In a significant geopolitical development, Sweden officially became the 32nd member of the NATO alliance, abandoning its long-standing post-World War II neutrality. The ceremony, overseen by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, marked a historic moment as Sweden deposited its instrument of accession at the State Department. This move comes amidst heightened concerns about Russian aggression in Europe, stemming from the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Expressing the magnitude of the occasion, Blinken emphasized its historical significance for Sweden, the alliance, and the broader transatlantic relationship. The NATO alliance, he noted, has now reached unprecedented strength and size.
In a social media announcement, Kristersson highlighted the newfound security for Sweden, emphasizing the country’s role as a safer nation within the alliance. Subsequently, Kristersson is scheduled to visit the White House and attend President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address, where the White House affirmed that Sweden’s NATO membership contributes to the enhanced safety of the United States and its allies.
NATO, hailed as the most formidable defensive alliance in history, underscored its continued relevance in ensuring citizens’ security. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg labeled the day as historic, emphasizing Sweden’s equal standing at NATO’s table and its pivotal role in shaping alliance policies.
The official raising of the Swedish flag outside NATO’s headquarters in Brussels on Monday signifies the country’s integration into the collective defense mechanisms outlined in Article 5 of NATO’s treaty. This article obliges member states to come to the aid of an ally under threat, a commitment activated only once after the 9/11 attacks.
Stoltenberg emphasized the significance of Sweden’s accession in strengthening NATO, ensuring Sweden’s safety, and fortifying the overall alliance. This move, he asserted, reaffirms NATO’s commitment to an open-door policy, allowing every nation the right to determine its path.
Sweden’s departure from its Cold War-era military neutrality, shared with Finland, reflects a strategic shift in response to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. President Biden is anticipated to cite Sweden’s NATO accession in his congressional address, highlighting its role in thwarting Russian President Vladimir Putin’s attempts to divide and weaken the alliance.
The long-delayed approval of Sweden’s NATO membership faced objections from Turkey and Hungary. Turkey raised concerns about Sweden’s handling of Kurdish groups it considers terrorists, while Hungary, led by President Viktor Orban, displayed pro-Russian sentiments. After months of delay, both countries ratified Sweden’s admission, overcoming obstacles and solidifying Sweden’s place in the NATO alliance.