On the other war front, the Ukraine-Russia conflict is nearing the two-year mark, but Moscow is no mood to relent. It continues to pound Ukraine. While Zelensky's appetite for weapons keeps on increasing. NATO has now signed a $1.2-billion contract to make tens of thousands of artillery rounds and replenish dwindling stocks of member countries.

Russia-Ukraine war: Europe is running out of weapons

NATO announced that it would begin its largest military exercise- Steadfast Defender 2024 next week, involving 90,000 troops and testing the allies' ability over months to engage in a conflict with an adversary like Russia.

NATO to launch largest drills since cold war

NATO announced Thursday that it would begin its largest military exercise- Steadfast Defender 2024 next week, involving 90,000 troops and testing the allies' ability over months to engage in a conflict with an adversary like Russia.

NATO's biggest military exercise after cold war with 90,000 troops

NATO is launching its largest exercise since the Cold War, rehearsing how U.S. troops could reinforce European allies in countries bordering Russia and on the alliance's eastern flank if a conflict were to flare up with a "near-peer" adversary.

NATO to hold biggest drills since Cold War with 90,000 troops

NATO's Biggest Military Exercise: Steadfast defender 2024 drills

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will launch its biggest military exercises in decades from next week, top officials said in a press conference on Thursday (Jan 18).

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) will launch its biggest military exercises in decades from next week, top officials said in a press conference on Thursday (Jan 18). According to NATO, the exercises - dubbed Steadfast Defender 24 - will show that the inter-governmental military alliance can conduct and sustain complex multi-domain operations over several months, across thousands of kilometres, from the High North to Central and Eastern Europe. Troops will be moving to and through Europe until the end of May. Speaking to reporters, US General Christopher Cavoli said, “The alliance will demonstrate its ability to reinforce the Euro-Atlantic area via transatlantic movement of forces from North America.” Cavoli added that the alliance would also demonstrate our unity, our strength, and our determination to protect each other." 90,000 personnel to take part in war games According to NATO officials, around 90,000 military personnel (of the alliance's member states) will take part in the months-long exercises. The wargames are aimed at showing that NATO can defend all of its territory up to its border with Russia. Also read: NATO member Poland claims Russian missile briefly entered its airspace NATO is not directly involved in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, except by supplying Kyiv with non-lethal support. However, many member states of the alliance, including the United States, have been sending weapons and ammunition, and providing military training. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, NATO had beefed up security on its eastern flank with Russia and Ukraine before the war started in Feb 2022. Steadfast Defender 24 is meant to deter Russia from targeting a NATO member. Also watch | NATO's biggest military exercise: Know who will participate, major locations × In Thursday's press conference, the chair of the NATO Military Committee Admiral Rob Bauer said, "It's a record number of troops that we can bring to bear and have an exercise within that size, across the alliance, across the ocean from the US to Europe." Sweden, which is expected to join the alliance this year, will also take part. (With inputs from agencies)

NAṬO to launch its biggest military exercises in decades

NATO's Biggest Military Exercise: Know who will participate, major locations

The crisis in West Asia is spiralling out of control. On one hand, Iran has launched 'revenge strikes' on targets in Iraqi Kurdistan and Syria. On the other hand, Yemeni Houthis have vowed to escalate their fight against Israel, and the U.S. Meanwhile, a leaked document from the German foreign ministry reveals NATO's doomsday plan in case Russia plans to escalate the Ukraine war. In light of these developments, one can't help but wonder, is the world heading towards World War 3?

Gravitas | Russia, Ukraine, to West Asia Crisis: Is this the beginning of World War III?

The British defence ministry said on Monday (Jan 15) that the United Kingdom will commit 20,000 military personnel to serve across Europe in one of NATO's largest military exercises since the Cold War.&nbsp;

Grant Shapps, the UK's defence secretary, will announce the deployment of army, naval, and RAF personnel to the 31-nation drill throughout Europe.&nbsp;

The excerpts of the speech, due to be delivered later on Monday at Lancaster House, were published by the defence ministry.&nbsp;

It revealed that the deployment includes 16,000 British army troops who will be based in Eastern Europe from February to June.&nbsp;

It also includes an aircraft carrier strike group and F35B Lightning attack jets and surveillance planes.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-claims-it-shot-down-anti-ship-cruise-missile-from-houthi-area-of-yemen-targeting-uss-laboon-679991">US claims it shot down anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi area of Yemen targeting USS Laboon</a>

"I can announce today that the UK will be sending some 20,000 personnel to take part in one of NATO's largest deployments since the end of the Cold War," Shapps will say according to the excerpts.&nbsp;

NATO increased the number of combat-ready forces after Russian President Vladimir Putin's order to invade Ukraine about two years ago. The nation has continued to provide military, economic, and humanitarian aid to Kyiv.&nbsp;

"It will see our military joining forces with counterparts from 30 NATO countries plus Sweden, providing vital reassurance against the Putin menace," Shapps said about the exercise.&nbsp;

This comes after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak revealed last week that Britain will enhance its help for Ukraine to 2.5 billion pounds ($3.19 billion) in the coming fiscal year, up 200 million pounds from the previous two years.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/red-sea-attacks-spark-global-inflation-fears-disrupting-supply-chains-680168">Red Sea attacks spark global inflation fears, disrupting supply chains</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;UK backing anti-India secessionist elements?

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<h2>Strikes against Houthis&nbsp;</h2>

Britain said that it will "wait and see" before deciding to launch fresh military strikes against the Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen in order to protect international shipping, Shapps said on Monday.&nbsp;

On being asked whether or not Britain would carry out more strikes, Shapps told Sky News, "Let's wait and see what happens, because it's not that we want to be involved in action in the Red Sea. But ultimately freedom of navigation is an international right that must be protected."&nbsp;

Britain took part in US-led air strikes against Houthi troops in Yemen last Thursday in retaliation for months of attacks on Red Sea shipping but did not participate the next day when US forces carried out another hit.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The British defence ministry said on Monday (Jan 15) that the United Kingdom will commit 20,000 military personnel to serve across Europe in one of NATO's largest military exercises since the Cold War.

The British defence ministry said on Monday (Jan 15) that the United Kingdom will commit 20,000 military personnel to serve across Europe in one of NATO's largest military exercises since the Cold War. Grant Shapps, the UK's defence secretary, will announce the deployment of army, naval, and RAF personnel to the 31-nation drill throughout Europe. The excerpts of the speech, due to be delivered later on Monday at Lancaster House, were published by the defence ministry. It revealed that the deployment includes 16,000 British army troops who will be based in Eastern Europe from February to June. It also includes an aircraft carrier strike group and F35B Lightning attack jets and surveillance planes. Also read: US claims it shot down anti-ship cruise missile from Houthi area of Yemen targeting USS Laboon "I can announce today that the UK will be sending some 20,000 personnel to take part in one of NATO's largest deployments since the end of the Cold War," Shapps will say according to the excerpts. NATO increased the number of combat-ready forces after Russian President Vladimir Putin's order to invade Ukraine about two years ago. The nation has continued to provide military, economic, and humanitarian aid to Kyiv. "It will see our military joining forces with counterparts from 30 NATO countries plus Sweden, providing vital reassurance against the Putin menace," Shapps said about the exercise. This comes after Prime Minister Rishi Sunak revealed last week that Britain will enhance its help for Ukraine to 2.5 billion pounds ($3.19 billion) in the coming fiscal year, up 200 million pounds from the previous two years. Also read: Red Sea attacks spark global inflation fears, disrupting supply chains Watch: UK backing anti-India secessionist elements? × Strikes against Houthis Britain said that it will "wait and see" before deciding to launch fresh military strikes against the Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen in order to protect international shipping, Shapps said on Monday. On being asked whether or not Britain would carry out more strikes, Shapps told Sky News, "Let's wait and see what happens, because it's not that we want to be involved in action in the Red Sea. But ultimately freedom of navigation is an international right that must be protected." Britain took part in US-led air strikes against Houthi troops in Yemen last Thursday in retaliation for months of attacks on Red Sea shipping but did not participate the next day when US forces carried out another hit. (With inputs from agencies)

UK to send 20,000 service personnel for NATO’s military exercises

Latest in Russia-Ukraine war: Russian shelling in southern Ukraine kills 2, several injured. Ukrainian Air Force shoots down 21 drones. Watch the video to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war: Japan pledges $37 million to NATO fund for drone detection system

A key parliamentary committee of the Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Dec 26) gave its seal of approval for Sweden's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) following months of delays. This represents the clearing of another hurdle in the way Sweden's application to join the alliance in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Inclusion of new members in the NATO requires approval of all existing members and Sweden's bid encountered significant delays due to opposition from Turkey and Hungary. The process faced further complications as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan linked Sweden's inclusion to Turkey's request for F-16 fighter jets from the United States.

Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Following the invasion, Sweden and Finland moved away from their decades-old stand of military non-alignment and applied to join NATO.

Watch | Turkey intensifies airstrikes against Kurdish groups in Syria, Northern Iraq

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All NATO members other than Turkey and Hungary approved the request. Both the countries eventually relented over Finland and it joined the alliance in April this year. Finland became 31st member of NATO.

Turkey and Hungary are yet to ratify Sweden's bid even 19 months after its initial application.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/turkey-luxury-cars-seized-from-criminal-gangs-turned-into-traffic-police-vehicles-673743">Turkey: Luxury cars seized from criminal gangs turned into traffic police vehicles</a>

Sweden's application has now been approved by Turkish parliament's foreign affairs committee.

"The protocol (on Sweden's NATO accession) passed the committee," opposition CHP party lawmaker Utku Cakirozer, a member of the foreign affairs committee, told AFP after the vote. &nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-eight-civilians-killed-after-turkish-strikes-on-syria-673699">At least eight civilians killed after Turkish strikes on Syria</a>

Next step is the parliament vote on the measure. Erdogan's ruling alliance has a majority in the Turkish parliament. It was not immediately declared when will the full parliament hold its vote.

<h2>The holdup</h2>

Turkey for long had been saying that Sweden was not taking adequate measures against pro-Kurdistan elements in Sweden which Turkey calls terrorists.

After Stockholm's crackdown on these groups, Erdogan lifted his objections in July.

NATO members have increased pressure on Turkey to fast-track the process of final approval. France has also said that credibility of the alliance was "at stake"

(With inputs from agencies)

A key parliamentary committee of the Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Dec 26) gave its seal of approval for Sweden's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) following months of delays.

A key parliamentary committee of the Turkish parliament on Tuesday (Dec 26) gave its seal of approval for Sweden's bid to join the North Atlantic Treaty Association (NATO) following months of delays. This represents the clearing of another hurdle in the way Sweden's application to join the alliance in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Inclusion of new members in the NATO requires approval of all existing members and Sweden's bid encountered significant delays due to opposition from Turkey and Hungary. The process faced further complications as Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan linked Sweden's inclusion to Turkey's request for F-16 fighter jets from the United States. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Following the invasion, Sweden and Finland moved away from their decades-old stand of military non-alignment and applied to join NATO. Watch | Turkey intensifies airstrikes against Kurdish groups in Syria, Northern Iraq × All NATO members other than Turkey and Hungary approved the request. Both the countries eventually relented over Finland and it joined the alliance in April this year. Finland became 31st member of NATO. Turkey and Hungary are yet to ratify Sweden's bid even 19 months after its initial application. Also Read | Turkey: Luxury cars seized from criminal gangs turned into traffic police vehicles Sweden's application has now been approved by Turkish parliament's foreign affairs committee. "The protocol (on Sweden's NATO accession) passed the committee," opposition CHP party lawmaker Utku Cakirozer, a member of the foreign affairs committee, told AFP after the vote. Also Read | At least eight civilians killed after Turkish strikes on Syria Next step is the parliament vote on the measure. Erdogan's ruling alliance has a majority in the Turkish parliament. It was not immediately declared when will the full parliament hold its vote. The holdup Turkey for long had been saying that Sweden was not taking adequate measures against pro-Kurdistan elements in Sweden which Turkey calls terrorists. After Stockholm's crackdown on these groups, Erdogan lifted his objections in July. NATO members have increased pressure on Turkey to fast-track the process of final approval. France has also said that credibility of the alliance was "at stake" (With inputs from agencies)

Turkish parliamentary committee greenlights Sweden’s NATO bid

Sweden is now one step closer to joining NATO, this is after a lot of delay. Member Turkey is now moving ahead to ractify its bid to join its military alliance.

Sweden edges closer to joining NATO, Turkey objects Sweden's bid | World DNA | WION

The Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission approved Sweden's NATO membership bid on Tuesday in a key step towards enlarging the Western bloc after 19 months of delays in which Ankara demanded security-related concessions from Stockholm.

Sweden edges closer to NATO after vote in Turkish parliamentary commission

After blocking Sweden's NATO bid, Turkey Parliament panel approves bid

It looks like NATO is very interested in extending its strategic influence, all the way to Asia. The major player in this Asian NATO, if you will, is Japan. Over the weekend, North Korea conducted back-to-back missile tests, capable of hitting the United States of America. Amid threats from China, North Korea and Russia, NATO members have sought to forge closer ties with its Asian allies.

Gravitas: China, N. Korea bonhomie worries NATO | North Atlantic-Pacific Treaty Organisation soon?

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in an interview on Sunday (Dec 17), warned of problems with neighbouring country Finland after it joined NATO earlier this year.

Putin said that Moscow, in response, will create a new military district in the northwest part of Russia.

"They (the West) dragged Finland into NATO. Did we have any disputes with them? All disputes, including territorial ones in the mid-20th century, have long been solved," Putin told a state TV reporter.&nbsp;

"There were no problems there, now there will be, because we will create the Leningrad military district and concentrate a certain amount of military units there."

Finland, which shares a 1,340-kilometre (830-mile) border with Russia, joined NATO in April this year amid Moscow's Ukraine offensive.&nbsp;

Putin's remarks come after Finland, again this week, shut its border with Russia, condemning it for staging a migrant crisis on its border.&nbsp;

Moscow has forewarned of counter-measures in retaliation to Helsinki's NATO accession.&nbsp;

Putin also said that Russia had no reason to be at war with NATO countries after United States President Joe Biden said that Moscow "won't stop" in Ukraine if it is successful there.&nbsp;

"It is rhetoric to justify false policy on Russia," Putin said.&nbsp;

He said Moscow had "no interest, either in geopolitical, economic or military terms, to fight with NATO countries."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-ballistic-projectile-says-south-korea-670644">North Korea fires ballistic projectile, says South Korea</a>

The Kremlin's Ukraine campaign has rekindled fears of Russian aggression in the eastern side of NATO.&nbsp;

<h2>Finland again shut Russian border</h2>

Finland's interior minister on Thursday (Dec 14) announced that the country would again shut its border with Russia after a spike in migrant crossings that Helsinki dubbed as Moscow's hybrid attack.

Two border crossing points in southeastern Finland were opened overnight from Wednesday to Thursday.

The Finnish border guard said Thursday that at least 40 people had crossed into Finland to seek asylum since the border was opened.

"The number of migrants increased rapidly and the phenomenon accelerated faster than expected," Rantanen said.

Arthur Parfenchikov, the governor of Karelia, the Russian region bordering Finland, said Thursday on X, that "there are groups of migrants among the people wishing to cross the border."

"The others are allowed to pass through the checkpoint in small groups," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in an interview on Sunday (Dec 17), warned of problems with neighbouring country Finland after it joined NATO earlier this year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in an interview on Sunday (Dec 17), warned of problems with neighbouring country Finland after it joined NATO earlier this year. Putin said that Moscow, in response, will create a new military district in the northwest part of Russia. "They (the West) dragged Finland into NATO. Did we have any disputes with them? All disputes, including territorial ones in the mid-20th century, have long been solved," Putin told a state TV reporter. "There were no problems there, now there will be, because we will create the Leningrad military district and concentrate a certain amount of military units there." Finland, which shares a 1,340-kilometre (830-mile) border with Russia, joined NATO in April this year amid Moscow's Ukraine offensive. Putin's remarks come after Finland, again this week, shut its border with Russia, condemning it for staging a migrant crisis on its border. Moscow has forewarned of counter-measures in retaliation to Helsinki's NATO accession. Putin also said that Russia had no reason to be at war with NATO countries after United States President Joe Biden said that Moscow "won't stop" in Ukraine if it is successful there. "It is rhetoric to justify false policy on Russia," Putin said. He said Moscow had "no interest, either in geopolitical, economic or military terms, to fight with NATO countries." Also read: North Korea fires ballistic projectile, says South Korea The Kremlin's Ukraine campaign has rekindled fears of Russian aggression in the eastern side of NATO. Finland again shut Russian border Finland's interior minister on Thursday (Dec 14) announced that the country would again shut its border with Russia after a spike in migrant crossings that Helsinki dubbed as Moscow's hybrid attack. Two border crossing points in southeastern Finland were opened overnight from Wednesday to Thursday. The Finnish border guard said Thursday that at least 40 people had crossed into Finland to seek asylum since the border was opened. "The number of migrants increased rapidly and the phenomenon accelerated faster than expected," Rantanen said. Arthur Parfenchikov, the governor of Karelia, the Russian region bordering Finland, said Thursday on X, that "there are groups of migrants among the people wishing to cross the border." "The others are allowed to pass through the checkpoint in small groups," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin warns of 'problems' with Finland after NATO membership

Militaries account for 5.5% of global emissions. But when it comes to disclosure of greenhouse gas emissions, militaries are let off the hook. NATO hasn't offered any transparency on how it plans to cut its emissions. When will it be held accountable?

Gravitas | Military's devastating carbon footprint

Gen Z have come up with a new dating term called 'Nato Dating'. Gone are the days when people chased their happily ever afters. The current generation is less concerned about where their relationship might eventually lead.

Nato Dating: A new dating trend in town

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is back in Israel this week, where he says he will work to help prolong a cease-fire so more hostages can be released and more humanitarian aid can be delivered to Gaza. At the NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Brussels, Blinken tried to reassure allies of continued U.S. support for Ukraine as Kyiv prepares for another winter of fighting. U.S. President Joe Biden will not be attending this week’s 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP 28.

Blinken's Israel visit | Blinken reassures NATO on Ukraine

Russia's invasion of Ukraine shook the world in February 2022. Political and military arenas felt the weight of history as forces of a former superpower crossed borders to wage a war many thought would be over within weeks given Russia's more than decisive superiority over Ukraine in military might. The invasion suddenly brought the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) into focus and made European countries closer to Russia rethink their decades-old stance of military neutrality.

Sweden and Finland were among these nations. After Russian troops began their clash with Ukrainian forces, Sweden and Finland promptly applied for membership in NATO.

Why?

Because NATO was a guarantee of security, at least on paper, against external aggression. An attack on one NATO country is considered an attack against all. So at least in theory, the aggressor against a NATO nation will have to face the might of all 31 member countries. And to include new members, there must be approval from all current members.

Watch | NATO Foreign ministers attend meeting on Ukraine in Brussels

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Sweden and Finland's path to NATO membership was not smooth. In focus have been two countries, Turkey and Hungary. But Turkey is considered somewhat of the main obstacle. After a delay caused by Turkey in giving its seal of approval, Finland joined NATO this year. However, it has not fully completed the process for Sweden's inclusion.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan himself has given the green light to Sweden's inclusion. But this needs to be ratified by Turkey's parliament. And procedural delay over the last year has been perceived as Turkey's reluctance to let Sweden in.

In May last year, Erdogan objected to Finland and Sweden's inclusion saying both countries need to crack down on elements within their borders which Ankara deems to be terrorists.

Has Turkey benefitted from its continued opposition to Sweden and formerly, to Finland's inclusion in NATO?

It's worth taking a look.

<h2>The moves in the Western, and Nordic camps</h2>

The West has always been keen on the expansion of NATO as the grouping was born as a West-supported anti-Russia alliance during the Cold War. However, the urgency appears to have increased after the outbreak of the Ukraine war.

Sweden and Finland's concessions to Turkey

Turkey made an agreement with Sweden and Finland at a NATO meeting in Madrid last year that saw the Nordic countries lift arms embargoes against Turkey. The countries also took some action against the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and the so-called Gulen movement. Along with Turkey, the United States and the European Union consider PKK to be a terrorist group. And Turkey considers the Gulen movement responsible for the 2016 coup attempt.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/turkey-and-turnaround-thanksgivings-economic-upswing-661858">Turkey and turnaround: Thanksgiving's economic upswing</a>

Last year, Sweden lifted the ban on military equipment export to Turkey. Stockholm introduced an anti-terrorism bill in June that made being part of a terrorist organisation against the law.

Multiple incidents of Quran burning in Sweden have drawn sharp reactions in the Muslim world, including in Turkey. In response to this, Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer said Sweden was exploring the possibility of changes in the law which would ban the burning of the Quran in public.

Finland on its part, said last year that it would consider granting arms export to Turkey on a case-by-case basis.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-youngest-nato-ally-seals-all-it-border-crossings-with-russia-664200">Finland, a NATO member, seals all its border crossings with Russia</a>

Canada quietly reopened talks with Turkey to lift export controls on drone parts after Erdogan said in July that Sweden would eventually get the green light to join NATO. Canada is a NATO member.

Moreover, the Netherlands lifted restrictions on arms deliveries to Turkey.

<h2>All is not rosy</h2>

Turkey argues that the United States is trying to pressure Turkey by delaying the F-16 deal. Turkey had made the purchase request in 2021 to buy F-16 fighter jets and modernisation kits worth USD 20 billion. Although the US denies the connection between the F-16 deal and Turkey's delay in greenlighting Sweden's NATO bid, US Congress has heard opinions from lawmakers to use the deal as a way to nudge Turkey to approve Sweden's inclusion.

Moreover, just a day after Erdogan gave his seal of approval for Sweden to join NATO in July, the White House announced that it would go ahead with the transfer of F-16s while being in consultation with Congress.

<h2>So what's the current state of Sweden's bid?</h2>

There were signs on Wednesday (November 29) that Turkey may finally be moving ahead with the process.

Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that his Turkish counterpart told him that he expects parliament to ratify Sweden's bid within weeks.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-may-ratify-swedens-nato-membership-within-weeks-swedish-minister-664356">Turkey may ratify Sweden's NATO membership 'within weeks': Swedish minister</a>

"I had a bilateral with my colleague, the (Turkish) foreign minister ... where he told me he expected the ratification to take place within weeks," Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom told reporters before the second day of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers.

"The Turkish foreign minister (Hakan Fidan) didn't present a date but said 'within weeks'," Billstrom said.

Hungary, another NATO member, is yet to give its seal of approval to Sweden's NATO membership as well. But Turkey is seen as the main obstacle.

"(Prime Minister) Viktor Orban has repeatedly said that Hungary won't be the last to ratify Sweden's membership," Billstrom said.

"That means that it is more in the hands of Ankara than maybe of Budapest. We expect white smoke from Budapest the moment there is white smoke from Ankara," Billstrom said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia's invasion of Ukraine shook the world in February 2022. Political and military arenas felt the weight of history as forces of a former superpower crossed borders to wage a war many thought would be over within weeks given Russia's more than decisive superiority over Ukraine in military might.

Russia's invasion of Ukraine shook the world in February 2022. Political and military arenas felt the weight of history as forces of a former superpower crossed borders to wage a war many thought would be over within weeks given Russia's more than decisive superiority over Ukraine in military might. The invasion suddenly brought the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) into focus and made European countries closer to Russia rethink their decades-old stance of military neutrality. Sweden and Finland were among these nations. After Russian troops began their clash with Ukrainian forces, Sweden and Finland promptly applied for membership in NATO. Why? Because NATO was a guarantee of security, at least on paper, against external aggression. An attack on one NATO country is considered an attack against all. So at least in theory, the aggressor against a NATO nation will have to face the might of all 31 member countries. And to include new members, there must be approval from all current members. Watch | NATO Foreign ministers attend meeting on Ukraine in Brussels × Sweden and Finland's path to NATO membership was not smooth. In focus have been two countries, Turkey and Hungary. But Turkey is considered somewhat of the main obstacle. After a delay caused by Turkey in giving its seal of approval, Finland joined NATO this year. However, it has not fully completed the process for Sweden's inclusion. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan himself has given the green light to Sweden's inclusion. But this needs to be ratified by Turkey's parliament. And procedural delay over the last year has been perceived as Turkey's reluctance to let Sweden in. In May last year, Erdogan objected to Finland and Sweden's inclusion saying both countries need to crack down on elements within their borders which Ankara deems to be terrorists. Has Turkey benefitted from its continued opposition to Sweden and formerly, to Finland's inclusion in NATO? It's worth taking a look. The moves in the Western, and Nordic camps The West has always been keen on the expansion of NATO as the grouping was born as a West-supported anti-Russia alliance during the Cold War. However, the urgency appears to have increased after the outbreak of the Ukraine war. Sweden and Finland's concessions to Turkey Turkey made an agreement with Sweden and Finland at a NATO meeting in Madrid last year that saw the Nordic countries lift arms embargoes against Turkey. The countries also took some action against the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) and the so-called Gulen movement. Along with Turkey, the United States and the European Union consider PKK to be a terrorist group. And Turkey considers the Gulen movement responsible for the 2016 coup attempt. Also Read | Turkey and turnaround: Thanksgiving's economic upswing Last year, Sweden lifted the ban on military equipment export to Turkey. Stockholm introduced an anti-terrorism bill in June that made being part of a terrorist organisation against the law. Multiple incidents of Quran burning in Sweden have drawn sharp reactions in the Muslim world, including in Turkey. In response to this, Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer said Sweden was exploring the possibility of changes in the law which would ban the burning of the Quran in public. Finland on its part, said last year that it would consider granting arms export to Turkey on a case-by-case basis. Also Read | Finland, a NATO member, seals all its border crossings with Russia Canada quietly reopened talks with Turkey to lift export controls on drone parts after Erdogan said in July that Sweden would eventually get the green light to join NATO. Canada is a NATO member. Moreover, the Netherlands lifted restrictions on arms deliveries to Turkey. All is not rosy Turkey argues that the United States is trying to pressure Turkey by delaying the F-16 deal. Turkey had made the purchase request in 2021 to buy F-16 fighter jets and modernisation kits worth USD 20 billion. Although the US denies the connection between the F-16 deal and Turkey's delay in greenlighting Sweden's NATO bid, US Congress has heard opinions from lawmakers to use the deal as a way to nudge Turkey to approve Sweden's inclusion. Moreover, just a day after Erdogan gave his seal of approval for Sweden to join NATO in July, the White House announced that it would go ahead with the transfer of F-16s while being in consultation with Congress. So what's the current state of Sweden's bid? There were signs on Wednesday (November 29) that Turkey may finally be moving ahead with the process. Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said that his Turkish counterpart told him that he expects parliament to ratify Sweden's bid within weeks. Also Read | Turkey may ratify Sweden's NATO membership 'within weeks': Swedish minister "I had a bilateral with my colleague, the (Turkish) foreign minister ... where he told me he expected the ratification to take place within weeks," Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom told reporters before the second day of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers. "The Turkish foreign minister (Hakan Fidan) didn't present a date but said 'within weeks'," Billstrom said. Hungary, another NATO member, is yet to give its seal of approval to Sweden's NATO membership as well. But Turkey is seen as the main obstacle. "(Prime Minister) Viktor Orban has repeatedly said that Hungary won't be the last to ratify Sweden's membership," Billstrom said. "That means that it is more in the hands of Ankara than maybe of Budapest. We expect white smoke from Budapest the moment there is white smoke from Ankara," Billstrom said. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained: Did Turkey benefit as it delayed Sweden's NATO bid?

International support for Ukraine continues to make headway. NATO foreign ministers met in Brussels. Ministers pledged to support Ukraine in war.

NATO Foreign ministers attend meeting on Ukraine in Brussels

Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said on Wednesday (Nov 29) that Turkey has conveyed Sweden that it expects to ratify the latter's accession to NATO within weeks. Turkey's nod to Sweden's inclusion in NATO military alliance is a longstanding issue.

After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year, Sweden and Finland abandoned their decades-old neutral stance and applied to join NATO. Finland has since been included but Sweden's accession has been held up due to delay from Turkey, itself a NATO member.&nbsp;

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been raising objections that Finland and Sweden have been offering protection to groups considered terrorists by Ankara.

Watch | Israeel-Hamas War: Turkey takes in Gaza's cancer patients as hospitals crumble

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After a considerable delay, Turkey okayed Finland's NATO membership in April this year, but is yet to take final decision on Sweden.

"I had a bilateral with my colleague, the (Turkish) foreign minister ... where he told me he expected the ratification to take place within weeks," Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom told reporters before the second day of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers.

"The Turkish foreign minister (Hakan Fidan) didn't present a date but said 'within weeks'," Billstrom said.

There was no immediate reaction from Turkey.

<h2>What's the hold-up?</h2>

Turkey has been demanding that Sweden should act in order to rein in functioning of the Kurdistan Workers' party (PKK) on its soil. Turkey, along with the European Union and the US consider PKK a terrorist group.

Sweden has since introduced an anti-terrorism bill. The legislation makes membership of a terrorist organisation illegal. Sweden has also lifted arm export restrictions on Turkey.

There was a feeling within NATO that ratification about Sweden's inclusion would be completed by now.

Explained | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-with-turkey-delaying-swedens-nato-bid-how-has-stockholm-addressed-ankaras-concerns-660105">With Turkey delaying Sweden's NATO bid, how has Stockholm addressed Ankara's concerns?</a>

Earlier this year, Erdogan linked Sweden's NATO membership to the issue of Turkey's EU membership. The talks on the latter issue have been frozen for years now.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/turkey-and-turnaround-thanksgivings-economic-upswing-661858">Turkey and turnaround: Thanksgiving's economic upswing</a>

On Wednesday, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that there were "open issues" still and they needed to be addressed before an accession can happen.

Hungary too, has not yet ratified Sweden's NATO membership.

"(Prime Minister) Viktor Orban has repeatedly said that Hungary won't be the last to ratify Sweden's membership," Billstrom said.

"That means that it is more in the hands of Ankara than maybe of Budapest. We expect white smoke from Budapest the moment there is white smoke from Ankara," Billstrom said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said on Wednesday (Nov 29) that Turkey has conveyed Sweden that it expects to ratify the latter's accession to NATO within weeks.

Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom said on Wednesday (Nov 29) that Turkey has conveyed Sweden that it expects to ratify the latter's accession to NATO within weeks. Turkey's nod to Sweden's inclusion in NATO military alliance is a longstanding issue. After Russia invaded Ukraine in February last year, Sweden and Finland abandoned their decades-old neutral stance and applied to join NATO. Finland has since been included but Sweden's accession has been held up due to delay from Turkey, itself a NATO member. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been raising objections that Finland and Sweden have been offering protection to groups considered terrorists by Ankara. Watch | Israeel-Hamas War: Turkey takes in Gaza's cancer patients as hospitals crumble × After a considerable delay, Turkey okayed Finland's NATO membership in April this year, but is yet to take final decision on Sweden. "I had a bilateral with my colleague, the (Turkish) foreign minister ... where he told me he expected the ratification to take place within weeks," Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom told reporters before the second day of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers. "The Turkish foreign minister (Hakan Fidan) didn't present a date but said 'within weeks'," Billstrom said. There was no immediate reaction from Turkey. What's the hold-up? Turkey has been demanding that Sweden should act in order to rein in functioning of the Kurdistan Workers' party (PKK) on its soil. Turkey, along with the European Union and the US consider PKK a terrorist group. Sweden has since introduced an anti-terrorism bill. The legislation makes membership of a terrorist organisation illegal. Sweden has also lifted arm export restrictions on Turkey. There was a feeling within NATO that ratification about Sweden's inclusion would be completed by now. Explained | With Turkey delaying Sweden's NATO bid, how has Stockholm addressed Ankara's concerns? Earlier this year, Erdogan linked Sweden's NATO membership to the issue of Turkey's EU membership. The talks on the latter issue have been frozen for years now. Also Read | Turkey and turnaround: Thanksgiving's economic upswing On Wednesday, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that there were "open issues" still and they needed to be addressed before an accession can happen. Hungary too, has not yet ratified Sweden's NATO membership. "(Prime Minister) Viktor Orban has repeatedly said that Hungary won't be the last to ratify Sweden's membership," Billstrom said. "That means that it is more in the hands of Ankara than maybe of Budapest. We expect white smoke from Budapest the moment there is white smoke from Ankara," Billstrom said. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkey may ratify Sweden's NATO membership 'within weeks': Swedish minister

NATO Foreign Ministers concluded two days of meetings in Brussels on Wednesday, addressing support for Ukraine, preparations for the Washington Summit and pressing security challenges, including in the Western Balkans and NATO's southern neighbourhood.

US Secretary of State discusses war in Ukraine with NATO countries

Finland has accused Russia of orchestrating an "influence" operation into the European Union and has decided to close all its land borders with the country being presided over by Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

All but one Finland-Russia border crossing was open for the transit of people and goods. But after what was reported to be an "extraordinary cabinet meeting" in Helsinki, it was announced that the Raja-Jooseppi crossing would be closed in the far north.&nbsp;

Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said that the decision was made following the unveiling of "new information" this week.

Also watch |&nbsp;Finland now under the NATO cover, will Sweden join soon?

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The disclosure of new information, the prime minister claimed, has strengthened Helsinki's belief that Moscow was deliberately sending in migrants over the border. Helsinki, however, did not provide any evidence for its claims.

"The phenomenon seen at the border in recent weeks must be stopped," Orpo said at a press conference.

"This is not only about the number of visitors but the phenomenon itself. This is about Russia’s influence [on] activities and we do not accept that."

<h2>Finland-Russia ties in recent months</h2>

Finland has accused Russia of trying to destabilise its national security after nearly a thousand migrants attempted to use its eastern border crossings this month. The number was up from just a few dozen in previous months.

The historically neutral Finland effectively went into the US camp after it joined NATO in April, partly in response to Moscow's military offensive in Ukraine.

Helsinki has accused Moscow of engaging in "hybrid warfare", a tactic used to stoke tensions without a declaration of conflict.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-finland-is-now-a-nato-member-is-it-a-direct-threat-to-russia-579538">Explained: Finland is now a NATO member. Is it a direct threat to Russia?</a>

Earlier this month, Finland closed its seven other checkpoints with Russia along their 1,340km border.

Finland's inclusion in the transatlantic military alliance has led to outrage in and beyond Moscow's corridors of power.&nbsp;

Dmitry Peskov, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s spokesperson, said last week that Russia "deeply regretted" Finland’s decision to join NATO and that Helsinki had abandoned "longstanding, very kind relations based on mutual respect."

(With inputs from agencies)

Finland has accused Russia of orchestrating an "influence" operation into the European Union and has decided to close all its land borders with the country being presided over by Vladimir Putin.

Finland has accused Russia of orchestrating an "influence" operation into the European Union and has decided to close all its land borders with the country being presided over by Vladimir Putin. All but one Finland-Russia border crossing was open for the transit of people and goods. But after what was reported to be an "extraordinary cabinet meeting" in Helsinki, it was announced that the Raja-Jooseppi crossing would be closed in the far north. Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said that the decision was made following the unveiling of "new information" this week. Also watch | Finland now under the NATO cover, will Sweden join soon? × The disclosure of new information, the prime minister claimed, has strengthened Helsinki's belief that Moscow was deliberately sending in migrants over the border. Helsinki, however, did not provide any evidence for its claims. "The phenomenon seen at the border in recent weeks must be stopped," Orpo said at a press conference. "This is not only about the number of visitors but the phenomenon itself. This is about Russia’s influence [on] activities and we do not accept that." Finland-Russia ties in recent months Finland has accused Russia of trying to destabilise its national security after nearly a thousand migrants attempted to use its eastern border crossings this month. The number was up from just a few dozen in previous months. The historically neutral Finland effectively went into the US camp after it joined NATO in April, partly in response to Moscow's military offensive in Ukraine. Helsinki has accused Moscow of engaging in "hybrid warfare", a tactic used to stoke tensions without a declaration of conflict. Also read | Explained: Finland is now a NATO member. Is it a direct threat to Russia? Earlier this month, Finland closed its seven other checkpoints with Russia along their 1,340km border. Finland's inclusion in the transatlantic military alliance has led to outrage in and beyond Moscow's corridors of power. Dmitry Peskov, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s spokesperson, said last week that Russia "deeply regretted" Finland’s decision to join NATO and that Helsinki had abandoned "longstanding, very kind relations based on mutual respect." (With inputs from agencies)

Finland, youngest NATO ally, seals all its border crossings with Russia

The United Nations chief urges world leaders to take decisive action to tackle ever-worsening climate change when they gather at the COP28 summit in Dubai starting this week. "We are trapped in a deadly cycle," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres says. "The solutions are well known."

COP 28 UAE: UN Chief calls fossil fuel production poisonous root of climate crisis

The foreign affairs commission of the Turkish parliament on Thursday (Nov 16) delayed a vote on Sweden's NATO membership bid, again holding up the expansion of the inter-governmental military alliance.

The foreign affairs commission of the Turkish parliament on Thursday (Nov 16) delayed a vote on Sweden's NATO membership bid, again holding up the expansion of the inter-governmental military alliance. Addressing a press conference on Thursday, commission chairperson Fuat Oktay said the commission would hold further talks and may bring back the vote next week. However, Oktay did not set a clear timeline. "For all of our lawmakers to approve Sweden's NATO membership, they need to be fully convinced. We will discuss all of these in our (next) commission meeting (on the issue)," Oktay told reporters. He also said that the commission could pass bills by a simple majority, adding it might invite the Swedish ambassador to brief lawmakers if needed and if parliament's regulations allow. The postponement comes days after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he would try to facilitate the ratification process. Why the postponement? Thursday's vote on Sweden's membership of NATO was delayed after lawmakers from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's Justice and Development Party submitted a motion for postponement on the grounds that some issues needed clarification and that negotiations with Sweden had not matured enough. For ratification, the membership bill needs to be approved by the Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission before being put to a full parliament vote, which could come days or weeks later. President Erdogan would then sign it into law to conclude the process. As Russia launched a war against Ukraine in February last year, Sweden and Finland made bids to join NATO. All 30 members of the inter-governmental military alliance have to ratify a country's membership. The process of Sweden and Finland joining NATO was held up by Turkey and Hungary. Earlier this year, Turkey and Hungary ratified Finland's bid, but both the member states have kept Sweden waiting. Now there are two reasons for the delay: > Turkey has accused Sweden of being too lenient towards groups that Ankara regards as threats to its security, including Kurdish militants and members of a network that Ankara blames for a failed coup in 2016. > Turkey has also been angered by a series of demonstrations by supporters of the banned Kurdistan Workers’ Party, or PKK, in Sweden as well as Quran-burning protests. The delay also comes as Turkey has been at odds with its Western allies over the ongoing war between Israel and Gaza, and its tough diplomacy over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has also angered some allies. Turkey maintains good relations with Moscow and Kyiv, opposing Russia's invasion but also the Western sanctions on Russia. What concessions has Sweden made? During a NATO meeting in Madrid last year, Turkey struck an agreement with Sweden as well as Finland in which the two Nordic countries would lift arms embargoes and take measures against members of PKK, and the Gulen movement that Turkey holds responsible for the failed 2016 coup. Last year, Sweden reversed a ban on exporting military equipment to Turkey but did not reveal details of companies or products. In June this year, it introduced a new anti-terrorism bill that makes being a member of a terrorist organisation illegal, saying that it had upheld its part of the deal. A report by the news agency Reuters on Thursday said that in recent months, a top court in Sweden blocked the extradition of two Turks that Ankara said were Gulenists, while an appeals court upheld the conviction of a man for attempting to finance the PKK. And amid growing criticism of Turkey and other Muslim-majority countries over incidents of Quran burning, Swedish Justice Minister Gunnar Strommer said that Stockholm was examining whether it could change the law to stop people from burning the Muslim holy book in public. Finland, meanwhile, agreed last year to consider granting arms export permits to Turkey on a case-by-case basis. What is the status of Sweden's NATO bid? The Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission will now hold further discussions on Sweden's membership bill as soon as next week. If the commission backs the bill, Turkey's full general assembly would hold a vote, possibly within days or weeks, Reuters reported. On Tuesday, the speaker of Turkey's parliament told his Swedish counterpart they were hoping to complete ratification "as soon as possible." Since submitting the bill to parliament in October, Erdogan has said he will try to facilitate ratification but added that Stockholm still had not taken enough action against Kurdish militants. From Nov 28-29, NATO foreign ministers will meet in Brussels and before these dates, Sweden's membership bid has to be approved by Turkey as well as Hungary. However, Turkey is being seen as the main roadblock to Sweden's accession. On Thursday, the US ambassador to Hungary said he had been assured by the Hungarian government that Budapest would not be the last to ratify Sweden's bid, adding he was "confident" Stockholm would soon be a NATO member. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | With Turkey delaying Sweden's NATO bid, how has Stockholm addressed Ankara's concerns?

The Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission will debate Sweden's NATO membership on Thursday (Nov 16). Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan submitted the bill to parliament for ratification three weeks ago, a step which was welcomed by Sweden and NATO. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Tuesday, the bill must be approved by the commission before a vote by the full general assembly.

Erdogan would then sign it into law.

Sweden and Finland had applied to join NATO last year to bolster their security after Russia launched a war against Ukraine. Finland's membership of the inter-governmental military was sealed in April this year.&nbsp;

However, Sweden's bid had been held up by Turkey and Hungary. Previously, Turkey had raised objections over Sweden's alleged harbouring of individuals who Ankara said were members of terrorist groups.

Since the Turkish parliament reopened on Oct 1, officials repeatedly&nbsp;said that Stockholm needed to take more concrete steps to clamp down on the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militia before Ankara could ratify its membership bid.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-warns-sweden-to-take-concrete-steps-against-terrorism-to-garner-support-for-nato-bid-641772">Turkey asks Sweden to take 'concrete steps' against terrorism to garner support for NATO bid</a>

Nearly two weeks back, the parliament's foreign affairs commission said it would not speed up ratifying NATO membership. However, Erdogan said later he would try to facilitate it.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Ukraine announced last Thursday (Nov 9) that a global peace summit for Ukraine might now take place in February 2024 - which is the second anniversary of the Russian offensive.&nbsp;

President Volodymyr Zelensky's top adviser Ihor Zhovkva told Reuters that Ukraine would arrange a fourth meeting of national security advisers in late November or early December.

"And the Global Summit might take place in February 2024," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

The Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission will debate Sweden's NATO membership on Thursday (Nov 16). Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan submitted the bill to parliament for ratification three weeks ago, a step which was welcomed by Sweden and NATO.

The Turkish parliament's foreign affairs commission will debate Sweden's NATO membership on Thursday (Nov 16). Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan submitted the bill to parliament for ratification three weeks ago, a step which was welcomed by Sweden and NATO. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Tuesday, the bill must be approved by the commission before a vote by the full general assembly. Erdogan would then sign it into law. Sweden and Finland had applied to join NATO last year to bolster their security after Russia launched a war against Ukraine. Finland's membership of the inter-governmental military was sealed in April this year. However, Sweden's bid had been held up by Turkey and Hungary. Previously, Turkey had raised objections over Sweden's alleged harbouring of individuals who Ankara said were members of terrorist groups. Since the Turkish parliament reopened on Oct 1, officials repeatedly said that Stockholm needed to take more concrete steps to clamp down on the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK) militia before Ankara could ratify its membership bid. Also read: Turkey asks Sweden to take 'concrete steps' against terrorism to garner support for NATO bid Nearly two weeks back, the parliament's foreign affairs commission said it would not speed up ratifying NATO membership. However, Erdogan said later he would try to facilitate it. Meanwhile, Ukraine announced last Thursday (Nov 9) that a global peace summit for Ukraine might now take place in February 2024 - which is the second anniversary of the Russian offensive. President Volodymyr Zelensky's top adviser Ihor Zhovkva told Reuters that Ukraine would arrange a fourth meeting of national security advisers in late November or early December. "And the Global Summit might take place in February 2024," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkish parliament to debate Sweden's NATO bid on Nov 16

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war has seen Russian forces attacking Ukrainian ports, including Odesa, Chornomorsk, and Mykolaiv, with missiles and drones.

Russia-Ukraine war: Putin visits military HQ in Roston-on-Dov

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan officially submitted Sweden's NATO membership application to the Turkish parliament on Monday, his office said, bringing closer the possible end of a 17-month standoff.

"Sweden's NATO membership protocol was signed on October 23, 2023 by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and sent to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey," the presidency posted on X, formerly Twitter.

Turkey and Hungary are last two NATO members which are yet to ratify Sweden's membership application. Sweden moved away from its long-standing policy of non-alignment after Russia invaded Ukraine and made an application to join the alliance.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has called Turkish presidency's announcement an "encouraging news"

"Welcome that President Erdoğan signed Sweden’s ratification protocol to NATO and submitted it to the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye. Parliamentary procedures will now commence. We are looking forward to becoming a member of NATO," his office posted on X.

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Welcome that President Erdoğan signed Sweden’s ratification protocol to NATO and submitted it to the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye. Parliamentary procedures will now commence. We are looking forward to becoming a member of NATO.
— SwedishPM (@SwedishPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/SwedishPM/status/1716471809665638575?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
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NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Erdogan's move as well. He said he was looking forward to welcoming Sweden as a 'full NATO ally' soon

"I welcome President Erdogan's signature of the accession protocol for Sweden and its referral to the Grand National Assembly. I look forward to a speedy vote to ratify, and to welcoming Sweden as a full NATO ally very soon," Stoltenberg said in a statement.&nbsp;

As pressure to give its seal of approval grew on Turkey, Erdogan agreed at NATO summit in Vilnius in July that he would put ratification of Sweden's membership before Turkish parliament.

Finland, Sweden's neighbour which shares a border with Russia which had applied to join NATO at the same time, got membership in the month of April this year.

Erdogan had delayed approving Sweden's bid asking Stockholm to take actions on Quran desecrations in the country that have strained relations between the two countries.

Turkey alleges Sweden harbours outlawed Kurdish militants and has demanded their extradition.

(This is a breaking news. More to follow shortly)

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&nbsp;

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan officially submitted Sweden's NATO membership application to the Turkish parliament on Monday, his office said, bringing closer the possible end of a 17-month standoff.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan officially submitted Sweden's NATO membership application to the Turkish parliament on Monday, his office said, bringing closer the possible end of a 17-month standoff. "Sweden's NATO membership protocol was signed on October 23, 2023 by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and sent to the Grand National Assembly of Turkey," the presidency posted on X, formerly Twitter. Turkey and Hungary are last two NATO members which are yet to ratify Sweden's membership application. Sweden moved away from its long-standing policy of non-alignment after Russia invaded Ukraine and made an application to join the alliance. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson has called Turkish presidency's announcement an "encouraging news" "Welcome that President Erdoğan signed Sweden’s ratification protocol to NATO and submitted it to the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye. Parliamentary procedures will now commence. We are looking forward to becoming a member of NATO," his office posted on X. Welcome that President Erdoğan signed Sweden’s ratification protocol to NATO and submitted it to the Grand National Assembly of Türkiye. Parliamentary procedures will now commence. We are looking forward to becoming a member of NATO. — SwedishPM (@SwedishPM) October 23, 2023 × NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg welcomed Erdogan's move as well. He said he was looking forward to welcoming Sweden as a 'full NATO ally' soon "I welcome President Erdogan's signature of the accession protocol for Sweden and its referral to the Grand National Assembly. I look forward to a speedy vote to ratify, and to welcoming Sweden as a full NATO ally very soon," Stoltenberg said in a statement. As pressure to give its seal of approval grew on Turkey, Erdogan agreed at NATO summit in Vilnius in July that he would put ratification of Sweden's membership before Turkish parliament. Finland, Sweden's neighbour which shares a border with Russia which had applied to join NATO at the same time, got membership in the month of April this year. Erdogan had delayed approving Sweden's bid asking Stockholm to take actions on Quran desecrations in the country that have strained relations between the two countries. Turkey alleges Sweden harbours outlawed Kurdish militants and has demanded their extradition. (This is a breaking news. More to follow shortly) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey: Erdogan signs Sweden's NATO membership application, sends it to parliament for ratification

Turkey on Tuesday (Oct 10) took command of a NATO-led force in Kosovo for the first time in a backdrop of a volatile situation in the country's north and tense relations with former wartime rival Serbia.

In late September, about 30 gunmen ambushed a police patrol near the northern border with Serbia. This led to the death of a Kosovan police officer.

It was one of the most serious incidents in ethnic Albanian-majority Kosovo since it declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Belgrade still refuses to recognise the move.

After the ambush, the gunmen retreated and barricaded themselves in an Orthodox monastery. They were involved in a shootout that lasted for hours.

The US and the European Union (EU) expressed deep concern over the incident and urged restraint.

A handover ceremony took place in Pristina on Tuesday. Turkish Major General Ozkan Ulutas said that he was mindful of the responsibility at the helm of KFOR during a "sensitive period that Kosovo is going through", a KFOR statement said.

Major General Ulutas will be commanding the 4500-string KFOR. The troops in the force are provided by 27 NATO and partner countries.

Kosovo has accused Serbia of backing the full operation near&nbsp;its northern border and claimed that it was aimed at annexation of Kosovo's north.

The suspected commando leader who killed the officer, Milan Radoicic, admitted to masterminding the deadly attack.

Radoicic is also a former vice president of the main political grouping of Kosovo Serbs. He was briefly detained in Serbia earlier this month and ordered freed on a conditional release.&nbsp;

KFOR was deployed in Kosovo after the 1998-1999 war between independence-seeking ethnic Albanian guerrillas and Serbian armed forces.

The war claimed about 13,000 lives. It ended with the NATO bombing of Serbia. This forced Belgrade to withdraw its military and police from Kosovo.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Turkey on Tuesday (Oct 10) took command of a NATO-led force in Kosovo for the first time in a backdrop of a volatile situation in the country's north and tense relations with former wartime rival Serbia.

Turkey on Tuesday (Oct 10) took command of a NATO-led force in Kosovo for the first time in a backdrop of a volatile situation in the country's north and tense relations with former wartime rival Serbia. In late September, about 30 gunmen ambushed a police patrol near the northern border with Serbia. This led to the death of a Kosovan police officer. It was one of the most serious incidents in ethnic Albanian-majority Kosovo since it declared independence from Serbia in 2008. Belgrade still refuses to recognise the move. After the ambush, the gunmen retreated and barricaded themselves in an Orthodox monastery. They were involved in a shootout that lasted for hours. The US and the European Union (EU) expressed deep concern over the incident and urged restraint. A handover ceremony took place in Pristina on Tuesday. Turkish Major General Ozkan Ulutas said that he was mindful of the responsibility at the helm of KFOR during a "sensitive period that Kosovo is going through", a KFOR statement said. Major General Ulutas will be commanding the 4500-string KFOR. The troops in the force are provided by 27 NATO and partner countries. Kosovo has accused Serbia of backing the full operation near its northern border and claimed that it was aimed at annexation of Kosovo's north. The suspected commando leader who killed the officer, Milan Radoicic, admitted to masterminding the deadly attack. Radoicic is also a former vice president of the main political grouping of Kosovo Serbs. He was briefly detained in Serbia earlier this month and ordered freed on a conditional release. KFOR was deployed in Kosovo after the 1998-1999 war between independence-seeking ethnic Albanian guerrillas and Serbian armed forces. The war claimed about 13,000 lives. It ended with the NATO bombing of Serbia. This forced Belgrade to withdraw its military and police from Kosovo. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Turkey takes charge of NATO peacekeepers in Kosovo

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