IBN Newscaster: The Cerberus has just finished extensive repairs after their encounter with an ion storm during their last mission. Rumors about the Cerberus's last mission have been running wild, although both Starfleet and the crew of the ship have declined to comment as yet.

The Cerberus's current mission will take them near the boundaries of Federation space along the borders of the Breen empire. Three other ships, including USS Meridian and USS Rome, have also been dispatched to the edge of Breen space in what Starfleet command is calling "heightened security measures for the continued defense of the Federation". Many experts believe that increasing the patrols along Breen space may be indicative of another conflict between the Breen and Federation, although others say that the Federatiosn decision to increase border forces so suddenly might in itself force the Breen into a conflict out of fear of attack from the Federation.

Doctor Hans Melvin of the exo-relations academy had this to say: "It's no secret that in recent years the Federation has become more militant. Now I'm not saying that I don't understand the reasons behind the buildup of military strength. I do. The Dominion war, the Borg incursions, the new threat from the Son'a and the Shinzon incident have made it clear that the galaxy is becoming a more dangerous place. What I and many of my colleagues fear is that in its attempt to protect the Federation, Starfleet might inadvertently press some of the other races too far. This situation with the Breen is the perfect example. If the Breen feel that we are attempting to encroach on their territory, and given our past relations with them they are likely to do so, they may decide that they have no choice but to defend themselves."

Dr. Melvin isn't the only one to comment on the recent militarization of Starfleet. Numerous anti-military protests have been taking place on Earth and elsewhere, the first signs of civil unrest of this magnitude since the early days of the Cardassian war. But what do Starfleet personnel think of this situation? Our own Jenna Kas managed to get a quick interview with Arnold Nesmeth, the captain of USS Cerberus, the ship leading the patrol of Breen space.

Jenna: So, Captain Nesmeth you were telling me about the latest mission you and your crew will be undertaking.

Nesmeth: Yes, I was. Starfleet command believes it would be prudent to increase patrols along Breen space in order to ensure Federation security---

Jenna: But what do you think about all of this, from a personal position?

Nesmeth: I suppose I think it's severely worrisome. Starfleet is just trying to keep its citizens safe, but my fear is that in an attempt to defend ourselves from our enemies, we'll end up becoming what we are trying to fight. The Federation has ideals it needs to uphold, and those ideals are more important, in my mind, then anything else. Without our ideals we are no better then the Dominion or the Borg. Now if you'll excuse me, I have a meeting with Commander T'sol.

Jenna: Well, thanks for taking the time to speak with me on these issues. I know as a member of Starfleet it must be hard to place yourself in such a position.

Nesmeth: Oh, it's quite alright. I've been getting used to speaking with reporters lately....

IBN Newscaster: There you have it. Straight from the horse's mouth, so to speak. If Starfleet's own personnel think that this is a bad idea, maybe it is. This is Kent Baker of Interstellar Broadcast News, signing out.