Hungary’s parliament has approved Sweden’s NATO accession, marking a significant shift from Sweden’s long-standing policy of neutrality.
By yourNEWS Media Staff
In a pivotal move, Hungary’s parliament has endorsed Sweden’s accession to NATO, effectively removing the final obstacle for the Nordic nation’s entry into the military alliance. This approval comes after months of anticipation and follows a recent agreement between Hungary and Sweden, including an arms deal, aimed at facilitating Sweden’s membership.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, reflecting on this historic transition, stated, “Sweden is leaving 200 years of neutrality and military non-alignment behind. We are joining NATO in order to defend what we are and everything we believe in even better. We are defending our freedom, our democracy, and our values, together with others.” This statement underscores the drastic shift in Sweden’s security policy in response to the changing geopolitical landscape, particularly in light of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg immediately welcomed the decision, emphasizing the enhanced strength and security Sweden’s membership will bring to the alliance. The move comes as Sweden seeks to bolster its defense and security in conjunction with NATO members, especially following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has prompted a reassessment of security strategies across Europe.
Sweden’s decision to join NATO, closely following Finland’s accession, represents a strategic expansion for the alliance, especially given both countries’ historically neutral stances. Kristersson acknowledged potential Russian discontent with Sweden’s NATO membership but affirmed preparedness for any scenario.
The inclusion of Sweden and Finland in NATO signifies the alliance’s most significant growth since its eastward expansion in the 1990s. Sweden’s contributions to NATO will not only enhance the alliance’s capabilities, particularly in the Baltic Sea region, but also streamline defense planning and operations along NATO’s northern flank.
Sweden’s commitment to NATO includes increased military spending, with the aim of reaching the alliance’s target of 2% of GDP this year. The nation’s advanced military assets, including cutting-edge submarines and Gripen fighter jets, are poised to strengthen NATO’s collective defense capabilities.
The road to Sweden’s NATO membership has been marked by widespread public support within Sweden, particularly in the wake of Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Despite initial hesitations, the consensus among Swedes, including political science student Josefine Wallbom, has shifted towards viewing NATO membership as the correct path forward for the country’s security.
Delays in Sweden’s NATO ratification process were primarily due to reservations from Turkey and Hungary, with Turkey demanding more stringent actions against the Kurdistan Workers’ party (PKK) and linking its approval to the U.S. sale of F-16 jets. Hungary’s delay, on the other hand, stemmed from broader political grievances rather than specific demands.
With Hungary’s parliamentary approval, the final steps towards Sweden’s NATO membership, including the formal deposition of accession documents in Washington, are expected to proceed swiftly, marking a new chapter in Sweden’s defense and foreign policy.