The Russian Foreign Ministry has labeled an explosion at its consulate in Marseille, France, as a terrorist attack. This incident occurred early on February 24, 2025, prompting a demand for a thorough investigation and enhanced security measures for Russian diplomatic missions abroad.
- Explosion at Russian consulate in Marseille
- Russian Foreign Ministry labels incident terrorist attack
- Suspect threw explosives into consulate garden
- No injuries reported from the explosion
- EU sanctions against Moscow announced
- Commemorations for Ukraine-Russia War anniversary
Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, stated that the explosion bore the characteristics of a terrorist act. The Russian consul confirmed that the explosion originated from within the consulate, which caused no injuries or damage.
The explosion near the Russian Consulate General in Marseille has raised significant concerns regarding the safety of diplomatic missions. French media reported that around 30 firefighters responded to the scene, although police could not confirm all details initially. The Russian consul, Stanislav Oranskiy, indicated that the explosion occurred from within the consulate premises.
According to reports, a suspect threw two explosive devices into the consulate’s garden, with only one of the makeshift explosives detonating. These devices were described as being crafted from plastic bottles. Additionally, a stolen car was discovered nearby, raising further suspicions about the incident.
Initially, French police speculated that the explosives were Molotov cocktails. However, they later revised this assessment, stating that the characterization of the devices as Molotov cocktails was likely inaccurate at this stage. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported, and all consulate staff were unharmed.
This incident occurs amid heightened tensions between Russia and the EU, which recently announced new sanctions against Moscow. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine continues to influence diplomatic relations, making security for foreign missions a priority for many nations.
The explosion at the Russian consulate in Marseille highlights ongoing security concerns for diplomatic missions worldwide. With no casualties reported, the focus now shifts to the investigation and the measures necessary to prevent future incidents.