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Bulgarian PM summons Russian ambassador after merchant ships hit in Black Sea drone attack
Overview
Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev has summoned the Russian ambassador after two merchant ships, the HS Dignity and the Chelsea-3, were struck by drones off Bulgaria's Black Sea coast in its exclusive economic zone. One ship sank, leaving 10 crew members missing, while the other was damaged with crew members sustaining minor injuries. Bulgarian officials noted that escalation in the Black Sea is increasing, and Prime Minister Radev discussed the security situation with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.
Key points
- Two merchant ships, the HS Dignity and the Chelsea-3, were struck by drones off Bulgaria's Black Sea coast.
- The Guinea-Bissau-flagged HS Dignity sank, with six crew members rescued and 10 reported missing.
- The Ukrainian-owned Chelsea-3 was hit near Byala, with all 15 crew rescued and five sustaining minor injuries.
- Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev summoned Russian ambassador Eleonora Mitrofanova following an emergency meeting.
- Ambassador Mitrofanova stated she had no information from Russia's defence ministry and suggested a third-party provocation.
- Prime Minister Radev discussed the security environment and NATO's posture with Secretary General Mark Rutte.