Bulgarian President Iliana Yotova has expressed concerns over escalating security risks in the Black Sea due to Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Her remarks come after recent drone attacks on commercial vessels within Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone, which have intensified worries about maritime security and the safety of critical infrastructure.
These concerns were highlighted following an October 7 meeting of the Consultative Council on National Security. President Yotova noted that the October 6 incidents involved two separate attacks: one ship was reportedly sunk, resulting in the loss of its crew, while another vessel sustained severe damage, though its crew was successfully rescued. The Bulgarian authorities have pointed to the growing threat posed by the use of sea and air drones, which they say increases risks to commercial shipping and infrastructure.
In response, the council has agreed to bolster maritime surveillance, enhance the protection of strategic sites, and expand Bulgaria’s capabilities to counter drone threats. They also emphasized the importance of maintaining a high level of readiness for maritime search and rescue operations.
Bulgaria plans to collaborate with NATO and the European Union to strengthen air and maritime surveillance and improve coastal security. Additionally, Sofia intends to engage in consultations with Romania and Türkiye to devise strategies for safeguarding merchant shipping in the Black Sea region.
President Yotova stressed the need for diplomatic efforts to ensure safer navigation in the Black Sea and called for increased cooperation among the region’s coastal states. She also advocated for international investigations into the attacks on commercial vessels and urged for more involvement from European and international maritime institutions.