Norwegian prime minister and Labour Party leader since 2014
King Harald V has died at Oslos National Hospital and his son, Crown Prince Haakon, has acceded as King Haakon VIII. The succession has raised immediate questions about the monarchys popularity after recent scandals involving Crown Princess Mette-Marit and the conviction of her son. Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra is now heir.
The Crown Princess of Norway has been placed on the lung transplant list as her chronic pulmonary fibrosis deteriorates. Crown Prince Haakon has cut short a visit to Japan to be with his wife, and their daughter Ingrid Alexandra is returning home from Australia/W Australia to support the family. Reports confirm the condition has worsened and a transplant is considered imminent.
The Crown Princess has undergone a lung transplant following a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis. She remains in hospital for recovery. Her son’s trial and Epstein-related scrutiny have intensified scrutiny of the royal family amid a broader crisis of public trust.
Keir Starmer hints at a bank holiday if England wins the World Cup; multiple outlets report upcoming announcements at NATO summit and talks over timing of a potential holiday after the final.
Belgian prince Laurent has publicly acknowledged Clement Vandenkerckhove as his son, granting him a royal title and inheritance rights while excluding a royal allowance or succession. The recognition follows a six-month-ago town hall ceremony and the 26-year-old’s prior private discovery and DNA confirmation.
Ukraine has suspended elections under martial law as war with Russia continues. A former defence minister has called for wartime elections, prompting a presidential debate. Zelenskyy says elections during war are a risk that could split the country, while allies discuss conditions to conduct votes safely.