Readout of President Biden and Vice President Harris's Meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and Vice President Kamala Harris met today with Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to prepare for the June 29-30 NATO Summit in Madrid. The leaders discussed the implications of Russia's war on Ukraine for Transatlantic security and the importance of strengthening NATO's deterrence and defense, in addition to ensuring NATO is properly resourced to address a wide range of challenges, from cyber to climate change. They also welcomed the applications by Finland and Sweden for NATO membership, and President Biden conveyed his strong support for efforts by Secretary General Stoltenberg to facilitate a rapid accession process that addresses the security concerns of all Allies. Additionally, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met separately with Secretary General Stoltenberg.