The United Nations has condemned drone attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea, warning that escalating threats to civilian shipping could disrupt global food supply chains, drive up commodity prices and endanger seafarers.
“We of course condemn attacks on civilian ships, especially the most recent one that took place off the coast of Bulgaria,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, told reporters on Tuesday.
Dujarric said attacks on ships carrying grain and other essential commodities had increased, with consequences for prices in markets worldwide.
He also drew comparisons with maritime threats in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, praising seafarers who continue to sustain global trade despite operating in dangerous conditions.
Two vessels struck off Bulgaria
Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev said the Maltese-flagged Chelsea 3 issued a distress call early Tuesday after three aerial drones struck its deck and side, about 18 nautical miles east of Byala.
All 15 crew members aboard the Ukrainian-owned vessel were safely evacuated to the Bulgarian port of Varna, according to Radev.
A second ship was struck about 17 nautical miles east of Krapets and subsequently sank, the prime minister said. One sailor was rescued.
The incidents add to concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the Black Sea, a vital corridor for regional trade and agricultural exports.
UN raises alarm over maritime security
The UN’s warning highlights the broader economic risks posed by attacks on civilian vessels, particularly those transporting food and other essential goods.
Disruptions to shipping routes can increase transport costs, delay deliveries and put additional pressure on commodity markets.
Dujarric’s remarks also underscored the dangers faced by maritime crews as security threats affect key waterways used by international commerce.
