The Ukrainian businessman who survived an assassination attempt in Monaco has accused Ukraine’s military intelligence agency of organising the attack. In his first public statement since the bombing that shook the wealthy principality, Vadym Iermolaiev alleged that serving and former officers of the GUR military intelligence agency were behind the attempted killing.
The attack left Iermolaiev injured but his partner critically wounded. French investigators have identified the suspected bomber as Anastasiia Berezovska, a Ukrainian national accused of planting an explosive device in a public place with criminal intent. The bomb detonated as Iermolaiev emerged from a building with his partner and their 13-year-old son.
Key Details of the Monaco Bombing
Days after the attack, Berezovska was found dead near Kyiv. Ukrainian authorities have arrested two suspects over her killing: Vladyslav Reut, an officer with the GUR, and Oleksandr Zhykovych, a former law enforcement officer. Appearing in a Kyiv court last Thursday, Reut claimed Zhykovych was responsible for Berezovska’s murder.
According to prosecutors, the pair forced her at gunpoint into a car before taking her to a forest near the village of Yuriv, about 40 miles (60km) west of the capital, where she was killed. Ukrainian prosecutors have sought to portray the case as the actions of a rogue intelligence officer, alleging that Reut concealed his contacts with Berezovska and acted without the knowledge or authorisation of the agency’s leadership.
Victim's Statement and Allegations
Iermolaiev rejected that account, saying in his statement: “Based on the investigative evidence available to us, we have no doubt that serving officers of the main intelligence directorate of the ministry of defence of Ukraine, commonly known as the GUR, were directly involved in this attempted assassination.” He further stated, “According to the evidence currently available, the conspiracy extended beyond the direct perpetrators and organisers to include serving GUR officers.”
Comparison of Key Suspects
| Suspect | Role | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Anastasiia Berezovska | Alleged bomber | Deceased (found near Kyiv) |
| Vladyslav Reut | GUR officer, arrested for her murder | In custody, claims Zhykovych responsible |
| Oleksandr Zhykovych | Former law enforcement officer | Arrested, accused of forced abduction |
Key Takeaways from the Incident
- The Monaco bombing targeted Ukrainian businessman Vadym Iermolaiev.
- Iermolaiev directly accuses Ukraine's GUR military intelligence agency of orchestrating the attack.
- The suspected bomber, Anastasiia Berezovska, was killed days after the bombing.
- Two suspects, including a GUR officer, have been arrested for her murder.
- Ukrainian prosecutors claim the GUR officer acted without agency authorization.
FAQ
Who was the target of the Monaco bombing?
The target was Ukrainian businessman Vadym Iermolaiev, who survived the attack but his partner was critically wounded.
Who does Vadym Iermolaiev blame for the attack?
He blames serving and former officers of Ukraine's military intelligence agency, the GUR, for organizing the assassination attempt.
What happened to the suspected bomber Anastasiia Berezovska?
She was found dead near Kyiv days after the bombing. Two suspects, including a GUR officer, have been arrested for her murder.
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