Sweden continues to hold a path toward NATO membership, with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson signaling that joining the alliance remains an option ahead of the July summit in Lithuania. The decision, he noted, hinges largely on Ankara, but at the moment he is absorbed by Sweden’s own political contests, including the second round of its presidential ballot cycle.
Kristersson cautioned against overestimating momentum in the accession process, highlighting that Turkey is preoccupied with its domestic political dynamics. He emphasized that time is increasingly tight, making a timely resolution more challenging than before. The Swedish leader indicated that, despite the shifting political landscape in Turkey, there is still room for a favorable outcome if the Turkish government decides to move forward.
According to Kristersson, once Turkey completes its second-round vote on May 28, there will be roughly one and a half months before the NATO summit in Lithuania to finalize any outstanding steps. He expressed continued optimism about Ankara’s willingness to approve Sweden’s entry, framing the period as a crucial window for a positive decision that could keep Sweden on track to join the alliance at the summit.
Earlier remarks from Swedish Defense Minister Paul Jonsson underscored a long-standing view within Sweden about NATO membership. Jonsson stated that Sweden should have become a member many years ago, reflecting an enduring belief among Swedish defense leaders that alliance integration would have bolstered regional security and deterrence for the country and its partners.