King Carol II of Romania faced significant challenges in maintaining his authority as World War II escalated in Europe. His decisions, political maneuvers, and inability to unify the government contributed to political unrest in Romania. On September 6, he announced his abdication, a choice driven by increasing pressure from political factions and the military. His young son, Michael I, was proclaimed king, restoring a semblance of monarchical continuity. However, Michael was still a minor, which opened the door for General Ion Antonescu to step in as Conducător, effectively placing the country under military control. Antonescu's leadership marked a shift toward far-right governance and closer ties with Nazi Germany, reflecting the volatile nature of the period.

This power transition was not simply indicative of a change in monarchy; it also signaled the growing influence of military leaders in European states during turbulent times. The government under Antonescu would later adopt increasingly authoritarian measures, making Romania a member of the Axis powers and impacting the nation's trajectory during the war. The abdication represented both a personal and a national pivot towards a more militarized and politically charged environment, foreshadowing the challenges Romania would face in the coming years.