Ukrainian Woman Identified as Suspect in Monaco Parcel Bombing Incident
Monaco Bombing Investigation
Authorities in Monaco have identified a Ukrainian woman as the primary suspect in a parcel bombing that resulted in serious injuries to a wealthy businessman and two others earlier this week. Interpol has issued a Red Notice for her arrest. The suspect, named as 39-year-old Anastasiia Berezovska, is wanted on charges including attempted murder. Interpol's notice describes her as having dark hair, speaking German, and possessing a tattoo that may resemble a snake, extending from her right shoulder to her elbow.
The explosion occurred on Monday evening when a package left at the entrance of an apartment building near the French border detonated shortly after delivery. Monaco's prosecutor's office confirmed that an arrest warrant has been issued for the suspect, who is believed to have already fled the principality. The prosecutor's office stated, "The suspect will be the subject of an Interpol Red Notice from this evening," highlighting the swift identification of the individual due to collaboration between Monaco and French police.
While further details about the suspect remain undisclosed, French media have reported that investigators are searching for a Ukrainian woman in her 30s. Monaco's Public Prosecutor, Stéphane Thibault, refrained from commenting on these reports. Following the explosion, witnesses reported seeing a suspect fleeing towards the nearby French commune of Beausoleil.
The investigation is being treated as an attempted murder case rather than a terrorist act. Three individuals were injured in the blast, including a 13-year-old. Initially, both adults were reported to be in critical condition, while the teenager sustained minor injuries. Although the identities of the victims have not been officially released, local media suggest that the intended target was Vadym Yermolaiev, a Ukrainian businessman, along with his partner and son. Reports indicate that Yermolaiev's condition improved by Wednesday, although his partner remained in serious condition.
Yermolaiev, 58, is a real estate developer residing in Monaco. He renounced his Ukrainian citizenship in 2019 and is now a citizen of Cyprus. His business interests include the wine and alcohol sector in Crimea, which is under Russian control, and he has faced sanctions from Kyiv since 2023. Forbes ranked him as the 39th richest Ukrainian in 2020, estimating his wealth at approximately $230 million. Monaco's Prince Albert II condemned the bombing as a "heinous crime."