Germany's Snap Election Set Amid Political Turmoil

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has dissolved the Bundestag and set snap elections for February 23, following the collapse of Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition. Scholz's three-party coalition fell apart after he dismissed Finance Minister Christian Lindner, leading to a loss in a confidence vote. The decision aims to establish a stable government capable of addressing Germany’s economic stagnation and other pressing issues. Polls indicate that the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) led by Friedrich Merz has a comfortable lead, while the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) also gains ground. The mainstream parties have vowed not to govern with the AfD, complicating potential coalition formations. Steinmeier has warned of external interference in the elections, emphasizing the need for fair and transparent electoral processes.