Hungary ratifies Sweden's bid to join NATO, clearing final obstacle to membership

Hungary's parliament has ratified Sweden's bid to join NATO, making it the 32nd member of the alliance. This marks the end of a year and a half of delays during which Hungary was the last holdout among NATO members. The vote came after months of wrangling between Budapest and Stockholm over accusations of hostility. Russia's invasion of Ukraine prompted Sweden and Finland to apply for membership in the alliance. Despite his cordial relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban ultimately gave his approval with a vote of 188 for and six against. NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg hailed the decision as historic.