PM Kristersson looks forward to discussing Sweden’s NATO membership with Orbán in Budapest

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson expressed on Monday his confidence in Hungary’s commitment to finalising Sweden’s accession to NATO, stating that there is “a strong will” from Hungary’s side.

We have reached another episode in Sweden‘s to NATO membership. Following Turkey’s endorsement of Sweden’s entry into the military alliance, Hungary found itself in an uncomfortable position. The expansion of the world’s most powerful military coalition was blocked by a nation with a modest army, citing previous disparaging insults from Stockholm. Demands were absent, leaving uncertainty regarding Hungary’s desires. However, it appears that Orbán has successfully navigated this peculiar deadlock by brokering a significant military equipment agreement with Sweden. Now, even to his constituents, the former veto may seem justified. One thing is certain: Hungarians harbours no ill will towards the Swedes, nor have they ever.

It appears that the Swedish side have acquiesced to the Hungarian proposal, and the visit of the Swedish Prime Minister to Budapest is now confirmed.

“When it concerns Hungary, I eagerly anticipate my visit to Budapest, and we will certainly inform you once the date is set,”

Kristersson said, responding to a question during a joint press conference with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk in Warsaw.

Kristersson further revealed that he and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán have engaged in “several discussions over the past weeks”, expressing his anticipation for their forthcoming meeting.

We previously outlined the potential scope of a grand bargain deal here: How can Sweden join NATO? Orbán seals a massive arms and military industry deal.

Meanwhile, as we reported yesterday, US senators claim that Orbán cabinet endangers Transatlantic security.