Key Facts
• In 2022, Hiroshima and Nagasaki held peace ceremonies on August 6 and 9.
• Draft speech included criticism of Russia’s nuclear threats during Ukraine invasion.
• Final speech omitted direct mention of Russia, avoiding explicit criticism.
• Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, from Hiroshima, attended the ceremony for the first time.
• Added phrases: “We must not repeat the tragedy of nuclear weapon use.”
• Removed phrases: “Russia’s nuclear threats and use must never occur.”
• Hiroshima draft also omitted content on health booklets for “black rain” survivors.
• Experts note reluctance to link Hiroshima and Nagasaki with nuclear deterrence.
• Research shows no prior prime minister speeches addressed nuclear deterrence.
• Criticism arises over Japan’s reliance on U.S. nuclear umbrella while avoiding the topic.
Summary
In 2022, the Japanese Prime Minister’s speech at Hiroshima and Nagasaki peace ceremonies initially included criticism of Russia’s nuclear threats amid the Ukraine invasion. However, the final version avoided direct mention of Russia, reflecting a cautious approach to nuclear deterrence discussions. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, attending for the first time, added calls for a nuclear-free world but omitted references to “black rain” survivors. Experts highlight Japan’s challenge in addressing nuclear deterrence due to its reliance on the U.S. nuclear umbrella, raising questions about the sincerity of its stance on nuclear disarmament.
