In Germany, the ruling coalition comprising the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), the Free Democratic Party (FDP), and the Alliance 90/The Greens has collapsed.
Chancellor Olaf Scholz will bring a vote of confidence for his government to the Bundestag on January 15, aiming to pave the way for early elections in March.
Scholz announced this at a press conference on the evening of November 6, as reported by DW.
According to the Chancellor, he agrees with Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck that Germany needs quick clarity regarding its future political direction.
In the weeks leading up to Christmas, Scholz intends to bring all urgent legislative proposals to a vote in the Bundestag, including those related to emergency support for industry and measures for pension stabilization.
Previously, Scholz announced the dismissal of Finance Minister Christian Lindner, who heads the FDP, due to sharp disagreements.
Lindner himself accused Scholz of causing the collapse of the coalition. He emphasized the willingness of the Free Democrats to take responsibility for Germany's future in a different government after new elections.
Recently, Christian Lindner sparked a new wave of controversy within the ruling coalition by presenting his party's economic policy program document.
In it, the FDP leader called for an "economic turnaround with a partial fundamental review of key political decisions" through tax cuts for companies, easing climate regulations, and reducing subsidies and social assistance.
The coalition sharply criticized Lindner's initiative. The Finance Minister himself described the document, which caused disputes, as being not intended for the broader public.
However, discussions are in full swing, especially with the opposition increasingly calling for early elections.
Should Scholz's government remain in power, elections would only take place on September 28, 2025.
Regarding Lindner's dismissal, Scholz stated: "I feel obligated to take this step to prevent harm to the country. We need an effective government capable of making the necessary decisions for our nation."
"Too often, Minister Lindner blocked irrelevant laws, too often he employed short-sighted party political tactics, and too often he undermined my trust," Scholz remarked.
According to the Chancellor, Lindner advocated for tax cuts for high earners while simultaneously proposing pension cuts for all retirees.
"This is indecent, it is unfair," the Chancellor said.
He also expressed his intention to meet with opposition leader Friedrich Merz (CDU) soon.
This turn of events could be quite advantageous for Ukraine, as it should be noted that the candidate for Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz promises to provide Ukraine with Taurus and allow them to strike at Russia. However, this will be done under one condition, as Merz stated – he will first reach out to Putin.