**Moldova's Pivotal Vote: A Commitment to the European Union**

In a significant move, Moldovans are at the polls to determine whether to solidify in their Constitution an unwavering commitment to depart from Russian influence and eventually join the European Union. This pivotal choice aims to resolve a debate that has persisted since the fall of the Soviet Union.

As of Sunday afternoon, the referendum had already crossed a crucial milestone - achieving a minimum voter turnout of one-third, a requirement necessary for the results to be considered valid. This turnout is a positive sign for pro-European advocates who have been concerned about meeting this threshold.

Moldova, notable for being one of Europe's poorest nations, is also conducting a presidential election. The candidates include the pro-European incumbent, Maia Sandu, along with ten other contenders, many of whom prefer closer relations with Russia. This dual electoral event highlights the nation's central dilemma - choosing between alignment with Russia or the European Union.

Since becoming an independent state following the Soviet Union's collapse in 1991, Moldova has experienced a constant pull between Eastern and Western influences. Leaders with differing visions have emerged, some advocating for alignment with Russia, while others, like current President Sandu, push for integration with the European Union. Sandu's government began membership negotiations with the EU in June, reflecting her pro-Western stance.

Moldova isn't the only former Soviet republic grappling with this East-West dichotomy. In Georgia, a similar struggle is evident as thousands of protesters marched in Tbilisi on Sunday. Carrying European Union and Georgian flags, they voiced their opposition to the Georgian Dream party, which they accuse of leaning towards Russia. These protests come just ahead of a critical parliamentary election next weekend, further underscoring the regional significance of these geopolitical choices.