Portuguese PM Costa Resigns Amid Corruption Probe

Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Costa has resigned following the detention of his chief of staff in an investigation into alleged corruption related to lithium mining and hydrogen projects. Costa, who is also the target of a related investigation, stated that his conscience is clear but that he will not stand as a candidate for a fourth term as premier. The president will now decide whether to allow the ruling Socialists to form a new government or call for early elections. The political crisis could impact the approval of the 2024 budget bill and the privatization of the national airline TAP.