EP draft resolution criticises Sofia's response to Russian threat

A draft European Parliament resolution expresses serious concern over what it describes as the Bulgarian authorities' unclear and ambiguous response to the growing Russian threat in the Black Sea. The resolution is due to be put to a vote at the Parliament's plenary session in Strasbourg on Thursday, Radio Bulgaria's Brussels correspondent Angelina Piskova reported.

The draft openly criticises Sofia's weak diplomatic response to Moscow and calls on Prime Minister Rumen Radev to take urgent action in line with solidarity among EU and NATO allies.

Seven of Bulgaria's 17 MEPs are among the sponsors of the resolution, including all six Bulgarian members of the European People's Party and Ilhan Kyuchyuk from the liberal group.

The draft recalls drone strikes on commercial vessels in Bulgaria's exclusive economic zone, which led to the sinking of the Alfa Watan and HS Dignity and serious incidents involving the Able and Chelsea 3. Their crews were evacuated and received medical treatment in Varna.