For as long as most Utopians can remember, their two closest neighbors have been known simply as Dystopia and Gulag. Their official names exist, but they are long, awkward, and rarely used. The three countries share a common origin: they fought together in the Liberation War against Empire. After victory, their paths diverged sharply. 

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Utopia developed into a democratic republic grounded in technological progress, civil liberties, and transparent governance. Dystopia and Gulag slid back into authoritarianism—eerily similar to the regime they had just defeated.

 

Of the two, Dystopia presents the more significant strategic concern. It is larger, more populous, and fields a formidable military. The country is ruled by a long‑standing autocrat known as Mr. Omnipotency, who has held power for over two decades. His government maintains strict control over information, public life, and national identity.

 

A recurring theme in Dystopian propaganda is the claim that Utopia is “historically and spiritually” part of Dystopia’s rightful territory. These assertions are rejected by Utopia and the international community, but they remain a persistent feature of Dystopian rhetoric.

 

A decade ago, Dystopia launched a surprise incursion into Utopia on Constitution Day. Utopia repelled the attack within days, but the event reshaped Utopian defense policy and left a lasting imprint on national memory.

 

Gulag is even more repressive than Dystopia. Its citizens live under near‑total state control, with minimal access to the outside world. The nation’s supreme leader, known as King, is hostile toward Utopia and has made extreme statements about the genocide he intends to commit if he ever conquers it.

 

Gulag maintains an enormous military—one‑fifth of its population serves a mandatory ten‑year term. Despite its size, the force is technologically outdated and economically strained. Its ability to project power beyond its borders is limited, but its rhetoric remains dangerous.

 

Relations between Utopia and its neighbors remain tense. Travel is rare, borders are monitored, and all three countries maintain elevated military readiness. Exercises near the frontier are common, and propaganda flows freely in every direction.

 

In theory, a coordinated alliance between Dystopia and Gulag could pose a serious threat to Utopia. Their deep mutual distrust makes such cooperation unlikely.

 

Utopia remains vigilant. Its defense strategy emphasizes deterrence, resilience, and rapid response. While the threats from Dystopia and Gulag are real, Utopia’s technological advantages, stable institutions, and diplomatic partnerships help ensure that these dangers remain contained.

 

See also: 

• Utopia, Dystopia, & Gulag: Which is best at surveillance? 

• Mr. Omnipotency: Is his staff proportional to his height? 

• Gulag: Looking to increase military service from 10 to 15 years

• Constitution Day surprise attack by Dystopia: Lessons learned the hard way