Bulgarian authorities have denied reports that a persistent oil slick in the Black Sea is originating from the wreck of the sanctioned crude oil tanker Kairos, which has remained anchored in Burgas Bay since it was sustained severe damage during a drone attack in November 2025. Officials said inspections have not found evidence of an active oil leak from the vessel.

The concerns were first raised by the Nessebar Public Council, which urged the government to investigate reports of an apparent oil slick near the tanker. In response, Bulgaria's Transport Ministry and Maritime Administration conducted two inspections within a 1.5-nautical-mile radius of the vessel and also examined its hull for possible leaks.

According to the authorities, no continuous oil slick was observed during the inspections. Investigators reported finding only isolated colored patches on the water, which were treated using dispersants. Officials also stated that the hull inspection did not reveal any active discharge of oil or other pollutants into the surrounding waters.

Environmental organization Greenpeace Bulgaria, however, questioned the government\'s findings after reviewing satellite imagery from multiple observation platforms. The group said the images appeared to show recurring oil-like slicks near the tanker over several months and called for further investigation, including water sampling, chemical analysis, and additional on-site inspections to determine the source of the pollution.

Bulgarian authorities said they will continue monitoring the condition of the tanker while maintaining communication with its owners. Officials also noted that the vessel has reportedly been sold to a buyer intending to send it for scrapping in Turkey. The situation remains under observation as authorities seek to safeguard the Black Sea environment while the source of the reported slicks continues to be assessed.