Biden Signs Ratification for Sweden and Finland's NATO Membership Support

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy New York=Special Correspondent Joselgina] U.S. President Joe Biden signed the ratification documents supporting Finland and Sweden's accession to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) on the 9th (local time).

According to the political news outlet The Hill, after signing the ratification documents at the White House that day, President Biden stated, "This is a watershed moment for greater security and stability not only for Europe and the United States but for the entire world." He emphasized, "With Vladimir Putin's Russia shattering peace and security in Europe and dictators challenging rules and order, the Atlantic alliance and the U.S. commitment to NATO are more important than ever."

This is the final domestic procedure in the U.S. to support the two countries' NATO membership. Prior to the president's signature, the U.S. Senate overwhelmingly approved the ratification resolution with 95 votes in favor and 1 against on the same day.

Finland and Sweden, which have long maintained military neutrality, decided to join NATO in May following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February. For the two countries' membership to be finalized, domestic ratification by all NATO member countries is required.