From john.penta at gmail.com Thu May 1 09:47:09 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Thu, 1 May 2008 09:47:09 -0400 Subject: [War] US: I need that vacation! Message-ID: "I need that vacation!" 19 April 2014 Pres. John Williams USA ================ As POTUS packed for his vacation in Hawaii, he heard a knock at the door. "It's open!" With that, his military aide walked in. "Russian Defense Minister has been assassinated. Plus the attacks we mentioned earlier." "It is Bob's responsinility." There was a lack of enthusiasm in his voice there. "I know you hate saying that, sir." "Damn right, Colonel." "You need the vacation anyway. There's always a crisis somewhere." "I know, Kay gave me that lecture already." "Consider this my agreement with that. Besides, you deserve to use your damn scuba card." "I know, but still..." "Here's a hint from Lincoln's ghost: Even he took vacations." "I await to hear from him myself." "No doubt you will. By your leave, sir?" "Dismissed. Have NRO task some sats to keep eyes continuously on the Caucasus. Tasking 08-9076." "Yes sir." With a nod, the football carrier strode out. POTUS collapsed on his bed in a tired heap, then. --- Actions: 1. US Sats to keep a continuing watch on the Caucasus, conflict zones plus borders with Iran. 2. OOC Request for comment: Should Williams be visited by Lincoln's ghost? From john.penta at gmail.com Fri May 2 13:00:01 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Fri, 2 May 2008 13:00:01 -0400 Subject: [War] US-NATO: Summit call Message-ID: Fr: POTUS To: All NATO Nations, NATO SecGen Re: Call for Emergency Summit [Encrypted, Polaris-class protocol] Colleagues, From my position in Hawaii, I have been watching events in the Caucasus with alarm. However, alarm does not mean running ahead of one's allies. Thus, I ask the Secretary-General to call a summit of the North Atlantic Council at Heads of State/Government level, via secure videoconference, at the earliest possible opportunity to enable discussion and coordination of the Alliance response. Williams [OOC: Techy chewy thing: I'm presuming the existence of a hightech secure video conferencing system, just brought online, for consultations between NATO governments. Integrated with a neat virtual-world thing, to enhance collaboration. Powered by server clouds in each capital and at NATO HQ. Why? Cuz its NATO, and it'd be cool. And it neatly allows Williams to listen to the docs and for me to RP.] From ssiruuk25 at yahoo.com Sun May 4 13:11:06 2008 From: ssiruuk25 at yahoo.com (Daniel Garcia) Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 13:11:06 -0400 Subject: [War] France: A Change in the Agenda, Episode II: Attack of the Terrorists Message-ID: "France: A Change in the Agenda, Episode II: Attack of the Terrorists" President Pierre Legrand, French Republic April 19, 2008 (OOC: I almost appended a title last time, but in light of my giving this post a title, I hereby declared the previous post to be: "A Change in the Agenda, Episode I: The Phantom Revolt"! And I will now hide before someone comes to kill me...) "So now what," Gautier Tessier, Prime Minister of France, said testily as he came into the room. Legrand and Minister of Foreign Affairs Renaud Perroy were there waiting, and had evidently been chatting idly. Gautier knew Legrand was a hard working man, and he showed that on several occasions. But other times, Legrand dropped any pretense of doing any work, and would chat or tell stories. Legrand had once explained that it was part of his managerial style. Gautier was, understandably, dubious. "The Russian Minister of Defense has been assassinated in Moscow," Legrand said evenly. He was clearly unhappy at this turn of events. There was, Gautier realized upon reflection a definite sense that things in the Caucasus were spiraling out of anybody's control. "Any clue on who it was," Gautier said, sitting down. Or, more accurately, falling down into a chair. "No, things are too chaotic at the moment," Renaud said. Then, as if to belie that statement, "Both in Moscow and the Caucasus." "You think the two situations are related," Gautier said. It was, perhaps an obvious inference, but that which was obvious is not always true. And besides, the implications of the events in the east were becoming increasingly disconcerting. "That the various restive parts of the Caucasus should erupt in revolt at the same time with apparently no connecting issue is unlikely, yet still plausible," Legrand pointed out. "That only days later the Russian Minister of Defense, under escort, should be assassinated decreases the odds that these events are unrelated substantially. Moreover, an assassination like this I imagine takes some time and careful planning and preparation to succeed. Two days would not have been enough. "My daughter Anastasie," Legrand continued, "once tried to explain to me something of the theory of relativity. It was more or less lost on me, but one thing I do remember was that she said that two events widely separated in distance but in close succession in time could not be related. Neither event could cause the other, no matter what you tried to do. But both events could have the same cause, if that cause took place sufficiently far in the past. That's what she said causality was." "Then the question is what event triggered all this," Gautier said. Legrand shrugged ruefully. "Gautier, have the French intelligence services begin looking into events," Legrand said carefully. "We should begin taking this more seriously." "Perhaps we should liaise with the other European governments on this. And the Russians," Renaud suggested. Legrand thought it over, then shook his head. "No, for the moment we'll keep this to ourselves. If approached, be honest," Legrand said. "Otherwise, we'll await events." "It's never a good idea to wait for events," Gautier said gruffly. "And yet, that is all that we can do for now," Legrand pointed out. Gautier didn't like that much, but nodded. The room was silent thereafter. "We should send our condolences to the Russian government and the late Minister's family," Renaud finally pointed out. "Yes," Legrand said, nodding slowly. "More discretely we should point out our concern to the Russians, and see if there's anything we can't do." "You think we should involve ourselves in this," Gautier said dubiously. Legrand shook his head. "I'm not sure that we should, but I think we'll be involved anyway," Legrand said sadly. ACTIONS: 1) Express condolences to the Russian government and Minister Yoselev's family on the apparent assassination of Defense Minister Gregor Yoselev. 2) Ask the Russian government if, in light of recent events, there is anything the French government might do to assist in the Caucasus in the short term at least. The French government is concerned. 3) Have French intelligence begin digging around. Something's rotten in the state of Denmar... er... the Caucasus! From ssiruuk25 at yahoo.com Sun May 4 13:36:34 2008 From: ssiruuk25 at yahoo.com (Daniel Garcia) Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 13:36:34 -0400 Subject: [War] USA-France: Discussions a World Apart Message-ID: <0A966941-CEE0-432A-8204-DAEC827A2EA4@yahoo.com> "USA-France: Discussions a World Apart" President John Williams, United States of America President Pierre Legrand, French Republic April 22, 2014 (OOC: This, I suppose, takes place after the first day of the invasion.) In Hawaii, John Williams is in a polo shirt and shorts, looking over the latest briefs from the...situation in Azerbaijan on his secure comp. "And I was supposed to be getting away from this shit," he mutters. In Paris, Pierre Legrand walked calmly through a stormy sea of advisors and officers, as news continued to come in from Azerbaijan. Many of them had long since discarded jackets and ties. Legrand remained immaculately and finely, however. His only concession to casuality was that his jacket was unbuttoned, and his right hand was in a vest pocket. Legrand would, from time to time, stop, ask a question or two, and then move on. To those who appeared stressed he would tell an amusing anecdote before moving on to drain some of the tension. At this point there wasn't much else to do. Then he saw an aide gesturing from a doorway, and walked into the room. There was waiting a computer set up to video conference with the President of the United States. Legrand wasn't entirely sure about this new technology. He was, perhaps, more comfortable than many his age with the technology, but often was at a loss for even the point. He sat down in front of the computer as aides brought up the connection, polishing his glasses while he waited. The NATO star appeared on both screens. PLEASE STAND BY, read the text below it, in both languages. "Monsieur President," Williams said as his image appeared in Paris (and Legrand's image appeared on the screen in Hawaii), "Welcome to the world of technology." There was a playful grin on his face as he teased the older man; he knew of the other's doubts, and couldn't help but needle him a bit. "I'm told NRO has sent our satellite take over?" "Hello Mr. President," Legrand said. The younger man was smiling at him playfully as Legrand also briefly eyed the screen carefully, hunching over as he did so. The quality was amazing, almost as good as the old science fiction films had promised. To Legrand, Williams' smile seemed to grow a bit as he did this. Legrand straitened himself, taking on his usual rigid posture. The aide closest to the screen moved quickly to adjust the position. It had been forgotten that Legrand was quite tall and liked to sit quite straight. "Yes, we have the images here. What do your people say about the scale of the forces the Iranians have deployed?" "They're going for the oil fields, division strike force of Revolutionary Guard, including the airborne troops dropped." Williams stated. "They picked Nagorno-Karabakh to invade, so I have the Armenians -and- the Azeris freaking out." "That's still south of the major export pipelines," Legrand observed from a map an aide had handed to him. He pondered for a moment. "The Iranians, then, are going after the oil? That seems a strange thought. How developed are the oil fields in this portion of Azerbaijan? Most of the oil, I seem to recall, was in the Caspian Sea region." "There was a find about 5 years ago by ExxonMobil. At least 50 billion barrels." Williams noted, pulling up a situation map on both screens. "At -least-. They...were still doing exploratory drilling, using their local engineers, thank God." Legrand looked thoughtful. But then he shook his head. "I presume the infrastructure, roads and such, are not well developed being away from the main centers of population. This is difficult. What measures has your government undertaken," Legrand asked cautiously, still thinking. "Currently we're watching and observing - The Azeris have yet to ask for help, so we're evacuating dependents and nonessentials. Only half a plane left, so if you want out with us, sign up now." Williams replied. "That would be most appreciated, Mr. President," Legrand said. Then, after a pause he gave a look as though he had come to a conclusion. "The Iranians can not be allowed to permanently occupy either part or all of Azerbaijan." "Agreed, but I'm a little busy trying to put out fires in the Far East at the moment. Thus, for now, what the hell can we -do- about it? "I'd suggest a UN Chapter 7 resolution, but it'd be instantly vetoed by China." "Perhaps," Legrand said. "It should in any case be tried. However, there are other routes. A sovereign nation has been invaded. We should strongly suggest to the Azeri government that it ask for help, perhaps even go so far as to sign a treaty of alliance against Iran. Russian cooperation will also be necessary." "Agreed, but do you really see Nemerenko giving a fuck about Azerbaijan with his Defense Minister dead? I mean, really." Williams noted. "Besides, Nemerenko is too much of a pragmatist to challenge an Iranian fait accompli, my sense of him is." Legrand noted that Williams was quickly becoming tired, and frowned. He had been assured that Williams' recent public problems were minor in scope, but it was becoming clear that this man was too tired to forge ahead. Whatever happened in the coming days, determined and active leadership would be necessary, leadership which had, since the end of the Second World War, came from the President of the United States. If the American President was too tired to rise to the occasion, there were serious problems. "I think you underestimate the likely concern of the Russian government," Legrand said, hiding his concerns effectively. "The Caucasus are, by the Russians' own declaration, their sphere of influence. They are not likely to take kindly to this invasion. Of course, the Russians have their hands full at the moment. But at the very minimum, we will need the Russians' acquiescence." Legrand paused for a moment, and looked down at the map in his hands. Then he continued. "Unless you believe the Iranians are likely to crumple under diplomatic pressure, or respond to sanctions which will necessarily be incomplete, the likely course that events must follow is that Iran must be ejected from Azerbaijan through the use of force. There are, as a matter of geography, a limited number of ways to come at Iran keeping in mind that our goal is to liberate Azerbaijan and not conquer Iran. Russia is the best route, using it's infrastructure and the Caspian Sea would be the simplest way to get to the heart of the problem. The only other proximate avenues by which the Iranian advance may be countered are through Georgia or Turkey and Armenia, both presenting less infrastructure and in the case of Turkey and Armenia greater natural obstacles. And moreover, the Georgians also have their hands full." Williams looked thoughtful. "The bullet snugly under my skin keeps me wary," he noted, gesturing at his chest. "Long story behind it, but I will say it ain't a NATO-standard round." Then. "Wanta bet those incidents are Iranian in origin? No evidence, but it feels about right." "Indeed," Legrand nodded. "It has occurred to us. At this point, there's not much we can do about that except look for evidence that these events *are* related. That would strengthen our hands diplomatically, but it doesn't change the basic dilemma. We can not accept Iranian occupation of Azerbaijan, but the Iranians are unlikely to remove themselves without the use of force against them." "Yeah, and mine are out of position, land forces anyway." "I don't think anyone is in position," Legrand said with a dour smile. "It will be some time before any of our forces can reach the region. In the meantime, we should begin pushing on the diplomatic front, and should begin planning for a military campaign." "Agreed - You'll need to carry the water diplomatically, though I'll assist. My being an Iraq -and- Afghanistan vet is ripe for Iranian posturing. Meanwhile, I plan to ask the North Atlantic Council to have SACEUR stand up the NATO Response Force - will France be contributing?" Williams asked. "I think I can guarantee that France will be fully involved here," Legrand said firmly. "Understood....Kayleigh would hurt me if she heard this, but...Damn, part of me wishes I was still on active duty right now, tabbed for combat," Willams mentioned. Then, a squeal could be heard, followed by "Bababababababababababa", from off-camera. Luke, evidently, felt it necessary to announce that he was awake. Legrand smiled warmly, remembering when his own children had been young. Those had been good days. Of course, Mathieu had been quite load at times. "I myself was never in the military, and wouldn't have been of any use had I been," Legrand said, before steering the conversation back towards the major issues at hand. "We should, at least, begin thinking of from where we will act against Iran if it becomes necessary," he said. "It's a question with military dimensions, but also diplomatic ones. I feel that we should try to persuade the Russians to allow us to operate out of their territory. That way we can either shield or quickly liberate, as the case may be, the economic and political heart of Azerbaijan at Baku from the Iranians most easily. Even if the Russians do not contribute troops, it would also be an important statement against the Iranians." "And if they don't?" "If they dont, though I think there is a strong chance they will," Legrand said, "I think our second choice is Georgia. As I understand, the terrain is the next most amenable. Moreover, Georgia has been seeking to align itself with NATO for a number of years now. This could easily be pitched as a stepping stone towards NATO membership, particularly if the Russians decline to assist to sort out this mess. Indeed, that would be a good point to make to the Russians to boost the odds that they will cooperate." Legrand smiled wanly at the last statement. He crossed his hands over his stomach. He had at times been accused of being soft. But appearances often belied reality. "The Georgians will get membership regardless if I have anything to say about it," Williams replied. "They're a European island in an Asian sea, geography notwithstanding, same as Armenia. But we can have that argument later." "The inevitability of Georgia's membership is besides the point," Legrand said. "Anything we do to hasten their membership, to make it more inevitable, will come hard to the Russians. And if Georgia's participation indeed becomes the keystone in the arch of Georgia's membership admittance, the Russians would have a hard time to reconcile themselves." "In any case," Legrand said, re-centering the topic, "the Russians I think should be the first people we approach. It is their backyard." "Your ball, then. For a simple reason: My doc is already threatening me with the 25th Amendment for this much; The arguing with the Russians might see him follow through." "I understand," Legrand said slowly. "Perhaps, then, your Secretary of State should make himself very visible. American involvement will be key, even if France takes the lead." "He will; Chris will be in Paris in," Williams checked a clock, "18 hours to follow up and establish a 'forward presence' on this. Sorry for the short notice." "Very good," Legrand said. "I suppose there is one final matter of concern. If hostilities with the Iranians begin, it wouldn't be difficult for them to close the Strait of Hormuz." "Presuming they will. Thank God for hybrids - but we still only get a 45 day supply out of the SPR. Plus, the Saudis can't so readily ship from Jeddah, I'm told." "It would be a terrible problem," Legrand said. "France's reserve is approximately the same size as yours. Perhaps we should think about trying to keep the Strait open. Even if the Saudis could switch ports, that leaves the Kuwaitis and Emiratis in a bind." "I don't think it's *possible* to protect supertankers against the mine threat - and I'm unsure the insurers would be willing to try." "I don't think it's possible to not try," Legrand said, being handed a sheet, reading as he spoke. "When Iran's oil production was drastically curtailed, there was a major rise in oil prices. Saudi Arabia itself produces approximately ten percent of the world's oil or thereabouts. Iran produced approximately five percent, and the other Gulf states add another five percent. Iraq also supplies a good amount of oil through the Gulf. I'd say that it's likely that if the Iranians close the Strait of Hormuz, easily fifteen percent of oil now on the market would go off the market. And that goes to twenty percent when compared to six months ago." Legrand took his glasses off and made a small show of cleaning them with a handkerchief. His face showed some of the concern it all added up to. "The cost of an interruption of the supply of that much oil to the international economy are too high to ignore," Legrand said. "We should think long and hard about doing everything we can to keep the Strait open. The cost of trying to do so are high, but so would the cost of not doing so." "Perhaps," Legrand said, then paused. He was still for a moment, looking off the side abstractly before resuming. "Perhaps we should give some consideration to occupying the Iranian side of the narrows on a strictly temporary basis." Williams nodded. "If we're going to go to war, than we may as well go all the way with it. I hope to God our nuclear intel is right." "Yes," Legrand said, before remembering something. "Mr. President, I understand the ballistic missile defense sites in Eastern Europe are not yet operational. Do you know how much effort it would take to bring those sites to operational status?" Williams typed quickly. "Three weeks, if you have cash to spare to rush some of the work from an 8-hour day to a 3-shift cycle; I won't be able to get the appropriations out of Congress fast enough. They have electrical work and some crew quarters work left. They'll be training as they go, unfortunately." "That will have to do," Legrand said sagely. Then smiled. "I'm sure I can find some funding which could speed the effort in some dark corner. And I'm sure some other nations in Europe would be willing." "Ah, the dark corners of the budget process. Such disturbing memories." Williams laughed, as the screen went out of focus for a second. "Luke, the mouse is not a chew toy." A baby's face suddenly filled the screen as Luke tried to gnaw on the camera, before the President pulled him back and walked off. "There, safely in his playpen with -his- toys." Legrand laughed. He had to take off his glasses to wipe a tear of laughter from his eye. "My own Samuel, the great Computer Scientist," Legrand said jovially and with a hint of mockery, "would be ashamed to know his first experience with a computer quite ruined the keyboard. It was, perhaps, still usable but the smell was something which could not be overcome." John laughed at that. "Don't give Luke any ideas!" he warned. "He gets enough from Uncle Iulius!" Who definitely enjoyed his friend's occasional haplessness before his son's machinations. "I am sure," Legrand said, coming back to the matters at hand. "In any case, I will try to work something out with regards to the missile defense funds by the time Secretary Hill arrives here. I assume that military planning is most conveniently routed through SHAPE? I will instruct those officers inserted there to cooperate fully with SACEUR, and will have additional officers sent to more effectively coordinate our planning with NATO's central planning." "Yes...Have you given thought to just reintegrating completely with the aliance?" Williams asked. "We shall see how this war goes before thinking about how to fight the next one," Legrand said non-commitally. He wasn't about to be drawn into a discussion on the issue. At the same time, he wasn't going to deny the prospect that this conflict could greatly change France's feelings towards NATO. "Fair enough." Williams replied, nodding sagely. Legrand nodded. "Then, perhaps, with some bare agreement," Legrand said, "I will let you get back to making sure that... Luke, was it not? Making sure that Luke does not make your keyboard smell as my Samuel made mine smell so many years ago." Williams smiled. "Nah, I changed him before the call." Pause. "Hopefully, we can meet face to face in better circumstances." "That would be nice, Mr. President," Legrand said pleasantly. "Then I will take my leave. Have a good..." Legrand calculated for a moment. "Have a good morning and a good day Mr. President." "Have a good night, Mr. President." Williams replied, before the connection cut to the NATO Star and a CONNECTION TERMINATED message. Pierre Legrand sat back thinking over the conversation. He then shrugged, that great Gallic pastime. Standing he noticed an aide standing by the door as if he were one of his children when they had been young and badly needing to use a restroom. Just beyond the aide, a general was standing more patiently but still with some degree of restlessness. Legrand shook his head to himself before striding out of the smaller room. The aide immediately began giving a frantic report, and the general stood to attention. Legrand listened amusedly. He would probably spend the next hour or so wandering around, helping to make sure that the right decisions were being made. He himself didn't need to make them, not these. There could be no major decisions until the major problems made themselves clear. So, he did his best not to worry, and to alleviate the worries of others. His own worries would come soon enough. ACTIONS: 1) The US evacuates its citizens, and France's citizens catch a ride. 2) France approaches the Russians about the crisis, and quietly brings up the possibility that if it becomes necessary to evict the Iranians by force, Russian cooperation would be very helpful, even if such cooperation amounted to simply basing in and transiting through Russian territory. 3) Also, very quietly, France approaches Georgia as a just-in-case. 4) France approaches Azerbaijan and Armenia about defending against the Iranian invasion. Particularly begin probing them on their asking for outside assistance. 5) France agrees to help (read contribute money to) bring the Eastern European US missile defense sites online. Legrand will scrounge up the money, post-haste, somehow. 6) The US and France reach an understanding that should the use of force become necessary, NATO will have the lead and will begin planning for the various eventualities. Needless to say, France boosts its presence inside SHAPE immediately. 7) The US Secretary of State will be coming to Paris to help begin the process of building an international (and in particular NATO) consensus and response. From Chazenesq2b at aol.com Sun May 4 19:52:32 2008 From: Chazenesq2b at aol.com (Chazenesq2b at aol.com) Date: Sun, 4 May 2008 19:52:32 EDT Subject: [War] China: "Inconvenient" Message-ID: "Inconvenient" President Xia Hong The People's Republic of China April 22, 2014 ============================================ (The Executive Resident- Beijing) The secured Conference Room in the Executive Residence was rarely used. Xia typically preferred meeting her advisors one at a time, handling each issue in turn rather than taking everything at once. Occasionally however you came across situations that required multiple points of view, and concurrent operations, to get through. Pre-planning for the North Korean operation for example. Natural disaster response was the last reason the room had been utilized... and now the prospect of an all out war in an area harboring one quarter of the world's remaining petroleum reserves... that was the reason the full cabinet had been assembled this go around. "Let's get the easy job out of the way first." Xia announced as she took her seat at the head of the oval table. "I've drawn up an official memorandum that will be forwarded to the Russian government, offering our condolences for their loss as well as offering any assistance we can provide. I expect everyone here to sign it." The document was passed around. Everyone signed it. "Now, the more pressing issue. Iran and Azerbaijan." Xia tucked the document in a diplomatic courier's book carrying the official seal of China and passed it off to an aide from State who would oversee the actual delivery of the document. "What do we know?" Marrim Cai, head of the Ministry of Security and Intelligence knew the question was addressed to him, even if it was asked aloud. "Very little, madam President. The fact of the matter is that Azerbaijan has never been 'that' important, and thus we have few assets in the area. What we do know is limited to human intelligence gathered from Iran itself, and the television reports. Our contacts in the Iranian government received no information regarding the terrorist attacks the Iranians are citing as casus belli for their invasion. This indicates a likelihood that the Iranian government is attempting to mislead us. We have no concrete evidence yet either way." "I'm sure that will change." Xia sighed, looking down on the host of reports assembled on the incident. She knew Marrim would get hard to work looking for new sources of information and establishing contacts. It's what he was good at. "I'd like to avoid getting drawn into a conflict that doesn't directly concern us if at all possible. What are our diplomatic options?" Dewei Li, the Minister of State who had been uniquely critical of the North Korean situation (although carefully so) took it upon herself to answer the question as it fell into his purview. "After discussing things with my fellow ministers, I believe we've come to an agreement regarding a diplomatic initiative. We should invite an Iranian delegation to Beijing to explain the reasoning behind their attacks. Should they continue to tow the same line, we can then prevail upon them to allow for United Nations oversight. A refusal of such would definitely clue us in upon their real intentions. At the same time, we can begin negotiations with regional powers. It's likely the United States through NATO will also be looking for allies in the area, allowing us to have indirect discussion regarding..." "Please, let's save North Korea for later." Xia sighed. "In the interim, you are clear to begin a diplomatic initiative in the region. Work as closely as possible with the Pakistanis, their proximity and history with Iran would make them valuable allies. Other nations of interest naturally would be Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekhistan, Armenia, and Georgia. I'd like to request Russian diplomatic and economic involvement as well." She didn't want the Russians to feel overwhelmed, and asking for a commitment of any kind to military intervention at this point, before the avenues of diplomacy had been tried would be doing just that. "And please do invite the Iranian delegation. I would like to speak to them directly regarding their intentions. We may also want to see a delegation from Azerbaijan... although we've had lukewarm decent relations with the Iranians, I don't intend on trusting them to provide me with the whole story." "It's likely the Americans, through NATO, are already working on their response." Bing pointed out, the Minister of Defense leaning forward as he folded his hands. "Should American troops be committed to actively repelling the Iranians, one might call it poetic justice if we aided the Iranians in showering Williams with as many body bags as possible." "Poetic maybe, justice absolutely not." Xia sneered in a way so palpable most of those in the room aware of Bing's level of access were astonished. The fact of the matter was, although she did an excellent job at hiding it when necessary, she loved America. Part of her, the part who had an American mother and was daughter to a Chinese Ambassador, absolutely loved the principles upon which that nation was founded. Likewise however, she absolutely hated the adeptness of the American public to dredge up the absolute dumbest members of it's society, and than elect the worst of the worst into positions of power. "I am not Williams, and I will not be fighting a war by proxy out of a desire for vengeance, regardless of how well deserved it would be. I can't do that to the innocent family members of those who would die, to the citizens of three nations, not just to make a point of spite!" Taking a breath she refocused herself. "If the Iranians can provide the evidence to support their claims satisfactorily, than we will provide diplomatic support for them at the United Nations. If they can not... then we will proceed with punitive measures, starting with diplomatic isolation." "We can also use economic retaliation as a tool." Qiang Feng, the Minister of Commerce pointed out. He didn't normally speak at these meetings, being more of an introvert and economic genius than political strategist. However there were times when he could get a spark of brilliance. "We are their second largest export and import market, behind Japan and Germany respectively. Both Japan and Germany are likely to follow the American line if history is to be considered, and therefore Iran would be more reliant on us than normal. A threat of severing that relationship could bring them to terms... as for dealing with any lapse in petrol supplies, I'm pleased to report I fully believe the Chinese economy can cope. Greater ethanol production, the provision of new hydro, nuclear, and even solar power sources, I believe the policies this government has pursued over the previous year make us uniquely resilient compared to the past. In addition, a closer relationship with Russia could mean that we would be able to offset any loss in Iranian imports almost completely." "Agreed. I think it's obvious that nobody will leave 'this' situation unscathed." Xia murmured as she contemplated the option. Damned Iranians picked a real inconvenient time to crazy fanatic on everyone. "I would like all of you to establish an inter-operative council to make recommendations on what we can expect 'if' Iran does not change course, and how China can best prepare itself and react. I know we've been trying to move away from fossil fuels, but whatever research we are involved in that area must be advanced." There were nods all around. "Now, military options?" She hated asking that question. "If all else fails, we will require significant international assistance, at least passively, to make a military operation feasible." Bing put a folder on the table. "We have the manpower to handle North Korea 'and' two other smaller operations simultaneously if need be, but the planning for combat also means having the 'right' troops available. Our air transport and sea transport assets are largely tied down in North Korea, so direct insertion of combat forces ourselves is unfeasible at this time. Slightly more feasible, but unlikely, would be persuading Afghanistan or Pakistan to allow us to use their nation as a staging point for an invasion, but given how things are I don't think either nation would look forward to having at least 300,000 Chinese troops on their soil, regardless of how temporary it might be. Should it come down to a force of arms, providing material support and training to the Azerbaijani resistance would be our best bet to influence events in the region. Cooperation from one or all of the regional players would be key." "Let's hope it doesn't come down to that, but I can't plead to be optimistic." Xia rubbed her temples. "We should also take law enforcement and internal security precautions. The Iranians are known for their use of terrorism as a tool of foreign policy." "I've already established a specific task force with Mr. Peng and Mr. Cai." Bing had figured she'd bring that out. "Sharing of intelligence, personnel, resources... China is secure from external terrorist attack, and the level of violence in North Korea and Tibet seems like it's beginning to level out, if not decrease." "Good to hear." Xia sat back a little further in her chair. "Now... North Korea. I trust you've all received the French Ambassador's memorandum?" "It was a good laugh." Zhifu Pan, Minister of Government Affairs smiled. In charge of the framework of China's beuracracy, his thoughts really didn't matter save as a voice of the more hard-line elements in China's government. "I know the French were trying to prove a point, but you would 'think' someone in Paris would have fact-checked such a memo before sending it out." He was of course referring to the rebuke regarding 'not having authorization' from North Korea to be in North Korea. "You would think so." Xia had to agree, that was a stupid assertion. It would have been nice if people bothered 'listening' to North Korea's citizenry rather than make up the facts as they see fit. "Ms. Li, I take it I can trust you to respond to our Franco comrades? Please inform them that we 'are' in fact invited even if it wasn't by them, that we 'do' have international authorization even if it isn't by them, and that although we are open to discussions with them, we will not be arbitrating North Korea's future. Any and all statements regarding North Korea should be addressed to the North Korean government, and if 'they' see fit to include us, we will be happy to participate." The former Human Rights activist turned Chinese cabinet member nodded. "Absolutely madam President." "All right, now let's move on to the business of the people for today..." ===================================================== ACTIONS 1. Send an official letter of condolence to the Russian government. Promise any assistance China might be able to offer. 2. China to expand it's intel gathering operations in the Middle East, particularly in Iran and Azerbaijan. 3. A delegation from Iran is invited to Beijing to discuss the reason behind the attack. If there is evidence of good reason, China would be able to turn a blind eye. If there isn't, then other options will need to be considered. Likewise a delegation from Azerbaijan will be invited, as well as representatives from all the regional players. Pakistan's Ambassador to China is to be requested to an audience with Xia herself, regarding Pakistan's stance on the invasion. 4. If Iran CAN NOT produce satisfactory evidence, China to pursue a policy of isolating Iran diplomatically, economically, and possibly supporting Azerbaijani resistance. Support would be limited to provision of small arms, ammunition, mortars, land mines, provisions and supplies, and basic training. 5. Council to be set up composed of experts from all ministries to predict what challenges China may face if it elects to irritate Iran, and how best to streamline the institution of greener technologies and alternative power sources into the Chinese economy. 6. Bureau of Internal Security to be set up between Ministries of Justice, Defense, and Security and Intelligence aimed specifically at protecting China from the threats of terrorism. Pooled talent and resources are the name of the game. 7. Send an official response to France (actual memo to follow) basically diplomatically saying check your facts before opening your damn mouth. :-p **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://esteroic.com/pipermail/war_esteroic.com/attachments/20080504/4c45a20d/attachment-0001.html From john.penta at gmail.com Wed May 7 14:42:11 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Wed, 7 May 2008 14:42:11 -0400 Subject: [War] US: A tiny bit of relaxation Message-ID: "A tiny bit of relaxation" 22 April 2014 Pres. John Williams USA ================ After the conversation with President Legrand, it was definitely time to get his family up, John decided. Well, Luke was already up, so that meant Kay, who he awoke by lightly tickling her ribs. "Joooooohhhhhnnnnn!" She squealed. "That's hardly fair! What time is it?" "Oh, 715, 730." "Then I'm going back to sleep, like Luke." "Silly Kaybear," he teased, lightly kissing her playfully. "He's not only up, but wanted to gnaw on the mouse and camera while I was talking to Paris. Happily, it got Legrand laughing. Which kinda helps." She looked concerned, then remembered what John had told her the night before, the quiet phone call about an Iranian invasion of Azerbaijan...And a bit of Armenia too. "Oh, I can imagine." John smiled, hugging her. "But, 'nough worries. How about we go swimming?" "This early?" "Sure, the water's fine." "You cook breakfast, then." "Of course," he beamed. Within 30 minutes, they were in the ocean, Luke being dived in and out of the waves by mom and dad, and squealing at it. Then came a treat - they were far enough out to meet the dolphins, and sure enough, one popped up nearby, squeaking. Baby squealed, dolphin squeaked. Encouraged by mom, Luke put out a hand, petting the dolphin as Dad got pics. Dolphin squeaked again, then swam off. === Breakfast for the grownups was fun. Eggs, an orange, sausage, and milk. Luke got merely Cheerios and mom. But the Cheerios were fun. Dad played with the Cheerios with him! The rest of the day was like that. Quiet. The occasional message from DC, but nothing much. A slow day in Hawaii. === Actions: 1. Squeak squeak. Accomplishing nothing.:) From john.penta at gmail.com Sat May 10 12:24:16 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 12:24:16 -0400 Subject: [War] US: Tax returns! Message-ID: "Tax returns!" 23 April 2014 Pres. John Williams USA =============== Finally, it was done! A week and a half after filing for an extension, and a week after he'd finished his first draft, came the news John Willisams had been waiting for. His tax return was done! Well, according to his accountant, who was himself going on a vacation after the usual releases to the media were made. Income in the millions got him socked with a fairly big tax bite; reduced by some through the usual tax reduction strategies his financial planner had recommended, but still no small amount. Every year, it had spurred in him a desire for a flat tax. Well, briefly. His current job gave him a unique position with which to see how the government couldn't afford the revenue bite, as had Congress. An email to the doc: "Tax return done. Major stressor gone. Yay." Summed it up. These days, most of his income came from the blind trust required by ethics regs, but a fair bit also came from his rental properties - he'd foregone a rent increase on any of them this year, since these were generally long-term tenants and he hardly needed the money, so it actually came to a paper loss this year. 10% of his income, as was his custom, went to charity - mostly the Combined Federal Campaign, but also more specifically as anonymous donations to various other places - small donations generally speaking, but targeted ones, to nudge causes he supported. As he gained wealth, this added up to...a lot. And in edited form, to remove the personal details like SSNs and keep his anonymous donatrions anonymous, this was all going to the media. --- Actions: 1. The annual tax return releases. From pbuck11 at aol.com Sat May 10 13:13:38 2008 From: pbuck11 at aol.com (Patrick B) Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 11:13:38 -0600 Subject: [War] World report vol 5 Message-ID: <4825D7C2.5040705@aol.com> AR: World Report - For all actions since Volume 2, advancing the timeline to 22 Apr-6 May 2014. United Nations Security Council (Permanent Members): United States, United Kingdom, France, China, Russia United Nations Security Council (Non-Permanent Members): Until September, 2007: India, Egypt, Norway, Mexico, Venezuela Until October, 2007: Canada, Chile, Italy, South Africa, Japan Pending UN Security Council Actions: None Pending UN General Assembly Actions: None United Nations Secretariat: No news. ============== The return of France, The olympics ended the only winner was coke or diet coke not sure which one. =============================================== ACTION RESPONSES ============================= CHINA (PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF) Population Approval: 55% Government Approval: 57% International Favor: 45% Economic Growth: 9.7%, high Inflation: 3.0% Unemployment: 10.1% "The Chinese people are more than a little nervous at the government's response to Iran - while it's understood to be the right thing, karmically, it also unnerves many as yet another step away from China's principle of non-intervention, particularly as cyberattacks continue, now seemingly 24/7, from hackers around the world operating as the "Anti-Communist League of Hackers". They've attacked and defaced seemingly the entire data network of the central government, but seem to be scrupulously avoiding infrastructure nodes. For some reason Chinese government links have been replaced with everything from pictures of cats with captions to a video titled "two girls one cup" which was linked to the People's bank itself. The Great Firewall has cracked under the strain and Chinese citizens are getting access to sites they should not including a free tibet site, Amnesty International, and various pro democracy sites. This may be fortunate for Beijing, as the spring harvest is reported to have failed in rice and wheat, possibly due to the bitter winter in Eastern China. Food riots have already broken out in rural areas, and the price of a kilogram of rice has tripled in Beijing - on the black market, that is. The Iranian invasion has only increased the pressure, as oil's rise squeezes Chinese industry drastically - China remains more oil dependent than Western competitors, and the upward jump in the spot price hurts. JAPAN Population Approval: 52% Government Approval: 53% International Favor: 61% Economic Growth: 2.8% Inflation: 0.6% Unemployment: 4% During Golden Week, on April 29, a 7.6 Earthquake struck 10 km from Tokyo, at 0546 local time. Strikingly, the Diet building was moderately damaged - the timing, coming on Showa Day, is regarded by many superstitious Japanese as punishment by the Kami for the neglect of Japan's position in the world. CANADA Population Approval: 40% Government Approval: 36% International Favor: 50% Economic Growth: 2.5% Inflation: 5.6% Unemployment: 6.2% While green types laud the government for its intention, the plans for massive expansions of the National Park system run into a few interrelated problems. Firstly, there's something of a rural-urban divide in reaction to the plan; In more urban parts of Canada, the plan is approved without issue; Rural Canadians are more opposed, and since private land acquisitions, under eminent domain or outright purchase, are required to link many of the proposed sites into usable habitat corridors, this could torpedo the plan. Next are the perhaps inevitable legal challenges, including a legal case brought by Canadians for Land Reform that challenges the whole system which has 89 percent of Canadian land area owned by the Crown in some form, a suit that has been joined by First Nations groups, resource extraction companies, and farmers and ranchers, all applying for a permanent injunction against any such designation, or at least a temporary injunction so the government can't do an end-run around what is projected to be a long and complex court case. The courts have yet to rule either way. Finally are the budgetary objections - the designation would be pointless without adequate increases in park personnel and the like, and those are...expensive. Early projections place it at 3 billion Canadian dollars. This, naturally, ticks off the Finance Ministry, and budget hawks. However, if the government wanted to spend political capital, all indications are that they might be able to turn their intentions into more than political posturing for which they're being mocked by This Hour Has 22 Minutes and The Rick Mercer Report. Polar bears protected by...environmentalists in nuclear submarines is an image rich in irony, after all. France Population Approval: 55% Government Approval: 62% International Favor: 45% Economic Growth: 2.5% Inflation: 5.6% Unemployment: 6.2% The change in government gets a degree of mockery from late-night comedians, but that ends quickly as all hell breaks loose in the Caucasus - now, the French people are nervous, and the calm, dignified demeanor of the new President gets kudos suddenly. In the climate of fear, money is quickly found to rush the construction of the US missile defense system, after being taken away from funds dedicated to assistance to French Muslims in a bit of anti-Muslim fear on the legislature's part. The French people are confirmed in their nervousness, it seems, when the Armee d'Air and Marine Nationale are forced to ground the entirety of France's complement of Rafale fighters after an engine caught fire in midair during air-to-ground training. with the pilot being killed in the ensuing crash. The MOD is investigating, but there are rumors of a design or manufacturing defect in the engines. RUSSIAN FEDERATION Population Approval: 63% Government Approval: 59% International Favor: 61% Economic Growth: 2.5% Inflation: 5.6% Unemployment: 6.2% Like in other countries, food riots have broken out in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Novgorod, and Smolensk. The price of bread, hit by a failed spring wheat harvest, has risen by 150% in the last month. The silence from the Kremlin has unnerved many - the opinion on the street says Nemerenko is more concerned with winning a Nobel Peace Prize than the bread lines at home. UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Population Approval: 52% Government Approval: 50% International Favor: 64% Economic Growth: 2.9% Inflation: 3.1% Unemployment: 4.2% The president's vacation was recieved with amusement from the press especially when his physician said directly, "if any of you guys get within 5 meters of him I will have the Marines use you for bayonet practice." While some tried to make a big deal of it most of the country seemed to say, let the guy vacation, and the clip of Captain(admiral selectee) Spaulding threatening the media is one of the most popular on Youtube. Though the COmmandant of the US Marine Corps did agree with the doctor's decision and actually personally issued M-14's with bayonets to the security at Camp David with instructions to 'use this on any reporter necessary' Defense Department press spokesmen did say that no reporter would be bayonetted. As for automating the white house the biggest problem identified has been a culture of 'overwork' since people spend millions to win the office, people want to do so much, however the medical slash and burn which has included several dozen enforced vacations, even threatening one staff memeber with execution if he stepped foot in the White house over the next month. The food crunch people are feeling the pinch, prices have gone up. And there are some grumblings, protests have broken out over the failed summit but the leaking of the transcripts puts the blame off the US, which results in people protesting Chinese Embassies. In Chicago Mayor Richard Daley continues to fight the good fight against guns in his city, defying a federal court order and instructing his Police bodyguards to arrest a Federal Judge for violating the city's handgun registration ordinance, which caused the media to report about a standoff beteween the Chicago Police Department and the US Marshal's service. However video footage caught one of the officers referring to the mayor as 'an idiot' during the standoff. Daley however remains defiant and has called on the citizens to "protest the forces of order and chaos in his city." The NATO summit is well recieved and the media hopes we won't go back in to Iraq, Anti War protests have broken out and the city of Berkley California called Williams a War profiteer and mass murderer on par with Hitler's worst efforts. The rest of the country laughs at them. ============================================= ECONOMIC INDICATORS NOTE: Initial indicators were gleaned from as recent sources as possible, for the most recent term possible (annualized). In some cases, the numbers used are published estimates, but the English- speaking nations' data is more or less right from the source. Depression: Economic forces retracting uncontrollably and at a dangerous pace with little end in sight. Recession: Economic forces retracting, but more shallow than Depression and more controlably. Sometimes necessary and part of regular economic trends, although prelonged. Revision: Economic forces retracting slightly and short term, associated with economic systems refitting to accomodate new industries, concentrations, etc. Zero: No movement one way or the other. Low: Comparatively low Economic growth/activity. (miniscule to about 2%, depending) Good: Average economic activity (ranging from 2%-5% normally) High: Above average performance (Greater than 5%) Sometimes dangerous if in excess of 8% continuously. SITES OF INTEREST WAR Website: http://war.dagarcia.net/ Nova Horizon Simulations: http://www.novahorizon.com United Nations: http://www.un.org/ Central Intelligence Agency: http://www.cia.gov/ CIA World Factbook: https://www.cia.gov/cia/publications/factbook/ Federation of American Scientists: http://www.fas.org/ GlobalSecurity.org: http://www.globalsecurity.org/ CNN: http://www.cnn.com/ BBC: http://www.bbc.com/ New York Times: http://www.nytimes.com/ From john.penta at gmail.com Sat May 10 22:28:06 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Sat, 10 May 2008 22:28:06 -0400 Subject: [War] US: Hi, Chicago. Message-ID: "Hi, Chicago." 26 April 2014 Pres John Williams USA =============== "Kay, you're from Chicago. Well, close enough, anyway," John grinned as they watched the news. "What the hell is with Daley? Why does he seem to want to " Kay threw a pillow at him. He ducked, and it flew harmlessly by, landing near Akela, who whimpered at the humans throwing things when he was napping. "Because he thinks he can. Just," she teased, "like any other man." That got his wife tickled in response, until her squealing got a reaction from Luke, who howled for the attention he felt he deserved. Mom was thus let go from the tickle attack, and as she went to comfort him, Dad grinned as he thought. "Unfortunately, Judge Potter is one of the fair ones." So, with a sigh, he got to writing. --- Fr: POTUS To: Richard M. Daley, Mayor, City of Chicago Re: Recent events involving The Hon. Harold W. Potter, US Dist. Judge, Northern Dist. of IL Mayor Daley: The President, as you know, has an obligation under the Constitution to "take care that the laws are faithfully executed". As you also know, that includes enforcing the decisions of federal courts. Thus, I cannot help but note with regret your attempt to relieve Judge Potter of his pistol, as part of your opposition to the decision of the District Court in the Case of Taylor v. City of Chicago. Mr. Mayor, please understand: I sympathize with your opposition. I may not agree in whole, but I understand it. However, the court's decision was clear: Chicago's regulations were struck down as a result of the decision of the Supreme Court in Parker v. D.C.. The Attorney-General has advised me that a stay of the decision has been denied by the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. As such, Mr. Mayor, I remind you respectfully that we are both sworn to uphold the laws of the United States. You may not like it, but the decision of the Court must be obeyed unless and until you get either a stay of the same decision or the overturning of the decision. It applied in 1954, it applies in 2014. Mr. Mayor, fight things the right way. Seek a stay if you so choose. Until then, sir, you must enforce the decision of the court. Respectfully, John P. Williams President of the United States --- He emailed it to DC for printing and sending to Chicago. "Damn Daley. Do not make an issue of this. Just enforce the damn laws," Williams muttered. --- Actions: 1. Very politely nudge Mayor Daley. Give the gun back to the judge. Enforce the court's decision. Or they can hold you in contempt. Your choice. From john.penta at gmail.com Sun May 11 15:37:09 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 15:37:09 -0400 Subject: [War] US: Bread...and Milk. Message-ID: "Bread...and Milk" 27 April 2014 President John Williams USA ================== Somehow, he'd pulled it off. Escorted only by a plainclothes Secret Service agent, John was managing to...go grocery shopping. Incognito. "Okay, I know prices are higher than on the Mainland...But c'mon, $6.49 for milk?" Williams asked. A nearby shopper chuckled. "Not from around here, huh?" She asked. "In Hawaii, everything is expensive. Especially the basics." "I'm figuring that out, yeah. I'm from Virginia - took the President's example, helped by my doctor telling me to actually use my vacation time. We're renting a place over by the beach." "Yeah, President took a hell of a time to take a vacation, what with everything gettin so expensive. Where do you work?" "White House, actually - I'm one of the guys who work in the situation room. Bob Winters. And you are, ma'am?" "Loretta Jones," said the portly woman. "I work at the Hilton, at the front desk." Then, she paused. Looked at the guy. Looked closer. "Hey, are you...?" Williams smiled. They were alone back here, so he took off the glasses and spoke. "I hoped nobody would notice. But since you did...Yeah, I am. I miss doing the little things like grocery shopping and driving and the like. Nick over here is my Secret Service agent for the day." They shook hands, as the woman looked surprised. "Didn't think you would, Mr. President. Thought you'd just hire someone to do it for you." Williams nodded. "Please, just John. I...It's been nearly 18 months, I still feel like I never really have *earned* that title, Mrs. Jones," he said, noticing the wedding ring on her hand. "I just got it cuz a better guy than me died, and another guy had a car accident." Pause. "Normally, I might - in DC, the White House Mess does it, cuz they're actually responsible for feeding the 1800 people or so who work there...Most of em, and I know I've set a bad example here, work really long days. But on vacation, I want to forget the fact I'm President when I can - so I do my own shopping. She nodded. "Sir...John, I'm from here. Lived here my whole life. Things are gettin expensive, even for here. You may not feel it, but I *do*." Williams nodded. "I know - you're right. Even with Luke, I -don't- feel it so directly. I got lucky, made enough money that I have a bit of a cushion from the prices you get bit by. I'll be honest...before today, I figured 'Oh, the market will take care of it'. Price controls are messy, and I'm as afraid as anybody of a black market for food or something. Or, God help us, food lines. "Now, I'm...not so certain." More people, maybe 4 or 5, had gathered. Nick got nervous. "Uh, folks? Please, save the Secret Service guy's nerves. Not too close, sorry. I don't like that, but it's better than him thinking anybody is reaching for something bad," Williams noted. Everybody stepped back a bit, then Williams continued. "Unfortunately, for the last 40 years the easiest option has been off the table. If Congress allocates a few billion to a huge, stupidity-filled subsidy that makes it smarter not to plant crops, like grains for livestock feeding - or for people - then there is, effectively, nothing I can do: I'm required to spend the money." "Joe Larez, I'm a lawyer with the Hawaii Senate. Why not a line-item veto?" asked a man. "Supreme Court says that's unconstitutional. Believe me, if I could, I'd unilaterally cut back the farm subsidies to encourage spring plantings to be higher." As they walked in what could only be described as 'synchronized shopping', Williams grinned. "Now, if the State of Hawaii would like to encourage a line-item veto amendment, I...am not going to say no? "Next option: Emergency price controls, only until we see how the fall harvests come out. No longer. Raise your hand if you'd like that." Many shoppers did. The manager didn't. "I see we have a possible difference between seller and buyer. See, price he can charge changes. Price he pays doesn't. And grocery, Ag department told me today, is a low-margin business," Williams noted. This went on for a bit, til even POTUS couldn't keep talking. Then, a smile on his face, Williams paid for his groceries At which point he frowned. "Damn, diapers are expensive." In a few hours, some proposals were bound for Capitol Hill. First, a repeal of the Impoundment Control Act of 1974, in exchange for a promise from POTUS that he'd limit the times he used it. Second, if that wasn't good, a proposed Constitutional Amendment to give the President the Line Item Veto. Third, a request to Congress to rescission enough of the farm subsidy to encourage farmers to plant more during Spring Planting. Now, if prices went up, it'd be the Congress's fault. Price Controls would remain under the President's coat, for use only if things got worse. --- Actions: 1. Do thy shopping?:) 2. Ask Congress to either repeal the Impoundment Control Act, pass a line-item veto amendment, or rescission part of the farm subsidy. 3. PR Campaign: The ball is now in Congress's court. They are welcome to respond. From Chazenesq2b at aol.com Sun May 11 18:35:36 2008 From: Chazenesq2b at aol.com (Chazenesq2b at aol.com) Date: Sun, 11 May 2008 18:35:36 EDT Subject: [War] China: "The World on Benders" Message-ID: "The World on Benders" President Xia Hong The People's Republic of China May 6, 2014 ======================================== Sometimes the world really did seem to act, every individually collectively, as if it were a crack whore coming down off an incredible high and badly hurting for another hit, willing to put out to anyone or do anything just for a little more. Substitute crack whore for big business, and hit for oil, and bam you had part of the many new problems facing the world today. Xia was really getting annoyed. No matter what she did, lady luck seemed to be a complete bitch, her invisible hand constantly swatting at Xia no matter what she did. Unfortunately that was life some times. The only thing you could do is pull that bitches hair until she screamed. Failing that option, one had to address the individual symptoms facing one's nation. Therefore she got to work, following a full day of lengthy discussions with everyone from the Ministry of Interior's Bureau of Energy Chief, to the Ministry of Justice and Ministry of Security and Intelligence's Joint Cyber Crimes Task Force (JCCTF) head, and several potential prospects to head what would be a Bureau of Agriculture to serve as an independent executive agency should the legislation be passed. After getting all the facts, the relevant studies, and the risks together, she and her advisors were ready to try their hand at solving things. The first thing to be handled would be the apparent problems with the internet. Apparently it hadn't been heard since she said it the last time, but she DID NOT GIVE A DAMN about what people did or didn't do on the internet, so long as they did not break the law. On that note, she'd gathered together China's top Experts in the fields of Computer Science, E-Business, International Law, and other related fields to revise China's outdated internet laws and bans on material. Their report would be issued to a select committee in the People's Congress who would then pass them on for her signature. If they were going to open up, they would do so under their own terms, not at the hands of a bunch of teenage pranksters with too much time on their hands and internet access. When she had taken a summer course at Cal Tech back in her college days, there was a boy there who'd taken a shine to her that fit the 'hacker-geek' portrait very well. Someone very awkward, physically unappealing, and really could only get laid if they paid for it. Needless to say she was highly insulted when he offered her $350 an hour... and even more so when he thought her offense was because his price was too low. In either case, it was time to do something about the nonsensical and pointless cyber terrorism going on. In addition to liberalizing China's internet laws, the JCCTF would have the go ahead to begin hunting down and tracing back the hackers. They already had good information where most the attacks were coming from, but once a hacker was pinned down there was normally very little they could do of use. The new laws would include legislation allowing the JCCTF to communicate with other policing agencies around the world, informing them of the nature of the crime committed and providing evidence. In places like Germany, the United States, etc. there were already laws in place which prevented this kind of operation regardless of the users. That being said it was quite likely the 'host' nation would be hesitant to do anything. To molify this a little, Xia had let the Ministry of State make it diplomatically clear that China considered these egregious crimes, and would need to pull policing agents away from crimes such as breeches of Intellectual Property or Opium export if they were to be left dealing with these kind of crimes on their own. The Internet out of the way, she now turned her attention to the failed wheat and rice crops this year. The danger was seeing many country farmers lose their few possessions because of bankruptcy, and thus be unable to replant for the next harvest. Therefore along with her Prime Minister she ordered the Ministry of Government Affairs to assist in the creation of a new and independent executive agency which will oversee agricultural affairs. The Bureau of Agriculture would be charged with analyzing agricultural trends, and providing what information and technical advice farmers needed to be as productive as possible. They would provide low-interest loans and grants to farmers to acquire better techniques and more efficient technologies. Likewise a National Academy of Agricultural Science (NAAS) would be established under the Bureau, with the sole purpose of making available to all Chinese farmers (large and small) the best agricultural education available, bar none. The Academy will be charged with advising on government policy with agriculture, educating farmers, and working with the Ministries of Health and Education in developing new standards and technologies for implementation to increase yields. The issue of subsidies to keep farmers afloat during off years would also be resolved. To accomplish this mission, a $3 Billion budget would be assigned. She had also instructed the Ministry of State to take the lead, with advisors from the Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Health, in establishing commercial links for food products from other nations. In particular, they would target South East Asian, Eastern European, and African markets which relied upon agricultural produce for a great majority of their income. If China needed the food, and they needed the money, why shouldn't they come to an agreement if the food was healthy and the price was reasonable? Finally, the issue of Iran, and Oil. She'd already seen to the diversification of China's energy industry. An agreement with Canada to share CANDU technology was enabling China to build the initial reactor (purchased from Canada) and could lead to other contracts should they want to expand their nuclear power base. Likewise, along with Japan, China had begun innovative programs targeting the thirst for oil by developing alternative fuel capacity and possibilities, be it ethanol, clean coal, hydrogren, solar, geo-thermal, hydro, what have you. The technology and knowledge sharing had advanced their programs considerably, but yet oil still, so far, remained the primary source of power. They needed to light a fire under things. So the Bureau of Science and Technology would be made an independent executive agency, like the Bureau of Agriculture. China's top Universities would be combed for the greatest minds, and a National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) second to none in the world would be created. China would move on alternative power sources the way the United States once moved on the atomic bomb, with a massive development program that would hopefully cut China's need for non-synthetic oil not in a matter of decades, but in a matter of years. It was a lot to ask for, but it was a national priority, and Chinese were nothing if not patriotic. Until then, pursuant to expert suggestions, China will shape policy towards vast efficiency improvements that can be made short term, including gas rationing, oil rationing, etc. until things returned to normal. Xia would be asking for $10 Billion to fund this effort this year, but nobody who knew anything was likely to argue about it's necessity. Stooped in thought, she pondered about visiting a few universities herself to ask specifically for the brightest students in engineering, technology, science, and other fields to consider applying for jobs in the alternative fuel program. The fact that the Iranians had not even bothered replying to her request for an audience disturbed her greatly. She had set a meeting of her cabinet for tomorrow to discuss China's options, but there were two things she knew would happen regardless. In that spirit, she recalled her Embassy staff from Tehran, and authorized China's Security Council representative to table a resolution that would call for 3 things. 1. International condemnation of the Iranian invasion of Azerbaijan based on unfounded claims. 2. A demand of proof and evidence of terrorist activities passively or aggressively supported by the Azerbaijani government, or a complete withdrawal of all Iranian forces from Azerbaijan within 72 hours of passing the resolution. 3. An international commitment to the return of Azerbaijan to it's people, the reconstruction of Azerbaijan by an appointed United Nations authority, and an observation and peacekeeping force to oversee the withdrawal of Iranian troops, or the maintenance of human rights should Iran be deemed to have a legitimate reason for the invasion. Finally with Iran, she'd already ordered the PLA, PLAF, and PLN to come up with plans to incorporate a force into a larger international response should that kind of effort be necessary. The Ministry of State would still be authorized to talk to Iran should the Iranians come around, but would focus on 'prepping the field' by speaking with it's neighbors. Last but not least, the issue of North Korea. The last week or two things seemed to have calmed down, which was a good sign. It meant that the insurgency was finally either being snuffed out, or agreeing to become law abiding citizens of North Korea. More importantly, it paved the way for China to begin turning full authority over to North Korea as far as it's defenses go. She would have to address the situation more formally, but already she was requesting the withdrawal of approximately 200,000 troops over the next two months, and rather the development of a Rapid Reaction Force for regional deployment on Chinese soil should it be necessary. She would have to remind the North Koreans they were not on their own, that China valued their friendship, would continue to support them in whatever decisions they as a people made, and despite her own problems would not stop the continuous flow of humanitarian aid still necessary to their survival. It was none the less a positive sign however that perhaps the PRC, and the new DPRK, were slowly approaching the end of this nightmare. ======================================================== ACTIONS 1. Create an Expert Panel (as outlined above) to liberalize and modernize China's Internet laws. Their suggestions and proposals are to be given to a select committee of technology and communications in the People's Congress. It should be made clear that the President wishes these laws passed, including an end to government filtering programs of news and other sites. Likewise it should be made abundantly clear that although the current government has no desire to monitor lawful Internet activities, it will police the net in the same standards and customs laid out by other nations. (IE No Child Porn) 2. Ministry of State to make it clear (and state politely) that China expects cooperation from those nations hosting those committing cyber attacks against it. These nations should punish these people themselves as they would like to see China punish it's nationals were they to hack, say, US Military sites. If this cooperation is not received, we will have to draw resources away from protecting IP rights and the war on drugs. (Hint, hint) 3. The Bureau of Agriculture, as well as the National Academy of Agricultural Science (NAAS) are to be created as outlined above. NAAS will be a part of the Bureau of Agriculture, which will be an independent government agency to provide necessary guidance, technical reference, and enhancements to China's agricultural sector. Grants and low interest loans will be provided so that failed farmers can enhance their knowledge base, and increase the yield and quality of their crops next year, as well as survive this year. Techniques and new technologies are to be investigated for usefulness, and the experts can determine along with the requisite oversight what policies are best for implementation. $3 Billion to be budgeted this year for immediate action. Price controls to be instituted if believed necessary. 4. For immediate relief, China will reach out to the rest of Asia, Eastern Europe, and Africa. They have largely agricultural economies and need money, and we are in need of food. If the quality is good, and the price is reasonable, why not make a deal? 5. Bureau of Science and Technology (BST) to be created much along the lines of the Bureau of Agriculture, and a National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST) is to be constructed, satellite programs to be instituted at China's top Universities as outlined above. It's to be a Manhattan Project like endeavor called the Alternative Fuel Program (AFP) aimed at getting us off the Texas Crack... errr... Tea. To be funded to the amount of $10 Billion this year, and billed as a patriotic endeavor to better life for all Chinese, and eventually the entire world. President Hong to make personal visits to China's leading universities and request the help of China's best and brightest in this great endeavor. 6. China to submit a UN Security Council resolution as outlined above regarding the Iran-Azerbaijan invasion. Highlight China's repeated appeals for discussions with Iran, and Iran's lack of a response, as suggesting Iran may not have legitimate reasons for it's invasion. 7. The PLA, PLN, and PLAF to stand ready to be committed to an international effort should the need arise. 8. Ministry of State to continue it's efforts to apply pressure to Iran, or at least stoke regional powers into acting, even if only passively. (See previous post) 9. To North Koreans: We have not forgotten you! Xia will make an official address (in another post), but planning to begin for the reduction and eventual withdrawal of Chinese forces. The flow of Humanitarian Aid necessary for North Korea's short term survival will not be disrupted despite China's agricultural difficulties. We are in this together, and although we will expect you to begin taking a more independent stance, you will always have a friend north of the Yalu. **************Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/dinner-tonight?NCID=aolfod00030000000001) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://esteroic.com/pipermail/war_esteroic.com/attachments/20080511/48a4b6c7/attachment-0001.html From john.penta at gmail.com Fri May 16 09:50:34 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Fri, 16 May 2008 09:50:34 -0400 Subject: [War] US: I'm baaaaack! Message-ID: "I'm baaaaack!" 3 May 2014 Pres. John Williams USA =============== "Hey, boss. What brings you up front?" asked the first officer of AF1 to POTUS. "Kay exiled me, says I'm bein' noisy when Luke needs a nap." POTUS replied, smiling innocently. Chuckles from the pilots. "Ah, kids. Hawaii looks to have done you good." noted the Colonel flying as AF1's pilot in command. "Yup. I admit, I needed it. Position?" "30 from the pattern at Andrews." "You guys get a chance for a break?" "Yeah, brought the family out to Hale Koa; we sunned ourselves like iguanas." PIC replied. "Same; by the way, thanks for the dive site." FO noted. A grin from POTUS. "I woulda gone myself, but then Azerbaijan blew up." "You *did* listen to the doc, right?" "Yeah, but I had to consult some with Legrand, the new French Prez. Luke tried gumming the webcam during our convo, even." Laughter at that. Helpless laughter. "Yeah, that was Legrand's reaction, too. Me, I was happy he didn't just sit on it." Grins were shared among the men. Both the officers had teens or preteens, so they were able to provide some distance for their boss. "Aaaanyhow, I'll let you guys fly." --- Actions: 1. POTUS is back. Now rested and tanned. From john.penta at gmail.com Fri May 16 19:30:03 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Fri, 16 May 2008 19:30:03 -0400 Subject: [War] US: Indian Affairs Message-ID: "Indian Affairs" 6 May 2014 Pres. John Williams USA ================ On his first day back, the President looked over his email with a smile. Even the President got spam, after all. Not much, but some. "Ah, normality." He checked the spam filter again. But then the smile went away. It was an email from Robert Twinfeathers, an Army buddy of his and a Navajo. Like many Native Americans, he came back from the Army to find few opportunities on the reservation - the Navajo Nation was huge, but in many areas it lacked even running water or electricity. Indian gaming had made some tribes rich, but many of the larger tribes were still in dire straits. And this email was a testament to it. Bob had a good job, as a paramedic on the reservation. The email was a stiry of patients lost because of inadequate staffing, inadequate equipment...They had a kid die of appendicitis a few days ago. That was when you could hear a pin drop in John's office. In modern medicine, people -did not- die of appendicitis. Not anymore. A click and a few keystrokes forwarded the email to the BIA chief and the Secretary of the Interior. With an attached comment: "I'd like to know what the hell we're doing to change this nationwide. By EOB." The answer came back in moments. There wasn't much they -could- do. There wasn't really the resources. It was basically the last straw. Now POTUS was on the warpath, so to speak. The email wound up attached to a memo that was sent to the entirety of the Cabinet. --- Ladies and Gentlemen: The email attached is from a friend of mine. It animates, graphically, how badly the United States Government has, to be very blunt, screwed over the Native Americans. This goes way past broken treaties, folks. People are dying from -Appendicitis- in this country. I know the problems, I know the reasons why nothing's changed. I no longer give a damn why things cannot be done. Things WILL GET DONE. Specific orders: Military medics will be asked to volunteer to perform tasks for American Indian reservations and Native Alaskan communities. My intent is to correct such medical deficits as can be dealt with during Annual Training periods. PHS will be redeployed from from nonessential research tasks to clinical duties in Native Communities to the greatest extent possible. The Surgeon-General will extend my apologies - this is necessary, there just aren't enough medical personnel otherwise. One of the tasks of the PHS personnel will, however, be -training- that medical capacity. Think how you would train doctors in the most remote parts of other countries - that's the idea here. Trainees will commit to at least 5 years service in their community. EOP will arrange "town meetings" in as many of the major reservations as possible - 1 meeting per day, few hours peer meeting. Keep the schedule sane, that said. Let's figure out what the issues are, and how the Federal Government, staying in its lane, can be helpful. OSD will review all awards of the MOH made from establishment to 1917, particularly those awarded during the Indian Campaigns. If revocation is determined to be appropriate, it will occur expeditiously. Williams --- Actions: 1. US military and PHS will deploy to provide medical support to Native American reservations and Alaska Native communities. 2. OSD to review all awards of the Medal of Honor from its establishment until 1917, particularly those awarded during the Indian Wars. 3. EOP to arrange town meetings on major reservations, to be presided over by POTUS. From john.penta at gmail.com Sat May 17 17:43:59 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Sat, 17 May 2008 17:43:59 -0400 Subject: [War] US: Message-ID: "" 7 May 2014 Pres. John Williams USA =============== It was a regular debate over lunch. The optimal pistol caliber for the Combat Soldier. Piper, being an older Marine, swore by the .45 anf the 1911. John, by contrast, swore by the 9mm Parabellum in the SIG P226. Secret Service was cranky. "You guys realize this argument went circular as soon as it started?" pointed out Danny Roberts over his burger. Blushes from the principals as they realized the truth of that. "Yeah, okay. Has." John admitted. "We need new tests," Piper concluded. "All pistol calibers, US or foreign. Find the optimal pistol caliber for the following roles:" John began, scribbling on a notepad as he sipped at his Coke. "1. Sidearm for MPs and their counterparts in all services. "2. Secondary weapon for units who can't carry a full rifle. "3. Personal defense for High-Value Personnel. "4. Officer carry. "This caliber will be recommended as the new NATO STD pistol caliber," he concluded writing. "I missing anything?" "Nah." "Testing to be conducted by US Army Infantry Center under oversight of the Government Accountability Office. GAO will provide data to a board to be chaired by the Deputy SECDEF and Deputy Director of the FBI for the selection of the final caliber," he wrote further. "Test results shall be issued in unclassified and classified form." --- Actions: 1. New pistol caliber test. From john.penta at gmail.com Sun May 18 10:37:19 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Sun, 18 May 2008 10:37:19 -0400 Subject: [War] US: UN Matters Message-ID: "UN Matters" 3 May 2014 Amb. Dave Rogers USA ================ "The President calls the Security Council to order in closed session." spoke the Japanese delegate. "I see that Ambassador Rogers of the United States wishes to speak." "Thank you, Mr. President. Mr. President, the United States of America agrees in principle with the Chinese draft currently under translation, though we will of course await the English translation before fully agreeing. However, we wonder, given the global environment, as to the Chinese position regarding measures under Article 41? "Contrary to popular perception, the United States would prefer to avoid having to use force to get the Iranians out. --- Actions: 1. US agrees in principle with Chinese resolution, awaiting the English (read: posted) copy before fully agreeing. 2. US suggests use of telecommunications and transport cutoffs - essentially, fencing Iran off from the outside world - as a means of pressure that avoids war. === ADMIN decision: Uh. we keep forgetting to update the Sec Council Members. So, until 2016, the non-perms are... Canada, Germany, Japan, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Fiji, Marshall Islands, Ethiopia, Botswana From ssiruuk25 at yahoo.com Tue May 20 13:47:01 2008 From: ssiruuk25 at yahoo.com (Daniel Garcia) Date: Tue, 20 May 2008 13:47:01 -0400 Subject: [War] France: A Change in the Agenda, Episode III: Revenge of the Persians Message-ID: "France: A Change in the Agenda, Episode III: Revenge of the Persians" President Pierre Legrand, French Republic April 22, 2014 (OOC: This should take place the morning of the invasion, before the US-France joint post... It's been a long time cooking...) When the first reports had come through indicating that the Iranian army might have invaded Azerbaijan while Legrand was having breakfast, his response to all comers was the same. There was too little information to act just right now. Gather more information, cooperate with the Minister of Defense in charge, and come back later. Legrand was calm but firm with even the most insistent and agitated of comers. He had conceded, at the insistence of his friend and Prime Minister, Guatier Tessier, that a major nerve center be set up in the ?lys?e Palace. As Pierre ate, Noele took in her husband carefully. His morning routine had been disturbed but not altered. Noele shook her head at her husband. "You know there's apparently a war on," she remarked as Pierre turned the page of the morning paper. He nodded, but did not distract himself from his reading. "You remember you are President of France?" Legrand here glanced amusedly at his wife. "Yes, my dear. And before you bring it up, even Presidents can only do so much at times. There will be time for action later." He then picked up and sipped from a glass of orange juice, continuing his always leisurely breakfast, before continuing, "Besides, there are many very capable people who work for me who will make most of the decisions and do most of the work. If I tried to do it all myself, I'd end up like the American President Williams." Noele laughed at this playfully. "I would like that very much, I think! After all, President Williams and his family get to spend time in Hawaii! If your doctor ordered you to relax, perhaps then we could go to Tahiti!" "I'm sure that would be wonderful," Legrand said smiling, "except that I would burn to a crisp within moments of arriving." Legrand continued to peruse the morning paper. Noele shook her head in amusement. Legrand saw it, and gave her a good natured look so as to say that he knew what he was doing. "What will France do," Noele asked after a few moments. Legrand kept reading, but after a few moments responded. "That will depend upon what the Iranians do," he said. "It will depend upon the Americans. It will depend upon the rest of the European Union. And NATO. And the United Nations. But, in the end, I do not think that the Iranian invasion can be allowed to go unanswered. Such a serious breach of international law, if left unpunished, would set a dangerous precedent." He had said that without seemingly pausing in his reading of the paper in front of him, though when he finished he again paused to sip at his glass of orange juice. "So it will be war," Noele asked, uncertain. Legrand, his hand still on the glass of orange juice, looked at the glass for a moment before responding. "If the Iranians take it that far, perhaps," he said carefully. "Though there are many considerations which will need to be taken into account." Noele looked as if she were going to ask a follow up when Gautier Tessier burst into the room, leaving a somewhat dumbstruck aide at the door. Legrand turned to face his friend warmly. "Gautier, you're manners are impeccable as usual," Legrand said lightly. Gautier stopped and looked as though he were at a loss for words, a rare moment for the man. "Pierre, I will never understa... How...," Gaitier tried. Finally, "You know there's a war on, don't you?!" Legrand laughed at the question which Noele had asked but a few minutes before. "Yes, I do. Though I don't see how not eating breakfast, or even rushing breakfast, will improve the situation." "You may find it funny," Gautier said, turning red with frustration, "but there's a lot of people all round the world very worried about this. And here you are, head of state of one of the five Permanent Members of the United Nations Security Council, as if you didn't have a care in the god damned world!" The last had been shouted. Legrand shook his head with an oh so slight look of amusement before sighing, and taking one last sip of his orange juice. Leaving the morning paper in his seat, he walked over to Noele, and kissed her on the forehead. "I will see you late tonight I think," he said to her before walking to Gautier who looked to be calming down now that there was hope that Legrand was taking things seriously. Or at least more seriously. Legrand picked his jacket off his chair, and carefully put it on. Gautier wasn't wearing his jacket, his tie was somewhat loosened and his sleeves rolled up. Even without the jacket, with his silk vest and neat tie, Legrand looked more composed and more distinguished. Jacket on, he walked with Gautier in silence into the hallway, and began heading towards the hive of activity in the ?lys?e Palace where the French government was beginning to understand what was underway in the Caucasus. "So what news," Legrand said as they walked. Gautier shook his head. "Still fragmentary," Gautier admitted, realizing as he said it that Legrand could, if it were his nature, pounce on him for that. He just shook his head. "I presume that we're taking steps to rectify that," Legrand said, only half questioningly. Before Gautier could respond, he added, "Including discussions and exchanges with our allies." "We will have some satellite intelligence by the end of the day," Gautier said. "As to intelligence exchanges, things have been happening too fast." "I see," Legrand said, nodding. "That should be a priority. Not only will it help us understand what is going on, but whatever course of action we take we will need to cooperate fully with our allies." "You can say that again," Gautier said, suddenly frustrated. "Our friends in the Air Force had some bad news this morning." "Oh," Legrand said evenly. "It seems a Rafale fighter had an engine fire during an exercise," Gautier said. Then, more quietly, "The pilot was killed." Legrand didn't miss a step, but simply nodded. "Has the family been notified?" "Yeah," Gautier said. But then shook his head. "But our fleet of Rafales has been grounded. They're saying it might be a design problem with the engine. If that's true, the French Air Force is largely neutered." "What about our Mirage fighters," Legrand asked, trying to remember the force status of the Air Force. "We can scrape together a couple squadrons, I'm told," Gautier said as they entered a room buzzing with activity. "But between the fact that they were being phased out and that there were already major maintenance problems, we're at a major disadvantage." "Who's working on that," Legrand said, surveying the scene. Men, and a handful of women, in uniform and civilian clothes were either hunched over computer screens, gathered together in discussion, or were hurrying to and fro. In short, it was a bit chaotic. Gautier strained to look around before seeing who he was looking for and heading in that direction. He stopped in front of a man in an Air Force uniform. "What's the story on the Rafale issue," Gautier asked the man, who was somewhat startled by being addressed so directly by France's Prime Minister. Particularly with France's President standing behind him, though admittedly the look on the President's face was much more friendly than that on the Prime Minister's. "Well," the officer said, regaining his composure, "we're in discussions with Dassault and SNECMA on the issue. To be honest no one's quite sure what the problem is or how difficult it will be to fix. If it's something relatively minor with the engine, it shouldn't take too long to get back to operational capability. If not..." "Well, if you haven't noticed, there's a war on, so I'd like to know if it's conceivable that we have an air force to work with if that becomes necessary," Gautier said without patience. Legrand put his hand on his shoulder. "Now, now, Gautier," Legrand said before speaking to the Air Force officer. "We need to know what can be done about this. As far as I can tell, this is going to need to be the Air Force's priority at the moment. Get me a report on what the problem is and, more importantly, if it can be solved relatively quickly and if so how much doing so will cost." The man nodded his head in understanding before saluting. Legrand smiled and bowed slightly in acknowledgement. He had never himself been in the military. With that, Legrand walked away with Gautier to let the officer get back to work. "Where's the next fire," Legrand said with a kind of grim amusement. They approached what seemed to be the central gaggle of people. An older officer, apparently the one in charge here, saluted. "Mr. President, I'm General Pepin," he said. Legrand acknowledged him and he stopped saluting. "I'm from the CGA and will be coordinating things from this end." "What can you tell us about what is happening over there," Legrand asked. Pepin shook his head. "Damned little at the moment, sir," he said, turning to gesture at a map of the region on a screen. "We're waiting for one of our reconnaissance satellites to pass over the region later in the day, so we're mostly working off of reports from the press and our embassy staff in Baku. The Iranians don't, for the moment, seem to be thrusting towards the capital or the traditional oil producing regions along the Caspian Sea. They went right for the new oil fields which came online recently near Xankandi, in part of the breakaway Nagorno- Karabakh region claimed by Armenia. "The terrain there is fairly rugged, so the Iranians have committed significant numbers of airborne troops, if reports are correct. Armored columns have also been sites crossing the border at several points. At the moment, it looks like they're heading for the oil fields and not much else, but it's too early to tell," Pepin concluded. "Supposing," Legrand said carefully after a moment, "that events necessitate eventual military action, what recommendations do you have?" "Mr. President," Pepin said, "the French armed forces should be put on alert, and preliminary preparations for possible deployment should be begun. Mostly making sure that people are where they need to be and planning for any move that it becomes necessary to make. If I might also say, an effort should be made to begin coordinating with our allies as soon as possible. I can not envision a scenario where French forces will be fighting on their own. If it comes to war, we will be fighting alongside our allies." The general stopped here for a moment, weighing words which would make the French establishment cringe. "Sir, the planning and possibly the eventual military action will need to be carried out under the aegis of NATO." "That seems reasonable," Legrand said, not missing a beat. "General Pepin, you have my authorization to begin planning for the possible contingencies and to begin alerting the armed forces. I will, given your opinion, begin contacting our allies to lay the ground so that the planning might be broadened alliance wide." Pepin nodded firmly, and Legrand turned away thinking. Gautier hurried to his side. "If it comes to subordinating our efforts to NATO, there will be many unhappy people in this country," Gautier cautioned. Legrand looked up from his thoughts and shook his head with a small smile. He turned to survey the scene around him. "There will be many unhappy people in this country in any event," Legrand said, looking at nothing and no one in particular. "There's no avoiding that. I will do what is best for France, even if it means subordinating our efforts to NATO. We might be able to fight this war on our own, but it would be difficult and bloody and leave us wondering why we did it at all. By its nature, this is an issue of international interest. Our standing in the world demands me make a great effort. But our realities demand that we be prepared to sacrifice some of our pride for the greater good." The two of them stood there silently before Legrand again turned and headed towards his office. Gautier was following him. "I assume Renaud is already at work on some statement of condemnation," Legrand stated, not really asking. He then smiled. "Let him know that if his impulse would be to word it very strongly, I would not in the least object. Also, have him begin getting in touch with our allies, to sound them out on the matter and present our position, and if it seems favorable, to propose joint planning for eventualities." "What do I tell him our position is," Gautier asked. Legrand stopped, reached in his vest pocket for his watch and checked the time carefully before replying. "France will not allow, under any circumstances, this invasion to stand," Legrand said. ACTIONS: 1) With respect to the issues with the Rafale's engine: find out what the problem is, and figure out a fix (or an array of possible fixes). It should be understood that there's a war brewing and it's uncomfortable to essentially not have an Air Force. 2) The French military makes initial preparations for *possible* deployment, and begins initial planning for such. (OOC: Note also that more wide-scale and operational planning, under NATO's aegis, was provided for in the US-France JP.) 3) France *strongly* condemns the Iranian invasion and *demands* the Iranians withdraw from Azeri territory. Not only has the Iranian government violated the sovereignty of another state, it has done so under the flimsiest of pretenses for obviously economic motives. 4) Begin getting in touch with France's allies (NATO states, the EU, and other friendly nations) expressing France's concern and urging a hard line against the Iranians. From michael.michaeldowney at gmail.com Wed May 21 13:35:34 2008 From: michael.michaeldowney at gmail.com (Michael Downey) Date: Wed, 21 May 2008 15:05:34 -0230 Subject: [War] Special Report: Update on the Situation Message-ID: <6b6ab8a70805211035w75632bb9ud4d0a209ac1d2024@mail.gmail.com> (As of 5 May 2014) Iran has marched unopposed into Azerbaijan, sweeping away what little military resistance the outnumbered and outgunned Azerbaijanis have been able to put up. The entire South-western half of the country, all the way from the Iranian border to the city of Yevlax. So far the Iranians have not switched their invasion East to conquer the rest of the country but consolidate what they have taken. The Russian Federation has been up in arms with anger. Colonel-General Rezakaev, Chief of the General Staff and acting Minister of Defence, has condemned Iran's invasion as a thinly-disguised land grab and refuted Iran's evidence of Kurdish rebels operating out of Southern Azerbaijan. Already Russian military units have begun mobilizing throughout all military districts and significant air and rail travel towards the Russian Army's mustering center at Krasnodor. Their response to the idea of NATO sending troops to help evict the Iranians by force have met with complete approval from Moscow, which it seems is just days away from declaring war. Meanwhile President Nemerenko is more chilly towards Chinese overtures, apparently displeased that China has been entertaining the idea of Iran's claims being true and inviting an Iranian delegation to Beijing. However the Russians are not foolish enough to openly spur an ally as powerful as China and have stated they would accept any aid offered, particularly in intelligence. American, Chinese and French intelligence efforts have yielded some results. While the Iranian claims cannot be disproved, there as of yet exists no real evidence that Kurdish rebels have been operating in Azerbaijan as the Iranians claim. The Iranian government has supplied China with intelligence reports and photos of Kurdish bases and training camps that seem authentic but the MSS also notes such evidence can be fabricated. Even more curious is the fact that several guided rocket systems and RPG tubes captured by Russian military forces stamping out rebel units in around Grozny; while the equipment is of Russian design like most weapons used by the Chechens, they were manufactured without serial numbers or other identification indicators. All these inconsistencies and the coincidental timings of the attacks in Chechnya, Abkhazia and South Ossetia have most intelligence agencies doubting the authenticity of Iran's assertions. Still, Iran maintains its justifications for the invasion and has appealed to China for assistance, desiring to purchase large amounts of heavy weapons including tanks and surface-to-air missile systems and their support in the UN. The Iranians have not been shy about trying to exploit China's recent troubles with the United States, and to a certain extent the Russians, in their attempts to curry favour in Beijing. Azerbaijan has issued a general call for aid, begging the UN to intervene and for NATO and Russia to dispatch troops to help liberate their lost territory from Iranian control. Georgia, always weary of Iran, has been more than happy to entertain the idea of NATO forces staging operations from their territory. In fact the Georgians have already asked for the United States to increase its forces in the country in the event of possible Iranian incursions. Meanwhile Armenia has declared neutrality due to their never being any love lost between Armenia and Azerbaijan and fear of Iran. Pakistan has entertained the idea of Chinese troops operating from their territory but has not committed to anything yet. It seems Islamabad would prefer to remain neutral and let the other nations fight it out. While Chechnya remains a hotspot with continued fighting around Grozny, the Russian and EU peacekeepers have managed to restore a somewhat fragile order to Abkhazia and South Ossetia which are smaller, less populous and with a resistance that was largely gutted by the withdrawal of Russian support over the past year. Sporadic shootings by lone gunmen have occurred but deaths are minimal on both sides. -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://esteroic.com/pipermail/war_esteroic.com/attachments/20080521/edba01f1/attachment.html From john.penta at gmail.com Wed May 21 17:58:33 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Wed, 21 May 2008 17:58:33 -0400 Subject: [War] US: Caspian Shield, Pt I Message-ID: "Caspian Shield, Pt I" 5 May 2014 Pres. John Williams USA =============== Finally, Alex and Tim were asleep. POTUS was babysitting, as mom and dad took a night to themselves. The bedtime story of the moment was "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" by CS Lewis, and the heroes were just being introduced to Aslan when the readers drifted off to sleep. So Uncle Ioannes gave each boy a kiss on the forehead and tucked them in snugly. "Good night," he whispered before setting the book in its place in the "guest kids" bedroom before stepping out slowly, shutting the door most of the way before walking off. "I'll keep an eye on em, Uncle Ioannes." one of the Secret Service agents noted, smiling. That got a grin from his principal, who meandered down to the workout room to hit the treadmill before settling down for the night. --- <6 May> "Iranian forces occupied the city of Yevfax in Azerbaijan today, consolidating their hold over the southwestern portion of the country," the anchor said on the news. "Full Iranian law is being implemented, according to reports from the city, as troops man the streetcorners." "Uncle Ioannes," wheedled Alex, "Can we watch cartoooooons?" "Oh, okay," John conceded happily. He flipped the TV to cartoons and was, naturally, promptly ignored. After feeding Luke his Cheerios (messily), he went to clean up both himself and Luke, plus to brush Luke's few teeth. The kids got dressed - Alex even helped dress Luke, even if it was by just holding the squirming baby while John put clothes on him - and John gave Calli a hug as she walked in, to the happy squeals of her kids. "MOMMYYYY!" they chorused, running to give her hugs. After some chatting, both dads went down to the situation room. The world wasn't giving them a break. --- "Let's see what we have," Williams began. "USELEMAZFOR will be a joint service force. Naval element will be USS Virginia and USS Texas in the Black Sea, tasked to attack Iranian C3; USS California and USS Mississippi in the Black Sea to strike Iranian supply depots and POL supplies. USS Ronald Reagan will headline the CVBG in the Arabian Sea, and USS Gerald Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln in the Black Sea. RR will strike Iranian supply facilities and air defense, and the Jerry Ford and Abe will attack Iranian ground forces," Abbot briefed. "Air element will be 2 composite wings - 1 out of Georgia, 1 out of Turkey if I can convince them. "Ground will be 2 divisions parked in Georgia, with military aid to Azerbaijan. As much aid as the Azeris want, but I'm unsure how we can deploy to there given Armenian neutrality." "All forces under SACEUR," Abbot concluded. "Objectives: For now, defend Georgia. When the French get a Chapter 7 resolution out of the UN, then we shift into the offense." Williams decided. --- Actions: 1. US Force Contributions to AZFOR. 2. Azerbaijan, you need military supplies? Take as much as you need. 3. Georgia, same thing. 4. Stare down the Iranians, await French action in the UN. From Chazenesq2b at aol.com Wed May 21 22:34:15 2008 From: Chazenesq2b at aol.com (Chazenesq2b at aol.com) Date: Wed, 21 May 2008 22:34:15 EDT Subject: [War] China: "Sleeping Dog Whimpers" Message-ID: "Sleeping Dog Whimpers" President Xia Hong People's Republic of China May 5, 2014 =============================================== (The People's Courtyard- Executive Residence, Beijing) Sporadic, decorative terra-cotta soldiers from the Qi Dynasty stood guard... as well as likely a platoon of security agents hidden and not, as Xia strolled through the ornate Chinese scholar gardens, statues, and pathways that made up the People's Courtyard. Bing strolled up next to her, having been cleared by the security detail. So they had finally received a response from Iran. And the sleeping dog was whimpering. "It took them long enough." She commented idly to Bing, folding her arms over her chest. "What is it that they want?" Like she needed to ask. "A running supply line of heavy weaponry." Bing stated simply and sufficiently. Xia had an idea of what heavy weapons were. "And support in the United Nations. They are naturally eager to await our response." It was kind of sad really. If she were to do what was best for her people, she would probably have to take the Iranian deal. Practically limitless oil, bundles of money for weapons, and a possibility to bleed potential rivals for a considerable time. However it wasn't in the best interests of the world, or of justice. "Did they provide the evidence we've requested?" "Photographic evidence regarding supposed training camps and staging posts for terrorists. Intelligence reports including investigation details into a few key suspects, and some assorted communications intercepts. Both MoD analysts and MSI consider the evidence circumstantial at best. Photographs and intercepts are easily fabricated, and their intel dossiers could be entirely fictional. We have relatively few ways of verifying the information they've provided. Their Embassy is requesting assistance vehemently though, they are in desperate desire of air defense equipment." Of course they were. They were about to be bombed into the stone age by the Americans, and Russia and China were the only nations on Earth with air defense systems advanced enough to even pose a challenge to America's pre-eminence in stealth aircraft. Xia sighed. She didn't want to say 'no' outright, not until they had firmer ways of verifying the Iranians were lying then by conjecture. "What are our options?" "A reconnaissance satellite will begin sweeping over Iran and Azerbaijan shortly. It will take about eight hours, but we should know fairly shortly if these camps do exist out in the middle of no where, or if they were built on an Iranian sound-stage." He waited for Xia to take that in. "The Pakistanis seem to be luke-warm to the idea of hosting Chinese troops. Islamabad is likely waiting before picking a side. The Americans practically screwed Musharraf when he was in office, so they are probably gun-shy of involving themselves in a fight that would benefit the Americans." Xia rubbed her temple, trying desperately to get a hold of things. "Inform Islamabad that we would consider their material, logistical, and moral support a 'sincerest gift' to the People's Republic. I'll ask State to make it subtly clear to them we would be grateful. There's no reason we could not offer a free trade agreement, and access to military equipment." She sat on one of the clay-stone benches. "We might as well make one last ditch attempt to prevent a war. Buy time to prepare ourselves in the event we need to. Inform the Armenians China will happily take on the burden of it's defense, and view it's cooperation warmly if it were to join the alliance and allow NATO and Sino forces to stage in it's borders. We will offer the Iranians a FTA, and promises of military aid to defend their borders, should they withdraw from Azerbaijan completely and turn over the occupied territory to an international observation force. The IOF will then conduct a full and impartial investigation into terrorist activities, and neutralize any threat that is detected." She took a breath. "Let's see what we come up with." =============================================== ACTIONS 1. China to make a counter-offer to Iran. A Free-Trade Agreement and access to military equipment in exchange for a complete and unconditional withdrawal from Azerbaijan. An International Observation Force would take control of territory from Iran peacefully, and conduct an impartial investigation. Any terrorist groups found will be iradicated in accordance with the law. 2. China to make it clear to Pakistan that we 'truly' would be appreciative. This is not to say future negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement, military alliance, etc. hinge entirely on their saying yes to Chinese troops, but it would most definitely be looked on favorably. 3. Promise the Armenians protection and consideration if they open up to international (NATO and Chinese) forces. China will bear the burden of their defense until Iran is defeated, and will leave when Armenia says to. They will be able to buy whatever weapons they so desire from China (with few limitations) and will be trained on the equipment. 4. China to view the Iranian evidence with healthy skepticism. Presume for now the Iranians are honest, and verify their evidence. If we can not verify, and the consensus of the International Community is 'liar liar', call them on it. 5. Wait and see. **************Get trade secrets for amazing burgers. Watch "Cooking with Tyler Florence" on AOL Food. (http://food.aol.com/tyler-florence?video=4&?NCID=aolfod00030000000002) -------------- next part -------------- An HTML attachment was scrubbed... URL: http://esteroic.com/pipermail/war_esteroic.com/attachments/20080521/1115c43e/attachment.html From john.penta at gmail.com Sat May 24 16:16:41 2008 From: john.penta at gmail.com (John Penta) Date: Sat, 24 May 2008 16:16:41 -0400 Subject: [War] US: What now? Message-ID: "What now?" 7 May 2014 President John Williams USA ================== It was a damp May night through which the anonymous red sedan drove. Pulling to an inconspicuous stop, the car's doors opened, and three men exited. They walked in silence through the grass, not a word passing their lips. Until finally they stopped in front of one gravestone among many. It read, simply: ROBERT W. PEARSON 13 JAN 1984 5 MAY 2002 PVT US ARMY BRONZE STAR PURPLE HEART OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM BELOVED SON "Bobby," noted his commander...Now the President. "I remember how we'd spend nights arguing. Youngest guy in the platoon, yet you argued with me like a lion. On things most people a decade or two older than you wouldn't get." He knelt. "Damn sniper. Bobby..." He spoke softly, then whispered. "Wish you were here, Pup. Could use the advice...and the perspective from Charlie platoon's own strategos." Quietly, he stood, before the group walked off. --- Actions: 1. Just some character development.