Sweden's Foreign Minister Tobias Billström Announces Departure

Sweden's Foreign Minister Tobias Billström, key to the country's NATO membership and a supporter of Ukraine, will leave the government next week. Billström, who took office in October 2022, navigated Sweden's NATO accession amid security concerns triggered by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. His future plans remain undisclosed.

Sweden's Foreign Minister Tobias Billström, who played a pivotal role in guiding the nation through the complex process of joining NATO and staunchly supported Ukraine, has announced his departure from the Swedish government next week.

Billström stated on X that it was a difficult decision he had contemplated for some time. He was appointed foreign minister in October 2022 by Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, who leads a coalition government comprising the Moderate Party, Christian Democrats, and Liberals.

Sweden and Finland sought NATO membership in May 2022, moving away from decades of neutrality owing to heightened security concerns in Europe following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Sweden overcame final hurdles posed by Hungary and Turkiye, becoming NATO's 32nd member in March. Billström will also vacate his parliamentary seat, with no announcements about his future endeavors or a replacement yet.

(With inputs from agencies.)