BULGARIA — The Bulgarian Navy deployed its frigate Verni to search for evidence following drone attacks on two commercial cargo vessels in the Black Sea on October 6, 2026. The attacks occurred within Bulgaria’s exclusive economic zone, approximately 70 nautical miles east of Byala. One vessel sank, while the other sustained extensive fire damage. Bulgarian authorities are investigating the incidents to determine the origin of the drones and establish responsibility.

On October 9, Bulgarian military personnel boarded the damaged Palau-flagged bulk carrier Able, which had been drifting after the attack. The inspection team spent approximately 30 minutes aboard, examining the damaged sections, photographing the vessel, and searching for drone fragments. Despite the extensive fire damage, personnel were able to enter the ship. However, no drone debris was recovered during the inspection or the search at sea.

The second vessel, the Togo-flagged Alfa Watan, sank following the attack, leaving all 10 crew members missing, including nine Syrian nationals. Syria subsequently called for an independent investigation involving Bulgarian authorities and the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Meanwhile, all 18 crew members aboard Able were rescued, although two reportedly sustained serious injuries. Bulgarian naval officials said the damaged bulk carrier remained afloat, but its condition was uncertain because of flooding and structural damage.

Bulgarian Defence Minister Dimitar Stoyanov emphasized that investigators could not determine who carried out the attacks without physical evidence. Although Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy blamed Russia, Russian authorities denied involvement, and Bulgaria has not officially identified the responsible party. Bulgarian authorities continue to monitor the damaged vessel and assess maritime security risks as the incidents raise further concerns about the safety of commercial shipping and seafarers operating in the Black Sea.