Black Sea, Bulgaria — Two merchant vessels were reportedly struck by drones off Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast on October 13, leaving one ship sunk and 11 seafarers missing, according to reports citing Bulgarian authorities.

The Guinea-Bissau-flagged cargo vessel HS Dignity reportedly sank following the attack. Of its 16 crew members, five were rescued, while search and rescue operations continued for the remaining 11. The Malta-flagged Chelsea 3 was also reportedly struck, but all 15 crew members were evacuated. Several sustained injuries.

The incident followed similar reported drone attacks on October 6, when two other commercial vessels were struck in the Black Sea. One vessel, Alfa Watan, reportedly sank, raising concerns over the safety of merchant shipping and seafarers operating near the conflict zone.

Bulgarian authorities condemned the attacks amid growing concerns over maritime security in the region. Responsibility for the incidents has not been conclusively established, while the reported attacks highlight the continuing risks faced by commercial vessels and their crews operating in waters affected by regional tensions.