Sweden Rejects Permanent NATO Bases, Remains Committed to Peaceful Security
In a recent statement to the Turkish news agency Anadolu, Tobias Billström, the Swedish Minister of Foreign Affairs, made it clear that Sweden does not want permanent NATO bases in the country. While Sweden acknowledges the presence of NATO forces, the country has decided against hosting permanent alliance bases.
Additionally, Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, during a press conference in Brussels, emphasized that Stockholm does not see the need for nuclear weapons to be stationed in the country during peacetime.
The protocol for Sweden’s accession to NATO officially came into effect on Thursday, March 7, as confirmed by the US State Department. On March 11, the Swedish flag was raised at NATO headquarters in Brussels, marking the country’s official membership in the alliance. However, Swedish representatives stated that there is currently no need for NATO bases or nuclear weapons to be deployed on Swedish soil.
NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg expressed his satisfaction with Sweden’s inclusion, highlighting that Sweden’s membership strengthens NATO, enhances Sweden’s security, and makes the alliance more reliable.
It is worth noting that earlier in Sweden, the population was urged to stock up on canned food in case of a conflict with Russia.
[Additional Context: Sweden’s decision not to host permanent NATO bases reflects the country’s long-standing policy of neutrality. While the nation participates in NATO exercises and maintains partnerships with the alliance, it has refrained from full membership until now. Sweden’s commitment to peace and its desire to avoid escalating tensions with neighboring Russia have influenced its decision to reject permanent NATO bases. However, critics argue that this stance may leave Sweden vulnerable in a changing geopolitical landscape.]
