The Ukrainian-owned freighter Chelsea 3, sailing under a Maltese flag, was struck by three drones at approximately 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday (22:30 GMT on Monday). The vessel sustained damage but remained afloat. The second ship, whose name was not specified in initial reports, sank following the attack. The immediate defense significance of the incident lies in its proximity to Bulgarian territorial waters, raising concerns about the safety of maritime traffic in the Black Sea.
Prime Minister Radev confirmed that the 15-member crew of the Chelsea 3, comprising seven Ukrainians and eight Azerbaijanis, was successfully rescued. Five crew members received medical assistance, and there were no reports of serious injuries. Additionally, one crew member from the vessel that sank was also recovered. Radev described the incident as “absolutely unacceptable,” emphasizing that it constituted another attack in the immediate vicinity of Bulgarian territorial waters.
Diplomatic and Military Responses
In a televised address, Radev stated that he was scheduled to speak with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte regarding the incident. The Bulgarian government has not identified the specific actor responsible for the drone attacks, noting a lack of clear evidence. However, Radev asserted that the outcome of the incident “benefits” Russia. In response to the attack, the Russian ambassador to Bulgaria will be summoned to address the situation.
The attacks highlight the increasing volatility in the Black Sea region, where maritime security has become a critical concern for NATO member states. Bulgaria, as a NATO ally with a Black Sea coast, is directly affected by the spillover of regional conflicts and security threats. The use of drones in such attacks demonstrates the evolving nature of maritime warfare and the challenges in attributing responsibility quickly.
While the immediate humanitarian threat was mitigated by the successful rescue of all crew members, the incident underscores the persistent risk to commercial shipping in the area. The Bulgarian government’s decision to engage NATO leadership and diplomatic channels with Russia signals a formal state response, aiming to seek accountability and deter future attacks.
Further developments are expected as NATO evaluates the incident and Bulgaria continues its diplomatic negotiations. The next steps include potential joint assessments of maritime security protocols in the Black Sea and ongoing investigations into the origin of the drones.
