Interpol Identifies Ukrainian Woman as Main Suspect in Monaco Bombing

Interpol has identified a 39-year-old Ukrainian woman named Anastasiia Berezovska as the primary suspect in a recent bombing in Monaco. The attack reportedly targeted a Ukrainian tycoon with connections to Russia. Berezovska is currently at large, and Interpol has issued a Red Notice for her arrest. She faces charges of attempted murder, placing an explosive device in a public area with criminal intent, and criminal conspiracy.

The explosion occurred at the entrance of an apartment building in Monaco, injuring three people. Although local authorities have not released the victims’ identities, they have confirmed that they are a family and appear to have been specifically targeted. Media reports have identified one of the injured individuals as Vadym Yermolaiev, a Ukrainian construction tycoon who renounced his Ukrainian citizenship nearly a decade ago. Yermolaiev was also targeted by Ukrainian sanctions in 2023 for his ties with Russia. A woman and a child were also hurt, with one victim remaining in a life-threatening condition. Two other individuals received minor injuries during the attack.

Investigators are examining whether the suspect acted alone or with accomplices. Monaco’s deputy prosecutor, Morgan Raymond, highlighted the sophistication of the explosive device, which was detonated remotely using a remote control, suggesting a collaborative effort. The bomb’s remains are currently being analyzed in France.

The incident has sent shockwaves through Monaco, a luxurious destination known for its tax advantages, royal family, and Formula 1 Grand Prix. Prince Albert II described the act as ‘odious’ and stated that all public services are working to ensure public safety.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear. The Interpol notice describes Berezovska as having a possible snake tattoo on her right arm, dark hair, and being fluent in German. Initial identification appeared to show a heavily built person in disguise. Further investigation revealed Berezovska, who was reportedly dressed as a male, wearing a dark top, light-colored shorts, and a black bucket hat. CCTV footage and witness testimonies redirected the investigation to her.

As part of the investigation, two men were taken into custody but were later released. A vehicle with German license plates, reportedly rented by the suspect, was identified in Monaco. Authorities have traced her escape route through several European countries, ending in her last known residence in Germany. German police searched her rented apartment near Frankfurt, securing a vehicle used by her. Evidence collected will be handed over to Monaco authorities. Berezovska remains on the run, and police have not disclosed further details at this time.

There have been previous instances where Ukraine has targeted Russian figures amidst the ongoing conflict. However, these acts primarily occurred within Ukrainian or Russian jurisdictions. In 2024, Ukraine’s security service claimed responsibility for assassinating a high-ranking Russian military official. Western intelligence suggests Russia has intensified targeted killings since its invasion of Ukraine in 2022.