Statement From Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III on Sweden's Accession to NATO

I warmly congratulate Sweden on becoming the 32nd member of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) today. 
 
Sweden is a proud democracy with a highly capable military, and its accession to NATO will strengthen the greatest Alliance in history and enhance our collective security. Sweden’s decision to join NATO reflects the appeal of our shared democratic values and our common vision of an open world of rules, rights, and responsibilities. I look forward to working closely alongside Sweden as an Ally. 
 
More than two years into Putin's cruel and unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine, NATO is more unified and more resolute than ever. Sweden's decision is another reminder that Putin's war is not the result of NATO enlargement— it is the cause of NATO enlargement. 
 
On this historic day, I join all of our fellow NATO members in welcoming Sweden to the indispensable defensive alliance that remains the foundation of our common security. Together, we will continue the Alliance’s urgent, vital work to defend every inch of NATO territory, strengthen Euro-Atlantic security, and build a safer world.