Germany’s Foreign Minister emphasized that NATO cannot yet discuss expanding its ranks by admitting a country that remains in conflict on its soil. The remark was relayed by Reuters during a briefing with foreign ministers.
She stated that NATO maintains an open-door policy, yet it is clear that membership talks cannot begin with a nation currently at war. The comment underscored that security considerations must align with the alliance’s standards before any new member is invited to join.
On the broader question of expansion, the minister highlighted that NATO has already welcomed Finland as a member and expressed hope that Sweden will follow suit in the near term. The pace of accession for Sweden has become a focal point in alliance discussions, reflecting ongoing diplomatic strides in Northern Europe.
Meanwhile, Sweden’s former foreign minister noted that updating the country’s anti-terrorism legislation was a crucial step in meeting NATO’s conditions. The dialogue continued as Stockholm reported ongoing talks with Ankara about Sweden’s potential membership following recent Turkish presidential elections, signaling a period of active engagement between the capitals.
The overall tone from European security officials remains cautious but hopeful. While the door to new members is indeed open, the path to inclusion is contingent on addressing security, legal, and political prerequisites that ensure any new ally can operate within NATO’s cooperative framework and shared commitments.