Bulgaria has summoned Russian Ambassador Eleonora Mitrofanova following drone attacks on merchant ships within its exclusive economic zone in the Black Sea. The discussions, held on October 13 with Bulgarian Prime Minister Roumen Radev, centered on maritime security concerns and the implications for commercial shipping amid the ongoing regional conflict.
Prime Minister Radev mentioned that Bulgaria lacks conclusive evidence regarding the origin of the drones. Despite this, he indicated that the attacks seemed to disadvantage Ukraine while potentially benefiting Russia. Ambassador Mitrofanova, however, stated that she had received no information from Russia’s Defence Ministry concerning these incidents and suggested the possibility of a third-party involvement.
The drone attacks have heightened risks for commercial shipping, leading to increased insurance costs and causing some transport operators to avoid Bulgarian ports. These incidents have also affected oil supply routes to the Burgas refinery, making them more expensive and less secure. In response, Bulgaria plans to engage in discussions with Romania and Türkiye to formulate joint strategies to safeguard maritime traffic in the Black Sea.
Bulgarian President Iliana Yotova condemned the attacks, labeling them a significant threat to navigation freedom and supply-chain security. She emphasized the need for a prompt investigation, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, and the adoption of recommendations stemming from Bulgaria’s October 7 Consultative Council on National Security meeting.
Radev reiterated Bulgaria’s commitment to investigating the attacks in collaboration with European Union and NATO allies to establish the facts. He firmly condemned the attacks on merchant vessels, warning that such actions are unacceptable and pose risks of escalating the conflict further.