The U.S. has a profound respect for how meaningful a presidential visit to Hiroshima would be to the Japanese people and particularly the city's residents.

I wouldn't be at all surprised if Obama does visit Hiroshima, despite misgivings I think he harbors about Abe's historical revisionism.

For one, Obama seems to be quite interested in Japan, which was very obvious during his previous visits here as President. I think in part this is due to his Hawaiian background and that states close cultural link to Japan, and also because he spent a short time here as a child with his mother.

Also, in the final years of his presidency he is trying to seal his legacy. Re-establishing ties with Cuba was one example, and this visit to Hiroshima will be another such landmark event.

Hmmm...I guess if you're a lame duck Pres, why not? But no apology forthcoming. More like "I'm sorry that you're sorry."

I'm fine with that, just as long as we all start putting WWII behind us. The world is facing very serious issues, and the survival of humanity is at stake. Why the heck are politicians and people wasting their efforts demanding apologies for something that ended 70 years ago? Pathetic.

Here, here, commanteer!

Ben Rhodes, a senior White House official, saying U.S. President Barack Obama may visit Hiroshima before the end of his term. (NHK)

I have been to Hiroshima and found it very moving, and am glad, for what it is worth, I had the chance to pay my personal respects to those who perished in the attack. But, IMO, nothing good would come from Obama visiting there himself. Unfortunately, a certain segment of Japanese society will interpret it as an "apology" -- especially if he places a wreath and bows respectfully -- and that will further feed Japan's victim mentality. Best to leave it alone.

Oh my god Obama don't do it! There's nothing to apologize for, the Japanese deservedly brought the bombings upon themselves, I just can't imagine the victim japan fest that will happen should he stupidly go there.