Italian foreign minister's personal data leaked; Meloni blames pro-Russian hackers

Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has said he has been the victim of a cyberattack, with hackers leaking his personal information. He said he was targeted because of Italy's support for Ukraine in its war with Russia.

In a post on the social media platform X, Antonio Tajani wrote: "For several days now, cybercriminals have been publishing my personal information on the dark web. At the same time, they are trying to collect more information. As a result, I have once again faced threats and intimidation."

The Italian foreign minister did not give details of what kind of threats were made. But Antonio Tajani said the hackers had also targeted members of his family.

The Italian foreign minister said he had been targeted because of Italy's position on Ukraine.

In his post, Antonio Tajani wrote: "Standing up for the independence of a sovereign state and expressing clear support for a country's democracy and freedom — in the eyes of these criminal groups, that is dangerous."

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni blamed pro-Russian hackers for the incident. In a statement expressing her full support for Antonio Tajani, Meloni said the sale of confidential information about representatives of state institutions was a matter of serious concern. The strongest possible action must be taken against such activity, she said.

There has been no public response from Russia to the allegation.

Russia launched a full-scale military operation in Ukraine in February 2022. Since then, an all-out war has been going on between the two countries.

Alongside expressing support for Ukraine in the war, Italy has been providing the country with humanitarian and military assistance.