United States and Sweden Seal Defense Cooperation Deal, Bolster Ukraine Support
Sweden's ultimate NATO membership bid stalled, but the U.S. and Sweden ink a military pact, emphasizing backing for Ukraine's struggle against Russia.
The United States and Sweden have sealed a defense partnership meant to solidify military ties and enable joint exercises. The accord paves the way for U.S. troops to function in Sweden—covering the legal status of U.S. military personnel, access to operational fields, and provision of military equipment. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, this agreement was signed by Secretary Lloyd Austin and his Swedish counterpart Pal Jonson on Tuesday.
The statement added that both nations concurred on the significance of continuously fortifying Ukraine in the face of Russia's unlawful and extensive invasion.
The Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) between Sweden and the U.S., as part of Sweden's broader NATO commitments and support for Ukraine, entails multiple facets:
- Joint Special Force Operations: The DCA enables Sweden and the U.S. to engage in operational and capability-boosting collaborations among their special forces.
- Technology Transfers: The DCA facilitates technology transfers, joint ventures, and strategic alignments, enhancing Sweden’s defense capabilities and providing opportunities for mergers and acquisitions in the defense sector.
Sweden, traditionally remaining neutral in politicalarenas, applied for NATO membership together with Finland in May 2021 in response to Russia's attack on Ukraine. Finland joined NATO in April, while Sweden's membership application is still pending approval from member states Turkey and Hungary.
Related Reading
- Initiating before and after its eventual NATO membership, the newly-established U.S.-Sweden defense agreement underscores their commitment to unwavering support for Ukraine's battle against Russian aggression.
- The statement from the U.S. Secretary of Defense and his Swedish counterpart emphasized their shared belief in upholding support for Ukraine, an alignment that resonates with both nations' stances on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which holds relevance to NATO.
- In the context of the extended Russia-Ukraine conflict, the U.S. and Sweden have reaffirmed their resolve to remain closely connected and actively engage in supporting Ukraine's defense efforts.
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