NATO, reaction after the drone attacks in the Black Sea: The Alliance will adjust its defense posture as necessary

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that NATO will adjust its defense measures in the Black Sea after two commercial vessels were struck by drones on Tuesday, 27–29 kilometers off the coast of Bulgaria. One of the vessels sank, and at least 11 sailors are missing.

Rutte stated that the Alliance “has already strengthened its posture along the eastern flank” and will adapt its deterrence and defense posture “as necessary”.

Bulgaria requested support from NATO and the European Union, while Prime Minister Rumen Radev described the attacks as “absolutely unacceptable”.

The crew of the Malta-flagged Chelsea 3 was evacuated, but six sailors sustained minor injuries. In the case of the second vessel, only one crew member was rescued.

The incidents occurred a week after other attacks on vessels in Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone. Previously, a Turkish vessel was struck off the coast of Romania and sank, and two people died. The EU is preparing a Maritime Security Center to monitor and protect routes in the Black Sea.