 | AFTER MOLDOVA'S ATTACK on Transdniestria in 1992, the local population strengthened its struggle for independence. A look back at the roots of the conflict helps provide a glimpse of what the future could bring. [more] |  | | |  | LENIN'S LEGACY is alive and well in Pridnestrovie. But it means something very different than what you might think at first glance. [more] |
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In Voronkovo, a secret military base is now farmland
In the past, the secret military base was heavily guarded and unauthorized visitors could be shot at sight. But now, where Soviet soldiers once stood guard, farmers are today plowing over the former military airfield and harvesting food for the local village.
Voronkovo from the sky: The long airstrip is now plowed-over farmlandVORONKOVO (Tiraspol Times) - Voronkovo, a village near Rybnitsa, in Pridnestrovie, is known for two things: A huge Cold War military air base and a famous Christian church.
Today, Voronkovo's Soviet-era military installations have been abandoned. As can be seen from the air, the airfield's 2500 meter long runway has now been turned into peaceful farmland. Agricultural fields now cover what was once a military base long ago. It is a symbol of the new Europe, and proof that Pridnestrovie wants peace, not war. The military base is closed for good, never to be opened again ever.
But the Church of the Blessed Virgin's Assumption is still open! For the religious community of Pridnestrovie, this church in Voronkovo has a very special significance: It is the only church in Pridnestrovie which was never once closed, not even during Soviet times when all other churches had to close. The construction of the church was completed in the year 1800 and it is still open and functioning today, standing much as it did when it first opened its doors.
Internet users of Google Earth and Google Maps are able to see the satellite photos online. Voronkovo is located at the following coordinates: 47°41'N 029°06'E.
Voronkovo forms part of Pridnestrovie, a new and emerging country also known unofficially as Transnistria. In the breakdown of the Soviet Union, it declared independence in 1990. Despite functioning as a fully separate country and having all the requirements for statehood under international law, the international community has not yet formalized the recognition of Pridnestrovie as an independent state.
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In the aftermath of a sweeping ban of "pro-separatist" media, journalists at The Tiraspol Times are weighing their options and seeking legal advice. On 5 June 2008, Moldova outlawed newspapers whose articles can be interpreted as positive coverage of Transdniestria. Moldova's legal authority over Transdniestria is in doubt but the country can enforce its laws internationally. . . 
