Flag of Sweden is raised at NATO headquarters, cementing its place as alliance member
Sweden joins NATO after Russia's invasion of Ukraine amid growing support for the alliance.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Sweden officially became the 32nd member of NATO as its flag was raised at the alliance’s headquarters in Brussels. This decision comes after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine led Sweden to seek safety under NATO’s security umbrella. The symbolic ceremony was attended by Swedish officials, including Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg. The move marks the end of Sweden’s longstanding neutrality, with Finland already having joined NATO. The expansion of the alliance follows Russia’s aggression, which also led to increased support for NATO in Ukraine. The ceremony took place amidst large-scale NATO military drills in the region to demonstrate the alliance’s readiness to defend its territory.