Agenda Profile: Mart Helme
Inquiry Regarding the Explosion of an Attack Drone on the Territory of Estonia (No. 810)
2025-11-10
XV Riigikogu, VI Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly focused on improving national security and defense capabilities, highlighting gaps in the detection of low-flying objects. The speaker demands full clarity from the government (Kristen Michal) regarding the drone incident, suspecting that Estonian territory has knowingly been part of the operational space of the war between Ukraine and Russia. The framework is heavily results-oriented, criticizing the government’s failure to ensure security.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates a detailed understanding of national defense and border guard issues, referencing previous air defense funding decisions and the role played by Martin Herem. This specialized knowledge is also evident in their handling of topics such as border construction (the development of the control line, procurement of surveillance drones) and aviation (the technical improbability of closing Tallinn Airport). They use specific facts and events (the Ust-Luga attack, the Koruste crater) to support their arguments.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The tone is extremely combative, skeptical, and accusatory, particularly regarding the Reform Party, whose responses are labeled "laconic" and explanations "childish nonsense." Irony and sarcasm are employed, such as when referencing the demographic collapse and the fertility of the Helme family clan. Simplified arithmetic is used to underscore logical conclusions ("2 + 2 + 2 combined, and we get 6").
6 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The individual is an active submitter of inquiries (11 questions were posed) and participates in the work of the faction. Regarding their previous activity as Minister of the Interior, weekly meetings with officials are mentioned, which were held to compel the acceleration of the construction of the state control line.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opposition is aimed at the Reform Party and Prime Minister Kristen Michal, who stand accused of failure and incompetence in guaranteeing state security. The criticism is twofold: political (air defense shortcomings) and personal (Michal’s attempt to shift the blame onto Martin Helme). Furthermore, the opponents are accused of squandering funds and disseminating unreliable information to the public.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
A willingness to cooperate with the government is not apparent; the focus is on monitoring and criticizing the government's activities. The need for intra-factional cooperation is mentioned (the replacement of Martin Helme).
6 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The incident itself took place in Koruste village, Elva Parish, Tartu County. Internationally, the focus is on the war in Ukraine and Russia’s strategic targets (the Ust-Luga oil terminals), for the attack on which Estonian airspace may have served as a corridor.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Highly critical of how the government uses money, accusing them of squandering funds on inefficient projects (like the anti-tank ditch that was dug incorrectly) and through overpriced procurements (such as the drone platforms). Supports fiscal discipline and tangible investment in national defense and border infrastructure.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
It highlights Estonia's demographic collapse and the declining birth rate, linking this issue to the Reform Party's governance. Incidents concerning the security of the population are also mentioned, such as threats made against schools.
6 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The main legislative focus is currently on submitting interpellations (Interpellation No. 810, 11 questions) regarding security and accountability. Previously, the focus had been on the construction of the state control line and the removal of associated bureaucratic obstacles.
6 Speeches Analyzed