Tech • IA • Crypto
Nord Stream and Monaco: two terrorist attacks on European soil?
3/10TL;DR
A suspected parcel bombing in Monaco has left multiple victims seriously injured, prompting an international manhunt and a Red Notice for Anastasia Belezovska.
KEY POINTS
Explosion in Monaco residential building
An explosion occurred on 29 June 2026 at 20:58 in the lobby of the Sun Palace residence in Monaco. A suspect placed a parcel containing an improvised explosive device before detonating it remotely. The blast caused severe injuries, including amputations, marking an unprecedented violent incident in the principality.
Victims and targeted attack
The primary target was identified as Vadim Hermolaev, a businessman of Ukrainian origin holding Cypriot nationality. His partner, Anna, 39, sustained critical injuries to her legs and was hospitalized in Nice, while their 13-year-old son was also injured but survived. Investigators consider the attack a targeted assassination attempt, not a random act.
Improvised explosive device details
The device was a remote-controlled parcel bomb filled with bolts, pellets, and shrapnel, indicating a lethal intent despite not being military-grade. Forensic teams are analyzing residues and biological traces to determine its composition and origin.
Identification of main suspect
Authorities identified Anastasia Belezovska, 39, a Ukrainian national last known to reside in Germany, as the primary suspect. Surveillance footage shows her disguised in male clothing and conducting repeated reconnaissance in Monaco prior to the attack. A distinctive serpentine tattoo aided identification.
Escape and international alert
After the explosion, the suspect fled on foot դեպի Beausoleil and is believed to have left the area by car, possibly toward Germany. Monaco has issued a Red Notice via Interpol, backed by an international arrest warrant, enabling global law enforcement to detain her pending extradition.
Legal classification and investigation
Prosecutors have opened a case for attempted assassination, use of explosive devices, and criminal conspiracy. While initial reports referred to terrorism, authorities have not formally retained that classification. The investigation is led by Monaco’s judiciary with support from French law enforcement.
Monaco’s security under scrutiny
Known for extensive surveillance and a high police-to-resident ratio, Monaco is considered one of the safest territories globally. The attack has raised concerns about vulnerabilities despite widespread facial recognition systems and near-total video coverage.
Judicial process and extradition
Under Monaco’s legal system, the case will be handled by a criminal court rather than a jury-based system. If apprehended abroad, the suspect would face extradition proceedings, during which her rights of defense would be guaranteed before transfer to Monaco.
Possible motive under investigation
Investigators are exploring motives linked to personal or political retaliation, particularly given the victim’s reported ties to contested economic activities. Authorities have not confirmed any state involvement and continue to examine whether accomplices were involved.
CONCLUSION
The Monaco bombing represents a rare and severe breach of security in the principality, triggering an international investigation as authorities seek to apprehend the suspect and clarify the motives behind the targeted attack.