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Japan

Scientific American

14 Inches of Rain Falls in Japan in One Day

Japan faced a significant weather event on August 14, 2026, with 14 inches of rain recorded in one day. The extreme rainfall led to at least 8 deaths and caused numerous people to become stranded.

New York Times — Business

Yen Approaches 160 Per Dollar Amid Concerns

The yen is approaching a value of 160 yen per dollar, prompting concerns regarding the responses from Japanese and U.S. officials. The recent decline in the currency has drawn attention to the economic implications.

Washington Examiner

Japanese Government Responds to Putin's Visit to Disputed Islands

The Japanese government condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to the disputed island of Iturup, asserting that it undermines Japan's claims to the territory. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi expressed strong disapproval, citing the visit's negative impact on already strained Japan-Russia relations, particularly in light of Russia's actions in Ukraine.

Washington Post — World

Putin visits disputed islands, prompting response from Japan

Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to islands claimed by Japan has elicited a response from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who expressed that the visit 'wounds the feelings' of the Japanese people. This incident may further intensify anti-Russian sentiment in Japan.

Al Jazeera English

Japan's Prime Minister Criticizes Putin's Visit to Kuril Islands

Japanese Prime Minister [Name] has condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to the Kuril Islands, which Japan claims as its territory. The islands were taken by the Soviet Union in 1945, leading to ongoing disputes between the two nations.

Deutsche Welle

Japan protests Putin's visit to Kuril Islands

Japan has expressed strong disapproval of Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to the Kuril Islands, a territory claimed by both nations. This visit has intensified existing tensions between Japan and Russia over the disputed archipelago.

BBC — Business

Japanese Firms Exhibit Caution in AI Adoption

Japanese firms are facing challenges in adopting artificial intelligence technologies, with analysts pointing to cultural factors such as risk aversion and conservatism as key reasons for the slow uptake. This trend reflects broader attitudes within the business sector in Japan.

militarytimes.com

U.S. Military's Pacific Bases Face Infrastructure Issues, Report Finds

A Pentagon report has revealed serious infrastructure issues at U.S. military bases in the Pacific, including mold, asbestos, and structural damage. The findings highlight the need for prioritized repairs and funding to address aging facilities that are at risk of collapse. The report also points to environmental factors and funding limitations as contributing issues.

japantimes.co.jp

Yasukuni Shrine Implements Ban on Military Attire

Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo has introduced a ban on military uniforms and costumes for visitors to maintain the dignity of the site. This decision comes ahead of the annual commemorations on August 15, marking Japan's surrender in World War II. The announcement has received varied reactions from the public regarding its implications and enforcement.

Guardian — US

US State Department to Close Five Consulates

The US State Department plans to close five consulates in Canada, Grenada, Japan, Indonesia, and Cameroon, citing cost reasons. This decision has raised concerns among critics about a potential diplomatic vacuum that may be filled by China.

Deutsche Welle

Three lions die at Tokyo zoo amid heatwave

Three lions at a Tokyo zoo have died from heatstroke as the country endures an extreme heatwave that began in late July. The zoo has noted that 10 of its 16 lions are currently ill.