Hunter Biden's Diplomatic Lobbying: Inside the Burisma-Tuscany Connection

Hunter Biden sought introductions from the U.S. ambassador to Italy for Burisma’s geothermal project in 2016. Despite outreach, no meetings or projects materialized. Republicans allege financial misconduct involving the Biden family, which the White House denies. Hunter Biden faces various legal issues including pending criminal tax charges.

Hunter Biden reached out to the U.S. ambassador to Italy during his father Joe Biden's vice presidency in 2016, aiming to secure a geothermal project for Ukrainian company Burisma, where he served on the board. The New York Times reported this based on obtained records.

According to the Times, Hunter Biden wrote at least one letter to the U.S. Embassy in Rome seeking an introduction to the president of Italy's Tuscany region. His attorney, Abbe Lowell, stressed no meeting happened, no projects materialized, and no U.S. interests were pursued. The goal was merely an introduction, as businesses regularly do with ambassadors.

While the U.S. Embassy's response remains unclear, Hunter Biden has avoided charges related to foreign lobbying laws. Despite Republicans' unproven claims of financial misconduct by the Biden family, the White House denies any inappropriate business dealings. Separately, Hunter Biden faces scheduled trials and sentencing on charges of tax violations and false statements.

(With inputs from agencies.)