The “watershed moment” for Sweden’s decision to apply for NATO membership came as a result of Russia’s “full-scale aggression” against Ukraine, Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson said Thursday at the Rose Garden.

“My government has come to the conclusion that the security of the Swedish people will be best protected within the NATO alliance, and this is backed by very broad support in the Swedish parliament,” she said.

According to her, NATO will also be stronger with Sweden and Finland as members.

“We are security providers with sophisticated defense capabilities. And we are champions of freedom, democracy, and human rights. We have a long tradition of extensive military cooperation with NATO, including all missions. And we are right now ramping up our defense spending and we will reach 2% of GDP as soon as practically possible,” she added.

Sweden looks forward to “a swift ratification process,” she continued.

She said it is “prepared to shoulder its responsibility as an ally in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization.”