Ukrainian Woman Linked to Monaco Bombing Found Dead

A Ukrainian woman believed to have planted a bomb targeting a wealthy businessman in Monaco has been found dead in Kyiv, according to Ukraine’s prosecutor general’s office. An employee of Ukraine’s military intelligence service is in custody, reportedly confessing to the murder of the woman, along with a former law enforcement officer, Ukraine’s National Security Service announced.

Interpol identified Anastasiia Berezovska, 39, as the main suspect in the bombing in Monaco. The explosion occurred in the lobby of an apartment building and was considered an attack on Ukrainian magnate Vadym Yermolaiev and his family. Yermolaiev and his wife suffered serious injuries, while their teenage son was hurt less severely, as reported by French and Ukrainian media.

Last Friday, Interpol issued a “Red Notice” online for Berezovska, indicating she was wanted in Monaco for attempted murder and placing an explosive device on a public road. According to Ukraine’s SBU security agency, Berezovska reached Ukraine on July 1, a day after the Monaco incident. Investigation revealed her contacts with two men, including a former law enforcement officer and a current employee of the Ministry of Internal Affairs’ HUR division.

The employee of HUR admitted to collaborating in Berezovska’s killing but claimed he acted independently, without notifying his supervisors. The SBU discovered a “torture chamber”-like basement at the former officer’s residence.

The Monaco attack, which injured Yermolaiev, his partner, and their son, shocked the small principality known for its affluent population. Although Monaco’s authorities have not confirmed the victims’ identities, the incident aligns with details provided by media outlets. The bomb was reportedly detonated remotely, as stated by Monaco’s deputy public prosecutor Morgan Raymon. Prince Albert II of Monaco condemned the incident, describing it as “an odious act,” and assured that all public services were engaged to maintain security.