“Analysis of our possibilities”
Sweden’s prime minister does not rule out NATO membership
03/30/2022, 10:18 p.m
Sweden is putting its neutrality to the test. Because of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the dangers and risks are increasing. The Prime Minister is now moving away from her rejection of NATO membership. The topic could dominate the election campaign.
In Sweden, joining NATO is no longer a political taboo. “I’m by no means ruling out joining NATO,” Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson told SVT. The social democrat has so far been regarded as an advocate of Sweden’s alliance neutrality. The Swedish security policy is currently being fundamentally reviewed. “I would like us to make a thorough analysis of our options in this situation, including the associated dangers and risks, in order to make the best decision for Sweden,” said the Prime Minister.
Sweden is not a NATO member, but acts as a close partner of the military alliance in Scandinavia. The Russian invasion of Ukraine has reignited the debate in the country about possible NATO membership.
Accession “destabilizing?”
As recently as February 24, the day Russia invaded Ukraine, Andersson ruled out her country joining NATO. On March 8, she sparked controversy by saying that Sweden’s bid to join the military alliance could have a “destabilizing” effect on the situation in northern Europe. Moscow has warned NATO against further expansion.
According to polls, the number of Swedes supporting NATO membership is increasing. The proportion of those who refuse to join in surveys has recently shrunk to 25 to 30 percent. In neighboring Finland, too, there are currently intensive discussions about possible accession. Finland shares a long border with Russia.
The NATO issue is expected to dominate Sweden’s election campaign this summer. A new parliament will be elected in the country in September. Opposition leader Ulf Kristersson has already announced that he intends to apply for membership in the alliance if he wins the election.