Germany's Scholz dismisses finance minister in coalition shake-up
Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz has fired Finance Minister Christian Lindner, a move that may destabilize the ruling three-party coalition. This decision follows ongoing disputes over economic strategies, with Scholz seeking a vote of confidence in January that could lead to early elections. Lindner, from the pro-business Free Democrats, opposed tax increases and changes to debt limits, while Scholz's Social Democrats and the Greens pushed for significant state investment. Scholz cited a breakdown of trust and Lindner's unilateral actions as reasons for the dismissal. Scholz plans to consult with opposition leader Friedrich Merz on strengthening the economy and defense ahead of the January vote. The coalition, formed in 2021, has faced criticism for perceived dysfunction despite some achievements in energy and military modernization.