<P> Satō advised Tōgō that in reality, "unconditional surrender or terms closely equivalent thereto" was all that Japan could expect . Moreover, in response to Molotov's requests for specific proposals, Satō suggested that Tōgō's messages were not "clear about the views of the Government and the Military with regard to the termination of the war," thus questioning whether Tōgō's initiative was supported by the key elements of Japan's power structure . </P> <P> On July 17, Tōgō responded: </P> <P> Although the directing powers, and the government as well, are convinced that our war strength still can deliver considerable blows to the enemy, we are unable to feel absolutely secure peace of mind...Please bear particularly in mind, however, that we are not seeking the Russians' mediation for anything like an unconditional surrender . </P> <P> In reply, Satō clarified: </P>

How did fighting between the united states and japan come to an end during world war 2