Energy crisis_ Could Italy's next government drop Russian sanctions_ - BBC News

Energy prices have become a key issue in Italy's upcoming election.

Polls suggest a coalition led by the far-right is likely to win, with some of its members talking about dropping sanctions against Russia, because of the energy crisis.

Italy's favourite to become prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, has been firmly behind Italy's current government's supportive position towards Ukraine.

However, her coalition partners Matteo Salvini and Silvio Berlusconi have close personal ties to Mr Putin.

Before Moscow invaded Ukraine, 40% of Italy's gas came from Russia. Now, following Western sanctions and diversification, this supply has dropped to around 18%.

Voters will head to the polls on 25 September.