WASHINGTON: Sweden officially became the 32nd member of NATO on Thursday, with the exchange of accession documents at a ceremony in Washington, signifying a significant milestone in European security dynamics and marking a strategic setback for Russia, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said.
At the ceremony, Blinken received the accession documents from Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, following the ratification process by all 31 existing alliance members. Blinken remarked that Sweden’s decision to join NATO was not predetermined, highlighting the geopolitical significance of the move.
Reflecting on the broader context, Blinken underscored the ramifications of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, describing it as a “strategic debacle” for Moscow. He emphasized that Sweden’s accession to NATO represents a clear example of the consequences of Russia’s aggressive actions.
Prime Minister Kristersson echoed Blinken’s sentiments, characterizing Sweden’s entry into NATO as a “victory for freedom.” He emphasized that Sweden’s decision reflects a sovereign choice to align with democratic principles and uphold its commitment to collective security.
The accession of Sweden to NATO marks a historic shift in the European security landscape, ending two centuries of non-alignment for the Nordic nation.
