Germany's ruling coalition collapses as Chancellor fires finance minister
Germany's ruling coalition has collapsed after Chancellor Olaf Scholz fired Finance Minister Christian Lindner. This led to the resignation of three other Free Democrat ministers, leaving Scholz to lead a minority government with the Greens. Transport Minister Volker Wissing reversed his resignation and will remain in his position while leaving the Free Democrats. Scholz plans to seek a confidence vote on January 15, which could lead to early elections. The opposition, led by Friedrich Merz, is demanding an immediate vote of confidence, arguing that the government lacks a parliamentary majority. Scholz's coalition faces challenges in passing legislation and addressing economic issues without majority support.