Chapter 43: After Speech and Military Action
"Citizens of Valoria," Alexander started. "First of all, I would like to apologize for the sudden interruption. I am sure that most of you are watching your favorite television shows or spending time with your families, but I believe what I have to say is important for all of us."
He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts before continuing.
"Our nation stands at a crossroads today. As many of you may already know, the Kingdom of Zambesi, a close ally of Valoria, is currently under attack by the Matalebe tribes. These tribes are being armed and supported by the Empire of Triesenberg, a powerful nation with interests that conflict with our own. The situation has escalated rapidly, and Zambesi's very existence is now at risk."
Alexander's expression grew more serious as he spoke.
"I want to be clear about what this means. Zambesi has asked for our help, and as a nation that values its alliances and honors its commitments, we cannot turn a blind eye to their plea. We have a responsibility to stand by our friends in their time of need, just as they would stand by us. Earlier today, the Legislative Assembly convened an emergency session to discuss the situation.
After much deliberation, it was decided that Valoria would provide military assistance to Zambesi. This was not an easy decision, but it was the right one. We must show the world that Valoria is not a nation that backs down when faced with challenges, especially when the freedom of an ally is at stake."
Alexander's tone softened slightly as he addressed the concerns he knew many citizens would have.
"I understand that this news may bring concern or even fear to some of you. The prospect of conflict is never something we take lightly. But I want to assure you that we are prepared. Our military is strong and our economy is stable. We will do everything in our power to protect Valoria and ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens. We are at the dawn of a new chapter in Valoria's history.
This is a moment that will define our place in the world, a moment where we must stand together and show that we are a nation of strength, honor, and resolve. Together, we will support Zambesi, and together, we will face whatever challenges lie ahead.
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I thank you for your trust, your support, and your unwavering commitment to our great nation. May we move forward with courage and unity, as we have always done."
With that, Alexander concluded his speech, stepping back from the podium as the broadcast ended.
Julieanne, who was watching from the side, walked forward and clapped her hand softly.
"That was a powerful speech, Your Excellency," Julieanne praised admirably.
Alexander turned to her, offering a faint smile. "What was it that you told me earlier? About the meeting with the Joint Chief of Staff?"
"Your Excellency," Julieanne began, her tone shifting to one of professionalism, "the Minister of Defense and the Joint Chiefs are waiting for you in the war room. They're ready to discuss the strategic details of our intervention in Zambesi."
"I see, let's head there now."
Julieanne led the way out of the room, with Alexander following closely behind.
As they approached the war room, the heavy doors were opened by guards, revealing a large table surrounded by the highest-ranking military officials in Valoria. The maps of Zambesi and the surrounding regions were spread out, indicating that they had prepared for this meeting.
The Minister of Defense, William Thompson, stood up as Alexander entered. "Your Excellency, welcome to the war room."
Alexander took his seat at the head of the table. "Thank you, Minister. Let's get started by discussing first who we are dealing with here, the Matalebe."
"Your Excellency, the Matalebe tribes are a formidable force. They are a coalition of various smaller tribes that have united under a single banner, driven by a desire to reclaim what they believe is their ancestral land. This unity has made them much more dangerous than they were in the past."
Thompson gestured to the map in front of him. "We estimate that their forces number between 15,000 to 20,000 fighters. They are well-armed, thanks to the Empire of Triesenberg, which has supplied them with modern rifles, machine guns, and artillery. Their tactics are guerrilla-style, using their knowledge of the local terrain to their advantage."
Alexander studied the map, noting the red markers indicating enemy positions. "Where are they stationed, and what regions have they already occupied?"
General Markus Hauer, the Chief of the Army, leaned forward, pointing to several locations on the map. "The Matalebe have established strongholds in the northern and eastern regions of Zambesi. They control key areas, including the cities of Kandara and Moba, both of which have strategic importance due to their proximity to supply routes and natural resources."
He continued, "They are currently advancing towards the capital, Maputo, with the bulk of their forces concentrated here." He pointed to a location near the capital. "Their latest movements suggest they are preparing for a final push to seize the city. If Maputo falls, it would likely mean the collapse of the Zambesi government."
"And what of the Zambesi forces? What shape are they in?"
Minister Thompson sighed, his expression grim. "The Zambesi military has been severely weakened. They are outnumbered and outgunned. Most of their forces are either in retreat or are attempting to regroup near the capital. Their morale is low, and they're desperately holding on, hoping for our intervention."
Hearing those answers from his subordinates, he couldn't help but smile in satisfaction. He was proud that they were able to gather information about the Zambesi and its belligerents through whatever means they employed. So that's how his Ministry of Defense works huh? They had already had their own intelligence gathering beforehand and were prepared with comprehensive details.
"Okay, now that we have all the required information about our enemy, we know where they are, their numbers, let's discuss how we will strike Matalebe."
"First we have to relieve the tension," Minister Thompson answered. "We can task our air force to conduct precision airstrikes on the Matalebe's key strongholds, particularly in Kandara and Moba. These cities are critical to their operations due to their strategic locations and resources.
By targeting their supply depots, communication lines, and troop concentrations, we can weaken their offensive capabilities."
"What about the navy?"
The navy would act as an auxiliary to our main forces," Minister Thompson continued.
"They will escort our expeditionary troops to the shores of Maputo to ensure a safe landing. Additionally, our battleships will be positioned to provide offshore bombardment of Matalebe positions. Furthermore, we have our aircraft carrier along, ready to deploy air support.
Our carrier-based aircraft will conduct airstrikes on enemy supply lines and offer close air support to our ground forces as they advance."
Alexander nodded, appreciating the comprehensive approach. "And the timeline? How soon can we mobilize these forces?"
General Hauer spoke up. "We can have the initial airstrikes and naval bombardment commence within 48 hours. The ground forces will be ready to deploy shortly after, with the full expeditionary force landing in Maputo within 72 hours. Our logistics teams are already working on ensuring a steady flow of supplies and reinforcements."
"Good," Alexander said firmly. "I want no mistakes."