A report published in Italian newspaper La Stampa alleged that one of Salvini’s political aides, Antonio Capuano, made contact with Russian Embassy official, Oleg Kostyukov.
It is alleged that during a private interaction in late May, Kostyukov pointedly asked Capuano whether any members of the League were considering withdrawing from Prime Minister Mario Draghi’s government.
Last week, Draghi’s government collapsed after multiple political parties withdrew from the ruling coalition.
The report also highlighted that Salvini intended to visit Moscow for peace talks, on flights that had been paid for by the Russian Embassy.
His team clarified this point, stating that the trip never eventuated and that the Embassy had been reimbursed.
Salvini has condemned the media attention, calling it “fake news”.
At a conference held by agricultural group Coldiretti, Salvini was asked whether Russia had a hand in the collapse of Italy’s government.
“Let’s be serious,” Salvini scoffed.
“An official denial is on the way.
“It’s extremely serious that fake news is being spread.
“We’re with the West and with democracy.”
La Stampa defended its piece, citing an informal summary from an Italian intelligence agency.
Salvini has expressed his admiration for Russian President Vladimir Putin on several occasions, on social media and in international forums.
Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio and the Brothers of Italy party have called for an official investigation into the matter.
“This is very worrying,” Di Maio said.
“Salvini must explain his relations with Russia.”
