Bulgaria and Germany want a moratorium, a halt to attacks on merchant ships in the Black Sea. Foreign minister Velislava Petrova said this after meeting German foreign minister Johann Wadephul in Berlin. The aim is to let grain be shipped safely and to avoid a humanitarian crisis in the Global South.

Wadephul called the attacks a direct attempt by Moscow to test Europe. He warned that if the strikes on food supplies do not stop, Russia will lose what is left of its reputation among developing countries.

Petrova said Bulgaria's defence has gone through a serious test in recent weeks. Bulgaria is investigating the attacks to gather as much information as possible and has asked its partners to help. "We have invited our partners to join the search for evidence and clarity," she said.

The minister said Bulgaria has put all its defence capabilities to work. "One of them is joining the 'Sky Shield' anti-drone defence. This is a long-term commitment that involves big investment," Petrova said.

In October, the Bulgarian Association of Sea Captains warned that attacks on ships, floating mines and drones in the western Black Sea directly affect shipping to and from Bulgarian ports, including Burgas and Varna. The captains asked the state for urgent, coordinated action.

An investigation is also under way into the attack on Starlink antennas, but it is not clear who is behind it. The antennas are privately owned, so the state can only help the owners to strengthen their security.