Sweden is Now an Official Member of NATO

Sweden finally dances into Nato’s embrace as its now 32nd member amid geopolitical twists, the White House applauds, Putin frowns, and military alliances get a Nordic boost.

In the midst of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine back in February 2022, Finland and Sweden decided it was time to cozy up to the defense alliance. Finland said yes to Nato last April, but Sweden’s bid faced some detours thanks to Hungary and Turkey.

Turkey wasn’t happy about Sweden’s hospitality towards members of the Kurdistan Workers’ party (PKK), a group Ankara, the US, and the EU label as terrorists. It took until January for Turkey to give the thumbs up. Hungary, on the other hand, seemed to dawdle, possibly due to its leader, President Viktor Orban, being buddies with Putin. Finally, Hungary said yes last week.

“Patience pays off. A perfect example,” Mr. Blinken remarked.

The White House cheered Sweden’s Nato move, claiming it would boost safety for the US and its pals.

“Nato remains the top dog in defense alliances, then and now. It’s crucial for keeping folks safe, just like it was after World War II,” the White House declared.

Mr. Kristersson was all set to swing by the White House and then score a prime spot at President Joe Biden’s State of the Union gig. Biden’s likely to tout Sweden’s Nato entry as a win against Putin’s divide-and-conquer tactics. Plus, he’ll probably use it to nudge hesitant Republicans into ponying up military aid for Ukraine’s ongoing struggles.

Speaking of Ukraine, it’s been duking it out with Russia while dealing with ammo shortages. The EU managed to sidestep Orban’s gripes for some fresh cash, but the US Congress can’t agree on the aid package. Since the US is Ukraine’s main military supplier, Ukrainian officials are pleading for funds pronto.

Come Monday, the Swedish flag will flutter outside Nato’s HQ in Brussels. “Sweden’s finally got a seat at Nato’s table, where it can help shape the rules,” Mr. Stoltenberg chimed in.

“Sweden joining Nato toughens up the alliance, shores up safety for Sweden, and beefs up security for everyone,” he added, making it clear that Nato’s doors are wide open for anyone who wants in.

Sweden’s even had a taste of Nato’s workouts, with a mega training session dubbed Nordic Response. It’s got troops from 13 countries, including the UK, flexing muscles across land, air, and sea in Norway, Sweden, and Finland.