King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands was momentarily startled when a man evaded royal protection officers and approached him during a public engagement in Ursem, North Holland. The incident occurred as the Dutch ruler was greeting members of the public.
Footage obtained by Dutch news outlet De Telegraaf showed the King raising his hands as the man, described as appearing distressed, came close. Local media reported the man said he needed help. The Dutch Government Service later stated that the man intended to 'convey his message to the king' and that there was "no question of an attack."
The man was escorted away by police officers following the interaction. The King attempted to calm the individual before he was removed.
Recently, King Willem-Alexander also made a discreet visit to Merseyside, England, where he toured a shipyard and attended a reception. Queen Maxima of the Netherlands, meanwhile, was recently seen attending a DJ event in Amsterdam with their daughter Princess Alexia. The royal couple also made a private visit to Dutch Design Week in October.