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In a video obtained by Buzzfeed, Gianluca Savoini, an aide to Mr Salvini was caught discussing a potential deal in the Metropol Hotel in Moscow last October. Following the release of the video and transcript, the Italian Parliament descended into chaos on Wednesday as politicians held up signs reading “65” in reference to the $65million (£51million) the party would have received. Mr Savoini was recorded discussing the deal with Italian and Russian associates which would've secretly channelled Russian money into Mr Salvini’s supposedly far-right Lega Party.

Following the protest, two former Prime Minister’s have called for an inquiry into the allegations.

Hitting out Mr Salvini’s party, former Prime Minister, Matteo Renzi told Buzzfeed that he would be calling for an investigation into the claims.

In a tweet, Mr Renzi called on Mr Salvini “to clarify” the accusations in the case.

Mr Renzi's successor, Paolo Gentiloni supported this and labelled the report from Buzzfeed as anything but “gossip”.

READ MORE: EU divided: France lashes out at Italy’s Salvini over migrant response