Moldova's upcoming parliamentary election on Sunday is divided between European and Russian lines.

Opinion polls show the country -- which sits on the southwestern rim of the former Soviet Union -- is deeply split .... between staying on its pro-European path, or changing course and joining a Russian-led economic bloc instead.

In neighboring Ukraine, a similar decision plunged the country into months of unresolved and violent conflict.

A day ahead of the vote.. Moldovans on the streets of the capital city, Chisinau, were equally divided.

(SOUNDBITE) (Moldovan) CHISINAU RESIDENT, VASILE PUICA, SAYING:

"Our future is with Europe. I have four children and I see the future of my children in getting an education abroad. I want them to study there, not here."

(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) CHISINAU RESIDENT, VALENTINA SAVCHUK, SAYING:

"I think Moldova should not get close to anyone, it should develop relations with both Russia and the EU, but remain an indepe