Sweden Officially Joins NATO, Becoming 32nd Member
Sweden has officially become the 32nd member of NATO after completing its accession process in Washington. The handover of documents took place at a ceremony two years after Sweden applied to join the military alliance following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson emphasized that “unity and solidarity” would be Sweden’s “guiding lights.” The addition of Sweden to NATO has been met with enthusiasm and support from various world leaders.
US President Joe Biden expressed his satisfaction with Sweden’s membership, stating that NATO is now “stronger than ever.” He added that together with Sweden, NATO will continue to stand for freedom and democracy for generations to come. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also expressed his excitement, acknowledging that the road to Sweden’s accession has been challenging but ultimately rewarding. He stated, “This has been a little bit of a road, but we’ve known from day one that we would be here one day.”
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg praised Sweden’s capabilities, highlighting its “capable armed forces and a first-class defense industry.” He emphasized that Sweden’s membership strengthens the alliance and makes it safer. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky also welcomed Sweden’s accession, noting that it provides additional protection against Russian aggression.
However, Russia has responded to Sweden’s move by vowing to take unspecified political and military measures. The accession of Sweden to NATO comes as a direct response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Initially, Sweden’s request to join the defense alliance was blocked by two members. Turkey withheld approval due to concerns over Sweden’s alleged support for Kurdish separatists. However, Turkey eventually lifted its veto in January of this year. Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban accused Sweden of hostility and delayed its approval until last week when the Hungarian parliament finally ratified the bid.
The decision for Sweden to join NATO marks a significant shift in its foreign policy. For over 200 years, Sweden maintained a policy of non-alignment. However, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine changed the security landscape, prompting Sweden to seek the protection and support of NATO. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged Sweden’s historical policy of non-alignment, stating that NATO expansion was not “foreordained” or “foreseeable.” Prime Minister Kristersson expressed humility and pride in Sweden’s decision, emphasizing that they would live up to all expectations.
The security situation in the region has become increasingly serious, with Prime Minister Kristersson noting that it has not been this dire since World War Two. Sweden’s accession to NATO aims to provide and gain security in the face of growing threats. Finland, Sweden’s neighbor, formally joined NATO in April last year, effectively doubling the length of the alliance’s border with Russia.
To commemorate Sweden’s accession, a flag-raising ceremony will take place at NATO headquarters in Brussels on Monday. This event symbolizes Sweden’s official integration into the alliance and highlights the unity and solidarity among NATO members.
In conclusion, Sweden’s official membership in NATO marks a significant milestone for both the country and the alliance. It comes as a response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and a desire for increased security in the region. The addition of Sweden strengthens NATO and sends a clear message of unity and determination to protect freedom and democracy. With Sweden’s accession, NATO stands stronger than ever before.
