What document set the surrender terms that Japan accepted in August 1945?

The Potsdam Declaration set the surrender terms that Japan accepted in August 1945.

The United States, United Kingdom, and China issued the declaration on July 26, 1945, during the Potsdam Conference. It called for Japan's unconditional surrender and warned of “prompt and utter destruction” if Japan refused. The Soviet Union was not yet at war with Japan when the declaration was first issued.

The terms required the disarmament of Japanese forces, the occupation of selected Japanese territory, and the removal of leaders responsible for expansionist policies. They also stated that Japan's sovereignty would be limited to the home islands and other islands determined by the Allies.

The declaration is distinct from the Japanese Instrument of Surrender. The Potsdam Declaration was the political ultimatum; the Instrument of Surrender was the document signed aboard the USS Missouri on September 2. Japan accepted the declaration's terms before that formal signing.