Bulgarian ports report stable Black Sea shipping traffic

Bulgarian officials have confirmed that maritime traffic to the ports of Varna and Burgas remains stable despite recent military actions and strikes on commercial vessels in the Black Sea. Transport Minister Georgi Peev reported that there has been no decrease in traffic, noting a slight increase compared to previous periods.

Minister Peev addressed the condition of the vessel ‘Chelsea 3’, which was recently towed to the port of Burgas after sustaining severe damage, including three large hull breaches. He stated that ‘certain remains’ have been discovered on the ship and will be subject to investigation.

Prime Minister Rumen Radev dismissed concerns regarding the cessation of shipping, stating that data shows the number of vessels passing through these ports is 30 higher than during the same period last year. The government is currently coordinating diplomatic mechanisms to ensure maritime security and is developing alternative measures, such as increased rail transport, to facilitate the export of Bulgarian grain if sea routes become compromised.