Two French researchers have been sentenced to eight months in prison after throwing homemade explosives at the Russian consulate in Marseille on February 24, marking the third anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The scientists, both employed at France’s National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS), launched the attack using three plastic bottles filled with a chemical mixture, including liquid nitrogen. Two of the bottles detonated upon impact in the consulate’s gardens, though no injuries or damage were reported.
Authorities cordoned off the area for several hours while bomb disposal experts secured the site.
Arrested After Pro-Ukraine Rally
The two researchers were arrested later that evening at a pro-Ukraine rally outside Marseille’s town hall. During their court hearing, they admitted to taking liquid nitrogen (-190°C) from their laboratory to create the explosives.
One of the researchers, a 59-year-old man, is married to a Ukrainian woman, and his father-in-law has been living with them since the war began, according to French broadcaster TF1.
Prosecutor: Attack Was Not Dangerous
Despite the nature of the incident, public prosecutor Olivier Redon downplayed the threat, stating that the researchers had exercised “caution on purpose” and acted as “honest individuals.”
While they were sentenced to eight months in prison, the prosecutor recommended that they serve their sentences under electronic surveillance rather than behind bars. Additionally, they are banned from the area surrounding the consulate and prohibited from carrying weapons for five years.
Russia Calls It a “Terrorist Attack”
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from Moscow, with Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova labeling it a “terrorist attack” and calling for stronger security measures around Russian diplomatic sites in Europe.
While the attack caused no physical harm, the case has highlighted growing tensions over the war in Ukraine and the extent of anti-Russian sentiment in parts of Europe.
