Japanese Emperor Akihito will end his three-decade reign this week when he abdicates on Tuesday.
His son Crown Prince Naruhito will become emperor on Wednesday.
Akihito has cited concerns about his age and declining health and is the first Japanese emperor to abdicate in 200 years.
James Lindsay from the Council on Foreign Relations says it's a huge transitional moment for the Japanese people.
Toll from Russia's deadliest airstrike on Ukraine in weeks rises to 18
The death toll from a Russian airstrike on Chernihiv in northern Ukraine has risen to 18, officials said on Thursday, while another 78 were wounded when three missiles slammed into the city centre.
Indonesian volcano eruption forces evacuations, airport closure
Indonesia shut a provincial airport and evacuated hundreds of people from the vicinity of the Ruang volcano after it belched explosive plumes of lava, rocks and ash for days, officials said on Thursday, declaring the highest alert on the situation.
US House to vote on Ukraine and Israel aid, despite hardline objections
The US House of Representatives will have its long-awaited vote on aid for Ukraine, Israel and the Indo-Pacific as soon as Saturday, Republican Speaker Mike Johnson said on Wednesday, paving the way for its possible passage despite fierce objections from the right wing of his conference.
Georgia proceeds with 'foreign agents' bill amid EU concerns
Georgia's parliament on Wednesday approved the first reading of a bill on "foreign agents" that the European Union said risked stifling freedoms and blocking the country's path to membership.
Qatar says Gaza ceasefire talks at 'delicate phase'
Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said on Wednesday talks on a Gaza ceasefire and a release of hostages are at a "delicate phase".
