Sweden's NATO Membership Hangs in the Balance as Summit Approaches

Sweden's bid for NATO membership is being blocked by Turkey and Hungary, with Turkey citing security concerns and demanding that Sweden crack down on anti-Turkey protests. Despite strong support from other NATO members, there have been few signs of a breakthrough. Finland, which applied for membership together with Sweden, joined NATO in April. Sweden hopes to join at the upcoming NATO summit in July, but Turkey and Hungary's objections continue to delay the process. Sweden has implemented new anti-terror legislation, but Turkey remains unsatisfied. Hungary's objections are based on perceived hostility from Sweden. Sweden's security position is currently better than before its application, and it has received assurances of support from NATO allies.