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Defiant Salvini Says Time May Be Running Out on Italy Government

  • Conte meets president after deputy’s ultimatum on cabinet
  • Salvini ramping up pressure with veiled threats of new vote
Matteo Salvini speaks in Sabaudia, Italy, on Aug. 7.
Matteo Salvini speaks in Sabaudia, Italy, on Aug. 7.Photographer: Antonio Masiello/Getty Images
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Italy’s Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte met with President Sergio Mattarella Thursday, after his deputy, Matteo Salvini, increased pressure on the ruling coalition, reportedly giving the premier a Monday deadline to shake up his cabinet.

Conte and Mattarella, who alone has the power to dissolve parliament, met for about an hour, news agency Ansa reported. Conte then walked back to his office near the parliament. The meeting was “informative,” and the two did not speak of a government crisis or a Conte resignation, Ansa said.