Monaco: Video of bomb attack on Ukrainian oligarch Vadim Ermolaev revealed
Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Ukrainian authorities released video footage of a bomb attack targeting Ukrainian businessman Vadim Ermolaev in Monaco.
- The attack on June 29 injured Ermolaev, his partner, and his son; a suspect was found dead, and two others were arrested.
- Ukrainian prosecutors presented the video as key evidence, showing a person planting a bag before an explosion.
Ukrainian prosecutors have released video footage capturing the moment a bomb exploded in Monaco, in what they describe as an attempted assassination targeting wealthy Ukrainian businessman Vadim Ermolaev and his family.
The incident occurred on June 29, when an explosive device detonated in the lobby of Ermolaev's apartment building as he, his partner, and his 13-year-old son approached. All three sustained serious injuries but survived the attack. Ermolaev, 58, is a Ukrainian-born businessman who holds Cypriot nationality.
Authorities announced that a 39-year-old Ukrainian woman, suspected of planting the explosive device, was found dead in Ukraine, apparently from a gunshot wound. Two other individuals, identified as a former police officer and a current employee of Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), have been arrested in connection with the bombing.
Prosecutor General Ruslan Kravtchenko stated that investigators had recovered crucial evidence that the suspects attempted to destroy: a video recording from a surveillance camera strategically placed near the crime scene. The 40-second video, shared on Telegram, shows an individual placing a bag near the entrance before departing, followed by the explosion. The footage also shows the victims arriving at the entrance just as the blast occurs.
The attack sent shockwaves through Monaco, a highly secure microstate known for its affluent international community. The incident highlighted security vulnerabilities in the principality.
Originally published by Le Figaro in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.