Explosion in Monaco leaves multiple people injured

A bomb explosion occurred in the center of Monaco on Monday evening, shortly before 9:00 p.m. local time. The incident resulted in injuries to at least three people, two of whom are in life-threatening condition. According to authorities, a man was captured on surveillance footage leaving a backpack containing an explosive device at the entrance of a residential building. Local officials and Prince Albert of Monaco have characterized the incident as a malicious and odious act. While authorities have not officially identified the target, French and Ukrainian media outlets reported that the intended victim was Vadym Yermolaiev, a Cyprus-based real estate developer and former Ukrainian citizen who was placed under Ukrainian sanctions in December 2023. A joint police operation involving Monaco and French authorities is currently underway to locate the suspect. This incident is considered unprecedented in the Principality of Monaco.