Jörg Kukies has been appointed as Germany’s new finance minister, replacing Christian Lindner, who was dismissed by Chancellor Olaf Scholz due to a breakdown in trust amid coalition tensions. This decision follows crisis talks among the ruling ‘traffic light coalition’ formed by the SPD, FDP, and the Greens. Lindner’s controversial proposals to eliminate the solidarity surcharge for high earners and reduce sustainability subsidies sparked conflict, leading to his ousting. Notably, Transport Minister Volker Wissing chose to remain in the government by leaving the FDP, aiming for a more constructive collaboration within the coalition.