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Greece

King Constantine of Greece in a critical condition following a stroke

Constantine II, former King of Greece, is in a critical condition in hospital after suffering a stroke.

Greek newspaper Kathimerini reports that the 82-year-old has been in intensive care for a number of days, although is not intubated.

The former monarch, who was the last King of Greece, is understood to have limited contact with the outside environment.

His family has gathered at his bedside, with his children, who live in foreign countries, flying in to see him.

Constantine’s sisters, Queen Sofia of Spain and Princess Irene, are also due to arrive in the country.

Queen Anne-Marie has remained with her husband in hospital throughout his admittance.

Concerns for Constantine’s health arose last autumn when he did not attend the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. It was his wife, Queen Anne Marie, as well as their son Crown Prince Pavlos and his wife Crown Princess Marie-Chantal who represented the Greek Royal Family at the funeral.

In recent years, the King has struggled with his health and, among other things, has had several minor strokes and has battled a severe case of Covid-19.

Constantine was King of Greece from 1964 to 1973. In 2018, he was treated for a stroke and in recent times, he has been seen using a wheelchair on rare public outings. Constantine II lived for many years in London with Anne-Marie and their five children before returning to Greece in 2013. The family home is now at Porto Cheli.