China
Russian operations continue. Marshal Alexandr Vasilevsky proposes that hostilities shall cease at midday on August 20. There is no reply from the headquarters of the Japanese Kwangtung Army, but from 7:00p.m. many units begin to surrender.
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]Britain, Home Front
In the House of Commons in London Winston Churchill voices his fears that 'an Iron Curtain, will fall across Europe'.
[ | ]Diplomatic Relations
In Moscow the Soviets and Poles sign a treaty establishing the Soviet-Polish border.
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Japan, Home Front
The Emperor issues an Imperial Rescript (decree) at 4:00p.m. Tokyo time ordering all Japanese forces to cease fire. The Cabinet resigns and Prince Naruhiko Higashikuni forms a new government with himself as prime minister and war minister. It is called the 'caretaker' administration.
[ | ]Images from August 16, 1945
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