Germany's Foreign Ministry summoned Russia's ambassador on Monday to protest cyberattacks targeting the European Union. The ministry stated that cyberattacks against Germany, EU partners, and Ukraine were unacceptable and would be met decisively, including with additional sanctions.

The EU announced sanctions on Russia over cyberattacks, with targets including France, Germany, Poland, Cyprus, the Netherlands, Austria, Slovakia, Romania, and Finland.

Volkswagen warned staff it may need to cut some 50,000 jobs to match rivals' competitiveness, according to an internal memo. CEO Oliver Blume said the group calculated a cost disadvantage of 20% versus comparable companies.

Blume noted that the company is assessing adjustments across all brands and regions. Labor representatives have reportedly blocked proposals to cut jobs and possibly close four factories.

Germany's coalition government plans to increase tobacco duty more sharply than previously planned, aiming to raise cigarette packet prices to around €12 from €8. The hike is intended to fill a budget gap and protect public health.

A US citizen infected with the Ebola virus was admitted to Frankfurt University Hospital early Monday. The patient, who worked for a humanitarian organization in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is in stable condition.

A German court sentenced an Iraqi couple to lengthy prison terms for enslaving and abusing two Yazidi girls under the so-called Islamic State. They were convicted of war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity.

Source: www.dw.com