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After decades of neutrality, Sweden joins NATO as the 32nd member

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Sweden becomes 32nd NATO member, ending decades of neutrality

Sweden officially joined NATO on Thursday, making it the 32nd member of the transatlantic military alliance. This decision marks the end of decades of post-World War II neutrality for Sweden, as concerns about Russian aggression in Europe have heightened following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

The ceremony, presided over by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, took place at the State Department where Sweden’s “instrument of accession” to NATO was deposited. According to Blinken, this historic moment strengthens the NATO alliance and the transatlantic relationship, making both Sweden and the alliance itself safer.

The White House also expressed support for Sweden’s membership in NATO, emphasizing that it will enhance the safety of the United States and its allies. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg hailed the day as historic, stating that Sweden will now have an equal say in shaping NATO policies and decisions.

As a NATO ally, Sweden will benefit from the protection granted under Article 5, which obliges all members to come to the aid of an ally under threat. This collective security guarantee is especially significant in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, prompting Sweden and Finland to abandon their longstanding military neutrality and join NATO.

The delayed admission of Sweden to NATO was attributed to objections from Turkey and Hungary, but with their recent ratifications, Sweden’s membership is now official. President Joe Biden is expected to highlight Sweden’s accession in his State of the Union address as evidence of the alliance’s resilience against Russian aggression and to push for increased support for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict.

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