Bulgaria says Russia likely behind Black Sea drone strikes on ships

Bulgaria announced on Wednesday that Russia was likely responsible for a series of drone attacks in the Black Sea that struck four commercial vessels and sank two over the past week. Despite the assessment, Bulgarian officials acknowledged there is no definitive proof of Moscow’s involvement.

Attacks and Rescue Operations

The strikes occurred in Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone and adjacent waters. On Tuesday, two ships were hit: the HS Dignity, a cargo vessel registered to Guinea-Bissau, and the Chelsea-3, which is Ukrainian-owned, registered in Odesa, and sails under the flag of Malta. The HS Dignity sank after being hit by a military strike.

District Governor Mario Smarkov reported that four sailors from the HS Dignity—three Syrian nationals and one Egyptian—were rescued and transported to the port of Varna. "All four appeared to be in relatively good condition and had sustained no injuries," Smarkov said. A fifth sailor was expected to arrive later on Wednesday. Rescuers continue to search for 11 crew members missing from the two vessels.

Diplomatic Responses and Accusations

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev told Parliament that the attacks appeared to benefit Russia, particularly because one of the targeted vessels was Ukrainian-owned. "There is no logic in Ukraine attacking its own ships and crews, given that the outcome of all these attacks favors Russia — and indeed, the logic points in that direction. The problem is that we cannot prove it," Radev said.

Radev summoned Russian Ambassador to Bulgaria Eleonora Mitrofanova on Tuesday. According to reports, the ambassador stated she had no information from the Russian defense ministry but did not rule out the possibility that "these attacks represent a provocation by a third party."

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha blamed Russia for the strikes. "Russia's latest attack on commercial vessels near Bulgaria's territorial waters, which injured Ukrainian and Azerbaijani citizens, once again demonstrates Moscow's deliberate disregard for civilian lives and maritime security in the Black Sea," Sybiha wrote on X. He added, "The Black Sea is a lifeline for global food security. Russia is attacking it to weaponise hunger and hold the world hostage. This must be met with strength."

Regional Security and International Reaction

Bulgarian President Iliana Yotova called for an immediate halt to hostilities in the Black Sea and a moratorium on drone attacks against commercial and civilian infrastructure. "The unprecedented attacks demonstrate that the war has reached the Black Sea and that the conflict is intensifying," Yotova said in a TV interview. She noted that coordinated steps have been taken with counterparts in Romania and Turkey to address the growing risks.

Bulgaria has requested international assistance for the investigation and NATO support to strengthen surveillance and response capabilities. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated the alliance would continue working closely with allies in the Black Sea and monitoring the security situation. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned the attacks, stating the Black Sea "has become another front of escalation" in Russia's war in Ukraine.

Separate Incident Near Sofia

In a separate incident, Prime Minister Radev confirmed an attack on Starlink antennas near the capital, Sofia. Opposition lawmakers posted on social media that two masked men deliberately set fire to 11 of the 17 antennas used to connect to SpaceX’s Starlink satellite system. Radev declined to provide further details, citing an ongoing investigation. "The investigation is being worked on with partner services and is extremely intensive, with a result expected soon," Radev said, adding that any "premature disclosure could hinder the investigation."

Why it matters

The attacks mark a significant escalation of the conflict into the Black Sea, a critical corridor for global food exports. The sinking of commercial vessels and the targeting of infrastructure raise serious concerns about maritime security for NATO member states and the potential for broader regional instability.

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Sources

• apnews.com: Bulgaria says Russia likely behind Black Sea drone attacks on shipping | AP News
• timesofindia.indiatimes.com: Black Sea in crossfire: Bulgaria says Russia behind drone strikes that sank two ships - The Times of India
• ctinsider.com: Bulgaria says Russia was likely behind Black Sea drone strikes as rescue operations continue

This article was drafted with AI assistance and checked against the sources above. Company claims are reported as claims. Cover image is AI-generated.