NATO has invited Sweden and Finland to join the military alliance, according to a joint statement issued today at the NATO Summit in Madrid. The document states that with the accession of Sweden and Finland, those countries will be more secure, NATO stronger, and the Euro-Atlantic region safer.

Russia, which has so far been identified as an ally, was described in a statement as "the most significant and most direct threat to the security of the Allies."

It is also stated that NATO has promised to continue providing assistance to Ukraine and that an aid package has been harmonized to modernize the country's defense sector.

The Alliance has also decided to significantly strengthen its own defense and deterrence capabilities. The document states that the Allies have committed themselves to deploying additional high-powered robotic forces on the eastern flank.

In a statement, NATO described China as a challenge to the Alliance's interests, security and values, and as a country seeking to undermine the rule-based international order.

The decision will now go to final ratification by the parliaments and legislatures of the 30 member states. NATO leaders have said they expect the process to move quickly, allowing for an unprecedentedly fast approach and showing unity against Putin.

The enlargement vote, coupled with significant new commitments strengthening the position of NATO forces in Europe, made this week's Summit one of the most productive in recent years.