Why did the Allies issue this statement at Potsdam?
A.
to protect Japan's political and economic institutions
B.
to establish individual spheres of influence in Japan
C.
to respect the sovereignty of the Japanese people
D.
to avoid the human cost associated with invading Japan
The Allies issued the statement at Potsdam primarily to communicate their intentions regarding Japan's future after World War II. The most fitting answer to why they issued this statement would be:
D. to avoid the human cost associated with invading Japan.
The Potsdam Declaration called for Japan's unconditional surrender and outlined the terms for Japan's post-war governance, aiming to prevent a costly invasion and the associated loss of life.