Ukrainian Woman Suspected in Monaco Bombing Found Dead

A Ukrainian woman, linked to a bombing targeting a wealthy businessman in Monaco, was found shot dead in Kyiv, according to Ukraine’s prosecutor general’s office. This announcement came on Tuesday following investigations by Ukraine’s National Security Service.

Authorities detained a military intelligence service employee from Ukraine, who confessed to killing the woman, Anastasiia Berezovska, along with an accomplice identified as a former law enforcement officer. Interpol had named Berezovska, 39, as a suspect in the Monaco bombing that happened one week prior.

The explosion occurred in the lobby of an apartment building and allegedly targeted Ukrainian magnate Vadym Yermolaiev and his family. Yermolaiev and his wife sustained serious injuries from the blast, while their teenage son suffered less severe injuries.

Interpol issued a “Red Notice” for Berezovska, indicating she was wanted in Monaco on charges of attempted murder and criminal intent involving an explosive device.

The Ukrainian security agency, SBU, reported that Berezovska returned to Ukraine on July 1, shortly after the bombing. Investigations revealed her communications with two men, one a former law enforcement officer and the other a current employee of Ukraine’s Ministry of Internal Affairs. These men were suspected of being involved in financial transactions related to the attempted murder.

The HUR employee admitted to killing Berezovska with the other suspect, asserting he acted independently without notifying his superiors. A search of the former officer’s residence uncovered a basement that appeared to function as a torture chamber.

The Monaco authorities have not officially confirmed the victims’ identities. However, reports from French and Ukrainian media indicated the attack targeted 58-year-old Yermolaiev, originally from Ukraine and now a Cypriot national, along with his partner and their 13-year-old child.

Monaco’s deputy public prosecutor, Morgan Raymon, shared that the bomb was remotely detonated. The attack disturbed the tiny principality known for its affluent population. Prince Albert II of Monaco condemned the act, labeling it as odious, and mentioned that all public services were mobilized to ensure community safety.