Eurotopics.net

According to media reports, Volkswagen is planning to reduce its global workforce of 657,000 by around 100,000 jobs over the next few years. In Germany, four plants belonging to Europe's largest car manufacturer could be closed in the restructuring. Other companies are also planning to axe jobs in Germany. Europe's media voice concern about Germany's future as an industrial hub and examine the causes.

Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has announced his resignation and called for early presidential and parliamentary elections. His second and final term would normally have gone on until the end of May 2027. Vučić has offered to help his Serbian Progressive Party (SNS) in the elections. Commentators discuss the strategic considerations behind this step by the head of state.

Andy Burnham, Britain's likely next prime minister, has set out plans for a major overhaul of the British system of government. They include local authorities being given more control over water supply services and other utilities and measures to tackle the cost-of-living crisis and promote social housing. The media look at whether the strategy could work.

Israel and Lebanon signed a framework agreement in Washington on Friday aimed at ending their hostilities. Both sides declared their intention to achieve "lasting peace and security" and bring an end to the state of war that has existed since 1948. Hezbollah was not involved in the negotiations and has said the deal is "null and void".