President Truman announced that the Japanese Government has sent a message in response to the communication sent by the Secretary of State on August 11. The President stated that he deems this reply a full acceptance of the Potsdam Declaration, which specifies the unconditional surrender of Japan without qualification.
Arrangements are currently being made to sign the surrender terms as soon as possible. General Douglas MacArthur has been appointed as the Supreme Allied Commander to receive the Japanese surrender. High-ranking officers from Great Britain, Russia, and China will be represented during the proceedings.
In response to the news, the Allied armed forces have been ordered to suspend offensive action. However, the official proclamation of V-J Day must wait until the formal signing of the surrender terms by Japan is completed.
The Japanese Government's message was conveyed through the Swiss Government. According to the communication, the Emperor has issued an Imperial rescript regarding Japan's acceptance of the provisions of the Potsdam Declaration.
The Emperor is prepared to authorize and ensure the signature of the Japanese Government and the Imperial General Headquarters regarding the necessary terms for the execution of the Potsdam Declaration. Furthermore, the Emperor is prepared to command all military, naval, and air authorities of Japan, and all forces under their control, to cease active operations, surrender arms, and follow orders from the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces.
During the news conference, the President noted that additional releases were forthcoming regarding a two-day holiday and matters concerning the draft. The conference was held at the White House in Washington.
