Despite opposition from Turkey and Hungary, US Defense Secretary Austin supports Sweden’s application to join NATO, which would make them the 32nd ally and increase security in Europe.
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed his support for Sweden’s bid to join NATO during a meeting with Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson. Sweden has been lobbying for NATO membership for nearly a year, facing objections from Turkey and Hungary. If accepted, Sweden would become the 32nd NATO ally and gain protection under the alliance’s collective defense clause. Austin praised the Swedish armed forces and emphasized that their membership would strengthen NATO and enhance security in Europe. The two countries are working on a new defense cooperation agreement, and Sweden already participates in several military exercises with the U.S. and NATO. Both Austin and Jonson expressed their support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
