Nicușor Dan convenes CSAT to assess the security situation in the Black Sea

President Nicușor Dan has convened a meeting of the Supreme Council of National Defence, according to Digi24 sources. The meeting’s agenda is reportedly set to include the security situation in the Black Sea, in the context of Russian attacks on commercial vessels and the intensification of risks posed by drones.

CSAT members may also examine the acquisition of military equipment needed to protect Romania and strengthen its defence capabilities.

The meeting was convened following the alert on 15 October, when two vessels caught fire near Sulina. Nicușor Dan confirmed that they had been hit by aerial drones. One of the vessels, located 14 nautical miles from Sulina, requested assistance from the Romanian authorities.

Similar incidents were reported off the coast of Bulgaria on 13 October. Two commercial vessels were hit by drones, and one sank. The 15 crew members of a vessel flying the Maltese flag were evacuated, while a sailor from the other vessel was rescued.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced the strengthening of defences on the Eastern Flank and the development of counter-drone capabilities. According to him, the security of the Black Sea was discussed with the Romanian and Bulgarian leaders.