Bulgaria reports drone strikes on ships in Black Sea, seeks NATO and EU help
Bulgaria's prime minister said drones struck a commercial ship off the country's Black Sea coast overnight on Oct. 13. The Maltese-flagged Chelsea 3, registered in Odesa and owned by a Ukrainian company, was hit by three drones near Byala, and all 15 crew members were evacuated, with five receiving medical care. Another vessel was struck near Krapets and sank, with one crew member rescued; Bulgaria has not attributed the attacks but is seeking NATO and EU support and summoned Russia's ambassador.
Bulgaria’s prime minister said drones hit the Chelsea 3, sailing under Malta’s flag, about 18 nautical miles east of Byala. The vessel, registered in Odesa and owned by a Ukrainian company, was struck by three aerial drones. Its 15 crew members—seven Ukrainians and eight Azerbaijanis—were taken to Varna; five needed medical help.
A second ship was hit roughly 17 nautical miles east of Krapets and sank, with one person rescued. Sofia has not assigned blame, though Radev said available evidence was inconclusive and that the likely beneficiary appeared to be Russia. Bulgaria contacted NATO and EU representatives and planned to summon Russia’s ambassador.
The strikes could heighten risks for commercial crews and shipping firms operating in the Black Sea, potentially raising insurance costs and prompting route changes. Coastal communities in Bulgaria may feel more exposed, while Sofia’s requests to NATO and EU partners could shape debates over maritime surveillance and regional security. If blame remains unclear, public trust in official assessments may be tested, and diplomatic exchanges with Russia could become more tense. The wider effect may depend on whether further attacks occur and how allies respond.