Sweden became NATO’s 32nd member on Thursday, a historic shift spurred by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The move strengthens the alliance and comes as a blow to President Vladimir Putin, who has opposed NATO’s expansion.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson formally submitted accession documents in Washington, D.C., finalizing a months-long process. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken hailed the move as the product of “nearly two years of tireless diplomacy.”
Sweden’s neutrality, dating back to the Napoleonic Wars, had long kept it out of NATO. However, Russia’s aggression in Ukraine prompted a dramatic shift in public opinion and government policy. Finland, Sweden’s neighbor, joined NATO in April 2023.
“If you step back and think of where we were three years ago, none of this was foreseeable,” Blinken said, highlighting the swift change in regional security dynamics.
Today, I am honored to welcome Sweden as NATO’s 32nd Ally.
75 years ago when NATO was established, President Truman said the Alliance, “would create a shield against aggression and fear of aggression.”
That shield – and transatlantic security – is stronger than ever. pic.twitter.com/0ySHg8dvQy
— President Biden (@POTUS) March 7, 2024President Biden praised Sweden’s accession, calling NATO “more united, determined and dynamic than ever.” Sweden’s membership was also welcomed by leaders from the UK and Ukraine, who see it as strengthening European security.
The move comes just before Biden’s State of the Union address, where he’s expected to emphasize his commitment to alliances like NATO, a contrast to his predecessor Donald Trump.
#WeAreNATO pic.twitter.com/6Xar9RgrIY
— Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs (@SweMFA) March 7, 2024Sweden’s path to NATO wasn’t smooth. Turkey and Hungary, with ties to Moscow, initially delayed approval. Turkey eventually lifted its objections, while Hungary greenlit Sweden’s bid last month.
NATO’s next summit in July will mark its 75th anniversary and showcase a revitalized alliance with Sweden’s inclusion.