Italian premier Mario Draghi has resigned after key coalition allies boycotted a confidence vote.
It signals the likelihood of early elections and a renewed period of uncertainty for Italy and Europe at a critical time.
Mr Draghi tendered his resignation to President Sergio Mattarella during a morning meeting at the Quirinale Palace.
Mr Mattarella’s office said the president had “taken note” of the resignation and asked Mr Draghi’s government to remain on in a caretaker fashion.
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