Key facts
- A parcel bomb exploded in a Monaco residential building on Monday evening, injuring at least three people.
- Ukrainian tycoon Vadym Yermolaiev was among those severely wounded.
- The explosive device contained bolts and buckshot.
- The suspect fled towards the French municipality of Beausoleil.
- The motive for the attack remains unclear, though Yermolaiev was under sanctions from Kyiv.
A parcel bomb exploded in a residential building in Monaco on Monday evening, injuring at least three people, including Ukrainian tycoon Vadym Yermolaiev. The blast, which occurred around 9:00 p.m. local time near the French border, is considered an unprecedented act in the principality. A couple in their 50s or 60s sustained life-threatening injuries, while a 13-year-old suffered less serious injuries, reportedly related to the couple. Four other individuals were treated for shock and cuts from shattered windows.
Monaco's Minister of State, Christophe Mirmand, stated that the explosion was caused by a 'parcel bomb' and indicated it was 'likely an attack.' Public Prosecutor Stephane Thibault confirmed that a suspect was seen on video surveillance leaving a bag or package in the building's lobby before fleeing towards the French municipality of Beausoleil. The motive for the attack remains unclear, though Yermolaiev, a Monaco resident, has been subject to sanctions from Kyiv since December 2023 due to his business activities in Russian-occupied Crimea.
Monaco's Prince Albert II called the incident a 'heinous crime' and a 'shock to the entire Monegasque community.' French police are collaborating with Monegasque authorities to find the perpetrator. The explosive device reportedly contained bolts and buckshot.