If the United States had altered their goal of unconditional defeat, then there was a possibility of ending the war through peace. However, the American lives were at stake, so Truman did not take any consideration of compromise. Truman has a record of displaying no interest in meetings his opposition half- way. This was evident when Stalin was wanting reparations that FDR was considering on coming to terms himself. Furthermore, Byrnes and Acheson agreed that the American people would oppose terms that could end the war. The ideas that they had in mind was to retain the emperor of Japan, but others saw its fault. They were afraid that it would invite the Japanese or any other power that the consequence of destruction can open compromises in their favor. It can ultimately prolong the war, which prolongs the death of American soldiers.
However, there was another indication that Japan was heading into peace agreements, but not with the United States. Instead the Japanese had
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Furthermore, Truman was trying to cut off their sea ports in order to prevent aid and resources. Another option was to wait for the Russians to eventually join the Pacific war and the potential invasion of Kyushu. All could be considered reasonable methods that could reduce the cost of war and lives. Yet so many complications began to appear, with no sign of Japan backing out. The leaders of Japan would not admit the condition of their economy being affected by aerial attacks. The combined chief of staff was aware of the devastating effects it had on Japan's economy, but they also concluded that it would take more attacks to decrease the amount of ammunition. Thus, the US were aware that progress was made, but they were not sure how long would Japan endure such actions. Time became a key issue and eventually one of the justifications to switch