Sweden has officially become the 32nd member of the NATO alliance, ending decades of post-World War II neutrality. This decision comes as security concerns in Europe have heightened following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. US President Joe Biden congratulated Sweden on its admission, stating that it shows unity in the face of aggression from Russian President Vladimir Putin.
During a ceremony at the US State Department, Sweden’s “instrument of accession” was formally deposited, with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in attendance. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg described the day as historic, with Sweden now having the protection granted under Article 5 of NATO’s treaty.
Sweden’s membership had been delayed due to objections from NATO members Turkey and Hungary, but both countries have now ratified Sweden’s admission. This move has been seen as a significant step in strengthening the transatlantic relationship and ensuring the security of all NATO allies.
In his State of the Union address to Congress, President Biden is expected to highlight Sweden’s decision to join NATO and call for increased military assistance to Ukraine as the war continues. Sweden’s accession to NATO has been described as making the alliance stronger, Sweden safer, and the whole region more secure.
The Swedish flag will be raised outside NATO’s headquarters in Brussels on Monday, symbolizing the country’s commitment to unity and solidarity with its allies. This decision comes as a response to the changing security landscape in Europe and a show of support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.
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