Sweden Officially Nato Member

Sweden has now officially become the 32nd member of NATO, completing its accession process in Washington.

The exchange of documents occurred during a ceremony two years after Sweden submitted its application to join the military alliance, prompted by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson emphasized that “unity and solidarity” would serve as Sweden’s guiding principles.

“Good things come to those who wait,” remarked US Secretary of State Blinken.

“Our defensive alliance is now stronger and larger than ever before,” he continued, expressing gratitude to Sweden for its resilience.

“This journey has had its challenges, but we always knew we would reach this point,” Mr. Blinken reflected.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, in a statement, highlighted Sweden’s contribution of capable armed forces and a top-tier defense industry, reinforcing the alliance’s strength and security.

Sweden’s application to join the defense alliance came in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, initially facing opposition from two member states.

Turkey, citing concerns over Sweden’s alleged support for Kurdish separatists, initially withheld approval but later lifted its veto in January of the current year.

Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban delayed approval, accusing Sweden of hostility, until the Hungarian parliament finally ratified the bid last week.

All NATO members are obligated to aid an ally under attack.

Mr. Blinken referenced Sweden’s 200-year non-alignment policy, disrupted by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, noting that NATO expansion wasn’t inevitable or foreseeable.

Mr. Kristersson stated, “We are humble, yet proud. We will meet all expectations.”

“We will shoulder burdens, responsibilities, and risks alongside our fellow allies,” he affirmed, highlighting the severity of the security situation in the region, reminiscent of World War Two, and Sweden’s commitment to both provide and receive security within NATO.

Finland’s formal accession in April of the previous year has doubled the length of NATO’s border with Russia.

A flag-raising ceremony marking Sweden’s accession is scheduled for Monday at NATO headquarters in Brussels.