Bulgaria Summons Russian Envoy Over New Black Sea Drone Attacks

Bulgaria plans to formally challenge Russia's ambassador following overnight assaults on commercial vessels in its Black Sea waters, comprising a drone assault on a Ukrainian-owned cargo ship and another reported vessel sinking, according to Bloomberg's report on Tuesday, October 13. Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev disclosed that authorities lacked adequate proof to conclusively assign blame.

Ukraine accused Russia of the attacks and demanded heightened sanctions. The Malta-flagged Chelsea 3, operated by a Ukrainian firm, was targeted around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday, approximately 18 nautical miles (20 miles) off the Bulgarian town of Byala, as reported by Radev. Drone strikes caused no casualties, and crew members were promptly rescued.

Radev also noted a second incident some 17 nautical miles (19 miles) off the village of Krapets, where early reports suggested a vessel had been hit and sunk. Despite this decision to summon Russia's ambassador, Radev admitted Bulgaria's inability to produce concrete evidence to charge a specific entity. "We lack solid, clear evidence to level accusations against any specific party," he stated.

Nonetheless, he hinted that Russia might capitalize on the incidents. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha denounced Russia for the attacks in Bulgarian waters, stating Ukrainian and Azerbaijani citizens sustained injuries. He emphasized Moscow's disregard for civilian lives and shipping security in the Black Sea, urging international allies to intensify pressure on Russia, enforce additional sanctions, and take measures to preserve freedom of navigation.

"The Black Sea is a lifeline for global food security," Sybiha asserted. "Russia is targeting it to weaponize famine and hold the world to ransom." Sybiha called for a robust international response to hold Russia accountable and safeguard commercial shipping.