Prince Albert of Monaco, 68, has publicly addressed Monday evening's explosion in the Principality, an incident that has shocked the country and is being investigated as a possible criminal attack. The blast, which occurred at the entrance of a residential building on Rue Révérend Père Louis Frolla, left three people injured, including Ukrainian businessman Vadim Ermolaev, his partner, and a 13-year-old child.
As the investigation remains ongoing, the sovereign released a statement expressing his support for the victims, thanking emergency responders for their swift action, and reaffirming that all state institutions are working closely with French authorities to determine exactly what happened and identify those responsible.
© AFP via Getty ImagesPrince Albert of Monaco's Full Statement
"The criminal explosion that occurred this afternoon in Monaco has deeply shocked the entire Monegasque community.
My thoughts are first and foremost with the victims, their loved ones, and the residents directly affected by this brutal act. Princess Charlene, my family, and I wish to express our deepest compassion and unwavering support.
We also want to recognize the outstanding work of the Public Security forces, who have handled this situation with professionalism and composure, ensuring that the victims received immediate medical care and that the area was secured without delay.
Under the authority of the Government, all relevant state services have been fully mobilized and are working in close cooperation with the French authorities. We are confident they will clarify the circumstances surrounding this tragedy as quickly as possible, identify those responsible, and provide the answers that are needed at every level.
More than ever, the Principality of Monaco will remain united and resolute in the face of violence and crime. The safety of our community has always been a priority, and it will remain so now more than ever, regardless of the threats we face.
What We Know About the Explosion
The explosion occurred at approximately 9:00 p.m. on Monday, June 29, at the entrance of a residential building on Rue Révérend Père Louis Frolla, an area near the border between Monaco and France. The powerful blast was heard several blocks away, prompting a large-scale response from emergency services and law enforcement.
© AFP via Getty ImagesAccording to Monegasque authorities and French media reports, three people were injured: Ukrainian businessman Vadim Ermolaev, his partner, and a 13-year-old child. The two adults remain in serious condition, while the teenager suffered less severe injuries.
Early evidence suggests the explosion was caused by an explosive device concealed inside a backpack that was left outside the building's entrance just minutes before it detonated. Security camera footage reportedly shows the suspect abandoning the backpack before fleeing on foot toward the neighboring French town of Beausoleil.
© Getty ImagesNo arrests have been made so far, and Monaco and French authorities continue their joint investigation to locate the suspected attacker.
Monaco's chief prosecutor, Thibault Stéphane, described the incident as unprecedented, stating that "this is the first time in history that such an act has occurred in the Principality." However, he cautioned that investigators have not yet determined whether the victims were the intended targets of the attack.
© Corbis via Getty ImagesMeanwhile, Monaco's Minister of State, Christophe Mirmand, confirmed that all relevant government agencies remain fully mobilized to gather evidence and establish the full circumstances surrounding the explosion.
