Takaichi skips controversial shrine visit on 81st anniversary of country's World War II surrender

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi avoided the controversial Yasukuni Shrine during the 81st anniversary of Japan's WWII surrender, reportedly to prioritize diplomatic relations with China and South Korea. However, she did not mention or express remorse for Japan’s wartime past in her address. The subsequent shrine visits by other Japanese officials led to protests from China, who accused them of attempting to cover up war crimes.