Hungary and Sweden Take a Step Forward in NATO Alliance
Historic Meeting in Budapest
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban in Budapest today, marking a significant turning point in the countries’ relations. The much-anticipated press conference shed light on Hungary’s decision to ratify Sweden’s NATO bid, which had been delayed for several months.
Closing One Phase, Opening Another
Orban officially declared that Hungary had opened a new phase with Sweden during his joint address alongside Kristersson. It was announced that the Hungarian Parliament would vote on ratification on Monday, solidifying Sweden’s long-awaited acceptance into the NATO alliance.
Strengthening Military Capabilities
The press conference witnessed a major defense agreement between the two countries as Hungary revealed it had purchased four Gripen fighter jets from Sweden. Orban expressed his belief that these fighter jets would significantly expand Hungary’s fleet, bolstering both their military capabilities and their ability to contribute to foreign interventions.
Restoring Trust
Aligning their strategic objectives, Orban emphasized the importance of reconstructing the full trust between the two nations as NATO allies. By working together within the alliance, Hungary and Sweden are seemingly committed to solidifying their diplomatic ties and addressing any potential security concerns.
Sweden’s Long Road to NATO Membership
Sweden and Finland initially applied for NATO membership in 2022, subsequently doubling the alliance’s border with Russia when Finland joined in April 2023. However, Sweden faced various challenges in the accession process, particularly due to objections raised by Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Sweden took corrective measures by introducing tighter anti-terror legislation and promising closer collaboration with Turkey on security matters.
Orban’s Role and the Green Light for Sweden
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, widely acknowledged as a prominent leader with close ties to Russian President Vladimir Putin, initially cast doubt on Sweden’s bid to join NATO. Orban’s actions were interpreted as an attempt to stall the process, arousing suspicion that he was acting in Putin’s favor. However, after Turkey’s approval of Sweden’s bid, Orban compliantly supported Sweden’s NATO aspirations. This shift was confirmed in January when he invited Kristersson to Hungary for negotiations on the terms of Sweden’s accession.
