“The world must never forget what happened in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.” To mark the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier recalls the human suffering and historical responsibility. “The international community must do everything possible to prevent the horrors of a renewed nuclear attack,” he appealed.
On 6 and 9 August 1945, two US atomic bombs destroyed the Japanese cities almost completely. Tens of thousands of people, almost all civilians, died instantly and many more died as a result of the long-term effects of radiation exposure. To this day, the attacks remain the only instances where nuclear weapons were used – at the same time, they marked the start of the nuclear arms race. In view of recent nuclear threats, the president has appealed for resolute action to prevent a renewed nuclear attack.
All over Germany, various events will be taking place on 6 and 9 August to remember the victims of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and to send out a signal for peace and disarmament.