I wondered why Moldova's southern border -- clearly intentionally not letting it reach the Black Sea -- was drawn that way. After rephrasing my question in different ways, filtering out the pro-NATO b.s., this is what Bing Copilot finally came up with:
Certainly! Let's explore the historical and geopolitical context behind Moldova's southern border:
Ancient Inhabitants:
Moldova's territory was inhabited by ancient Dacians, and Moldovans identify themselves with their ancestors.
During classical antiquity, Carpian tribes also inhabited Moldova's land3.
Roman and Byzantine Influence:
Between the 1st and 7th centuries AD, the southern part of Moldova intermittently came under the control of the Roman and later the Byzantine Empires.
Due to its strategic location on a route between Asia and Europe, Moldova faced invasions by various groups, including the Goths, Huns, Avars, Magyars, Pechenegs, Cumans, and Mongols1.
Russian Annexation of Bessarabia:
In 1812, following one of several Russian–Turkish wars, the eastern half of Moldova, known as Bessarabia, was annexed by the Russian Empire.
The Treaty of Adrianople in 1829 pushed Russia's frontier south to include the Danube delta, further altering Moldova's southern border2.
Moldavian Democratic Republic and Union with Romania:
In 1918, Bessarabia briefly became independent as the Moldavian Democratic Republic.
Following the decision of the Parliament (Sfatul Țării), it united with Romania.
However, during World War II, Bessarabia was occupied by the Soviet Union, which reclaimed it from Romania1.
Post-Soviet Independence:
In 1991, after the dissolution of the USSR, Moldova declared independence as the Republic of Moldova.
Despite its lack of direct access to the Black Sea, Moldova maintains connections through its river basins and geopolitical ties1.
In summary, Moldova's southern border has evolved over centuries due to historical events, territorial shifts, and geopolitical influences. Its current configuration reflects a complex interplay of factors that have shaped its identity and position in Eastern Europe1 2.
Source(s)
2. History of Moldova - Wikipedia
3. History of Moldova Facts, Flag, & Map Britannica
4. Moldova | History, Population, Map, Flag, Capital, & Facts