Queen Margrethe II of Denmark will undergo 'major back surgery' later this month, the Danish royal palace announced on Wednesday. The 82-year-old monarch, Europe's longest-serving, has been experiencing worsening back problems over a long period.
Following the surgery scheduled for February 22, the Queen will be hospitalised and face 'a longer rehabilitation process', according to a palace statement. Several official engagements will be postponed, cancelled, or handled by other members of the royal family, including Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary.
The Queen's decision comes after consulting with doctors. In recent days, she had already cancelled events, including the opening of an exhibition in Copenhagen. Margrethe, who ascended the throne in 1972, serves as Denmark's head of state with ceremonial duties.
This development follows a tumultuous autumn for the Danish royal family after the Queen stripped Prince Joachim's four children of their prince and princess titles, a move that caused public discord. In her New Year's address, Margrethe acknowledged the difficulties within the family.
