EU Allocates €20 Billion After Black Sea Vessel Attacks
The European Commission is providing satellite imagery and €20 billion in security funding to Bulgaria and Romania following drone attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen condemned a series of attacks on commercial vessels in the Black Sea, describing the targeting of civilian shipping as "unacceptable." The incidents included the sinking of a Turkish ship transporting Ukrainian grain off the coast of Romania and drone strikes on two other vessels within Bulgaria's exclusive economic zone, resulting in loss of life at sea.
In response, the European Commission is providing satellite imagery to Bulgaria and Romania to assist in their investigations. The Commission characterized Russia's aggression against Ukraine as a serious threat to maritime security and freedom of navigation. The European Maritime Safety Agency has also offered assistance to both nations to maintain regional security.
To bolster the Eastern Flank, the European Union is allocating a combined €20 billion to Bulgaria and Romania through the SAFE initiative. Pre-financing of €500 million for Bulgaria and €2.5 billion for Romania has already been delivered. Additionally, the two countries are jointly leading the Black Sea Security Centre, operating from Varna and Constanța, to improve situational awareness and protect critical infrastructure.
