French President Emmanuel Macron is rushing to Sweden in a bid to resolve Hungary’s resistance to voting on Sweden’s NATO membership, as EU leaders grapple with diverse views on defence policy and the looming two-year mark of the Ukraine war.
At the forefront of discussions during Macron’s visit will be Sweden’s final stages of joining NATO, with European defence and reaffirming support for Ukraine topping the agenda.
The Elysée Palace said: “Sweden is one of our partners in the European Union, and the finalisation of its accession will make it an ally in NATO.”
Despite widespread support for Sweden’s NATO bid, Hungary remains the last hurdle. The Hungarian opposition, MSZP, calls for an immediate vote, while Prime Minister Viktor Orbán insists on swift ratification. However, the Hungarian National Assembly’s Speaker, László Kövér, downplays urgency, claiming no need for an extraordinary vote.
Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström rejects accusations of slander from Hungary. In response to Kövér’s statements, Billström said: “He represents parliament, but I assume that the Hungarian side is aware of the promises they have made to the outside world. That they will not be the last to ratify Sweden.”
Hungary, which previously promised not to be the last to ratify Sweden’s NATO membership, now seems to backtrack on that commitment. Kövér said: “Someone has to be last.”
The uncertainty surrounding Hungary’s stance creates a diplomatic challenge for Macron as he endeavours to navigate the intricate web of European defence dynamics.
His visit comes ahead of a sensitive European Council meeting on February 1, where EU leaders will deliberate on Hungary’s block of the proposed €50 billion financial aid package to Ukraine. Military support is also on the agenda as the Ukraine war approaches its two-year mark.
The timing is critical, as the European Commission is expected to present its European Defence Industry Strategy (EDIS) at the end of February, aiming to bolster the bloc’s arms production.
Despite participating in the French-led anti-terrorism Takuba task force in the Sahel, recent months have seen Paris and Stockholm diverge on EU defence policy. While France emphasises the bloc’s defence industry, Sweden, alongside Baltic and Eastern EU members, advocates for prioritising war needs and replenishing stockpiles.
However, the French presidential staff noted that “Sweden is a country that thinks like France,” indicating a desire for further cooperation on European security.
Macron aims to strengthen bilateral relations, expressing a shared desire for cooperation. The Elysée said that Macron’s goal is to “confirm France’s place as Sweden’s trusted partner in defence and security”.
Macron is expected to address European defence issues in a speech to young Swedish officers and representatives of the armed forces.
