Abandons tradition of neutrality, becomes 32nd nation in the alliance.
Sweden became a full member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on Thursday after Hungary submitted its ratification. Sweden gave up its tradition of neutrality to join the alliance after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The NATO alliance requires all members to come to the defense of any other member should they be attacked.
The White House stated, “Sweden is a strong democracy with a highly capable military that shares our values and vision for the world. Having Sweden as a NATO Ally will make the United States and our Allies even safer.”
Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated, “Sweden’s decision to join NATO reflects the appeal of our shared democratic values and our common vision of an open world of rules, rights, and responsibilities. I look forward to working closely alongside Sweden as an Ally.“
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the president and secretary of state as they welcome Sweden into the NATO alliance.
- This is for Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and the leaders of the NATO nations as they engage in discussions surrounding shared concerns.
Sources: The White House, Department of Defense, Politico
