Thread by @alinavictoriaw

Before all the westsplainers beginning on this let me, a Ukrainian who grew up in Moldova, give my opinion on this issue. 1/9 🧵

https://twitter.com/visegrad24/status/1550971607119691777

First and foremost, Moldova has been a part of this from the start. It might not be obvious to those of you that know nothing of our history but let me start by saying that Moldova as a county has only existed for 30 years. 2

Before the USSR occupation, it was Romanians’ territory. While other parts like the ones my family are from in Transnistria were a part of Ukraine. So that being said, there are a LOT of Ukrainians in Moldova (ehm me). 3

The reality of the situation is that Russia has always wanted to keep control over Moldova; see 1990-1992 Transnistria War for reference. But it has failed to do so, and over the years, our elected presidents have veered further and further away from Russian influence. 4

Fast forward to now. Transnistria plays a vital role in this Russian-Ukrainian war because of its location. Russia has made it clear that it is not stopping at Donbas and Zaporizhzhia. It wants to take control of Ukraine in totality. 5

So, Transnistria as a territory already under Russian control would help them accomplish this. If Odesa falls into Russian hands, which is undoubtedly Putin's plan, Moldova is next. And because we virtually do not have an army it's a piece of cake. Russians will just walk in. 6

For Moldova, this is an existential threat that already exists, because we do not have the means or training to fight, and for Ukraine, it will create 3 fronts. So this offer Ukraine gave to help remove those troops is a better solution for both countries. 7

As a Moldovian and a Ukrainian, I don't want Moldova occupied, and frankly, I'm tired of hearing the conversation about how this might anger the bear. I don't care. We are standing up for ourselves. 8

I'm tired of threats. I'm tired of people telling us to back off and let Russia have what it wants. And I sure as hell am tired of the west having opinions about these issues that exclude voices like mine. Do better and create #UkrainianSpaces 9