Germany faces early elections as Scholz fires finance minister and coalition collapses

Chancellor Olaf Scholz has fired Finance Minister Christian Lindner, leading to the collapse of Germany's ruling coalition. Scholz will now lead a minority government with the Social Democrats and Greens, amid ongoing budget disputes and declining government popularity. The coalition's breakdown follows months of tension over economic policies. Scholz accused Lindner of obstructing necessary legislation, while Lindner criticized Scholz for not recognizing the need for a new economic model. Scholz is expected to seek support from opposition leader Friedrich Merz to pass the budget. A confidence vote scheduled for January could lead to early elections if the government fails to secure parliamentary support.