Rumen Radev spoke with the Russian ambassador after drone attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea / Bulgaria will initiate consultations with Romania

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev met on Tuesday with Russia’s ambassador, Eleonora Mitrofanova, at the Council of Ministers, following drone attacks on two commercial vessels near Bulgaria’s coast. The origin of the drones has not been established, but Radev stated that the effects of the incidents serve Russia’s interests.

The CHELSEA 3, flying the Maltese flag and owned by Ukrainians, was hit by three drones east of the Bulgarian coastline. The 15 crew members were evacuated, and six were injured. A second vessel, HS Dignity, sank near Krapets. Information about the incident and the number of survivors was initially contradictory.

Mitrofanova stated that she had not received information from the Russian Ministry of Defense and did not rule out the possibility that a third party had organized a provocation. Bulgaria is investigating the attacks together with its EU and NATO allies and will initiate consultations with Romania and Turkey to increase navigational safety.

Bulgarian authorities warn that the incidents have increased insurance and transport costs, prompted some operators to avoid the country’s ports, and could affect the oil supply to the refinery in Burgas. President Iliana Yotova called for a swift investigation and diplomatic measures to reduce tensions.