Germany's coalition government collapses as Scholz prepares for minority leadership

Germany's coalition government has collapsed after Chancellor Olaf Scholz fired Finance Minister Christian Lindner. Following this, three other Free Democrat ministers resigned, but Transport Minister Volker Wissing reversed his resignation and will remain in office while leaving the party. Scholz's Social Democrats will now lead a minority government with the Greens. He plans to seek a vote of confidence on January 15, which could lead to early elections, potentially in March. The coalition's breakdown follows disputes over economic policies, particularly regarding tax increases and welfare cuts. Scholz's government will face challenges in passing legislation without a parliamentary majority.