CNN, already beset by historically low television ratings, is laying off 6 percent of its staff, roughly 200 people, chief executive Mark Thompson announced in a memo to employees Thursday morning. The cuts, which will affect CNN employees around the world, will be completed by the end of the week.

CNN is expected to lay off about 200 of its employees, or 6% of its workforce, in part of a shift toward a more digital-oriented future

CNN is expected to unveil significant staffing cuts as soon as Thursday, according to three people familiar with the matter, as CEO Mark Thompson continues to plot a new emphasis on digital content. A CNN spokesperson could not be reached for immediate comment.