Agenda Profile: Martin Helme
Inquiry concerning the intention to deploy the Defense Forces to Ukraine (No. 814)
2025-11-10
XV Riigikogu, VI Session, Plenary Sitting
Political Position
The political stance is categorically opposed to sending Estonian soldiers to Ukraine, emphasizing that such a move would be tantamount to starting a war with Russia and would bring ruin upon the Estonian state. While Ukraine is supported financially, with weapons, and with ammunition, the extent of this support—which comes at the expense of the Estonian people—is being questioned, particularly in the context of blowing up the state budget. This position is strongly value-based, focusing on the security of the Estonian nation and responsible state governance.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in foreign policy and military missions, clearly distinguishing between a peacekeeping mission (which requires a UN Security Council mandate and Russia's consent) and intervention in a war. They also possess knowledge of state finance, referencing the state budget being blown wide open and the necessity of tax increases. Regarding security, deficiencies in Estonia's defense capabilities are highlighted, such as the lack of drone capabilities.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, sharp, and urgent, repeatedly accusing the opposition of playing dumb, dodging questions, and general irresponsibility. It employs powerful emotional appeals (such as the fear of destruction) and direct, sometimes personal attacks to underscore the government's incompetence. The style is more informative and confrontational than data-driven, utilizing phrases such as "delirious ravings" and "psychological displacement."
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity focuses on active participation in Riigikogu interpellations, where critical issues of national security and foreign policy are addressed. The speaker utilizes the interpellation format to demand clear answers from the government and criticize their procedural conduct.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opponent is the Reform Party and the government, who stand accused of dodging key issues, making pledges without the Riigikogu's authorization, and demonstrating irresponsibility regarding the security of the Estonian people. The attacks are intense, featuring personal accusations of incompetence and deliberate foolishness, stressing that the government is "fundamentally irresponsible toward its own people." Compromise is completely ruled out concerning the deployment of Estonian soldiers to Ukraine.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data. The speech focuses exclusively on confrontation with the government and emphasizing EKRE's clear position.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is primarily on international security issues, particularly the war in Ukraine and relations with Russia, as well as Estonia's national security and budget. International organizations such as the UN Security Council and the European Union summits are also mentioned.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives stress the necessity of fiscal discipline, criticizing the government for overspending the state budget and creating the need for "dozens of tax hikes." The proportionality of foreign aid is being questioned, asking whether the capacity of the Estonian people to support a country 40 times larger than their own has been correctly assessed.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues are only brought up in the context of immigration, specifically highlighting support for Ukrainians through the provision of housing in Estonia as a key support measure. Other social issues are not addressed in the speech.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is aimed at controlling the government's actions, requiring that any commitment to military intervention must first be authorized by the Riigikogu (Parliament). Furthermore, the government is criticized for its failure to develop crucial drone capabilities vital for national defense, despite the war having lasted for nearly four years.
3 Speeches Analyzed