Damaged Sanctions-Listed Tanker Anchors Off Bulgaria as Rescue Pauses for High Winds

Overview

• Bulgaria’s maritime administration, border police and navy staged a rescue operation but suspended active efforts because of strong winds.
• Ten people remain on board and have requested evacuation, according to contacts relayed via the Maritime Coordination Centre in Ankara.
• The tanker is anchored about one nautical mile off Ahtopol and is under continuous surveillance by Bulgarian authorities.
• Local officials report the vessel is not carrying cargo, and they see no immediate risk of an environmental spill.
• Kairos lost power after the November 28 strike; a Turkish tow that began on December 3 ended on December 5, leaving the EU-, UK- and Canada-sanctioned vessel in Bulgarian waters.