The Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands is administered and defended by whom?

The Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands is administered and defended by the United States on behalf of the United Nations. This arrangement stems from the post-World War II era when the United Nations established various Trust Territories to aid in their political and economic development towards self-governance. The U.S. was designated as the administering authority for this particular territory, which included various islands in the Pacific, such as the Marshall Islands, Micronesia, and Palau.

As part of this responsibility, the United States was tasked with providing defense, promoting social and economic advancement, and fostering a path towards self-rule for the residents of these islands. This unique relationship involved the U.S. ensuring security in the Pacific region while allowing for eventual independence and self-determination for the island communities.