The Minister of Defence's 2025 presentation on the implementation of the state's long-term development strategy "Estonia 2035"
Session: 15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary session.
Date: 2025-09-09 13:04
Participating Politicians:
Total Speeches: 191
Membership: 15
Agenda Duration: 3h 3m
AI Summaries: 191/191 Speeches (100.0%)
Analysis: Structured Analysis
Politicians Speaking Time
Politicians
Analysis
Summary
Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur presented a report to the Riigikogu on the implementation of the national long-term development strategy "Eesti 2035" within the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Defence. The Minister emphasized the growth of Estonia's defense budget, pointing out that the 2025 budget will exceed 2 billion euros (over 5% of GDP), which is 250,000 times greater than in the early years following the restoration of independence. He affirmed that Estonia is now a strong, straight-backed nation capable of defending its own freedom. Pevkur provided an overview of military capability development, including the creation of a division structure, the mechanization of the 2nd Infantry Brigade, the establishment of an artillery regiment (HIMARS, K9, Caesar), and the development of multi-layered air defense (IRIS-T systems, creation of an air defense brigade). He called upon the Riigikogu to confirm the 5% defense spending level in the long-term fundamentals of security policy and announced plans to create a 10-year budgetary framework for defense planning.
The debate centered on a recent audit by the National Audit Office, which exposed systemic shortcomings in the Ministry of Defence and its subordinate institutions regarding the use of funds and inventory accounting (amounting to over 700 million euros). The opposition (specifically Varro Vooglaid, Urmas Reinsalu, and Martin Helme) demanded the Minister take responsibility and resign, accusing him of weak leadership and misleading the public. Minister Pevkur defended the Ministry, asserting that all acquired stocks are present and in use, but conceded the need to improve inventory and accounting processes, announcing the initiation of an extraordinary stocktake. The discussion also covered the Elva drone incident, the fast-track procedure for expanding the Nursipalu training area, and the topic of women's conscription.
Decisions Made 1
The Riigikogu extended the sitting until the agenda was exhausted, but no later than 2:00 PM.
Most Active Speaker
The most active speaker was Martin Helme (EKRE), who used his addresses and rebuttal to sharply criticize the Reform Party and Defense Minister Pevkur, accusing them of lying, incompetence, and weakening national defense, particularly in the context of the National Audit Office's audit and the Elva drone incident.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
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
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.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur provided an overview of Estonia's transformation from a troubled state liberated from occupation into a strong and confident example, highlighting economic success and the extraordinary growth of its defense capabilities, where the defense budget has soared from 8 million euros to over 2 billion euros (more than 5% of GDP). He affirmed that this collective effort is vital due to the persistent threat posed by Russia, necessary for systematically building up Estonia's military strength (including an air defense brigade and a 55,000-strong wartime structure). He also urged politicians to enshrine the long-term goal of 5% defense spending in the foundational documents of the state's security policy to ensure the sustainable development of independent defense capability and the Estonian people's will to win.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
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
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
AI Summary
The speech expresses gratitude.
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Varro Vooglaid asks if we should just move on.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
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
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
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
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
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi had to repeatedly call Varro Vooglaid to order during the Riigikogu session. Vooglaid was interrupting and disrupting the debate, emphasizing that other members also had the right to ask questions, and ultimately demanded that Peeter Ernits be given the microphone.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
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
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi grants permission to speak, and it is noted that Varro Vooglaid will add something further.
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Peeter Ernits asks if he can now.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
The speech consists of only one word—the affirmation, "Yes."
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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.
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Peeter Ernits deems the Minister of Defence's report on the state of national defence idiotic, citing the National Audit Office's contrary assessment, and demands an explanation from the government as to why an attack drone exploded in the heart of Estonia, simultaneously asking whether the Ukrainian ambassador was summoned in connection with this, as was done following a similar incident in Poland.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur confirmed that following the emergence of a serious incident related to Ukrainian attacks on Russian targets, specifically the Ust-Luga port, he immediately contacted his Ukrainian counterpart. He further stressed that the incident is currently being investigated by the Security Police and the State Prosecutor's Office in close cooperation with the Ukrainian side, noting that Ukraine continues to successfully clip the wings of the Russian economy.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
This is a short request concerning Rain Epler.
Rain Epler
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi announces that the Minister has the opportunity to respond to Rain Epler.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
AI Summary
Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur stressed that a discussion cannot be held here if people keep interrupting all the time.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi emphasizes that while he considers short and isolated interjections a natural and appropriate part of parliamentary debate, he will under no circumstances accept continuous and permanent interference.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
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
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi turned to Tanel Kiik and said, "Please."
Tanel Kiik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur is taking the State Audit Office's observations very seriously, confirming that all activities have been coordinated with them. He has issued an order to commence an extraordinary inventory covering both standard procedures and advance payments, while simultaneously ensuring full transparency and the submission of necessary documents to the State Audit Office, in order to prevent any future miscommunication.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Priit Sibul to take the floor.
Priit Sibul
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI 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.
Priit Sibul
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Priit Sibul criticized the minister’s speech as bombastic and substance-less, noting that it sounded more like an address by a prime ministerial candidate. He then posed three specific questions: why the procurement of faulty weapons, as detailed in Äripäev, took place; why the National Audit Office was denied access to the contracts during the audit, even though this access is now retrospectively considered standard practice; and whether all defense reserves have been correctly accounted for, referencing a dissenting opinion regarding the inventorying of these reserves.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
This is a short thank-you speech where the address simply consists of the word "Thank you!"
Priit Sibul
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Priit Sibul asks you for a comment and apologizes.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
This is a short request to call Rene Kokk.
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi expressed thanks.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur emphasized that the aid and support provided to Ukraine—whether through donations from private individuals or institutions—is currently vital and should not be confused with other issues, stressing that every destroyed tank matters in the fight.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi welcomes his colleagues and Mr. Mart Helme, and asks the respondent to answer.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
At the beginning of the address, Arvo Aller is invited to speak.
Arvo Aller
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi addresses Madis Kallas with a short request.
Madis Kallas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi called upon Mart Maastik.
Mart Maastik
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur confirms that the development of Estonian air defense is intensive and evolving, emphasizing the need for an integrated multi-layered system. He highlighted that, following the increase in defense spending, procurements have been launched to establish low-layer (below 300 meters) surveillance capabilities. The first systems and acoustic sensors for this capability will arrive in Estonia in the near future, although counter-drone intervention remains a complex challenge that cannot be maintained at a continuous high state of readiness during peacetime.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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.
Andre Hanimägi
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Andre Hanimägi acknowledges the record growth in defense spending, which has necessitated painful decisions, but simultaneously expresses acute concern regarding the 10 million euro prepayment case revealed in the audit, doubting the government's ability to effectively manage the upcoming billions and demanding a clear vision concerning financial management, metrics, and personnel needs.
Andre Hanimägi
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invites Andre Hanimägi to the floor to speak.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur confirmed that 9 million euros are allocated for the maintenance and spare parts of K9 self-propelled howitzers. He further explained that after defense expenditures were raised above 5% of GDP, a working group was quickly formed. This group compiled a long-term procurement plan (KILP), emphasizing monthly monitoring of budget execution and flexibility. This flexibility allows the Centre for Defence Investment to exceed budgetary resources on certain contracts in order to avoid the risk of funds being carried over to the following year due to delivery delays.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invited Mati Raidma to speak.
Mati Raidma
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Mati Raidma drew attention to the packed agenda for the upcoming autumn concerning security and national defense. He then questioned the minister on whether the ambitions set out in the "Estonia 2035" strategy remain realistic amidst today's rapid pace of development, while simultaneously emphasizing the pressing need to update the foundational principles of security policy this year. He concluded by asking what else requires updating beyond the refresh of the 5% defense spending commitment.
Mati Raidma
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI 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
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
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi asked Riina Solman to take the floor.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Riina Solman is drawing the minister’s attention to a contradiction: while the defense budget grows and management salaries increase, young soldiers who risk their lives on missions and are away from their families continue to earn only 1,200 euros. She demands an explanation as to when the promised incentive pay system will be extended to these frontline personnel—the ones who are the first to put their lives on the line.
Riina Solman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invited Helle-Moonika Helme to speak.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI 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
AI Summary
The speech is simply a word of thanks.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helle-Moonika Helme claims that the Ministry of Defense plans to introduce mandatory military service for women.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Toomas Kivimägi expresses his gratitude.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helle-Moonika Helme asks if there is anything to say about this, and whether this claim is also true.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi thanks Helle-Moonika and confirms that the question is understood.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
The speech discusses the call for women's mobilization and raises the question of whether Estonian women will be killed in the war.
Helle-Moonika Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Helle-Moonika Helme poses a provocative question regarding the consequences of gender neutrality in mobilization, questioning whether this means that Estonian women would also be sent into battle and killed in a war situation.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi confirmed that the minister indeed spoke about 2 billion.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur deems the debate surrounding mandatory conscription for women essential, pointing to the example set by Nordic countries and stressing the significant contribution Estonian women already make to national defense, both as voluntary conscripts and as active duty personnel holding high-ranking positions. He urges political parties to formulate their stance before the 2027 elections, noting that failure to do so might necessitate reducing the size of the defense forces in the future. Pevkur further emphasizes that any amendment to the conscription law must be adopted solely by the Riigikogu (Parliament), not the Ministry of Defense.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invites Jaak Aab to take the floor.
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
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur confirms that the fast-track procedure chosen for developing the Nursipalu training area was the correct and unavoidable choice, given the security situation and Russia's aggression. He stressed that the majority of the Riigikogu supported taking quick action to avoid delays, emphasizing that challenges to the project would have arisen regardless of the type of procedure selected.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi calls Õnne Pillak to the stage.
Õnne Pillak
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI 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
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
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
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
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
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
AI Summary
The purpose of this speech is to invite Alar Laneman to the stage.
Alar Laneman
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur stresses that although the US Congress's decision to cut foreign aid programs is not yet final, Estonia will not experience a funding gap when securing the eastern flank. This is because the European Union plans to increase its defense budget manifold, likely allocating larger sums for strengthening the Baltic defense line and the eastern flank than the amounts that would be withheld by the US. Consequently, the shortfall can be covered with the assistance of the European Commission.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
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
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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).
Jaak Valge
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Jaak Valge reminds the Minister of the spring interpellation concerning the reorganizations at the Tallinn Defence Forces Cemetery, initiated and financed by the Russian Embassy, which diminish the dignity of statehood, and expresses disappointment that despite an earlier promise to address the problem, the arbitrary action continues. Consequently, he demands either confirmation of the current state of affairs or a written response to the spring interpellation.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi calls upon Henn Põlluaas.
Henn Põlluaas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Toomas Kivimägi invites Anti Allast to speak.
Anti Allas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi invites Kalev Stoicescu to speak.
Kalev Stoicescu
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur provided an overview of the Navy's development plans for the coming years, which center on the restoration of two patrol boats donated to Ukraine, the acquisition of underwater vehicles for special operations, the life extension of three minehunters until 2040, and the replacement of the *Pikker*, which was transferred from the PPA, with a new patrol vessel. Additionally, the active use of Blue Spear anti-ship missiles and the testing of underwater surveillance systems will continue.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu is invited to the stage to begin the address.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI 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
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.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
AI Summary
Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur dismissed claims that standard contracts and summary tables concerning aid to Ukraine had not been submitted to the State Audit Office, confirming that they had, in fact, been forwarded. He dedicated the bulk of his address to defending the inventory principles used for the Defence Forces' stocks, stressing that these same principles have been in force since 2010, including the period when the questioner himself served as Minister of Defence. Nevertheless, he promised that if the State Audit Office requires the adoption of new principles, the Defence Forces and the Centre for Defence Investments will implement them.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
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.
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
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
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI 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
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
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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.
Varro Vooglaid
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Varro Vooglaid lodged a protest against the Presiding Officer's remark and demanded that the Chair compel the minister to answer his specific question: whether anyone in the Ministry of Defence would take responsibility for the financial debacle sharply highlighted by the National Audit Office, given that the minister had previously failed to address the query.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
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
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
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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.
Aseesimees Toomas Kivimägi
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Toomas Kivimägi confirmed that the substantive questions and expectations raised by the Riigikogu members were justified, but conceded that ministers may not always provide answers, either due to a lack of specific details or political unwillingness, noting that this is a persistent problem within the parliament. He then gave the floor to Raimond Kaljulaid, who followed the Minister of Defence.
Raimond Kaljulaid
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI 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
AI Summary
Vice-Speaker Toomas Kivimägi expresses his thanks.
Raimond Kaljulaid
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI 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
AI Summary
Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur is responding to concerns regarding the management of the Defence Forces' stocks, confirming that the assets acquired by the Centre for Defence Investments have been handed over to the Defence Forces and are currently in use. He stresses the necessity of ensuring the availability of these reserves, which is why he has ordered an immediate extraordinary inventory. This measure is intended to assure the Estonian people that all necessary resources, ranging from large systems down to small consumables, are present in storage and properly accounted for.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller called upon Kalle Grünthal to speak.
Kalle Grünthal
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller calls upon Martin Helme to speak.
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI 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
AI Summary
The speech urges the listeners to take action, simply by saying that it is their time.
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI 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
AI Summary
Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur responded to the question regarding air surveillance, explaining that the capability gap in detecting low airspace (below 300 meters) had been recognized for a long time. Following the decision to increase national defense expenditures, contracts have been signed to establish an integrated and multilayered defense system. This system consists of flat-panel radars and acoustic sensors designed to monitor low airspace. He also stressed that, even based on Ukraine’s experience, some low-flying objects will inevitably remain undetected.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller invites Riina Sikkut to speak.
Riina Sikkut
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI 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
AI Summary
Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur responded to the remarks made by the State Audit Office, confirming that systemic deficiencies in the payment and advance payment processes (including in the communication between the Centre for Defence Investment and the Centre for State Support Services) are now being addressed. This is being achieved by implementing stricter internal control, hiring additional internal auditors, and introducing clearer authorization procedures. He emphasized that while advance payments are unavoidable and require flexibility in defence procurements, the primary objective is to ensure that goods purchased with taxpayer money, such as HIMARS, are actually received, and that no systemic observations arise in future audits.
Kaitseminister Hanno Pevkur
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller asked Leo Kunnas.
Leo Kunnas
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller makes a request to Urmas Kruuse.
Urmas Kruuse
Profiling Eesti Reformierakonna fraktsioonAI 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
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
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
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Kalev Stoicescu expands upon the Minister of Defence's overview, stressing the vital importance of comprehensive national defense, which requires enormous financial efforts from taxpayers for the development of both military and non-military capabilities, and presupposes that adequate compensation is ensured for both professional servicemen and contributors on the civilian side (police, rescuers). He demands an immediate response from the Ministry of Defence to the State Audit Office's critical remarks regarding accounting and inventories, while simultaneously emphasizing the critical need for political and societal unity to resist the aggressor state's psychological warfare, prevent the spread of fear, and ensure Estonia's strength.
Kalev Stoicescu
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
AI Summary
The Deputy Speaker next called upon Urmas Reinsalu on behalf of the Isamaa faction and requested three additional minutes.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu emphasizes the national consensus on national defense and the necessity of strategically utilizing a greater volume of European Union financial resources for military defense. However, he focuses his sharp criticism on the weakness and confusion plaguing the political leadership of the defense sector. Specifically, the speaker accuses the Minister of Defense of disregarding the military advice of the Commander of the Defense Forces (for instance, in the procurement of ammunition and anti-drone defenses), dragging his feet on implementing crucial decisions, and ignoring the State Audit Office's devastating assessment regarding systemic financial disarray. He concludes that the minister has lost confidence and is incapable of bearing responsibility in this critical area.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI 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
AI Summary
The message "Your Time" urges listeners to take action and assume responsibility.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI 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
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller thanks [the previous speaker] and calls upon Raimond Kaljulaid to represent the Social Democratic Party faction.
Raimond Kaljulaid
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Raimond Kaljulaid asks if he can also request extra time.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Speaker Arvo Aller requests three additional minutes.
Raimond Kaljulaid
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Raimond Kaljulaid sharply criticizes the government's attempt to claim credit for increasing defense spending, emphasizing that the errors highlighted in the National Audit Office's audit—such as unjustified advance payments—are genuinely costly and risky for the state. He demands the formation of an investigative committee to clarify the full scope of the problems, while also recommending that Minister Hanno Pevkur resign in order to restore public confidence.
Raimond Kaljulaid
Profiling Sotsiaaldemokraatliku Erakonna fraktsioonAI 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
AI Summary
Vice-Chairman Arvo Aller, on behalf of the EKRE faction, requests three minutes of additional time.
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI 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.
Martin Helme
Profiling Eesti Konservatiivse Rahvaerakonna fraktsioonAI Summary
Martin Helme sharply criticizes the Reform Party government’s assertion that Estonia is "in safe hands" and well protected, labeling it yet another cynical lie that has now been exposed. He stresses that despite the constant fear-mongering about the threat of war, national defense is actually in chaos, reserves have not been replenished, and recent incidents, along with the National Audit Office report, prove that hundreds of millions of euros earmarked for defense spending have vanished, pointing directly to systemic incompetence and corruption. Consequently, the speaker demands the immediate resignation of the Minister of Defense and the entire government, arguing they have failed disastrously in every area of state governance.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
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
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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.
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Peeter Ernits contrasts the government’s (Reform Party, Pevkur) boastful and ineffective defense policy with the approach favored by realists. He criticizes both the slow response time (citing the Elva drone incident) and the "bardakk"—the sheer chaos—exposed by the National Audit Office in the Ministry of Defence’s handling of funds. This state of affairs generates war anxiety among the public and significantly erodes confidence in state leaders, ultimately casting doubt on the willingness of men to go to the front line if necessary.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller asks if the participants want more time.
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Peeter Ernits gives a clear affirmative answer: "Yes, please, I certainly would."
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
Deputy Chairman Arvo Aller requests three extra minutes.
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Peeter Ernits questions the strength of Estonia's will to defend, while simultaneously criticizing Ukrainian men for avoiding the front line. He expresses deep concern regarding Estonia's security, citing the case of the attack drone that exploded near Elva, in the very heart of Estonia (a fragment of which he also displays). In his view, this incident proves the proximity of the threat and the precarious situation of the state, which is why he sharply criticizes the Minister of Defence’s reassuring messages, finding them unconvincing. He demands clarity, arguing that Estonia is not, in his opinion, in safe hands.
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
AI Summary
The central message of the speech is that it is your time.
Peeter Ernits
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Kristo Enn Vaga thanks the presiding officer and requests an extension of time.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
AI Summary
The speaker says we need three extra minutes.
Kristo Enn Vaga
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI 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.
Urmas Reinsalu
Profiling Isamaa fraktsioonAI Summary
Urmas Reinsalu criticized the Minister of Defense for skipping the debate on national defense development. He stressed that while there is political consensus on acquiring new capabilities, the actual issue is leadership failures and a crisis of trust, resulting from the disregard of the State Audit Office's devastating assessment. Consequently, it is essential to restore clarity and establish an adequate diagnosis for the management of the national defense sector.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
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
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI Summary
Kristo Enn Vaga notes that a comment is made from the floor, and then offers his opinion.
Aseesimees Arvo Aller
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
Profiling Fraktsiooni mittekuuluvad Riigikogu liikmedAI 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
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.