Russian drones have ventured into the exclusive economic zones of NATO member countries, sinking a cargo ship and leaving chemical tankers ablaze. At least seven ships have been affected, with the latest incidents occurring in Romania's territorial waters, according to reports. NATO has responded by increasing counter-drone capabilities along its eastern flank. The latest attacks happened within 24 hours, with the second chemical tanker, the Wine Trader, striking one mile outside Romanian waters, leaving seven sailors missing.

A Comoros-flagged tanker, the Yara J, was also struck within Romania's territorial waters, with all crew members rescued. Meanwhile, the Marshall Islands-flagged bulk carrier, Sea Destiny, and the Tanzanian-flagged tanker, Dania J, were targeted in the Danube port city of Izmail in Ukraine. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that NATO had increased counter-drone capabilities after meeting with the leaders of Bulgaria and Romania.

The attacks have raised concerns about the safety of shipping routes, particularly the crucial Sulina canal that connects the Black Sea to the Danube River. With Ukraine relying on this route for exports, the situation has become even more pressing. The latest incidents have prompted NATO to redeploy counter-drone systems to offer enhanced protection.

The attacks are part of a concerning trend of Russian military activity in the region. Just days before, suspected Russian drone attacks had sunk a cargo ship and forced the evacuation of another vessel within two dozen miles of the Bulgarian coast.