The Caroline Islands are a group of islands located in the western Pacific Ocean, and they are politically divided between two nations: the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau. Specifically, the eastern part of the islands belongs to the Republic of Palau, while the western part is part of the Federated States of Micronesia, which consists of several states including Pohnpei, Chuuk, Yap, and Kosrae.
The islands have a rich history, having been under various colonial administrations from Spain to Japan throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. However, following World War II, these islands became part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States. Eventually, the islands moved towards independent governance, leading to the establishment of their current political status.
In summary, the ownership of the Caroline Islands is shared between Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia, with each nation having sovereignty over different areas of the archipelago.