In brief
In Geneva, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced that cybercriminals connected to hostile state actors had leaked his personal data on the dark web and offered to sell more information about him and his loved ones. He blamed Italy’s support for Ukraine for the targeted attacks and vowed not to be intimidated, while highlighting new cybersecurity measures at the foreign ministry.
In Geneva on Saturday, November 7, 2026, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani announced that his personal data had been leaked on the dark web and that the cybercriminals behind the leak were offering additional details for payment.
According to an Anadolu Agency report, the data has been circulating for days and threatens Tajani and his family with new intimidation tactics.
Tajani took to the X social‑media platform to explain why he believes the targeting is linked to Italy’s position on Ukraine.
My reaction is very simple: I will not be intimidated in any way.
He stated that “our position on Ukraine is the political reason why I have become a target” and that defending Ukraine’s sovereignty, democracy and independence “is dangerous in the eyes of these criminal entities.”
The minister further suggested that the threats may be a reaction to recent security upgrades at the foreign ministry.
He noted that a dedicated cybersecurity directorate, established on January 1, is already operational and connected to Italy’s allies to counter intrusions “often linked in some way to state entities hostile to us.”
In his post, Tajani claimed the cybercriminals were linked to hostile state actors, a claim he has not yet substantiated with a direct source or evidence.
The announcement comes as Italy has been increasing diplomatic and military support for Ukraine, a stance that has drawn scrutiny from pro‑Russian interests.
While the minister’s vow to not be intimidated echoes earlier security warnings from European officials, no further statements have been issued by diplomatic allies about the threat or how they will support the Italian ministry.
