On Monday evening, a powerful explosion occurred in one of the residential buildings in Monaco, which authorities classify as a deliberately organized act. According to the investigation, the explosive device detonated around 9:00 PM local time in a building near the border with France. Among the injured was Ukrainian businessman Vadim Ermolayev. Along with him, two other people were injured, including a 13-year-old teenager. Monaco's Minister of State Christophe Miirmann initially referred to the incident as an attack, but later clarified the wording, describing what happened as a deliberate explosion. According to him, two adults sustained serious, life-threatening injuries. The teenager was injured less severely. Four other people required medical assistance due to cuts from glass shards and shock. What is important to know: the investigation does not yet consider the motive for the crime established. Law enforcement agencies do not report whether a specific person was the target of the attack or if the house itself was the target. Prosecutor Stéphane Thibault stated that the suspect left a bag or package in the building's lobby before fleeing the scene. According to the police, the explosive device was packed with screws and shot, significantly enhancing its destructive effect. French law enforcement agencies have also joined the investigation. France's Assistant Minister of the Interior Laurent Nuñez reported that the police are searching for the person who fled after the explosion. Prince Albert II of Monaco called the incident "a terrible crime," noting that what happened shocked the entire principality. According to Christophe Miirmann, such a crime has not occurred in Monaco's modern history. Vadim Ermolayev resides in Monaco. Since December 2023, he has been under sanctions from Ukraine due to activities related to alcohol trade in the Crimea annexed by Russia. The investigation is ongoing. Investigators are identifying the suspect and determining whether the explosion was directed against specific individuals or had another nature.
