Bulgarian President Iliana Yotova has raised alarms about the deteriorating security situation in the Black Sea due to Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, emphasizing significant concerns for maritime safety. This warning follows recent drone attacks on commercial vessels within Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone, which have heightened fears over the security of maritime navigation and the safeguarding of critical infrastructure.
During an October 7 meeting of the Consultative Council on National Security, Yotova highlighted the immediate threats posed by these attacks. An incident on October 6 resulted in the sinking of one ship with the tragic loss of its crew, while another vessel suffered severe damage, although its crew was successfully rescued. Bulgarian authorities have attributed these incidents to the increasing use of sea and air drones, which they believe pose growing risks to commercial shipping and critical infrastructure in the region.
In response, the council has committed to enhancing maritime surveillance, fortifying the protection of strategic sites, and boosting Bulgaria’s capabilities to counter drone threats. They have also emphasized the importance of maintaining readiness for maritime search and rescue operations. Bulgaria plans to collaborate with NATO and the European Union to bolster air and maritime surveillance and improve coastal security measures.
Sofia is also seeking to engage in consultations with neighboring countries Romania and Türkiye to devise strategies for safeguarding merchant shipping in the Black Sea. President Yotova has underscored the need for diplomatic efforts aimed at establishing safer navigation routes and promoting cooperation among the coastal states of the region.
Furthermore, Yotova has called for international investigations into the attacks on commercial vessels and stressed the necessity for greater involvement from European and international maritime institutions. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to address the security challenges posed by the conflict in Ukraine and ensure the protection of maritime activities in the Black Sea.