Ukrainian Woman Named as Main Suspect in Monaco Bombing After Fleeing to Germany

Authorities in Monaco have identified a 39-year-old Ukrainian woman as the main suspect in a sophisticated parcel bomb attack that injured a wealthy businessman and two members of his family. Investigators say the suspect fled across several European countries before reaching Germany, where she is believed to have been living.

Monaco prosecutors named the suspect as Anastasiia Berezovska, who is now the subject of an international arrest warrant and an Interpol Red Notice. She is wanted on charges including attempted murder, placing an explosive device in a public place with criminal intent, and criminal conspiracy. The Red Notice requests law enforcement agencies worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest her pending extradition proceedings.

The bombing occurred outside a residential building in Monaco on Monday evening. According to investigators, the attacker left a parcel containing an explosive device at the building’s entrance and detonated it remotely as the victims arrived. The blast seriously injured Ukrainian-born businessman Vadym Yermolaiev, his partner, and their son. One of the victims remains in critical condition.

Investigators initially believed the attacker was a man after reviewing CCTV footage showing a person wearing a dark bucket hat and loose clothing. However, further analysis of surveillance footage and witness testimony led authorities to conclude that the suspect was a woman who had disguised herself as a man during reconnaissance and the execution of the attack.

Monaco Deputy Prosecutor Morgan Raymond said the suspect escaped on foot into neighboring France before using a rental car obtained in Germany to travel through several European countries and eventually return to German territory. German authorities have since searched an apartment and vehicle linked to Berezovska in the Frankfurt area as part of the cross-border investigation.

Authorities believe the attack was carefully planned and are investigating whether Berezovska acted with accomplices. Two people who were briefly detained in Monaco have since been released without charge, but investigators say efforts continue to identify other individuals who may have assisted in planning or carrying out the bombing.

The motive remains under investigation. Media reports have identified the intended target as Yermolaiev, a Ukrainian-born property developer who later acquired Cypriot citizenship. He was sanctioned by Ukraine in 2023 over alleged business activities in Russian-occupied Crimea, allegations that have drawn significant public attention. However, prosecutors have not officially disclosed a motive for the attack.

The bombing has shocked Monaco, a principality renowned for its security and affluent residents. Prince Albert II condemned the attack, while authorities have increased security and pledged to pursue everyone involved in what investigators describe as a highly sophisticated and targeted operation. The international investigation continues with close cooperation between Monaco, France, Germany, Interpol, and other European law enforcement agencies.