The Minister of Defence's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"

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Analysis

Summary

Today's agenda focused on the Defence Minister's presentation on the implementation of the state’s long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035" for 2025, followed by an extensive discussion on the financing and planning of national defence. The aim was to address what the future of Estonia’s defence capability should look like and what capabilities and infrastructure need to be developed to maintain and strengthen the country’s sense of security and allied capabilities. The presentation included a comprehensive overview, encompassing the creation of a 10-year budget framework, a perspective on how to utilize 5% of GDP for defence, the development of national defence programs and brigades, and the importance of the defence industry and infrastructure. Among the innovations were strengthening the mechanized infantry brigade and division structure, developing long- and medium-range air defence and attack support capabilities, developing drone resistance and electronic warfare in a targeted interaction, and ensuring the long-term presence of allies in Estonia. In addition, the upcoming comprehensive framework for national defence planning and international cooperation to enhance defence capabilities were highlighted.

Secondly, aspects related to the National Audit Office's audit were addressed: weaknesses in stocktaking, contract division, and tracking advance payments, as well as security issues arising from the audit results. There was discussion about the necessity and urgent need to develop drone countermeasure capabilities, and an emphasis on the comparable need for comprehensive national defence organization and transparency. The debate highlighted that modern national defence is an integrated system where human readiness and societal support are as important as technical means and financial support. Finally, parliamentary procedures and the question of extending the session were reviewed at the end of the day, raising the issue of the role of responsibility, transparency, and oversight in the context of national defence expenditures and procurements.

Decisions Made 1
Collective Decision

Session Extension: The Riigikogu approved a proposal from the Estonian Reform Party faction to extend today's session until the agenda is exhausted, but no longer than 2:00 PM. The vote result: 56 in favor, 0 against, 2 abstentions.

Most Active Speaker
Varro Vooglaid
Varro Vooglaid

Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed

Varro Vooglaid (pid ehjpLK1FIak) – identifiable as a key participant in the approach from the left-wing political spectrum at the end of the day; his actual influence appears mainly as a critical and antagonistic moderator on the topic of national defense and the defense budget, and his position moves towards the right-wing or nationally conservative spectrum. He belongs to the parliamentary context of opposition or adjacent criticism, and his presentations are directed towards the public discussion of national defense planning and cross-party responsibility.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:04:37
AI Summary

Toomas Kivimägi announced that the first item on the agenda was the Minister of Defence’s 2025 report on the implementation of the state’s long-term development strategy, “Eesti 2035,” and invited the honorable Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur to the Riigikogu rostrum.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:05:11
AI Summary

The report emphasizes that Estonia is strengthening its national defense and increasing defense spending up to 5% of GDP, developing long-term, comprehensive capabilities (including a division, brigades, air defense, naval assets, and the defense industry), and maintaining the allied presence and support for Ukraine, in order to preserve freedom, resilience, and a sense of security.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:33:23
AI Summary

Members of the Riigikogu have the right to ask one question, and Varro Vooglaid will begin the question round. Discussions are open to the parliamentary factions.

Varro Vooglaid
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
13:33:32
AI Summary

Vooglaid criticizes the leadership of the Ministry of Defense, citing the findings of the State Audit Office's audit regarding systemic mismanagement and a lack of control over the use of funds. He then asks who will take personal responsibility and whether anyone—the minister or the secretary-general—will resign.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:34:35
AI Summary

The speech expresses gratitude.

Varro Vooglaid
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
13:34:38
AI Summary

Varro Vooglaid asks if we should just move on.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:34:41
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur confirmed that every euro allocated by taxpayers for the defense of the Estonian state has gone to the right place.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:34:51
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi stresses that the Minister has the opportunity to respond, and his response will be heard before the Riigikogu.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:34:59
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur confirmed that every euro has been spent appropriately and that improvements to the inventory management of the Defense Forces' supplies must be carried out in cooperation with the National Audit Office. He added that the National Audit Office’s primary criticisms concern the recording of supplies, inventory procedures, and payments, but stressed that this does not mean the Defense Forces lack oversight or that ordered goods are failing to arrive.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:35:54
AI Summary

He stresses that this isn't the debate we wanted, but we are still going to ask questions and take turns speaking.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:36:00
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur confirmed that we are cooperating well with the National Audit Office, and all orders placed to strengthen defence capabilities are either in progress or have been delivered. The selection is made strictly between what is necessary and what is unnecessary, and all delivered orders meet the requirements of the Commander of the Defence Forces and are correctly recorded in the accounting records.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:36:49
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi addressed Peeter Ernits and demanded that Varro Vooglaid cease his interruptions, stressing that procedure must be followed and that other members of the Riigikogu have the right to pose questions and receive responses.

Peeter Ernits
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
13:37:10
AI Summary

Peeter Ernits says he has a loud voice and can shout over others, but he wants to know when he is allowed to speak.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:37:14
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi grants permission to speak, and it is noted that Varro Vooglaid will add something further.

Peeter Ernits
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
13:37:15
AI Summary

Peeter Ernits asks if he can now.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:37:16
AI Summary

The speech consists of only one word—the affirmation, "Yes."

Peeter Ernits
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
13:37:18
AI Summary

Peeter Ernits criticized the government, noting that while there is talk of progress, the indicators from the National Audit Office show that the situation is still very dire. He also asked whether the government had summoned the Ukrainian ambassador regarding the attack drone that exploded in Elva municipality, and how it is possible for an attack drone to explode in the heart of Estonia.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:38:15
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur said that this was a very serious incident and that various agencies have already drawn their conclusions. He immediately spoke with the Ukrainian Defense Minister, noting that the Internal Security Service (KAPO) and the State Prosecutor's Office have initiated proceedings. He emphasized close cooperation with Ukraine and pointed out that Ukraine is attacking Russia in self-defense, including targeting the Ust-Luga port in Northwest Russia during the night. He added that the investigation must connect all the points together.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:39:55
AI Summary

This is a short request concerning Rain Epler.

Rain Epler
Rain Epler
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
13:39:56
AI Summary

Rain Epler criticizes the Minister of Defence’s leadership in light of the National Audit Office report, claiming that the status of over 720 million worth of inventory has not been determined. He goes on to ask whether the minister is truly leading and capable of influencing processes within the defence sector, or if he is merely a purring puppet sitting in the Secretary General’s lap.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:41:02
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur stated that strengthening national defense has been supported by a significant budget increase since 2022 (rising from 700 million to 2.4 billion euros). Furthermore, key achievements include reaching an agreement on defense capability goals between NATO and Estonia, the approval of the Ministry of Defense's development plan, and the establishment of long-term objectives and procurement plans, and he urged that the debate be fact-based.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:42:01
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi announces that the Minister has the opportunity to respond to Rain Epler.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:42:04
AI Summary

Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur stressed that a discussion cannot be held here if people keep interrupting all the time.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:42:11
AI Summary

Toomas Kivimägi stated that he does not tolerate constant interference during the parliamentary debate. He allows only brief interjections as part of the discussion itself, and deems persistent disruption unacceptable.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:42:30
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur stressed that the figures in the National Audit Office report must not be manipulated, confirmed the existence of assets being acquired for the Defense Forces and the continuity of the inventory principles that have been in force since 2010, and stated that a precise follow-up inspection would be conducted jointly with the National Audit Office.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:43:49
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi turned to Tanel Kiik and said, "Please."

Tanel Kiik
Tanel Kiik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
13:43:51
AI Summary

Tanel Kiik advises the Minister of Defence to cooperate with the National Audit Office and publicly communicate what improvements have been made in the financing of national defence.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:44:58
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur confirmed that all activities have been coordinated with the National Audit Office, and inventories were started early. The National Audit Office will receive all documents, including contracts, should they be needed.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:46:41
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Priit Sibul to take the floor.

13:46:42
AI Summary

Priit Sibul thanked the presiding officer of the session, noting that the minister’s speech contained more rhetoric than substance and resembled the address of a prime ministerial candidate. He then posed three specific questions: concerning the problems and maintenance of arms procurement; regarding access to contracts during the National Audit Office’s audit; and concerning the accounting of reserves, including the 707.8 million entry for stocks and the existence of a dissenting opinion during the inventory.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:47:56
AI Summary

This is a short thank-you speech where the address simply consists of the word "Thank you!"

13:48:01
AI Summary

Priit Sibul asks you for a comment and apologizes.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:48:03
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur emphasized that, in order to realize Estonia's defense resolve, the government must ensure transparent accounting and accountability between the Defense Forces and the Centre for Defence Investments, and move toward selecting the best weapon systems and replacing them if necessary, based on expert assessments and fierce global market competition.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:52:11
AI Summary

This is a short request to call Rene Kokk.

Rene Kokk
Rene Kokk
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
13:52:13
AI Summary

Rene Kokk criticizes the performance of the Minister of Defence and the Defence Forces in light of the National Audit Office report, calls for a more honest acknowledgment of problems and better cooperation between the Defence Forces, the Ministry of Defence, and subordinate institutions, and emphasizes that the Defence League is small and we must not give away necessary resources to Ukraine, but must ensure domestic defence capability.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:53:19
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi expressed thanks.

Rene Kokk
Rene Kokk
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
13:53:21
AI Summary

Rene Kokk emphasizes what we ourselves also need.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:53:24
AI Summary

Pevkur emphasized that the importance of providing aid to Ukraine is currently paramount, and that individuals and institutions must continue supporting Ukraine, as every destroyed tank demonstrates the need for assistance.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:53:52
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi welcomes his colleagues and Mr. Mart Helme, and asks the respondent to answer.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:53:54
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur stated that in order to boost Estonia's defense capabilities, funding for the Defense League (Kaitseliit) will be increased, the structure of youth and reserve components will be developed, and admissions to the Estonian National Defence College will be expanded, ensuring a steady supply of officers and non-commissioned officers as part of the long-term national defense strategy.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:56:48
AI Summary

At the beginning of the address, Arvo Aller is invited to speak.

Arvo Aller
Arvo Aller
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
13:56:49
AI Summary

Arvo Aller emphasized that when discussing a long-term plan, we must demonstrate where we currently stand. He highlighted the National Audit Office report, which stressed the necessity of correcting both past and future decisions. He criticized the rushed decisions regarding the Nursipalu issue and asked who would be held accountable when the cupboard is bare—the Secretary-General, the Minister, or the head of the Centre for Defence Investments (RKIK).

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
13:57:59
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur confirmed that Estonia’s ammunition stockpile is not empty; rather, additional contracts worth approximately 5 billion euros have been concluded or signed for the period 2022–2029, and ammunition purchases for 2023–2024 have totaled about one billion euros, meaning the stockpile is significantly larger than it was before 2022.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
13:59:36
AI Summary

Toomas Kivimägi addresses Madis Kallas with a short request.

Madis Kallas
Madis Kallas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
13:59:38
AI Summary

Madis Kallas emphasizes the difficult times and the need to ensure confidence in the defense budget, and asks whether there could be additional parliamentary oversight of defense spending, which, according to him, would be beneficial for the Ministry of Defense, the minister, and Parliament alike.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:00:44
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur confirmed that members of parliament have the right to receive a detailed briefing, including information covered by state secrets, and if necessary, this will be provided in a closed session. Furthermore, the plans and acquired assets will also be shared.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:01:36
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi called upon Mart Maastik.

Mart Maastik
Mart Maastik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:01:37
AI Summary

Maastik expressed concern that while air defense has been strengthened, learning from Ukraine's experience, a higher priority should be placed on the detection and defeat of unmanned aerial vehicles. He asked when this capability would reach us and what specific steps and investments are being made already today.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:02:26
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur stated that Estonia is developing an integrated, multi-layered air and drone defense system, combining high-tier radar systems with low-level planar radars and acoustic sensors. This is intended to improve capabilities at levels below 300 meters and accelerate both procurement and intervention capability, but 24/7 permanent air defense is not feasible during peacetime.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:05:49
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invites Andre Hanimägi to the floor to speak.

Andre Hanimägi
Andre Hanimägi
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:05:49
AI Summary

Andre Hanimägi stresses that defense spending has hit a record high and continues to climb. He points to an audit concerning a 10 million euro advance payment debt owed to suppliers, which dates back to 2018, and asks how they intend to handle this massive amount of money in the coming years, whether they have metrics and a plan for hiring additional staff, and what the overall vision is for utilizing these billions.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:06:46
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur confirms that the 9 million euros have not been lost, but are tied to the Estonian–Korean K9 contract, including its maintenance and spare parts. Furthermore, a four-year and longer-term KILP procurement plan has been drawn up in cooperation with the Defence Forces, the Ministry of Defence, and the Centre for Defence Investments. This plan ensures the budget is monitored monthly and allows for necessary transfers to guarantee timely deliveries (e.g., Caesar self-propelled howitzers), even though year-end transfers are sometimes necessitated by accounting rules.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:10:49
AI Summary

Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invited Mati Raidma to speak.

Mati Raidma
Mati Raidma
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioon
14:10:51
AI Summary

Mati Raidma thanked the Minister and noted that the autumn season will be very active regarding security and national defense issues. He also posed strategic questions about whether the ambitions of the long-term development strategy Estonia 2035 are still achievable amidst today's rapid development, and whether the renewal of the foundations of security policy and an additional update of the national defense sector, including issues related to 5%, are needed.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:11:54
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur emphasized that security is comprehensive and long-term, and its foundations must be discussed within the framework of the Government Office based on a broad perspective. This perspective will form the basis for drawing up ten-year and four-year development plans and the annual budget, ensuring 5% base funding and continuous investments (such as naval procurements), because Russia is our primary threat, and the ambitions of Estonia 2035 must be linked to national defence capability development and strategic indicators.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:15:15
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi asked Riina Solman to take the floor.

Riina Solman
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:15:16
AI Summary

Riina Solman asked the minister when and how the motivating salary system intended for young soldiers would be implemented, considering they earn about 1200 euros a month, live away from their families, and participate in missions where their lives are at risk.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:16:17
AI Summary

I confirm that you are incorrectly informed: The salary increase for the leadership of the Ministry of Defence did not occur in the manner described. Instead, in the spring, the Commander of the Defence Forces decided to change the salary conditions for incoming junior personnel, and in May, he was granted the authority to adjust the salaries. In this adjustment, the higher ranks received a smaller percentage increase, while the lower ranks received a larger one. The exact figures can be obtained directly from the Commander of the Defence Forces.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:17:21
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invited Helle-Moonika Helme to speak.

Helle-Moonika Helme
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
14:17:22
AI Summary

Helle-Moonika Helme criticizes the government’s defense budget, comparing the Ministry of Defense to pantry rats and the money that has slipped out from there towards Ukraine. She states that she would not give 5 billion of the people’s money, while simultaneously highlighting the problem of the decreasing number of young people entering compulsory military service.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:18:28
AI Summary

The speech is simply a word of thanks.

Helle-Moonika Helme
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
14:18:29
AI Summary

Helle-Moonika Helme claims that the Ministry of Defense plans to introduce mandatory military service for women.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:18:35
AI Summary

Toomas Kivimägi expresses his gratitude.

Helle-Moonika Helme
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
14:18:36
AI Summary

Helle-Moonika Helme asks if there is anything to say about this, and whether this claim is also true.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:18:39
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi thanks Helle-Moonika and confirms that the question is understood.

Helle-Moonika Helme
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
14:18:41
AI Summary

The speech discusses the call for women's mobilization and raises the question of whether Estonian women will be killed in the war.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:18:51
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur rejects the claim "we will kill Estonian women," clarifies that he did not speak about 5 billion euros, and emphasizes his desire to contribute 5 billion euros annually to national defense, asking that his speech be heard in full.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:19:31
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi confirmed that the minister indeed spoke about 2 billion.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:19:34
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur said that the question of women's conscription needs debate, changing laws is the obligation of the Riigikogu, and the Ministry of Defense cannot enact any law; the future size of national defense depends on the decisions of the political parties.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:22:22
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invites Jaak Aab to take the floor.

Jaak Aab
Jaak Aab
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:22:27
AI Summary

Jaak Aab asked a question regarding the expansion of the Nursipalu training area and inquired why the minister chose the special planning route, which, within a year, led to amendments to the Arms Act and the establishment of a special procedure for the development of national defense facilities.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:23:36
AI Summary

Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur stated that the fast-track procedure utilized for the development of Nursipalu was correct and necessary, given that defense readiness needed to be rapidly increased against the backdrop of Russia's aggression. The Riigikogu supported this quick procedure, and while the pros and cons of the special planning and environmental studies were taken into account, the decision was ultimately made as quickly as possible to avoid losing time.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:26:42
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi calls Õnne Pillak to the stage.

Õnne Pillak
Õnne Pillak
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioon
14:26:44
AI Summary

Õnne Pillak highlights the exemplary nature of defending the Estonian state and its people, and inquires about the cooperation between the Defence League and the Women's Voluntary Defence Organization, as well as how the contribution of their members to strengthening the country's defense capability is assessed.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:27:25
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur remarked that the contribution made by women is entirely unique compared to other European nations. He also celebrated the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Women's Voluntary Defence Organization (Naiskodukaitse) and pledged to briefly revisit the debate surrounding women's compulsory military service.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:28:01
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi stresses that every member of the Riigikogu has the freedom of choice, even if female voices are heard in the chamber.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:28:04
AI Summary

Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur pointed out an important observation regarding women's military service, noting that the Women's Voluntary Defence Organization (Naiskodukaitse) had initiated the debate on this topic, and he could send the relevant material.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:28:35
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi made two points: one to the minister, stating that he does not have the right to dictate the listening behavior of Riigikogu members, and the second to his colleagues, noting that the excessive number of remarks was disrupting the debate, and asked them to keep their emotions in check.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:28:59
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur praises the Women's Voluntary Defence Organization (Naiskodukaitse) as a powerful engine of Estonian national defence, capable of catering for up to 50,000 Song Festival participants, training the Home Daughters youth organization, and whose 4,000-member force forms the foundation of national defence. He wishes them continued vigor and strength for the future.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:30:48
AI Summary

The purpose of this speech is to invite Alar Laneman to the stage.

Alar Laneman
Alar Laneman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:30:49
AI Summary

Alar Laneman stated that the Ministry of Defense takes the National Audit Office's findings seriously, and work to address them is ongoing. He stressed the importance of wartime readiness and posed the question of how to replace what will not be received from the Americans.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:31:53
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur stated that should the US Congress cut foreign aid programs, the European Union is prepared to increase funding for defense and the eastern flank. He added that the sums proposed by the European Commission could potentially surpass US funding, thereby preventing a gap from forming. Furthermore, we are working to ensure that Congress understands the critical importance of eastern flank defense to NATO security.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:33:50
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi asked his colleagues to be a little quieter so that their discussion wouldn't interrupt the main debate in the chamber, and then addressed Jaak Valge.

Jaak Valge
Jaak Valge
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:33:58
AI Summary

Jaak Valge notes that in the spring, an interpellation was submitted together with Leo Kunnas concerning the problems at the Tallinn Military Cemetery, where reorganizations taking place at the initiative and funding of the Russian Embassy humiliate those who fell for our country, as well as the country itself. He adds that although he presented photographic evidence and it seemed the minister was taking the problem seriously, the situation has not changed, and he asks the minister to personally familiarize himself with the matter and provide a written response to the spring interpellation (with the option of sending new photos).

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:34:56
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur thanks [everyone] and asks participants to submit recent photos, promising to review them and subsequently ask the director of the War Museum what has taken place over the summer and whether anything has been going on behind the scenes, and he promises to clarify the matter.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:35:09
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Henn Põlluaas.

Henn Põlluaas
Henn Põlluaas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:35:10
AI Summary

Henn Põlluaas emphasizes that Estonia has withdrawn from the Ottawa Convention, and asks whether and with whom Estonia will start producing or buying landmines and using them, citing Ukraine's needs.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:36:19
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur stated that the Baltic states share a unified approach, and in Latvia, most allied units from Canada are present under the Ottawa Convention. He added that while they currently do not plan to acquire landmines and the investment plan focuses on other capabilities, they maintain readiness for their rapid procurement should the need arise.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:37:35
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invites Anti Allast to speak.

Anti Allas
Anti Allas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:37:37
AI Summary

Anti Allas, addressing the situation in Nursipalu, points out that the court has reached the same conclusion as he has. He then asks how strong the will of the local population is to defend the area, and whether this has also been studied among members of the Defense League in recent years. If the answer is affirmative, he requests that the material be provided to the members of the Riigikogu.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:38:28
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur stated that the surveys have been completed, including those in Southern Estonia. He does not currently have the data on hand, but he will send the necessary link where the material is public and available for review.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:38:40
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invites Kalev Stoicescu to speak.

Kalev Stoicescu
Kalev Stoicescu
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:38:41
AI Summary

Kalev Stoicescu thanks the presiding officer and the Minister of Defence. He then asks what proportion of the roughly 10 billion euros budgeted for the next four years will be allocated to the Navy, including for the acquisition of new vessels, and whether the plans for the protection of subsea infrastructure, alongside the amendments to the Economic Zone Act and other legal changes passed by the Riigikogu, will ensure the Navy has the necessary capabilities to enforce the legislation.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:39:36
AI Summary

In the context of the four-year budget, Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur focused on naval development: refurbishing two force protection patrol boats for Ukraine, acquiring a couple of underwater vehicles for the Special Operations Command, extending the life cycle of three mine hunters until at least 2040, and replacing one Pikker vessel with a patrol ship. Additionally, this includes maintaining the use of Blue Spear anti-ship missiles and testing underwater surveillance systems to find the most suitable system, which, due to construction delays, could postpone the final payment and push the ship's arrival date to 2029–2030.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:41:22
AI Summary

Urmas Reinsalu is invited to the stage to begin the address.

14:41:24
AI Summary

Urmas Reinsalu highlighted the shortcomings in leadership and referred to the National Audit Office's letter of July 18 last year concerning the disarray in the Ministry of Defence's finances. He asked what the National Audit Office's response to that was, and why the ministry has failed to provide the National Audit Office with information regarding intermediary contracts totaling approximately half a billion, which has undermined the National Audit Office's confidence.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:42:31
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur confirmed that the standard agreements with foreign donors and a summary table regarding them have been submitted to the National Audit Office, and the principles for inventorying the Defense Forces' supplies have remained the same since 2010. Furthermore, if necessary, the National Audit Office's requests will be taken into account and the required changes will be implemented.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:46:29
AI Summary

Toomas Kivimägi announced that, due to the change in the chair of the session, procedural questions would be discussed and the Reform Party faction's proposal to extend the sitting would be put to a vote. He apologized for the pauses and then continued by listening to Rene Kokk.

Rene Kokk
Rene Kokk
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
14:46:52
AI Summary

Rene Kokk voiced his disappointment that ministers fail to address specific questions, choosing instead to focus on self-congratulatory speeches. He called for a change in culture to ensure that the questions posed would receive at least partial responses.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:47:30
AI Summary

Toomas Kivimägi confirmed the principle that questions must be relevant to the topic of the draft bill, and the respondent must answer accordingly. He also noted that the presenter's address is difficult to pre-script.

Helle-Moonika Helme
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
14:47:45
AI Summary

Helle-Moonika Helme raised a point of order, requesting that the Chair of the Riigikogu session acknowledge an error regarding the statement about 5 billion being allocated for national defense purchases. This is because, according to the transcript, the amount discussed was *approximately* 5 billion, and since the minister failed to confirm the situation as accurate, she is requesting that the matter be corrected.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:48:49
AI Summary

Toomas Kivimägi clarified that defense spending in one state budget was actually discussed as 2 billion, not 5 billion, which caused a dispute over interpretations. He added that for a longer period, a reserve of 5–10 billion could be acquired and put into reserves. Following this, Varro Vooglaid raised a procedural question, and the vote on extending the session will follow.

Varro Vooglaid
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:49:13
AI Summary

Varro Vooglaid is complaining that a very specific question put to him—concerning who would take responsibility for the financial mess at the Ministry of Defence—went unanswered, and the minister failed to provide a direct response.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:50:10
AI Summary

Toomas Kivimägi stated that he would not turn the questioners' expectations into the respondent's position, noted that emotions are a normal part of politics, and would intervene in the event of repeated interruptions. He then presented the Reform Party faction's proposal to extend today's session until the agenda is exhausted, but not until 2 PM, requesting that a position be taken and a vote held.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:53:51
AI Summary

56 members of the Riigikogu voted in favor of the draft bill (0 against, 2 abstentions); today's sitting has been extended until the agenda is exhausted, but no later than 2 PM, and Riina Solman's procedural question will be addressed before Hanno Pevkur is called.

Riina Solman
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
14:54:07
AI Summary

Riina Solman expresses the wish that the Riigikogu Rules of Procedure mandate ministers to answer the questions asked, instead of just providing the answers they themselves want to give.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:54:51
AI Summary

Toomas Kivimägi stressed that parliamentarians' expectations for substantive answers are justified, explaining that ministers might not know every detail and sometimes they simply choose not to answer. Following this, he called Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur back and gave Raimond Kaljulaid the opportunity to ask a question.

Raimond Kaljulaid
Raimond Kaljulaid
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioon
14:55:42
AI Summary

Raimond Kaljulaid emphasized that although the minister claimed absolute certainty that all purchased assets are accounted for, the registration of Defense Forces assets is not in order, and the State Comptroller’s example shows that inventories have not been properly organized, with some items taking five to six years to be registered.

Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
14:56:56
AI Summary

Vice-Speaker Toomas Kivimägi expresses his thanks.

Raimond Kaljulaid
Raimond Kaljulaid
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioon
14:56:58
AI Summary

Raimond Kaljulaid stated that they currently lack the necessary information, and they first need to sort out the inventories and the rest of the system. He then apologized to the chair of the session for running over time.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
14:57:02
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur confirmed that the assets acquired through the Centre for Defence Investments have been handed over to the Defence Forces and are either in use or available during exercises. Furthermore, an extraordinary inventory has been initiated to ensure the existence and comprehensibility of these assets for the National Audit Office and the people of Estonia.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:00:23
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller called upon Kalle Grünthal to speak.

Kalle Grünthal
Kalle Grünthal
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
15:00:25
AI Summary

Grünthal notes that the landing of a foreign state's drone on Estonian soil and the associated difficulties in identification suggest Russia's potential to arm Estonia's fifth column, and he asks for the public's assessment and conclusion regarding the matter.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
15:01:33
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur emphasizes that, to ensure Estonia's internal security, the Internal Security Service and other security agencies are doing good work, having managed to detect and prevent the illegal handling of explosives and reduce the internal threat, while simultaneously pointing to the impact of Russia's war in Ukraine and the need to strengthen national defense.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:04:54
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller calls upon Martin Helme to speak.

Martin Helme
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
15:04:56
AI Summary

Martin Helme accuses the government and the defense forces of presenting threats to the public—specifically, the entry of an unknown object into Estonian airspace, drones (including Russian and Ukrainian ones), and incidents involving a tanker—as a bluff, arguing that Estonia’s defense is consequently defenseless.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:06:06
AI Summary

The speech urges the listeners to take action, simply by saying that it is their time.

Martin Helme
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
15:06:08
AI Summary

Martin Helme is asking why no one is taking responsibility, why there is a lack of oversight, and whether Estonia permitted a Ukrainian drone into Estonian airspace.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
15:06:20
AI Summary

Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur noted that existing radars are only capable of tracking objects above 300 meters, and therefore an integrated low-altitude airspace surveillance system is being built, incorporating plate radars and acoustic sensors. This accelerates the signing of contracts following the increase of national defense expenditures by over 5% and is based on the experience gained in Ukraine, where 20–25% of low-flying drones remain undetected. Furthermore, everything must be implemented according to the principle of multi-layered defense and while adhering to the limits of legal possibilities, a process which is monitored by the Centre for Defence Investments.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:09:40
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller invites Riina Sikkut to speak.

Riina Sikkut
Riina Sikkut
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioon
15:09:42
AI Summary

Riina Sikkut is raising the issue of erroneous advance payments totaling tens of millions of euros, demanding accountability, inquiring about possible systemic changes, whether the '14-eye principle' should be applied, and what will be done going forward to prevent mistakes.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
15:10:36
AI Summary

Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur confirmed that the organization of state payments has changed: The Estonian Centre for Defence Investments (RKIK) and the State Shared Service Centre (RTK) will now separately agree on the precise amount and date of fund transfers. This is being done to increase transparency and control, ensure the National Audit Office clearly knows who is authorizing the payment, and guarantee that advance payments and the necessity thereof are better authorized, thereby preventing systemic errors in the next audit.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:15:33
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller asked Leo Kunnas.

Leo Kunnas
Leo Kunnas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
15:15:36
AI Summary

Leo Kunnas questions the connection between the state’s long-term development strategy “Eesti 2035” (Estonia 2035) and the purview of the Ministry of Defence. He further claims that the document lacks clear objectives and direction, and that the accompanying report focuses on entirely different matters, thereby rendering the strategy’s value questionable.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
15:16:16
AI Summary

Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur is presenting the measurable objectives and the past and future steps of the 2035 Defence Capability Strategy, and is inviting everyone to a national defence debate in the main hall.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:17:41
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller makes a request to Urmas Kruuse.

Urmas Kruuse
Urmas Kruuse
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioon
15:17:44
AI Summary

Urmas Kruuse inquired about the accuracy of reporting a drone incident in the Elva rural municipality and the existing gap in notifying members of the crisis committee. He also raised a question regarding the increased use of Estonian raw materials and food within the Defence Forces and the Defence League as a strategic component of national defence.

Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
15:18:29
AI Summary

Pevkur confirmed that the priorities of the Centre for Defence Investments continue to be the use of local raw materials, and companies in South and Northeast Estonia have focused on supplying foodstuffs to the defense forces. However, fulfilling large volumes requires cooperation and the capacity of producers, because a single farmer cannot deliver those quantities.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:19:29
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller expresses his thanks and announces that there are no further questions. He then opens the discussions with the factions, and Kalev Stoicescu begins on behalf of the Eesti 200 faction.

Kalev Stoicescu
Kalev Stoicescu
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
15:19:52
AI Summary

The presentation emphasizes the crucial funding and human resources priority necessary for comprehensive national defense, the need to ensure financial support and transparency for civil defense and the rapid implementation of State Audit Office requirements, calls for political and societal unity during the crisis, and warns against Russian psychological warfare, affirming that together with allies we are strong and invincible.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:25:22
AI Summary

The Deputy Speaker next called upon Urmas Reinsalu on behalf of the Isamaa faction and requested three additional minutes.

15:25:43
AI Summary

While there is a consensus among the Estonian people on national defense matters, leadership suffers from a systemic shortfall, and the Minister of Defense is unable to command trust. This situation is further underscored by the critical assessments from the National Audit Office and the necessity of strategically utilizing European Union financing instruments.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:33:49
AI Summary

The message "Your Time" urges listeners to take action and assume responsibility.

15:33:50
AI Summary

It is appropriate for the Minister of Defense to consider his suitability for the office, because although decisions are often complex, genuine steps must be taken to restore trust.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:34:06
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller thanks [the previous speaker] and calls upon Raimond Kaljulaid to represent the Social Democratic Party faction.

Raimond Kaljulaid
Raimond Kaljulaid
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioon
15:34:18
AI Summary

Raimond Kaljulaid asks if he can also request extra time.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:34:21
AI Summary

Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller requests three additional minutes.

Raimond Kaljulaid
Raimond Kaljulaid
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioon
15:34:23
AI Summary

Raimond Kaljulaid is highlighting management and funding issues within the defense sector, calling for a cross-party investigative commission, and urging consideration of Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur's resignation to restore public trust.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:42:20
AI Summary

Vice-Chairman Arvo Aller, on behalf of the EKRE faction, requests three minutes of additional time.

Martin Helme
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioon
15:42:37
AI Summary

Martin Helme accuses the Reform Party of brazen lying and undermining national defense, claiming that Estonia is defenseless and that reserves and money have been squandered, and calls for the party leaders to resign.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:48:48
AI Summary

The speaker is thanked, and Peeter Ernits is announced as the next speaker, representing the Estonian Centre Party faction under mandate.

Peeter Ernits
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
15:48:54
AI Summary

Peeter Ernits stresses that while there is consensus on national defense, significant disagreement remains. The attack drone explosion that took place in Elva municipality and the evidence of disorder presented by the National Audit Office demonstrate the need to act realistically, boast less, and be prepared to go to the front line if necessary, rather than relying solely on promises.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:54:09
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller asks if the participants want more time.

Peeter Ernits
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
15:54:11
AI Summary

Peeter Ernits gives a clear affirmative answer: "Yes, please, I certainly would."

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:54:13
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller requests three extra minutes.

Peeter Ernits
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
15:54:15
AI Summary

Peeter Ernits voices concern over Estonia's defense readiness and the risk of drone attacks, emphasizing the need for clarity and effective defense, while criticizing the credibility of the defense minister's promises.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:57:08
AI Summary

The central message of the speech is that it is your time.

Peeter Ernits
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
15:57:10
AI Summary

Peeter Ernits said that the person responsible could continue, but he thinks he shouldn't, even though he is a nice guy.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:57:13
AI Summary

This is an expression of gratitude, and on behalf of the Reform Party faction, Kristo Enn Vaga is invited to take the floor.

Kristo Enn Vaga
Kristo Enn Vaga
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
15:57:26
AI Summary

Kristo Enn Vaga thanks the presiding officer and requests an extension of time.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
15:57:27
AI Summary

The speaker says we need three extra minutes.

Kristo Enn Vaga
Kristo Enn Vaga
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
15:57:31
AI Summary

Kristo Enn Vaga emphasized that due to the threat posed by Russia, Estonia must continue strengthening its national defense by increasing defense spending to over 5% of GDP, developing critical military capabilities and innovation, promoting the defense industry, and implementing a long-term, ten-year budgetary framework for defense planning, all aimed at securing national safety and aiding Ukraine.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
16:03:23
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller announced that Urmas Reinsalu had the floor for a response speech, and noted that the preceding speeches had mentioned Isamaa, and Kristo Enn Vaga had used an abbreviation from which a reference could be inferred.

16:03:46
AI Summary

Urmas Reinsalu said that while the support of all political forces for the necessity of acquiring additional capabilities is important and does not constitute a contradiction, trust is being jeopardized by the assessment of the State Audit Office and management problems in the defense sector. He hopes that tomorrow the special committee for the control of the state budget will open the topic with a new substantive perspective and restore confidence by offering a clear and adequate diagnosis of the situation.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
16:06:00
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller thanks the speaker, announces that there are two minutes available, and calls upon Kristo Enn Vaga to give his reply.

Kristo Enn Vaga
Kristo Enn Vaga
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
16:06:05
AI Summary

Kristo Enn Vaga notes that a comment is made from the floor, and then offers his opinion.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
16:06:10
AI Summary

During the presentation, you were mentioned, and Martin Helme mentioned the Reform Party, which grants Kristo Enn Vaga the right of reply.

Kristo Enn Vaga
Kristo Enn Vaga
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmed
16:06:19
AI Summary

Kristo Enn Vaga said that regarding the National Audit Office's report, a substantive debate took place, the Minister of Defence answered the questions thoroughly, and the Audit Office has not claimed that money disappeared or that there were improper purchases—it was merely a mess in the paperwork, and everything that was promised to him is accounted for.

Aseesimees Arvo Aller
16:07:58
AI Summary

Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller announced that there were no further requests to speak, stated that he would not be giving the floor to the Minister of Defence, closed the debate, and that concluded the first item on today's agenda.