EU calls strikes on commercial vessels in Black Sea unacceptable

The European Union has called on Russia to cease attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea and, upon request from Romania and Bulgaria, is providing satellite imagery to monitor the situation following the strikes.

Source: European Pravda, citing a statement by European Commission spokesperson Christian Wigand

Details: The EU stresses that Russia poses threats to maritime safety and navigation in the Black Sea.

Quote: "These latest attacks on the commercial ships in the Black Sea loaded with grains are completely unacceptable. That Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine is also seen in the Black Sea and poses serious threats to maritime security and freedom of navigation."

Details: He urged Russia to "cease all actions that endanger international shipping and the lives of seafarers as well to return to compliance with the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea".

The spokesperson said that the European Maritime Safety Agency offered its support to the Romanian and Bulgarian authorities in line with its role in providing support in maritime safety and situational awareness at the European level.

Quote: "Both Romania and Bulgaria requested satellite imagery to enhance situational awareness following the attacks, and we are currently delivering the shots."

Background:

• As reported by European Pravda, on 6 October, in the exclusive economic zone of Bulgaria in the Black Sea, drones attacked two commercial vessels – Alfa Watan, flying the flag of Togo, and Able, flying the flag of Palau.
• This is the second such incident in two days: on 5 October, a vessel carrying grain from Ukraine to Italy was hit by drones off the Romanian coast in the Black Sea. Two crew members were killed and 11 others rescued.
• President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the Ukrainian Navy contacted its Bulgarian counterparts regarding an attack on two civilian vessels in Bulgarian waters. Zelenskyy stated that the attack was carried out by Russia.

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