Sweden has officially become the 32nd member of the North Atlantic Alliance (NATO) as of March 7, marking a significant departure from its longstanding policy of neutrality. The Protocol of Accession, published by the U.S. State Department, solidifies Sweden's membership in NATO, with a ceremony to raise the Swedish flag scheduled at NATO headquarters in Brussels on March 11.
The decision comes amid rising security concerns in the region, particularly in the wake of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Sweden's accession to NATO underscores a strategic shift in its defense posture, as it seeks to bolster collective security and align itself more closely with Western allies.
U.S. President Joe Biden is expected to formally announce Sweden's membership during his State of the Union address to Congress, with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson invited to attend the event. The White House has affirmed its support for Sweden's integration into the alliance, highlighting the importance of solidarity and cooperation in addressing shared security challenges.
The Hungarian parliament's recent ratification of the protocol on Sweden's accession to NATO marked the final step in the approval process among existing member states. Hungary's endorsement paved the way for Sweden's full integration into the alliance, solidifying its position as a key player in European security architecture.
Prime Minister Kristersson emphasized the significance of Sweden's decision to join NATO, characterizing it as a fundamental shift away from centuries of neutrality and military non-alignment. He underscored Sweden's commitment to defending its freedom, democracy, and values in collaboration with NATO allies.
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