Italy's Five Star Movement to Support Trump's Attempts to Mend Ties With Russia

Italian Five Star Movement (M5S) will support US President-elect Donald Trump attempts to normalize relations with Russia, member of the movement and of the European parliament Fabio Massimo Castaldo told Sputnik.

MOSCOW (Sputnik) — During his election campaign, Trump repeatedly called for dialogue with Russia and for combining efforts in fighting terrorism in war-torn Syria. He reaffirmed his willingness to normalize US relations with Russia in his first phone conversation with Russia President Vladimir Putin on November 14.

"In relations with Russia we are pragmatists, and while we differ in views from Trump, we will support his efforts to improve relations with Russia, and not hinder it, as the current governments of the EU countries do. And we want specifics, not empty promises, as Renzi did… This also applies to the sanctions and other international dossiers, where Russia participates," Castaldo said.

The M5S was established in 2009 by comedian Beppe Grillo and web-strategist Gianroberto Casaleggio. Grillo used his blog in the Internet, as well as the social networking site Meetup.com to gather people for campaigning on local issues, and then field candidates for elections. The M5S became the second voted party at the 2013 general election.