An explosive device went off near the Russian consulate in Marseille early on Monday, coinciding with the third anniversay of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. No injuries were reported. A second device was discovered but did not detonate, leading to the deployment of a bomb disposal expert.

The unidentified suspect is currently on the run, and an investigation has been initiated. Due to national police policy, the official providing this information insisted on remaining anonymous. At present, no information about the suspect or motives has been released.

Marseille, the second-largest city in France and a major Mediterranean port, boasts a diverse population but does not have a significant Russian community. Since 2022, there have been numerous protests in France against Russia’s conflict in Ukraine, including demonstrations in Marseille and Paris.

Maria Zakharova, Russia’s foreign ministry spokesperson, stated that the incident shows all the signs of being a terrorist attack.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/feb/24/incendiary-device-explodes-outside-russian-consulate-in-marseille