Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte Announces Departure Amid Political Turmoil

In a surprising turn of events, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte has announced his departure from politics following the collapse of his coalition government. Rutte's struggles in navigating the sensitive issue of immigration ultimately led to the dissolution of his government, leaving the country in a state of uncertainty.

With Rutte stepping down, the question of who will replace him as the leader of the Netherlands looms large. The political landscape of the country is expected to undergo significant changes as a result, with potential implications for both domestic and international affairs.

NATO Approves Comprehensive Defense Plans for Europe

NATO is set to approve its first comprehensive defense plans for Europe since the Cold War. These plans, designed to address various regional and domain-specific threats, aim to ensure that NATO troops stationed in Europe are fully prepared for a high-intensity conflict.

The newly approved plans prioritize the acquisition of heavy armored forces, air defense systems, long-range firepower, and logistics capabilities. By bolstering these key areas, NATO aims to enhance its defensive capabilities and maintain a strong deterrent against potential adversaries.

Iconic British Lighthouses Undergo Transformation

Many of Britain's iconic lighthouses are undergoing a transformation as they replace their traditional sweeping beams with simpler flashing LEDs. This move is driven by various factors, including cost savings, reduced risk, and the ability to provide timed flashes without the need for sweeping beams.

The sweeping beams of lighthouses were originally designed to provide a timed flash that helped sailors identify specific lights during storms. However, advancements in LED technology now allow for the same effect to be achieved without the need for sweeping beams. While this change may alter the visual landscape of Britain's coastlines, it offers practical benefits and ensures the continued effectiveness of these vital navigational aids.

Mark Rutte is stepping down after leading the Netherlands for 13 years. Despite his renowned political survival skills, our correspondent explains why it was migration policy that brought about his downfall. As the NATO summit kicks off, what are the alliance’s plans for defending Europe (9:30)? And a look at the changing face of Britain’s lighthouses (19:00).

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