Italy Extradites Chinese Hacker to U.S., Easing Diplomatic Tensions Amid Cybercrime Surge
April 26, 2026
Since taking office in 2022, Meloni has sought to balance relations with Beijing and Washington, notably in public procurement and strategic Italian companies.
U.S. authorities say Xu was part of the cyber-espionage group Hafnium in 2021, accused of hacking thousands of computers worldwide, including in the United States.
The article includes promotional links and two non-substantive notes (Telegram read and donation prompts) that do not affect the main narrative.
The piece touches on the broader Trump–Meloni dynamic, noting Meloni’s criticisms of Trump and her focus on pursuing national and European interests.
The extradition follows a court ruling earlier this month that endorsed the decision, with Bloomberg first reporting and government confirmation now sought.
Bloomberg frames the extradition as potentially easing U.S.–Italy tensions within Meloni’s broader balancing act between China and the U.S. since 2022.
The extradition could ease strains between the U.S. and Italy amid ongoing tensions between Meloni and Trump on various issues, including Iran.
The piece references other cyber incidents, such as Booking.com data breaches and Russian hacks of NATO and Balkan institutions, to illustrate the broader cybercrime landscape.
Xu Jiawei maintains his innocence, per Italian media reports.
Italy has decided to extradite Xu Zewei, a Chinese national, to the United States on charges related to hacking, including wire fraud and aggravated identity theft tied to COVID-19 research theft and intrusions from 2020–21.
Several Italian outlets report Xu’s insistence on innocence amid the case.
Bloomberg is cited as the report’s source, with mention of U.S. authorities’ involvement in the case.
Summary based on 9 sources
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Sources

Yahoo News UK • Apr 26, 2026
Italy to extradite suspected Chinese hacker wanted by US authorities, says source
RBC-Ukraine • Apr 26, 2026
Italy extradites Chinese national to US over major hacking attacks - Bloomberg
Vijesti • Apr 26, 2026
Italy extradites Chinese hacker wanted by US authorities