Mark Rutte, Dutch Prime Minister, Announces Retirement Ahead of Elections

After 13 years as the Netherlands' longest-serving prime minister, Mark Rutte has announced his retirement from politics following his government's collapse. Rutte, known as "Teflon Mark" for his ability to navigate political crises, will remain as caretaker prime minister until the general election in November. However, his popularity has declined due to controversies and a loss of trust in politics. Rutte's coalition partners have criticized his approach, and polls show that his party, the VVD, is expected to become the largest again. The main rival in the upcoming election is a farmers' protest party, while the Labour PVDA and GreenLeft parties have announced a merger.