posh appartment in janakis while the other men, continued to do their work of barricading the city from enemy forces. 9 Link to comment
Baltica Posted April 6, 2022 Author Share Posted April 6, 2022 Baltic Federative Union With the recent peace in Kauni, Raskia has begun to pursue the first steps towards Ras Unification. Although their relations with Kauni have been damaged because of the forced withdrawal of a Raskian troops from Northern parts of Kauni, they are currently the only state (Not counting the various pro Raskian rebel groups in Baltija and Baltica) that are considering reunification. But with this comes many hurdles, the most important is how this integration should take place. Jouzas Vejas and Nekolas Armenas would both meet in Sveaja to discuss this new process of reconstruction. Both agreed that a full unification before the conflict was over would be out of the question, seeing as the process of uniting would require a great amount of time, money and resources that could and should be spent elsewhere. Additionally, the period of instability following such a big unification might open them up to invasion from either Baltija or Dokestva. It was decided that instead of unifying straight away, they would form a faction within the civil war that would allow for a much more gradual economic and industrial cooperation. It would also help re-establish power grids, as well as infrastructure networks. Although they couldn't do anything when it came to defence and military due to the Kauni Agreement, it was a step in the right direction either way. This new “Alliance”, would go under the name of the Baltica Federative Union or BFU. Industura (Formally one of the largest construction companies operating in Baltica) would begin their expansion into Kauni, helping set up similar refugee camps to what they had constructed in Ladija. The hope was to work in tandem with coalition forces to provide a safe area for refugees before they can be assigned work or transferred to inner Raskia or Kauni. (New Refugee camp under construction) However, with the introduction of the BFU, Raskia has finally decided to step in and act against Baltija. They had tried to diplomatically sort out the schism that had formed between them, but with talks breaking down and Baltija not seizing its conquest of Baltica, and the formation of Belgorta had finally crossed the line. The Raskian army had finished mobilising, and it was time for them to pacify Baltija once and for all. Using their links within the Interwar in Western Baltija, they would gain valuable information about troops stationed in the front line town of Dukstaja, which the Interwar warned was heavily built up. Trenches lined the city, and buildings had been turned into makeshift bunkers, not to mention the large minefield that now made up the once large raspberry fields. But nonetheless, the order to take the city passed the Ras Parliament and the first Uzli Army Battalion began marching East. The Battle for Dukstaja Over ten thousand troops had amassed around the city, staying hidden in the deep forest cover. They had largely gone unnoticed, the Interwar working hard to suppress reports of troop movements and purposely sabotaged scouts by giving them wrong directions and coordinates. It had been largely successful, helping completely hide how many troops were amassing around the city. The plan was to use mortars to temporarily shell the town, and trigger as many mines as they could before their advance. Just as the sun began to peek over the hills, Raskia began their shelling. It was somewhat sporadic, and very much inaccurate but did manage to hit some of the inner city buildings and minefields. It lasted three hours, during which over 120 mortar shells had been fired. Then the army began advancing. Many in the first wave incidentally died to the mines, but not as many as had been expected. The Baltijan garrison that had been stationed in the city was caught completely off guard and was just barely able to scramble into their positions. However, due to this, they could not arm their machine gun positions fast enough. This allowed Ras army groups to easily disable Baltijan building holdouts using grenades and rocket launchers. The Western half of the city was taken in just an hour. The Interwar (Which made up a small part of the garrison) would also rise up, and take over holdouts in the North, and would help the Ras in their final push towards the South-Eastern part of the city. By then most of the garrison had been captured, but central Baltijan command had told the remaining troops to refuse surrender and continue fighting. This did not stop large parts of the Baltijan garrison from surrendering, however, but what troops remained hid in the buildings and would use their knowledge of the city to ambush and quickly attack Ras troops before retreating. It resulted in full urban warfare, and a complete stop to the Raskian advance, as now they were forced to clear every building one by one. What was thought to be a quick victory, would become a long and brutal battle. By the morning of the next day, although much of the city had been secured, the small remnants of the garrison still persisted with their constant attacks. It was only after chemical gases were released into the sewers, that the attacks subsided and eventually came to an end. (Remains of Dukstaja) The battle was a large Ras victory, and the Interwar would report that Baltijan troops retreated from the Dukstaja county altogether. Soon the city would become an important military hub, and a gateway into Baltija once the rest of the army finishes arriving. As the time for diplomacy passes, it is time to show Baltija the full might of Raskia… 9 Link to comment
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