Bulgarian PM says drone attack on two ships is 'flagrant' breach of maritime law

Key Points:

• Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev condemned a drone attack on two commercial ships in the Black Sea within Bulgaria's exclusive economic zone, calling it a "flagrant violation of maritime law" and unacceptable.
• The attack occurred around 3am local time, about 70 nautical miles east of Byala, resulting in one ship sinking and the crew still missing, with search efforts ongoing.
• Radev warned that the ongoing war in Ukraine is escalating risks in the region, complicating Black Sea navigation and raising insurance costs, while emphasizing Bulgaria's commitment to protecting its coast.
• European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed full solidarity with affected EU member states and condemned attacks on civilian shipping, highlighting the increasing dangers for commercial vessels and crews.
• An emergency government meeting involving multiple ministries and security services was held to address the situation, including concerns about a Russian drone attack on the cargo ship Emil, which is now drifting toward Bulgarian waters.