Italy enters into political uncertainty after 5-Stars balk

By NICOLE WINFIELD
Associated Press

ROME (AP) — Italy is entering five days of political and financial uncertainty after the 5-Star Movement sparked a government crisis by withholding support on a government-sponsored bill. On the immediate horizon are behind-the-scenes consultations to see if Italian Premier Mario Draghi could be persuaded to try to find a new majority or should make preparations for an early election as soon as September. Analysts said Italy’s president was wise to try to keep Draghi in power, since the former European Central Bank chief is seen as a pillar of fiscal stability. One lawmaker blasted the 5-Star Movement, saying they are making the Kremlin happy to see Draghi weakened. Draghi has backed European military help for Ukraine.