Hungary Approves Sweden’s NATO Bid

Hungary’s parliament ratified Sweden’s NATO membership on Monday, clearing a major hurdle and marking a shift from Sweden’s long-standing neutrality. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson called it ‘a historic day,’ with all NATO parliaments now supporting Sweden’s bid. The approval comes after Kristersson’s recent agreement in Hungary for the sale of Swedish Gripen jets. Hungary’s president is anticipated to sign off on the membership soon, inviting Sweden to become NATO’s 32nd member. Sweden’s accession will bolster the alliance’s strength, with Sweden contributing modern submarines and Gripen jets. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Sweden, along with Finland, sought NATO membership, aiming to reach the defense spending target of 2% of GDP. Sweden had to also meet Turkey’s terms, including tougher actions against PKK militants.