Iliana Jotova calls for collective response to Black Sea attacks

Bulgarian President Iliana Jotova has called for a collective international response to recent attacks in the Black Sea. She emphasized the need for active diplomacy among affected nations and sought specific guidance and assistance from NATO following recent offensives in the region.

Jotova highlighted the 'Eastern Guard' strategy as a key NATO tool for supporting member states on the eastern flank. She noted that Bulgaria is engaging in multilateral diplomacy involving the European Union, the United Nations, and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe to facilitate future negotiations between leaders.

According to the President, the conflict in the Black Sea has expanded beyond the Russia-Ukraine war, affecting all countries in the Black Sea basin. She warned that the situation threatens maritime shipping, which could trigger food crises and supply disruptions impacting Africa and Asia.