A significant manhunt is underway for a Ukrainian woman accused of orchestrating a parcel bombing in Monaco, which left three individuals, including a child, seriously injured. Anastasiia Berezovska, 39, is believed to have disguised herself as a man to evade capture after allegedly placing an explosive device at the entrance of an apartment building before fleeing the scene. The attack reportedly targeted a wealthy Ukrainian oligarch and his family, raising serious concerns about security in the region.
Details of the Attack
The incident occurred on Monday evening when a package exploded shortly after being left at the property, which is located near Monaco’s border with France. The victims are believed to include Vadym Yermolaiev, a 58-year-old real estate developer with ties to Crimean business interests, his partner, and their 13-year-old son. Local reports suggest that the attack was premeditated, with authorities asserting that Berezovska may have surveyed the location prior to the bombing.
Deputy prosecutor Morgan Raymond stated that the suspect was captured on CCTV wearing a dark bucket hat, which may have been part of her disguise. After abandoning the site on foot, she reportedly rented a vehicle and drove through Italy before heading towards Germany, prompting an international pursuit.
International Response and Investigation
In response to the attack, Interpol has issued a Red Notice for Berezovska, signalling her as a wanted individual across its 196 member countries. The notice indicates that she is sought for various serious charges, including attempted murder and the placement of an explosive device with malicious intent.
Authorities in Germany’s Hesse region have taken swift action, conducting searches at a rented apartment linked to the suspect. They have also seized the vehicle believed to have been used in her escape. The local police confirmed that evidence has been collected and will be shared with Monaco’s law enforcement as they continue their investigation.
Prince Albert II of Monaco condemned the attack, characterising it as a “heinous crime” that necessitates a thorough and rapid investigation.
Victims’ Condition and Background
The three individuals injured in the explosion have been hospitalised, with the adults suffering serious injuries. Reports indicate that the child is in stable condition, having been treated at a children’s hospital in Nice. Although one adult’s situation has improved, the woman’s health remains precarious.
Yermolaiev, the presumed target, has a complicated background. He renounced his Ukrainian citizenship in 2019 and is a Cypriot national. In addition to his real estate ventures, he has significant investments in the wine and alcohol sector in Crimea, which has placed him under sanctions from the Ukrainian government since 2023. Forbes magazine listed him as the 39th richest Ukrainian in 2020, with an estimated wealth of $230 million (£173.8 million).
Why it Matters
This violent incident underscores the rising tensions surrounding Ukrainian oligarchs and their families, particularly in the wake of the ongoing conflict involving Russia. The attack not only highlights the vulnerabilities faced by high-profile individuals but also raises pressing questions regarding the adequacy of security measures in Monaco and beyond. As investigations unfold, the international community will be watching closely to see how law enforcement agencies respond to this alarming act of violence, which could have broader implications for safety and diplomatic relations in the region.
