Sofia, Bulgaria, 13 October, (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Black Sea drone attacks struck two commercial vessels off Bulgaria’s coastline on Tuesday, sinking one cargo ship and leaving 11 sailors missing. The incidents have triggered rescue operations, diplomatic tensions and renewed security concerns across the European Union and NATO as the Russia-Ukraine war threatens civilian maritime traffic.
Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev condemned the strikes and summoned Russia’s ambassador following the attacks near the coastline of the EU and NATO member state.
The incidents came just one week after two other merchant vessels were attacked in Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone, highlighting growing dangers to international shipping.
Drone Strikes Hit Two Commercial Ships Near Bulgaria
The Ukrainian-owned, Malta-flagged cargo vessel Chelsea 3 was struck by three aerial drones, according to Bulgarian authorities.
All 15 crew members were rescued, although five required treatment for minor injuries.
A second vessel, the Guinea-Bissau-flagged HS Dignity, sank approximately 17 nautical miles east of Krapets while travelling towards the Romanian port of Braila.
Five sailors were rescued from the sinking vessel, while 11 remained missing as emergency teams continued their search.
The attacks have raised questions about the protection of civilian vessels operating near European waters.
Bulgarian Government Demands Stronger Maritime Security
Prime Minister Radev described the attacks as unacceptable and called attention to their implications for international maritime law.
Although the Bulgarian government has not established who launched the drones, Radev said the consequences appeared to benefit Russia.
He stated:
“We lack solid, clear evidence to level accusations against any specific party.”
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha blamed Russia for the incidents, while Russia’s ambassador suggested the possibility of a third-party provocation without confirming responsibility.
Bulgarian authorities have emphasised the need for reliable evidence before determining who carried out the strikes.
EU and NATO Respond to Black Sea Security Threats
The latest Black Sea drone attacks have increased pressure on European institutions to address security risks affecting commercial shipping routes.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed concern about the Black Sea becoming an increasingly dangerous area during the continuing conflict.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte indicated that the alliance was prepared to adjust its defensive arrangements where necessary.
Bulgaria’s geographical position makes maritime security particularly important for regional trade, agricultural exports and transport connections with neighbouring countries.
Disruption to these routes could affect shipping operators, insurers and businesses dependent on reliable access to Black Sea ports.
Previous Ship Attacks Raise Concerns Across Europe
On 6 October, two merchant vessels were attacked by aerial and naval drones in Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone.
The Togo-flagged Alfa Watan sank, while the Palau-flagged Able caught fire after being struck.
Bulgarian emergency services rescued all 18 crew members from the Able, including sailors requiring medical treatment.
The earlier incidents prompted consultations involving Bulgarian security authorities and renewed calls for international cooperation.
The latest strikes have intensified concerns that civilian shipping is becoming increasingly exposed to military activity associated with the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
What Happens Next for Bulgaria and European Shipping?
Bulgarian authorities are continuing efforts to locate the missing sailors and establish responsibility for Tuesday’s attacks.
Further cooperation with NATO and European partners could involve maritime surveillance, intelligence sharing and additional protective measures for commercial vessels.
However, no definitive attribution of the latest strikes has been established.
For Brussels, the immediate challenge is balancing maritime security, regional stability and the protection of international trade routes.
The incidents demonstrate how the continuing conflict is creating wider consequences for European transport networks, civilian safety and economic security.
