Bulgaria has raised alarms over escalating security threats in the Black Sea region as a result of Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Bulgarian President Iliana Yotova highlighted the increased risks following recent drone attacks on commercial vessels within Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone, which have intensified concerns over maritime security, freedom of navigation, and the safety of critical infrastructure.
During a meeting of the Consultative Council on National Security on October 7, Yotova emphasized the gravity of the situation after the October 6 attacks, which reportedly led to the sinking of one ship with its crew lost, and severe damage to another vessel whose crew was later rescued. Bulgarian authorities have noted that the use of sea and air drones in the region poses a growing threat to commercial shipping and essential infrastructure.
In response, the council has committed to bolstering maritime surveillance, enhancing the protection of strategic sites, and expanding Bulgaria’s capabilities to counter drone threats. It has stressed the importance of maintaining high readiness levels for maritime search and rescue operations. Bulgaria also plans to collaborate with NATO and the European Union to enhance air and maritime surveillance and improve coastal security measures.
Furthermore, Bulgaria intends to engage in discussions with Romania and Türkiye to devise strategies for safeguarding merchant shipping in the Black Sea. Yotova expressed the need for diplomatic efforts to establish safer navigation routes and foster cooperation among the coastal states in the region.
President Yotova also called for international investigations into the attacks on commercial vessels and urged greater involvement from European and international maritime institutions to address the security challenges in the Black Sea.