Letter of ProtestLetter of protest regarding Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine and the order for high alert of nuclear deterrence forces
Letter of Protest
In early January this year, your country announced through the five-state joint statement that it considers the avoidance of war between Nuclear-Weapon States and the reduction of strategic risks as its foremost responsibilities. However, just after that, I received the news that you have ordered your military to put its nuclear deterrence forces on high alert, as the military invasion of Ukraine continues in a clear violation of international law by your country.
On behalf of the people of Hiroshima Prefecture, who were the first in the history of humanity to experience the destruction of a nuclear bomb, I hereby protest this move strongly.
Regardless of the circumstances, nuclear weapons must never be used.
Even if this statement was intended as a threat by your country, it is extremely inappropriate in the context of nuclear weapons.
When the nuclear bomb fell 77 years ago in Hiroshima, many residents lost their lives, and even now there are many people suffering from the aftereffects of the bomb.
In addition, this news, which has come the year after the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons came into effect, is truly deplorable and very disappointing to people all over the world, including the residents of Hiroshima Prefecture, who strongly wish for the abolition of nuclear weapons.
As the Governor of Hiroshima, which suffered an atomic bombing, I strongly urge that your country immediately cease the military invasion of Ukraine and strive for a peaceful resolution of the situation.
February 28, 2022
His Excellency Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin
President of the Russian Federation
YUZAKI Hidehiko, Governor of Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan
