Romania and Bulgaria are calling on the European Union and NATO to reinforce security measures in the region amid an increase in drone attacks targeting commercial vessels in the Black Sea.
Sea-news.az reports that six drone attacks against civilian ships have been recorded near the coasts of both countries over the past ten days. Russia has been cited as the probable source of the attacks.
According to the Romanian outlet Radio Romania International, Black Sea security was discussed in the North Atlantic Council of NATO following appeals by Romania and Bulgaria. During the meeting in Brussels, ambassadors from allied nations agreed to provide additional support to enhance surveillance, intelligence, and incident investigation capabilities in the region.
NATO spokesperson Allison Hart stated that the Alliance has already expanded its assets on the eastern flank, including in the field of counter-unmanned aerial vehicle defense. She noted that member states will continue to act collectively against emerging threats.
Security in the Black Sea was also deliberated in the European Parliament. High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas expressed support for establishing an EU naval mission in the region to protect grain-carrying vessels. Describing the recent incidents within the territorial waters of Romania and Bulgaria as a dangerous escalation, she warned that attacks on shipping in the Black Sea could adversely affect global food security.
K. Kallas noted that the Black Sea security center, which Romania and Bulgaria plan to set up with EU backing, will bolster intelligence sharing and regional coordination.
Romanian Member of the European Parliament Victor Negrescu stated that the European Union must take concrete steps without waiting for another severe incident. According to him, the draft resolution set to be submitted to a vote in the European Parliament demands the immediate funding and launch of the maritime security center in the Black Sea.
The draft plans for Romania’s Port of Constanța to play a central role, establishing monitoring and rapid-intervention capabilities, alongside defining a concrete timetable for execution.
Navigational safety in the Black Sea is of critical importance for regional ports, international trade flows, and the stability of commercial connections between Europe and Asia.
