Drone attacks hit ships near Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast; Russia is suspected, prompting NATO and EU responses.
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Drone attacks struck two ships near the Bulgarian Black Sea coast, sinking one; Bulgarian officials suspect Russia is behind the attacks. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that presence in the Black Sea region could be increased if necessary and confirmed discussions with Bulgarian Prime Minister Radev regarding security. The Bulgarian government expelled the Russian ambassador following the incidents, while Romanian PM Radev stressed the unacceptable nature of such tragedies on Bulgarian waters. International attention was drawn to one cargo ship flying a Bissau-Guinean flag where 11 out of 16 crew members went missing; rescue operations were launched by Bulgarian authorities. Another cargo ship traveling towards Romania with Ukrainian and Azerbaijani crews was also attacked, resulting in the rescue of 15 people. Despite Bulgaria expelling the Russian ambassador, Romanian PM Radev maintained a peaceful tone, suggesting resolution serves Russia’s interests. The Russian ambassador in Sofia stated she had no information about attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea but could not rule out third-party involvement. Both Ukraine and the EU condemned the attacks; Ursula von der Leyen noted the Black Sea has become a new front in the war against Ukraine, demanding accountability. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybyha asserted that Russia targets ships to create famine by attacking vital global food supply routes. Bulgarian Defense Minister Dimitar Stojanov met with Romanian and Turkish defense ministers, emphasizing the need for coordinated action to ensure safe passage. The attacks have reportedly increased because of the importance of grain exports from Ukraine and Russia, forcing Ukrainian shipments onto alternative routes like those through Romania and Bulgaria, while Ukraine also targets Russian grain routes in the Azov Sea and Don River mouth.
