Olaf Scholz faces political crisis after firing finance minister and losing coalition support

Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz is facing a political crisis after firing Finance Minister Christian Lindner, leading to the collapse of his government coalition. The remaining Free Democrat ministers resigned, leaving Scholz to lead a minority government. Opposition leader Friedrich Merz is calling for an immediate no-confidence vote, arguing that the coalition lacks a majority. Scholz is reportedly trying to delay elections as both his party and the Greens have seen a drop in popularity. The situation has raised concerns about Germany's economic stability and energy policies. Critics point to the government's handling of energy transitions and high taxes as contributing factors to the coalition's downfall.