On October 7, 2026, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the attack on civilian vessels in Bulgaria's exclusive economic zone was carried out by the Russian Federation. The spokesperson of the Ministry, Georgiy Tikhiy, emphasized that Ukraine had not conducted any operations in this part of the Black Sea.
Comments from the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry
Georgiy Tikhiy remarked that the attacks on vessels in Bulgaria's economic zone represent an act of "rudeness and audacity" on Russia's part. He called for a real response to these actions rather than mere verbal condemnation. Tikhiy stressed that there are no doubts for Ukraine that the strikes were indeed carried out by Russian forces.
Impact on Food Security
The spokesperson also highlighted the broader political context of these attacks. According to him, Vladimir Putin is striking at food security, attempting to affect Ukrainian vessels and grain, which in turn negatively impacts the most vulnerable countries, particularly in Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Latin America. These regions are suffering from the lack of Ukrainian grain, which is critical for their economies.