Russia urges Japan to ‘fully recognize’ World War II results

ISTANBUL

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Friday called on Japan to fully recognize the results of World War II and acknowledge its share of responsibility for unleashing the conflict, according to a statement released by the Foreign Ministry in Moscow.

“The results of World War II in the Pacific Ocean, including the Japanese Instrument of Surrender, became an integral part of the post-war Yalta-Potsdam world order."

"We strongly urge the Japanese authorities to fully recognize the international legal consequences of the victory of the allied states, as well as their share of responsibility for unleashing the world conflict,” Lavrov said in a message, marking the 80th anniversary of the victory over Japan.

He added that Russia and its “like-minded partners” would continue educational and military memorial efforts “aimed at revealing new evidence of the crimes of Tokyo in the 1930s and 40s.”

Lavrov also underscored that the memory of fighting Japanese militarism continues to serve as a foundation for Russia’s ties with China, North Korea, Mongolia, and others.

“A vivid embodiment of the enduring essence of strong bonds of friendship, forged in battles 80 years ago, was the grand parade of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggressors and victory in World War II, which took place in Beijing,” he said.

The Russian foreign minister stressed the “global historical significance” of Soviet soldiers’ sacrifices and highlighted the symbolic importance of restoring Victory Day over Japan as a state holiday in Russia.

“Our sacred duty is to remember the lessons of the world war, this greatest tragedy of all mankind, and to do everything to prevent its repetition,” he said.