Ukraine’s Security Service announced on Tuesday the discovery of the body of Anastasiia Berezovska, a Ukrainian individual wanted by Monaco authorities in connection with a bombing aimed at Ukrainian business magnate Vadym Yermolaiev. The Security Service, known as SBU, revealed that a military intelligence officer in Ukraine admitted to killing Berezovska with the help of a former law enforcement officer, acting independently and without informing superiors.
Berezovska’s demise occurred near Kyiv, as reported by Ukrainska Pravda, although specific details regarding the location and circumstances remain unclear. The SBU’s investigation honed in on the two suspects after uncovering repeated transfers of cryptocurrency and funds to Berezovska. Additionally, a search revealed a basement resembling a torture chamber at the former law enforcement officer’s residence.
During a reconstruction of the crime based on one suspect’s account, investigators discovered Berezovska’s body with gunshot wounds to the head, along with spent pistol casings at the scene. Both suspects have been apprehended on suspicion of premeditated murder. The SBU has collaborated with Monaco investigators, sharing available information and actively working to identify those responsible for orchestrating the attempted assassination in Monaco.
The attack on June 29 in Monaco, a renowned destination for the affluent and famous, left the community in shock. Prince Albert II of Monaco denounced the explosion as a despicable act, emphasizing the mobilization of public services to enhance security. Subsequently, investigators disclosed the identification of a rented vehicle with German license plates used by Berezovska in Monaco, tracing her movements post-explosion across several European countries back to her residence.
Interpol issued a red notice for Berezovska on charges of attempted murder, planting an explosive device with criminal intent, and criminal conspiracy. As of Tuesday, Interpol refrained from commenting further, maintaining the red notice on its website until Monaco requests its removal. Vadym Yermolaiev, a prominent construction figure, obtained Cypriot citizenship in 2019 and was sanctioned by Ukraine in 2023 for engaging in business activities in Russian-occupied Crimea. Yermolaiev sustained injuries in the incident, alongside his female partner and young son.
