Blast in Monaco: Victim blamed by Kiev's intelligence service

A Ukrainian businessman who was seriously injured in an explosion in Monaco two weeks ago has accused the Ukrainian military intelligence agency HUR of involvement in the attack. The incident occurred late one evening at the entrance of a residential building in Monaco, where a package exploded as Wadym Jermolajew left with his partner and son. All three were severely injured in the blast, according to documents released today through Jermolajew’s lawyers. The accusation comes after an internal investigation reportedly found evidence linking active officers of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense, commonly known as HUR, to the attempted assassination. In a statement obtained by the dpa, Jermolajew’s legal representatives stated there is no doubt that members of HUR were directly involved in the attack. The document was shared publicly by Jermolajew himself. The explosion took place at the end of June, when Jermolajew, a prominent Ukrainian businessman, was leaving a building with his family. A suspicious package had been placed near the entrance earlier in the day, which detonated upon their departure. The injuries sustained by Jermolajew, his partner, and his son were severe enough to require hospitalization. Jermolajew has been under Ukrainian sanctions since December 2023, following accusations from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that he collaborated with Russia. He regularly appeared among the wealthiest individuals in Ukraine before the sanctions were imposed. His business dealings have long drawn scrutiny, particularly during the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. Following the explosion, authorities launched an investigation into a suspect believed to be a Ukrainian national living in Germany. However, days later, the woman was found dead in Ukraine, shot in an apparent act of retaliation or cover-up. Meanwhile, officials confirmed that several officers from HUR had been detained in connection with the case. The situation has raised questions about internal security within Ukraine’s military intelligence apparatus. While HUR is responsible for conducting covert operations and gathering intelligence, its alleged involvement in this attack could signal deeper issues within the organization. The accusations against HUR come amid growing concerns over the integrity of Ukraine’s security services, especially given the high-profile nature of the victim. Jermolajew’s legal team emphasized that the evidence gathered during the investigation points directly to HUR operatives being involved in planning and executing the attack. They described the findings as conclusive and urged further transparency from Ukrainian authorities regarding the handling of such cases. The documents also suggest that the attack may have been motivated by personal vendettas or political tensions linked to Jermolajew’s past activities. Authorities in Monaco have not yet commented officially on the allegations, though they have expressed willingness to cooperate fully with any international investigations. The French government, which oversees Monaco, has maintained a neutral stance so far, focusing instead on ensuring the safety of residents and visitors in the principality. In the wake of the incident, diplomatic channels remain open between Ukraine and other European nations. However, the accusations against HUR could strain relations, particularly with countries that have supported Ukraine financially and militarily throughout the war. The situation is likely to remain under close watch by both local and international observers. The case continues to unfold, with more details expected to emerge as the investigation progresses. Legal proceedings against the suspected HUR officers are anticipated, while Jermolajew seeks justice for the attack that left him and his family gravely injured.