World

Ukrainian woman named as main suspect in Monaco bomb attack, prosecutor says

BBC World · 2026-07-03

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: A Ukrainian woman, Anastasiia Berezovska, has been identified as the main suspect in a parcel bombing in Monaco that injured a sanctioned Ukrainian multi-millionaire and two others; an Interpol Red Notice has been issued for her arrest. • Why it matters: The bombing, described as a "heinous crime," raises significant concerns about safety and security in Monaco, a region known for its affluence and tranquility, and highlights ongoing tensions related to the Ukrainian conflict. • What to watch next: Authorities are continuing their investigation into potential accomplices and the circumstances surrounding the bombing, while updates on the condition of the victims and the status of the suspect are anticipated.

**Title: Ukrainian Woman Identified as Main Suspect in Monaco Bomb Attack**

*Published: 3 July 2026, 01:21 BST*

Monaco authorities have identified a Ukrainian woman, Anastasiia Berezovska, as the primary suspect in a parcel bombing that occurred in the principality, resulting in serious injuries to a sanctioned Ukrainian multi-millionaire and two others. An Interpol Red Notice has been issued for the 39-year-old, who is wanted on charges of attempted murder, placing an explosive device on a public road with criminal intent, and criminal conspiracy.

The bombing incident took place on Monday when an unidentified individual left a package at the entrance of a small apartment building. The explosion occurred shortly after three residents—a couple and their 13-year-old son—entered the building. The suspect was captured on CCTV wearing a dark bucket hat and was initially thought to be male. Following the explosion, the individual was seen fleeing towards the nearby French commune of Beausoleil.

Monaco's prosecutor expressed gratitude to the police forces from both Monaco and France for their swift cooperation, which facilitated the rapid identification of the suspect. The prosecutor described the attack as a "heinous crime," underscoring the seriousness of the incident.

The victims of the bombing were transported to local hospitals for treatment. The two adults sustained serious injuries and were taken to the Nice University Hospital (CHU), while the child, who suffered minor injuries, was admitted in a non-critical condition to the Lenval children's hospital in Nice. Reports indicate that the condition of one adult victim has stabilized, while the other remains in critical condition.

Though the identities of the victims have not been officially confirmed by Monaco authorities, local reports suggest that the attack was aimed at Vadym Yermolaiev, a 58-year-old real estate developer and Cypriot citizen. Yermolaiev, who renounced his Ukrainian citizenship in 2019, has significant business interests in the wine and alcohol sector in Crimea, which has been under Russian control since 2014. He has been under sanctions imposed by the Ukrainian government since 2023 and was listed as the 39th richest Ukrainian by Forbes magazine in 2020, with an estimated fortune of $230 million (£173.8 million).

As the investigation continues, authorities are also looking into potential accomplices who may have assisted Berezovska in the execution of the bombing. The incident has raised concerns about safety and security in Monaco, a location known for its affluence and relative tranquility.

The Monaco government has not released further details regarding the ongoing investigation or the status of the suspect. However, the issuance of an Interpol Red Notice indicates the seriousness with which authorities are treating this incident, as they seek to apprehend Berezovska and bring her to justice.

The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Source: BBC World
RELATED NEWS

More Stories

All News
World

Argentina fans revel in Messi’s Miami homecoming before Cape Verde match

• What happened: Argentina fans celebrated in Miami ahead of their World Cup knockout match against Cape Verde, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the city's...

World

Nagelsmann quits as Germany coach after early World Cup 2026 exit

• What happened: Julian Nagelsmann resigned as Germany's national football team coach following the team's early exit from the World Cup 2026 after a ...

World

What is Nayara, the Indian firm Russia is reportedly importing oil from?

• What happened: Indian oil firm Nayara Energy has reportedly sold 60,000 metric tonnes of petrol to Russia amid a fuel crisis triggered by Ukrainian attacks on...

World

Moldova’s prime minister quits, triggering government’s resignation

• What happened: Moldova's Prime Minister Alexandru Munteanu unexpectedly resigned, leading to the resignation of the entire government. • Why it matters...

World

Russia’s triumphant tone shifts as Ukraine deploys ‘asymmetrical tactics’

• What happened: Russia is experiencing gas shortages and military setbacks as Ukraine employs effective asymmetrical tactics, including drone strikes on Russia...

World

Nasa launches mission to save falling space telescope

• What happened: NASA launched a mission to rescue the Swift observatory, a space telescope at risk of crashing to Earth, using a spacecraft called LINK designe...