Amidst the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, Russia has received a hefty shock as Sweden formally joins the Transatlantic military alliance as the 32nd member on Thursday.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken presided over a ceremony where the documents for Sweden’s accession to NATO were officially submitted to the Department of State.
Secretary Blinken remarked, 'This is a historic moment for Sweden, for the alliance, and for transatlantic relations. Our NATO alliance has become stronger and more expansive than ever before.' The White House asserts that including Sweden as a NATO ally enhances the security of America and our allies.
The White House stated, 'NATO is the most powerful defensive alliance in world history, and it remains as crucial today for guaranteeing our citizens' security as it was 75 years ago when our alliance was established during World War II.'
Sweden’s Flag May Be Raised at NATO Headquarters
At the NATO headquarters in Brussels, Sweden’s blue and gold-yellow flag may be hoisted on Monday. Meanwhile, Russia has threatened to take 'countermeasures' over Sweden's entry into NATO, especially if military forces and assets of the alliance are deployed within its territory.
The Purpose of NATO
Member states of NATO agree that if any one of them is attacked by another country, they will collectively respond to the aggressor. NATO itself doesn't have an independent military, but member countries can collectively participate in military action in response to crises. NATO was activated following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
