German chancellor dismisses finance minister, coalition faces uncertainty
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed Finance Minister Christian Lindner on Wednesday, creating instability in the ruling coalition. Scholz stated the decision was necessary to protect the country amid economic concerns and ongoing political disagreements. Lindner's Free Democratic Party announced it would leave the coalition, while the Green Party plans to stay. Scholz will call a confidence vote for January 15, potentially leading to elections by March 2025. The dismissal follows tensions over Lindner's economic proposals, which were seen as conflicting with coalition partners. Scholz and Lindner exchanged criticisms, with Lindner suggesting early elections to resolve budget issues.