On video: Ukrainian President Zelensky welcomes Western leaders in Kiev/Telegram
Hungary's parliament today (Monday) ratified Sweden's accession to NATO, thus finally blocking the expansion of the alliance to 32 countries. The government of Viktor Orbán in Budapest stalled for months the process, which began due to Russia's invasion of Ukraine two years ago, until in the last few days came to an understanding with Stockholm.
Sweden broke a centuries-old tradition of neutrality due to the war in the east of the continent, and together with Finland decided to join NATO.
However, it has been met with longstanding reservations by Turkey, which last month withdrew its objection, leaving Hungary the last NATO member not to do so.
Olaf Kristerson, the Swedish prime minister who last week met with Orban in Budapest and agreed to sell fighter jets to Hungary, said it was " A historic day." According to him, his country is ready to assume the responsibility of its membership in the military alliance led by the United States.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that Sweden's accession "will make us all stronger and safer."
The last hurdle has been removed.
Orban and Kristerson in Budapest, last week/Reuters
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Sweden
Hungary
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The war in Ukraine