Senate set to vote to ratify adding Sweden, Finland to NATO

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate is set to ratify NATO membership for Finland and Sweden with a show of U.S. support in response to Russia’s war with Ukraine. Wednesday’s (Aug. 3, 2022) vote is a crucial step toward expanding the Western military alliance. President Joe Biden has sought quick entry for the two previously non-militarily aligned northern European countries. Approval has vast bipartisan support in Congress. Senators have invited the ambassadors of Finland and Sweden to the chamber for Wednesday’s debate and vote. All 30 members of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization must agree to the accession of new members.