Fire on Romanian-anchored chemical tanker leaves seven sailors missing in Black Sea
A blaze erupted on the chemical tanker Wine Trader anchored in Romania's Black Sea waters, and seven crew members remain missing.
Early Thursday a fire broke out on the San Marino-flagged chemical tanker Wine Trader, which was anchored in Romanian-controlled Black Sea waters near the Sulina channel. The vessel transmitted a distress signal at 07:00; five crew members were rescued without injury, while seven sailors remain unaccounted for as patrol boats and a helicopter conduct a search amid harsh conditions. Romania's naval authority confirmed the figures and defence minister Răduț Miruță described the situation as extremely serious.
The incident follows a recent alleged drone strike on the Comoros-flagged tanker Yara J and a series of attacks on commercial ships since October, which officials attribute to Russia's war on Ukraine. Bulgarian Prime Minister Rumen Radev said EU leaders will discuss a moratorium on attacks against non-military vessels and steps to strengthen anti-aircraft protection through the EU and NATO. The Sulina channel, a crucial route for Ukrainian grain exports, has become a focal point of escalating maritime threats.
Why it matters
The fire highlights growing risks to commercial shipping in the Black Sea amid regional conflict and recent attacks.
How this story developed
- Oct 17 Romanian F-16 pilots shoot down two drones over the Black Sea
- Oct 21 The United States has begun P‑8 Poseidon patrols over the Black Sea at Bulgaria's request.
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