Bulgaria has summoned Russian Ambassador Eleonora Mitrofanova following drone attacks on merchant ships within the country’s exclusive economic zone in the Black Sea, raising significant concerns over maritime security. The Bulgarian Prime Minister, Roumen Radev, engaged in discussions with Mitrofanova on October 13, highlighting the potential escalation of regional conflicts due to these incidents.
Although Bulgaria has yet to determine the origin of the drones conclusively, Radev expressed skepticism about Ukrainian involvement, noting that the attacks seem to benefit Russia. In response, Mitrofanova claimed she had no information from Russia’s Defense Ministry regarding the incidents and suggested the possibility of a third party being responsible.
Radev condemned the attacks, emphasizing their threat to merchant shipping and warning of the potential for increased conflict. He assured that Bulgaria would collaborate with European Union and NATO allies to investigate the matter further and establish the facts. The attacks have led to heightened risks for commercial shipping, increased insurance costs, and some transport operators refusing to ship to Bulgarian ports. Additionally, the attacks have affected oil supplies to the Burgas refinery, making them more costly and less secure.
In addressing the issue, Bulgaria plans to hold discussions with Romania and Türkiye to formulate joint proposals aimed at safeguarding maritime traffic in the Black Sea. Bulgarian President Iliana Yotova echoed the condemnation of the attacks, describing them as a significant threat to navigation freedom and supply-chain security. She called for a prompt investigation, diplomatic efforts to ease tensions, and the implementation of recommendations from the country’s October 7 Consultative Council on National Security meeting.