Sweden’s Historic NATO Entry: Hungary’s Ratification Marks a Momentous Shift
Sweden’s historic move to join NATO has been officially ratified by Hungary’s parliament, marking a significant departure from Sweden’s longstanding policy of neutrality that endured through two world wars and the Cold War. The final approval comes after months of delays, culminating in a parliamentary vote that saw 188 lawmakers supporting Sweden’s NATO membership, with 6 opposing and no abstentions.
The decision by Hungary, following a visit by Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and the signing of an arms deal, underscores the shifting security dynamics in the region. The move to join NATO is seen as a response to increased geopolitical tensions, notably Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
The accession of Sweden, following Finland’s entry into NATO last year, is a significant development, making Sweden the 32nd member of the alliance. This expansion has implications for President Vladimir Putin, who, despite launching the war in Ukraine to prevent NATO expansion, now sees the alliance growing closer to Russia’s borders.
Turkey and Hungary had previously raised objections to Sweden’s NATO membership. Turkey linked its approval to Sweden taking stronger action against militants from the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) reportedly residing in Sweden. Changes in Swedish laws and regulations on arms sales addressed these concerns. Hungary’s hesitancy, on the other hand, appeared more rooted in political disagreements, particularly regarding criticism of Hungary’s democratic development under nationalist Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
Sweden’s accession brings valuable assets to NATO, including cutting-edge submarines tailored for Baltic Sea conditions and a significant fleet of domestically produced Gripen fighter jets. The country has also increased military spending and is expected to reach NATO’s 2% of GDP threshold this year.
The ratification process will now move forward, with the speaker of parliament and Hungary’s president expected to sign the documents in the coming days. Following this, the remaining formalities, such as depositing accession documentation in Washington, are anticipated to proceed swiftly. The entry of Sweden into NATO marks the most substantial expansion of the alliance since its move into Eastern Europe in the 1990s.