Erdogan Withdraws Veto, Endorses Sweden’s NATO Membership Application

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey has agreed to withdraw his veto and endorse Sweden’s NATO membership application. The breakthrough resolution was reached after last-minute negotiations between the two countries ahead of a summit in Vilnius.

Turkey’s decision came with a condition, as it demanded Sweden to take stronger action against exiled Kurdish activists, whom it accuses of terrorism. In response, Sweden has committed to enhancing anti-terrorism cooperation and bilateral trade relations with Turkey.

The news was officially shared by Jens Stoltenberg, the Secretary General of NATO, who had been closely observing the discussions between President Erdogan and Ulf Kristersson, the Prime Minister of Sweden. The development brings Sweden one step closer to securing its place within the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.

While Hungary’s approval of Sweden’s NATO membership is still pending, it is widely anticipated that they will endorse the application in the near future, further bolstering Sweden’s chances.

The decision received resounding support from two influential leaders, US President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson. Both leaders applauded President Erdogan’s endorsement and expressed their willingness to collaborate with Turkey and Sweden to reinforce NATO’s defense and deterrence capabilities.

The breakthrough comes at a crucial time for NATO, as the alliance seeks to adapt and strengthen its collective defense strategies amidst evolving global security challenges. The inclusion of Sweden, a key player in European security, will undoubtedly contribute to NATO’s effectiveness in countering emerging threats.