THE European Union has hit back at Matteo Salvini after the Italian argued European budget constraints may have prevented local authorities from repairing the Genoa bridge which collapsed killing at least 39 people yesterday.

Transport minister attacks Genoa bridge operator Autostrade per l’Italia, with PM and deputy PM also pointing finger at the firm

DISTURBING images have emerged of the doomed Italian bridge appearing to buckle and crumble long before it killed at least 39 people.

Fingers are pointing at the mafia who play a key role in Italy's cement industry - amid allegations they sold inadequate materials involved in the construction of the 50-year-old bridge