I don't buy that it is out of necessity, because of her contract problems. Even if she died there, she'd have to be in the season premiere, just like Kes made it two episodes last year. As it was, it came off as hammy. It made for amusing conversation, but, more importantly, it made for an easy avenue for the old boyfriend to get into position to make the Equinox's plan work. Maybe it's a bit coincidental that he shows up here, but the look on Belanna's face when she blows him away in the next episode should be great.
Equinox works because it has so many possibilities.
That's what a good season finale should do. Some haven't had that. Basics meant Voyager's had to retake the ship, end of story. I don't see how anyone can say that this is NOT a cliffhanger. Voyager is in great distress and frankly pretty much screwed.