Sweden makes ‘NATO stronger and safer’ say Alliance

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg visited the Swedish Armed Forces at Berga Naval Base, marking his first visit to Sweden since the country joined NATO in March.

Following a meeting with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, Stoltenberg stated that Sweden’s membership has made NATO stronger and Sweden safer, according to a press release.

During a joint press conference, the Secretary General praised Sweden’s contributions to the Alliance, highlighting its highly capable forces and advanced capabilities. He noted that Sweden spends more than 2% of its GDP on defence and strengthens NATO’s presence, particularly in the High North and the Baltic region.

“This demonstrates how Sweden is making major contributions to our Alliance, just three months after you joined,” Stoltenberg said.

Stoltenberg also welcomed Sweden’s announcement to contribute to NATO’s Air Policing, further demonstrating its commitment to the Alliance.

On the topic of support to Ukraine, Stoltenberg commended Sweden for leading by example, providing billions of euros in assistance and becoming one of Ukraine’s top supporters. He highlighted Sweden’s decision to deliver two state-of-the-art radar surveillance aircraft to Ukraine as part of Stockholm’s largest assistance package to date.

Looking ahead to the Washington Summit in July, Allied leaders will discuss expanding NATO’s role in coordinating and supplying security assistance and training for Ukraine. Stoltenberg has proposed a multi-year financial pledge to ensure greater accountability and predictability.

These efforts, he stated, “will send a clear message to Moscow that Moscow cannot wait us out in Ukraine. The paradox is that the stronger our commitment is for Ukraine for long haul, the sooner this war can end.”