Sweden to Join NATO as Hungary Clears Final Hurdle
Sweden's accession to NATO is imminent following Hungary's approval, marking a significant expansion of the alliance.
- Hungary's President Tamás Sulyok signed a bill approving Sweden's NATO bid, finalizing the 18-month process.
- Sweden's NATO membership comes after abandoning its non-alignment policy in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
- The accession marks NATO's most significant expansion since the post-Soviet era, with Sweden becoming the 32nd member.
- Hungarian approval followed intense diplomatic efforts to overcome objections related to Sweden's political stance and criticism.
- Sweden's Defense Minister Pål Jonson heralded the decision as beneficial for Sweden, NATO, and Euro-Atlantic stability.