A proposed $100 million deepwater port on the remote atoll of Tongareva is causing anxiety amongst its 230 residents. Islanders express concern due to past experiences with outside interest in their island. The current attention stems from both potential mineral resources and evolving military strategies in the region. While the port is publicly framed as a development project, underlying motives related to resource extraction and geopolitical positioning are suspected. Locals fear repeating past scenarios where promises of progress failed to materialize or negatively impacted their community. The increased focus from figures like Donald Trump intensifies these anxieties, leaving them uncertain about the future of their isolated home. The situation highlights the challenges faced by small island nations navigating larger power dynamics.