SOFIA — Tensions in the Black Sea have escalated sharply following reports that two merchant vessels were struck by drone attacks early Tuesday morning, resulting in the sinking of at least one of the ships.
The incident, which occurred approximately 24 kilometres off the coast of Bulgaria, has sent shockwaves through regional maritime authorities and prompted an immediate response from the Bulgarian government. Prime Minister Rumen Radev confirmed the attacks during an emergency briefing, though he provided limited details regarding the identities of the vessels or the nature of their cargo.
“We are currently monitoring a developing situation in our maritime zone,” Radev stated. “Two ships have been targeted by drones, with confirmed reports indicating that one has sunk.”
The identity of the perpetrators remains unknown. Prime Minister Radev declined to speculate on the origin of the drones or the vessels involved, stating that an investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances of the attack. It remains unclear whether the ships were civilian, military, or dual-purpose, and no group or nation has yet claimed responsibility for the strike.
The location of the incident—well within the maritime sphere of influence of a NATO member state—is expected to draw significant scrutiny from the alliance. Since the beginning of the ongoing conflict in the region, the Black Sea has become a volatile theatre for drone warfare, maritime blockades, and mine threats, but a direct attack this close to the Bulgarian coastline marks a significant and dangerous shift in the conflict’s reach.
Search and rescue operations were reportedly launched immediately following the strikes, though details regarding survivors or casualties have not yet been released. Local authorities have warned vessels in the vicinity to exercise extreme caution, while military assets are said to be on heightened alert to secure the area and prevent further incidents.
The sinking of the vessel is likely to have immediate repercussions for global shipping insurance rates and maritime security protocols in the region, which is a vital artery for grain exports and energy transit. The international community is bracing for further updates, with European and NATO officials expected to convene later today to discuss the security implications of the attack.
As of 7:30 GMT, the area remains under surveillance by Bulgarian naval forces. Further information regarding the origin of the drones and the status of the crew members is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
This is a developing story. Euronews journalists are working on further updates.
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