**Title: Monaco Prosecutors Rule Out Terrorism in Explosion Investigation, Suspect Still at Large**
**Monaco, June 30, 2026** – Authorities in Monaco have confirmed that they are not treating the recent explosion at a residential building as an act of terrorism. The blast, which occurred on Monday evening, left three individuals injured, one of whom is in critical condition.
The explosion took place at the entrance of a residential complex, reportedly triggered by a package left by a male suspect who subsequently fled the scene on foot. Monaco's prosecutor, Stéphane Thibault, addressed the media on Tuesday, stating that the suspect acted alone and remains at large. He emphasized that while the investigation is serious, it is not being classified as a terrorism case, and the motive behind the explosion is still unclear.
Surveillance footage has been reviewed, revealing the suspect dressed in a black jacket, light-colored trousers, white shoes, and a black hat that obscured part of his face. Police have initiated an attempted murder investigation in connection with the incident.
Among the injured is a woman who is currently in life-threatening condition. Her partner and a 13-year-old child sustained less severe injuries but are still hospitalized. While the identities of the victims have not been officially released, reports indicate that Ukrainian construction tycoon Vadym Yermolaiev was among those injured. Yermolaiev has been under Ukrainian sanctions since December 2023 due to alleged connections to Russia, particularly linked to his business activities in Russian-occupied Crimea.
Christophe Mirmand, Monaco's Minister of State, provided further context, noting that the three victims were "apparently returning home peacefully" when they were caught in the explosion as they entered their apartment building. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has also confirmed that it is in contact with Monaco’s authorities regarding the incident, stating that the injured individuals are of Ukrainian descent and part of the same family. Ukrainian officials are currently verifying their citizenship status.
Monaco, known for its affluent residents and a population of approximately 38,000, is often regarded as one of the safest places globally, bolstered by an extensive network of surveillance cameras monitoring public areas. The recent explosion marks a rare incident of violence in the principality, raising concerns among residents and authorities alike.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement is appealing for information from the public to help locate the suspect. The community remains on alert as they await further developments in this unsettling event.