'If we get in trouble, we won't call NATO or the US. We'll call the Ukrainians'

As Russia continues its violent invasion of Ukraine, neighboring countries are watching closely, wondering if they could be next — countries like Moldova.

The small nation sits in the crook of Ukraine's southwest border and is also partially occupied by the Russians. Population estimates range anywhere from 2.8 million to 4 million people. The Guardian reports it's now also supporting approximately 370,000 Ukrainian refugees.

But many of those refugees aren't staying long.

"They didn't stay, not because Moldova is poor, but because it's not safe," said Lucia Gnatiuc who grew up in Moldova. "It's so close to the war and if the worst happens, they'd have to run from Moldova as well."

Now 48, Lucia was 17 when the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, or the U.S.S.R., dissolved and thrust her native country into independence. Today, Moldova is one of the poorest countries in Europe, and has experienced an exodus of people looking for a more lucrative way of life. Lucia, her husband and their two teenage children are among them. They now live in Europe.

Moldova is also neither a member of the European Union nor the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). As Ukrainians defend their own homes from Russian invaders, they're also effectively protecting their Moldovan neighbors from being overrun.

When Russia invaded Ukraine in February, many Moldovans were worried about what would happen in Transnistria. The small breakaway state is located along the country's eastern border, not far from the Black Sea. Russian and Moldovan separatists have laid claim to the area for 30 years. NPR reports upwards of 1,800 Russian troops, and approximately 10,000 Transnistrian troops are there today. They're not well-trained, but they are considered better-armed than the Moldovan army.

While Lucia has stayed away from Transnistria, it's influence cannot be overlooked throughout the rest of the country. Many elders there also have a longing for the old days of the Soviet Union.

"[Moldova] has friendly people, but also indecisive, because it has always been 50/50 — 50% pro-West, 50% pro-East."

Lucia's family sides with those who are "pro-west." Her father and brother still live in Moldova, and have expressed their concerns about their country's vulnerability with her.

"Of course, we're hoping [the invasion] won't happen, thanks to Ukraine. That's been our shield and if Ukraine falls, there is no doubt Moldova would be next," Lucia said.

Despite being worried about her father and brother, Lucia says she's remaining optimistic that they will be safe.

"I speak with my brother everyday," she says. "He has been worried, but now, he's like, 'OK, we have lived once under occupation. Now, it will be again … But even if so, even if they invade, please don't shoot. Just don't come with bombs.'"

NPR reports people in Transnistria, in particular, are worried more Russian troops will be sent to the area to put pressure on the Moldovan government. It's now run by President Maia Sandu who took office in December of 2020. She has asked Moldova be admitted to the EU. The U.S. has also pledged its support for the new leadership.

"It's a blessing, because the previous president was pro-Russian," Lucia explains. "It would not have been so good for us if the pro-Russian won because Putin won't stop."

But Lucia is hoping the Russian president will be stopped.

"Maybe by Ukrainians, maybe by the U.S. I don't think you want to go there. It's complicated," she says.

"We small countries say 'come on USA, show us that you are the great country we've heard about,' and you sit there and do nothing! Moldovans joke, if we get in trouble, we won't call for NATO or U.S., we'll call the Ukrainians! Slava Ukrayini! Glory to Ukraine!"