Germany's ruling coalition collapses after finance minister's dismissal
Germany's ruling coalition has collapsed after Chancellor Olaf Scholz dismissed Finance Minister Christian Lindner. This decision, made shortly after Donald Trump's US election victory, has led to political instability and the potential for a snap election. Scholz plans to lead a minority government with his Social Democrats and the Greens. He will hold a parliamentary confidence vote on January 15, 2025, amid ongoing disputes over economic policy and budget management. The coalition's breakdown follows disagreements on economic reforms, with Lindner opposing tax increases and debt limits. Scholz accused him of obstructive behavior, while Lindner criticized the chancellor's economic proposals as lacking ambition.