European Parliament Urges Bulgaria to Counter Russian Black Sea Threats

The European Parliament passed a resolution on October 22 condemning the Federal Government of Russia for a systematic pattern of escalation in the Black Sea, including attacks on civilian vessels and violations of Romanian airspace. In a vote of 432 in favor, 52 against, and 88 abstentions, MEPs criticized the Bulgarian government for its weak diplomatic response to these threats.

The resolution specifically urges Prime Minister Roumen Radev to translate declarations of allied solidarity into concrete action. A primary point of contention is Bulgaria's delay in participating in NATO's Air Defence Capabilities Against Lower-level Air Threats anti-drone initiative. The European Parliament has demanded confirmation of Bulgaria's participation by October 30, 2026.

To strengthen regional security, the Parliament called for the potential deployment of an EU naval operation in the Black Sea and the rapid operationalization of the EU Black Sea maritime security hub. The resolution also emphasizes the need for increased security cooperation between Bulgaria, Romania, and Türkiye to stabilize the region.