Bulgarian authorities have launched a major search operation for missing crew members after two commercial ships were struck by sea and aerial drones in the Black Sea, approximately 70 nautical miles off the Bulgarian coast. The attacks occurred around 3 a.m. local time on Tuesday.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev condemned the strikes as "absolutely unacceptable" and a "blatant violation of international law and maritime law." The incident highlights the increasing risks to shipping in the Black Sea, which has been heavily impacted by the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

The Togo-flagged vessel Alfa Watan sustained critical structural damage and sank at the site of the attack. The number of missing crew members has not been specified. The second vessel, the Palau-flagged Able, which was reportedly carrying wheat and sailing south, caught fire following the drone strike. All 18 crew members from the Able were evacuated, though two sailors suffered serious injuries and were transported to a hospital in Varna.

Prime Minister Radev stated that the origin of the drones was not immediately clear. The attacks come just one day after a civilian vessel caught fire and sank off the coast of Romania, resulting in one fatality and one missing person. Ukraine attributed that attack to Russian drone launches.

The incidents are significantly disrupting maritime traffic in the Black Sea, leading to a further increase in shipping insurance costs and complicating logistical operations. Prime Minister Radev expressed concern that the war is expanding geographically, escalating the risks for global maritime activities.

Following the attacks, Bulgarian officials convened an emergency meeting to address the situation. Authorities are also monitoring the waters for potential environmental hazards, such as oil spills, from the damaged vessels.

The Alfa Watan was reportedly heading north at the time of the incident, while the Able was sailing south. The specific cargo of the Alfa Watan was not disclosed by officials.

These drone attacks underscore the volatile security environment in the Black Sea region, with implications extending beyond military objectives to vital global trade routes and environmental safety.