US Lawmakers Push for Pressure on Hungary to Support Sweden’s NATO Membership, According to Reuters

By Patricia Zengerle

WASHINGTON – Senior U.S. lawmakers expressed urgency for Hungary to approve Sweden’s NATO accession promptly. This sentiment follows Turkey’s approval from the previous week, with an implication that Hungary’s inaction could irreparably harm its ties with Washington.

Senate Foreign Relations Committee member Ben Cardin voiced "deep concerns" regarding Hungary’s current government. He pointed out Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s delays in releasing European Union aid for Ukraine, alongside the ongoing obstruction of Sweden’s NATO membership.

"Partners don’t engage in these behaviors. I am questioning whether they are a trusted ally for our visa waiver program," Cardin stated during a news conference. The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens from 41 countries to visit the United States for up to 90 days without a visa.

Additionally, Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Thom Tillis, who co-chair the Senate’s NATO Observer Group, issued a statement urging Hungary to reconsider its stance.

"Hungary’s inaction risks irrevocably damaging its relationship with the United States and with NATO," they emphasized.

In 2022, Sweden and Finland sought to join NATO following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. However, their membership efforts faced delays from Turkey and Hungary, leaving Sweden in a precarious situation and causing frustration among NATO allies who view Sweden as vital for security in the Baltic region.

Currently, Hungary remains the only NATO member yet to approve Sweden’s application to join the alliance.