Sweden has officially become the 32nd member of NATO, marking the end of its decades-long neutrality and non-alignment with major powers, Associated Press reports.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken oversaw the ceremony where Sweden’s “instrument of accession” was deposited at the State Department. The White House welcomed Sweden’s accession, stating that it would enhance the security of the United States and its allies.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg hailed the move, stating that Sweden will now have an equal say in shaping NATO policies and decisions, highlighting that Sweden now enjoys the protection under Article 5 of NATO’s treaty. The Swedish flag will be raised outside NATO’s headquarters in Brussels on Monday, marking its official inclusion in the alliance.
Sweden’s membership had faced objections from NATO members Turkey and Hungary, which have now been resolved. Sweden’s decision to join NATO comes amidst heightened security concerns in Europe following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
