Hungary approved Sweden's NATO membership. Sweden will be the 32nd member.

Stockholm 27 Feb 2024 (VNI) After its membership application was accepted in June 2022 and approved by all 31 member states, including Hungary in February 2024, Sweden will become the 32nd member state to join the alliance.

Hungary's parliament gave its approval on Monday for Sweden to join NATO, marking the final step in Sweden's transition away from its two-century-long neutrality. This move follows months of delays and was solidified after a visit by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, during which an arms deal was signed between the two countries.

Kristersson emphasized that Sweden's decision to join NATO was about defending its freedom, democracy, and values alongside other member nations. The decision comes in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, prompting both Sweden and Finland to seek security within NATO.

The White House spokesperson welcomed Sweden's NATO membership and urged Hungary to expedite the process, echoing NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg's sentiment that Sweden's inclusion would strengthen the alliance. However, this move also fulfills a goal that Russian President Vladimir Putin sought to prevent by launching the war in Ukraine.

The expansion of NATO to include Sweden and Finland, countries that have not been at war since 1814, represents a significant development for the alliance. Sweden's membership is expected to simplify defense planning and enhance cooperation on NATO's northern flank. It also brings valuable military assets, such as advanced submarines and a fleet of Gripen fighter jets, into the alliance.

The decision to join NATO has been a long time coming for Sweden, fueled by Russia's actions in Ukraine. While Turkey and Hungary initially raised objections, Sweden addressed concerns, including changing laws and relaxing rules on arms sales, to secure their approval.

Now, with Hungary's ratification complete, Sweden's accession to NATO is almost finalized, pending the completion of remaining formalities.