After a prolonged 22-month process, Sweden's application to join NATO has been officially approved, marking a historic milestone.

With this development, the Baltic Sea region, except for Russia, is now entirely composed of NATO members, leading to the characterization of the Baltic Sea as a "NATO sea.

" The approval comes at a critical time as NATO allies unify in support of Ukraine amidst tensions.

The inclusion of Sweden in NATO signifies a collective Nordic strength within the alliance, enhancing security for the region and the broader NATO framework.

Critically, this move also represents Sweden's departure from a long-standing policy of neutrality, a shift that began with its application for EU membership after the Cold War.