Rescue Efforts Hampered by Weather as Tensions Rise in Black Sea

Bulgaria's maritime authorities pause rescue efforts for the tanker Kairos due to bad weather. Hit by a Ukrainian drone in Turkey's Exclusive Economic Zone, the tanker caught fire en route to Russia. The incident underscores growing regional tensions linked to Ukraine's pressure on Russia's oil industry.

The Bulgarian maritime authorities have suspended their rescue operations for the tanker Kairos due to adverse weather conditions, according to a statement by the transport ministry. The vessel, targeted by a Ukrainian drone in Turkey's Exclusive Economic Zone, was set ablaze while journeying from Egypt to Russia, highlighting escalating regional tensions.

Despite being spotted on Friday, the tanker did not respond to communication attempts. With the assistance of ships and the Maritime Coordination Centre in Ankara, it was confirmed that ten people were aboard, who later requested evacuation. The vessel remains anchored one nautical mile east of Ahtopol under close watch due to high winds.

An intervention team, ready for deployment as weather conditions improve, is poised to continue rescue efforts. The incident follows a pattern of increased drone attacks on Russia-linked tankers, with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressing concerns over the growing reach of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia in the Black Sea.

(With inputs from agencies.)