Bulgarian President Iliana Yotova has issued a stark warning about heightened security threats in the Black Sea due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Following recent drone attacks on commercial vessels within Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone, Yotova emphasized the escalating risks to maritime security, freedom of navigation, and critical infrastructure protection.
During a meeting of the Consultative Council on National Security on October 7, Yotova highlighted the severity of the situation after an incident on October 6, where a drone attack sank one ship, resulting in the loss of its crew, and severely damaged another vessel, whose crew was subsequently rescued. Bulgarian officials noted that the increasing use of sea and air drones poses significant threats to commercial shipping and vital infrastructure in the region.
In response, the council resolved to enhance maritime surveillance, bolster the protection of strategic sites, and expand Bulgaria’s capabilities to counter drone threats. They also stressed the importance of maintaining high readiness levels for maritime search and rescue operations. As part of a broader strategy, Bulgaria intends to collaborate with NATO and the European Union to improve air and maritime surveillance and strengthen coastal security.
Bulgaria also plans to engage in consultations with neighboring countries Romania and Türkiye to implement measures that protect merchant shipping in the Black Sea. President Yotova underscored the need for diplomatic efforts to ensure safer navigation and foster cooperation among coastal states in the region.
Furthermore, Yotova called for international investigations into the attacks on commercial vessels and advocated for enhanced involvement from European and international maritime institutions to address these security challenges effectively.