A shocking parcel bomb explosion occurred in Monaco on Monday evening, resulting in injuries to at least three people and marking an unprecedented act of violence in the typically secure principality. The blast took place around 9:00 pm local time within a residential building situated along the French border.
Authorities have confirmed that one of the victims is the Ukrainian national and multi-millionaire, Vadym Yermolaiev. According to Monaco’s Minister of State, Christophe Mirmand, the victims included a couple in their 50s or 60s who sustained life-threatening injuries, along with a 13-year-old child who suffered less severe wounds. The teenager is believed to be related to the couple. Additionally, four other individuals received medical attention for shock and minor injuries caused by shattered glass.
Prince Albert II of Monaco condemned the incident, labeling it a “heinous crime” that has deeply shaken the local community. Law enforcement officials noted that the explosive device contained buckshot and bolts. Public prosecutor Stephane Thibault stated that a suspect was observed on surveillance footage placing a package or bag in the building’s lobby before departing the scene.
A widespread investigation is underway, with police and security personnel searching for the perpetrator, who is believed to have escaped toward the French municipality of Beausoleil. While the motive remains unclear, officials are currently reviewing the background of the victims to determine if there were specific threats. Yermolaiev, a resident of Monaco, has been under sanctions from Kyiv since December 2023, allegedly related to his business operations in Russian-occupied Crimea.
The area surrounding the blast site was heavily cordoned off, with approximately 50 firefighters and 80 security staff deployed for emergency operations. As investigators work to identify the suspect using witness testimony and surveillance, authorities have indicated that further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
