Joins military alliance: Sweden becomes NATO's 32nd member

Almost two years after applying to join, Sweden has become an official NATO member. The Scandinavian nation deposited its instrument of accession in Washington as the 32nd member of the military alliance.

Sweden is a member of NATO after almost two years of conflict. The Scandinavian kingdom became the 32nd member of the military alliance and deposited its instrument of accession in Washington on Thursday. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristerson and US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken attended the ceremony at the US State Department.

“This is a historic moment for Sweden,” Blinken said. “It's history for the alliance. It's history for the transatlantic relationship.” NATO is now bigger and stronger than ever.

Shortly after handing over the certificate of accession, Christerson also spoke of a historic event: “It was a historically short process, although it felt long at times. It required patience and perseverance. Today is a victory for freedom.” At Platform X, he thanked all NATO countries for joining the alliance.

“Historic Day” for NATO

Christensen and Blinken were joined by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg – who also spoke of a “historic day”. After more than 200 years of non-alignment, Sweden now enjoys the protection afforded by Article 5, the “Final Guarantee of the Liberty and Security of the Allies”. At the same time, Sweden's accession strengthens NATO. Stoltenberg said the country has capable armed forces and a first-rate defense sector.

Stoltenberg has recently reiterated that in his view Finland and Sweden joining the alliance is a clear sign of the failure of Russian President Vladimir Putin's policies. Putin went to war against Ukraine with the stated goal of having a reduced NATO presence in Europe and preventing further expansion of the alliance, he explained. Now Putin is getting the opposite of what he wanted.

Sweden abandons neutrality

Under the impression of Russia's major invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Sweden abandoned its alliance neutrality and applied to join NATO, as did Finland. However, Sweden already cooperated with NATO countries.

Turkey initially delayed joining, but gave in on Finland last year and dropped its opposition to Sweden's accession in January. Hungary was ultimately reluctant, but approved its annexation at the end of February. Other NATO members agreed long ago.