Japanese leader skips controversial shrine visit, avoids mention of remorse on surrender anniversary

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi skipped a visit to Yasukuni Shrine while marking the 81st anniversary of Japan's WWII surrender; in her address, she emphasized global peace without mentioning Japanese atrocities or offering an apology. China protested these visits, claiming they were attempts to cover up war crimes and accelerate militarization. Meanwhile, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung highlighted the importance of deepening cooperation between Korea and Japan.