An explosion at a residence in the Principality of Monaco on June 29 (local time) left a family of a Ukrainian tycoon, who had been suspected of having close ties to Russia, severely injured, according to reports from AFP and other news outlets.

The blast occurred around 9:00 p.m. that day at a residential building located near the border between Monaco and France.

According to Monaco authorities, the explosion took place after a suspect left an object, believed to be a bag or a package, in the lobby of the building.

As a result, a couple in their 50s or 60s sustained life-threatening injuries, while a 13-year-old boy, who appears to be close to the couple, suffered relatively minor injuries.

An investigative source who requested anonymity told AFP that one of the victims is Vadym Yermolaiev, a Ukrainian tycoon.

Yermolaiev is a millionaire residing in Monaco who was placed under sanctions by the Ukrainian government in December 2023 due to his history of activities linked to Russia.

AFP reported that the Security Service of Ukraine is understood to have initiated the sanctions based on Yermolaiev's involvement in alcohol-related businesses in Crimea, a region occupied by Russia.

However, Monaco authorities have not officially disclosed the identities of the victims.

Authorities have launched an investigation, treating the explosion as a deliberate act.

Christophe Steiner, Minister of State of Monaco, told AFP, "It is highly likely that this incident was an intentional attack."

He stated that the explosive device appeared to contain bolts and pellets, adding, "This is the first time such an incident (a bomb attack) has occurred in the Principality of Monaco."

He further added that intelligence agencies are working to verify the backgrounds of the victims and assess the possibility of further attacks.

It was determined that the suspect fled on foot across the border into France.

Authorities stated that they identified the suspect through CCTV footage in Beausoleil, a French town adjacent to Monaco.

French police are also reportedly assisting in the search for the suspect.

Prince Albert II of Monaco condemned the incident, calling it "a heinous crime and a shock that has shaken the entire Monaco community."

Monaco, a city-state on the Mediterranean coast famous for its Big Bet and the Formula One Grand Prix, is considered a world-renowned tourist destination.

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)