Germany's coalition government collapses as Scholz dismisses finance minister
Germany's coalition government has collapsed after Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed Finance Minister Christian Lindner. Lindner's removal led to the resignation of three other Free Democrat ministers, leaving Scholz to lead a minority government with the Greens. Transport Minister Volker Wissing retracted his resignation and will remain in his role while leaving the FDP. President Frank-Walter Steinmeier is expected to formally dismiss Lindner, with Jörg Kukies set to take over as finance minister. The opposition Christian Democrats are demanding an immediate vote of confidence, rejecting Scholz's plan to delay until January. If the minority government proceeds, it will need support from opposition parties to pass legislation amid ongoing economic challenges.