Agenda Profile: Martin Helme
In light of the security drone incident and related questions
2025-09-17
Fifteenth Riigikogu, sixth sitting, press briefing.
Political Position
The political focus centers on national defense and security, highlighting strong opposition to the potential secret use of Estonian territory for waging war against Russia—an action that would violate the constitution. The speaker clearly differentiates between supporting Ukraine and Estonia's direct involvement in the war, criticizing the government's execution of national defense initiatives and its failure to foster a sense of security. These positions are heavily performance-driven, concentrating primarily on the government's failures.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in matters of national defense and security policy, citing specific failures, such as the shortfall in defense funding and the obstruction of the shadow fleet. Emphasis is placed on the constitutional requirement that the decision to participate in war must be made in parliament, not through tacit agreements. The analysis focuses on the government's inaction and the protracted nature of the prosecutor's investigation.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, accusatory, and critical, repeatedly employing intense terminology such as "failure" and "international disgrace." The emotional appeal is strong, emphasizing public concern and the government's inability to provide answers. Opponents' arguments are dismissed as nothing more than empty, "booming hurrah-patriotism," demonstrating a clear intent to discredit the opposing party.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker's pattern of action is reactive, focusing on current security incidents and demanding answers from the government. The address references previous discussions (specifically, defense sector funding last week), which demonstrates ongoing engagement with national defense topics.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main opponent is the Reform Party government, which is being accused of widespread failure in advancing national defense and guaranteeing the security of the Estonian people. The criticism is intense and performance-based, alleging that the government committed breaches in both political (the shadow fleet) and security procedural matters (the drone incident). The possibility of compromise is not mentioned; instead, the government's failures are highlighted.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is clearly on the national and international level, addressing Estonia's security interests, the constitution, relations with Ukraine, and the warfare related to Russia. Local or regional topics will not be covered.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Regarding social issues, emphasis is placed on ensuring the sense of security for the Estonian people, which is directly tied to national defense and the government's inability to resolve security threats (drones in the airspace). This theme is presented in the context of security and national defense.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on holding the government accountable and emphasizing the role of parliament in matters of national security. The speaker demands answers regarding the drone incident and secret authorizations, citing the need to ensure that decisions regarding participation in war are made on the floor of the Riigikogu.
1 Speeches Analyzed