Black Sea Drone Strike Sinks Merchant Ship: 10 Missing, Bulgaria Summons Russian Ambassador

Bulgaria summoned the Russian ambassador on Thursday after a merchant ship was sunk in a drone attack in the Black Sea overnight, Bulgarian authorities said. Six crew members were rescued, but 10 others are missing, according to officials.

The attack, which Bulgaria attributes to a drone strike, marks a significant escalation in the Black Sea region, where tensions have been heightened since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The ship's sinking is the latest in a series of maritime incidents that have disrupted shipping and raised concerns over global food and energy security. Bulgarian officials have not yet released the name or flag of the vessel, but the summoning of the Russian ambassador suggests Sofia holds Moscow responsible.

The incident is likely to further strain relations between Bulgaria and Russia, already at a low point due to the war in Ukraine. NATO member Bulgaria has condemned Russia's actions and provided support to Ukraine. The international community is expected to respond, with calls for de-escalation and a thorough investigation. The missing crew members' fate remains unknown as search and rescue operations continue.