Queen Margarethe II of Denmark makes a televised announcement about stepping down from her throne.

In a surprising announcement during her New Year TV address, Queen Margrethe II of Denmark has revealed her intention to abdicate the throne. The queen, who has been in power for a record-breaking 52 years, will pass on her role to her son, Crown Prince Frederik, on 14 January. Unlike British royal tradition, there will be no official crowning ceremony for the 55-year-old crown prince. Instead, the palace will announce his ascension on the day. Queen Margrethe, who is highly regarded among the Danish population, had been expected to remain on the throne until her death. In addition to the abdication news, the queen also discussed global issues such as the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, as well as the urgent need to address climate change. This latest development comes at a time when the Danish royal family has decided to reduce the number of active royals, causing public controversy when Prince Joakim's children lost their royal titles. More information about the abdication will be published soon.