A Russian shadow flits over Sweden’s election

Stockholm — With two days remaining before Sweden's tight general election, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson is cautioning Europe: Don't trust the left on defense. Sweden, having recently joined NATO, is worried that a leftist government could jeopardize the country's security commitments. In an interview with POLITICO, Kristersson highlighted that if the left-wing bloc wins, two out of three or even two out of four parties have previously opposed Sweden's NATO membership.

This could impede the nation's ability to meet its NATO obligations, such as allocating funds and participating in missions. Sweden’s NATO membership is a significant shift for the country, which was neutral during both world wars and the Cold War. Since joining, Sweden has consistently supported NATO initiatives, including deploying troops, warships, and fighter jets.

Kristersson expressed hope that support for Ukraine would not be undermined by the left, as the country has been united in backing Ukraine, except for a single exception where the left voted against the first support package. The polls now suggest that the left could win the election, with the far-right Sweden Democrats trailing close behind.

Despite his cooperation with the Sweden Democrats, Kristersson remains confident in his ability to form a stable government, emphasizing the importance of collective decision-making.