Politics · India Bureau
Drone strikes sink vessel in Bulgaria's waters; crew rescued
Bulgarian authorities have confirmed that unmanned aircraft attacked two commercial ships in the country's Exclusive Economic Zone, resulting in one vessel sinking and another catching fire. All 18 crew members were rescued, though two sustained serious injuries.
LSN India ·
Two commercial vessels came under drone attack in Bulgaria's Exclusive Economic Zone, according to Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev. The Togo-flagged Alfa Watan sustained critical damage in the strike and subsequently sank, while the Palau-registered Able vessel caught fire following the attack.
A Bulgarian ferry operating in the area responded swiftly to the incident, successfully evacuating all 18 crew members from the stricken vessels. Two crew members required medical attention for serious injuries sustained during the incident.
The incident marks a significant escalation of maritime security concerns in the Black Sea region. Bulgaria's Exclusive Economic Zone extends into waters that have witnessed increased military activity in recent months, with shipping vessels facing heightened risks from various threats.
The attack underscores mounting dangers to commercial shipping in the region and raises questions about maritime safety protocols. Authorities have not yet provided additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the drone strikes or the origin of the unmanned aircraft.