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Turkey continues to hold up Sweden’s application. It says that Stockholm harbours members of what Ankara considers terrorist groups - a charge Sweden denies - and has demanded their extradition as a step toward ratifying Swedish membership.

Hungary is also holding up Sweden’s admission, citing grievances over criticism of Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s policies. But Nato diplomats say they expect Budapest will approve Sweden’s bid if it sees Turkey moving to do so.

Stoltenberg pledged to work hard to get Sweden into Nato as soon as possible. He also stressed that Nato and Swedish officials were already working to bring Sweden closer to the alliance even as they wait for membership to be finalised.

In Moscow, Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Grushko said Russia will boost its forces in its west and northwest.