Agenda Profile: Kalle Grünthal

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

2025-09-09

15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary session.

Political Position
The political focus is currently on national security shortcomings, particularly regarding drone detection capabilities and the domestic threat. The speaker sharply criticizes the government's failure to secure the airspace, pointing to the danger posed by a "fifth column" being armed by the Russian Federation. This position is highly critical and centers on the ineffectiveness of security operations, which is framed as a long-term and serious threat.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates knowledge of specific security incidents (the landing of an explosive-laden drone) and official assessments (the initial statement by the Director General of the Security Police Board). He also refers to technical deficiencies in detecting drones at certain altitudes, based on statements from the Ministry of Defence and other experts.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is sharp, concerned, and accusatory, framing the question itself as a veiled accusation aimed directly at the minister. It employs an appeal to the wisdom of the people (referencing President Karis) and strong metaphors ("fifth column," "to stir up trouble") to underscore the domestic threat. The overall tone is more emotional and cautionary than neutrally political.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
Insufficient data.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary criticism is aimed at the actions taken by the Ministry of Defence and the government regarding the safeguarding of national security. The criticism is intense and centers on the political failure to detect drones, which sets the stage for the emergence of a Russia-backed internal threat.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data

1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national security and the international threat, particularly Russia’s activities aimed at undermining Estonia’s internal security. There is no specific local or regional focus.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The social issue is related to internal security, emphasizing the threat posed by an armed "fifth column" inside the country. This is addressed within the framework of security, not social policy or civil liberties.

1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Insufficient data.

1 Speeches Analyzed