The Russian consulate in Marseille was damaged early Monday morning by two explosive devices, according to French media reports. The incident occurred on Avenue Ambroise-Paré, where several other consulates are also located.
Reports indicate that two devices were thrown at the facade of the building, causing explosions and material damage. While some outlets initially suggested Molotov cocktails were used, the Bouches-du-Rhône police told BFM that this assessment “does not seem to be the right one at this stage.” No injuries were reported, and staff inside the consulate were briefly placed on lockdown.
Firefighters and police were dispatched to the scene following the explosions. Footage from the incident also showed bomb disposal teams working in the area.
Russia’s foreign ministry has labeled the incident a “terrorist attack” and called for a thorough investigation by French authorities, according to state-owned media. French police have not yet commented on the motives behind the explosions.
The incident’s timing coincides with the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
