Woman Suspected in Monaco Bomb Attack Found Dead in Ukraine

Discovery of the Suspect’s Body

Woman suspected of Monaco bomb attack – Ukraine’s security service (SBU) announced that Anastasiia Berezovska, a 39-year-old woman linked to the parcel bomb attack in Monaco, was discovered dead in the Kyiv region. Her body was found with gunshot wounds to the head, according to SBU officials. The woman, who had been on the run since the attack, was identified as the perpetrator of the incident that injured a sanctioned Ukrainian multi-millionaire and his family. The confirmation came after a cross-border search operation, with authorities revealing that Berezovska had traveled from Italy to Germany before her eventual capture.

International Search Operation

The investigation into Berezovska’s whereabouts intensified following the June 29 attack. Interpol issued a red notice alerting global authorities to locate and apprehend her, citing her alleged involvement in placing an explosive device on a public road with criminal intent. The alert was followed by a red notice issued on Friday, designating her as a fugitive wanted for attempted murder and criminal conspiracy. The SBU emphasized close cooperation with Monaco’s prosecutor general, who provided critical support in tracking her movements and confirming the details of the attack.

Details of the Monaco Attack

The bomb attack occurred in the entrance hall of an apartment building in Monaco, injuring three individuals, two of whom were seriously wounded. The explosion took place just as the victims entered the building shortly after 21:00 local time. Monaco’s deputy prosecutor, Morgan Raymond, stated that Berezovska had spent days casing the residence and was disguised as a man during the incident. This detail raised questions about her ability to bypass security measures and execute the attack without suspicion.

Detained Suspects and Financial Links

Two individuals, including a current officer from Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence (MoD), were detained on suspicion of murder. The SBU noted that Berezovska had communicated with her family and two men—former law enforcement officers and a MoD intelligence directorate member—during her time in Ukraine. Investigators found evidence of financial transfers to her crypto and bank accounts, leading to the belief that these men were potential accomplices. The intelligence officer later confessed to the murder, stating he acted alongside another suspect, prompting authorities to charge both with premeditated murder.

Clues from the Suspect’s Residence

During a search of the former law enforcement officer’s home in Kyiv, officials uncovered a basement room described as resembling a “torture chamber.” A video released by the prosecutor general showed a pink mat stained with what appeared to be blood spots, alongside two axes, a pickaxe, a tarpaulin spread on the floor, and a large bag. These items were interpreted as evidence of preparation for the attack, highlighting the meticulous planning that may have gone into the operation. The SBU stressed that the room’s contents could provide insights into Berezovska’s modus operandi and connections to her co-conspirators.

CCTV Image and Symbolic Tattoo

Authorities released a CCTV image of Berezovska, pointing to a distinctive tattoo on her arm. The tattoo, which they described as possibly depicting a snake, was highlighted as a key identifier. While the SBU did not confirm the identity of the victims, local media reported that Vadym Yermolaiev, his partner, and his 13-year-old son were targeted. Yermolaiev, a prominent real estate developer, was named the 39th richest Ukrainian by Forbes in 2020, with an estimated fortune of $230 million. His business ventures include significant interests in wine and alcohol production in Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014.

Sanctions and Personal Background

Yermolaiev, a Cypriot citizen since renouncing his Ukrainian nationality in 2019, has been under sanctions by Kyiv’s government since 2023. These measures target his assets and activities, reflecting his role as a figure of economic influence linked to Russian interests. The attack in Monaco not only endangered his family but also underscored the potential for cross-border threats involving Ukrainian nationals. The SBU noted that Berezovska had arrived in Ukraine two days after the incident, suggesting she may have been attempting to evade detection or consolidate her plans.

Ongoing Investigation and Coordinated Efforts

Despite the arrest of Berezovska and the two suspects, the investigation continues. The head of the intelligence directorate, Oleg Ivashchenko, is providing “personal assistance” in the case, ensuring a thorough examination of all leads. Authorities are now focused on identifying additional suspects, as the attack’s complexity suggests a broader network. The discovery of the basement room and the financial transactions indicate a well-organized operation, possibly involving multiple individuals working in tandem.

Timeline of Events

The attack on June 29 was followed by a swift international response. Two days later, Berezovska was spotted in Ukraine, where she reportedly coordinated with her family and two men. On Thursday, police searched an apartment in Hesse, Germany, where a 39-year-old Ukrainian woman “currently on the run” was believed to be hiding. The search in Hesse was part of a coordinated effort to track her movements and secure evidence. The SBU’s statement highlighted the seamless exchange of information between Ukraine and Monaco, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the investigation.

Context and Implications

Berezovska’s case has sparked discussions about the role of Ukrainian citizens in international terrorist activities. Her ability to disguise herself as a man during the attack and her connections to the MoD suggest a level of sophistication in her planning. The SBU’s discovery of the torture chamber in the Kyiv region adds a chilling dimension to the case, indicating that Berezovska may have been preparing for both the attack and her own survival. As the investigation progresses, experts are analyzing the potential impact of the case on diplomatic relations and the broader geopolitical landscape.

Next Steps in the Case

With the arrest of Berezovska and her accomplices, the SBU is now prioritizing the examination of financial records and communication logs. The agency has emphasized the importance of uncovering all links to the attack, including any connections to Russian entities or other criminal networks. The victims’ identities, while not yet officially confirmed, are expected to be disclosed as part of the ongoing inquiry. As the case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the transnational nature of modern terrorism and the challenges of tracking suspects across borders.

Final Statement from the SBU

“Both suspects were detained on suspicion of committing murder with premeditation by a group of individuals,” the SBU stated in its latest update. The agency has committed to sharing all findings with international partners, including Monaco, to ensure transparency. The case has already drawn attention to the strategic importance of Ukraine’s security infrastructure and its role in thwarting cross-border threats. As the investigation continues, the focus remains on bringing to light the full extent of Berezovska’s involvement and the broader implications of the attack.