Brussels:Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have strongly condemned Russia's recent escalation of hostilities in the Black Sea, highlighting the need for a potential European Union (EU) naval operation in the region. The call comes in response to recent deadly attacks on civilian merchant vessels and violations of Romanian airspace.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the European Parliament has criticized the Bulgarian government's inadequate response to the Russian threat and emphasized the necessity for increased EU support to Romania and Bulgaria. This support would involve enhancing early detection and tracking capabilities against hostile drones.

In a resolution adopted with 432 votes in favor, 52 against, and 88 abstentions, the Parliament held Russia accountable for the ongoing aggression, which has significantly affected civilian shipping in the Black Sea. The MEPs commended the efforts of Romanian and Bulgarian rescue services while urging Bulgaria to take a definitive stance against the threats and participate in NATO’s anti-drone initiatives.

The Parliament stressed the importance of freedom of navigation and maritime security as part of securing NATO's eastern flank. It also called for NATO to consider further initiatives like the 'Black Sea Sentry' to ensure regional stability, urging closer cooperation between Bulgaria, Romania, and Trkiye.

Additionally, the MEPs underscored the need for the EU to rapidly operationalize the Black Sea maritime security hub initiative and utilize unspent EU funds to bolster maritime safety and infrastructure protection. They also advocated for strengthening the protection of submarine telecommunications and other critical infrastructures through enhanced regional cooperation and rapid-response mechanisms.