Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson spoke out in favor of Ukraine joining NATO on Saturday at the GLOBSEC Forum in Prague. According to Politico Europe, Jonson argued that the country’s battle-tested armed forces and rapidly growing defense industry would strengthen the alliance, despite resistance from some member states.
“All European countries should have the right to join NATO if they meet the requirements,” Jonson said, citing the open-door policy. “No one should have a veto against it. That is our position.” The minister acknowledged that there is no consensus among allies: “I recognize that there are allies who are against it.”
Jonson sees Ukraine as a future security asset for Europe. He pointed to the size of the Ukrainian army, its innovative capacity, and its industrial capability. “Where else in Europe do we find 110 brigades?” he asked. “Where else in Europe do we find the innovation system that Ukraine provides?”
The minister also emphasized that Ukraine’s defense market has become one of Europe’s most efficient through deregulation, privatization, and competition following the Russian invasion. Ukraine can produce weapons at remarkable speed.
EuroPulse reported on May 20, 2026, about NATO chief Rutte’s threat to Russia of “devastating consequences” in the event of a nuclear weapon use (https://europulse.today/nato-droht-russland-mit-verheerenden-folgen-bei-atomwaffenei/).
Source: www.politico.eu
