Death of Assassination Suspect Raises Questions for Kyiv Among Western Allies

The Financial Times reported that the death of Anastasia Berezovskaya, a Ukrainian citizen accused of attempting to assassinate Ukrainian businessman Vadim Yermolaev, could provoke challenging inquiries from Kyiv’s Western allies.

The Financial Times stated, "The circumstances surrounding Berezovskaya’s death and the identities of the suspects arrested in connection with her case are likely to raise uncomfortable questions for Kyiv, especially given its efforts to convince European Union partners that it is combating organized crime and corruption as part of its bid to join the EU."

Investigation Continues Despite Suspect’s Death

The Guardian noted that the killing of a suspect in the assassination attempt against a Ukrainian businessman in Monaco could carry political costs for Kyiv.

Interpol previously published details about the suspect in the assassination attempt on Yermolaev in Monaco, identifying her as Anastasia Berezovskaya, a Ukrainian national born in 1987.

Authorities Confirm Suspect's Death Near Kyiv

Ukrainska Pravda reported last Tuesday, citing sources within Ukrainian security agencies, that Berezovskaya’s body was found near Kyiv. The Prosecutor General’s Office later confirmed this information and announced the arrest of two suspects in the murder of the woman—one an employee of Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate and the other a former officer in Ukrainian security services.

Details of the Monaco Explosion

The explosion occurred in Monaco on the evening of June 29. According to Monaco authorities, a man, a woman, and a child were injured, though their identities were not disclosed. The principality’s Prosecutor General stated that the incident is not classified as a terrorist act. However, multiple sources confirmed that the primary target was Yermolaev.