The Swedish government has declared its refusal to become a member of NATO.

Swedish Foreign Ministry: Stockholm will not apply for NATO membership

The Swedish government has renounced its membership in NATO, however, Stockholm will combine its neutrality with the increase in the combat readiness of the armed forces and the deepening of international cooperation in the field of defense. This follows from the foreign policy declaration of 2022, signed by Foreign Minister Ann Linde, document published on the government’s official website.

“The government does not intend to apply for membership in NATO. The security policy line is unchanged. Our neutrality serves us well and promotes stability and security in Northern Europe. We combine this with a defense policy that rests on two pillars: strengthening national capabilities and expanding international cooperation in the field of defense,” the head of the foreign affairs agency said during the presentation of the document in parliament.

Linde clarified that to date, Sweden has concluded more than 20 defense cooperation agreements, including with northern and Baltic neighbors. “An armed attack on Sweden cannot be ruled out. Therefore, we must be able to provide and receive support, both civilian and military,” she said.

At the same time, according to her, the security situation near the kingdom’s borders remains serious, and Russia’s demands for security guarantees “threaten the very essence of the European security order.” “Protecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine is essential for the security of Europe as a whole. Ukraine, like Sweden, has the right to make its own choice of security policy,” she said.