European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is expected to visit Romania and Bulgaria next week after a wave of drone attacks on commercial ships in the Black Sea, Politico reported, citing European Commission officials. At least seven vessels were reportedly hit last month, leaving two sailors dead and at least 25 missing. Romania has blamed Russia; Bulgaria has referred to drones coming from an “eastern direction”. A drone also washed ashore near Shabla on Bulgaria’s coast on Friday, according to the local mayor, though its origin was not established. Officials said the trip is planned before von der Leyen attends the COP climate summit in Turkey. NATO allies have stepped up surveillance flights over the region.
Source: Politico Europe