ground. Some of the islands had been completely destroyed, and the atolls of Bikini and Enewetak contained such a high degree of radioactivity that it was impossible for the indigenous population to engage in agriculture. Radioactivity would continue for 30 to 60 years, and it would take no less than 125 years to decontaminate Bikini and the other atolls. 160. The Kwajalein Atoll, converted into the main military base on the Marshall Islands, was used to test intercontinental ballistic missiles launched from the west coast of the United States. It was already being used for the preparation of Washington's so-called Star Wars. 161. The Soviet Union representative wondered whether the Micronesians realized that all their privations during the Second world War would prove to be microscopic in comparison with the danger which was inherent in the location by the United States on their Territory of up-to-date nuclear , chemical and other weapons of ma5s destruction. 162. The Micronesians in Palau were valiantly continuing their struggle against nuclear danger. The United States was planning to create a major base there for atomic submarines and for the stockpiling of nuclear, chemical and other weapons and also intended to set up a testing ground for carrying out military exercises and manoeuvres, for which purpose tremendous parcels of land had been seized. Admiral David Birt had stated that, if necessary, all 14,000 inhabitants of Palau would be deported, as the inhabitants of Bikini, Enewetak and Kwajalein had been. 163. The Soviet representative quoted excerpts from statements made one month earlier by Mr. James A. Kelly, United States Deputy Assistant Secretary (East Asia and Pacific Affairs), in various committees of the United States Congress. Those excerpts, he said, clearly refuted the statements made by United States 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be discussing the consequences of nuclear testing and the presence of military bases on the Marshall Islands, specifically the impact on the indigenous population, the environment, and the potential for future dangers. The focus is on the human cost and the environmental damage caused by nuclear testing and military activities.

**Category**
Natural resources and environment, Humanitarian aid and relief