Agenda Profile: Martin Helme
Inquiry regarding a naval operation (no. 784) that failed and ended with the risk of military confrontation.
2025-09-22
15th Riigikogu, 6th sitting, plenary session
Political Position
The political position is strongly oppositional, focusing on the government's incompetence in ensuring national security and its failure in the naval operation. The speaker criticizes the government's slogan-driven rhetoric, which is detached from reality, and strongly opposes the tax increases (VAT, income tax, car tax, excise duties, land tax) and the reduction of child benefits. The political framework is heavily results-based, emphasizing the government's inability to act effectively in reality.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in maritime security and international maritime law, clearly differentiating between territorial waters and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and their respective jurisdictions. Furthermore, they possess detailed knowledge of specific security incidents (drones, airspace violations) and the contradictory explanations provided by the relevant officials (Karus, Saska). They leverage this knowledge to cast doubt on the government's assertions regarding the operation's objectives and its adherence to international law.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is highly combative, aggressive, and accusatory, employing strong emotional appeals and making direct accusations (e.g., alleging the prime minister is lying). The style tends to be unsubstantiated and ironic, focusing on contrasting the government's actions and slogans with reality. There is frequent use of contrast (rhetoric vs. reality) and labeling (e.g., "Putinists," "blood money").
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker actively exercises parliamentary oversight, submitting inquiries (No. 784) and reacting quickly to security incidents. He/She highlights the slow pace of government communication and the dependence of Riigikogu members on newspapers for obtaining information. This points to a pattern where the government’s actions are criticized due to the late notification of the public and parliament.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opponent is the Reform Party-led government, especially Prime Minister Kristen Michal, who is directly accused of lying. The criticism is intense, leveling accusations against the government regarding incompetence, lack of transparency, and endangering national security. The criticism is political, procedural, and personal (calling the intelligence of the ministers into question).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
There is absolutely no mention of cooperation or willingness to compromise. The speaker criticizes the government for acting unilaterally in security matters (the detention of ships in international waters), while simultaneously failing to reach an agreement even with allies on border issues (Stark Logistics). He stresses that the government lacks the mandate to initiate a war with Russia.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strongly on national security (Estonian airspace, maritime operations) and on the international level, particularly concerning relations with Russia and allied nations (Denmark, Sweden, Great Britain, France, Germany). The comparison with Finland's quiet yet firm security policy, which is held up as an example, is also important.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Strong opposition to the government's tax policy, criticizing the hikes in VAT, income tax, car tax, excise duties, and land tax. The text sharply criticizes the earning of "blood money" (referencing Stark Logistics) and claims that the government is unwilling or unable to give up profits derived from Russia-related business. Regarding defense spending (5% of GDP), there is a clear implication of potential theft or corruption.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social issue is the opposition to the removal of child benefits, which is considered a violation of the voters' mandate. Other traditional social themes are not reflected in the speeches.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on parliamentary oversight and holding the government accountable through interpellation. Substantive answers and the adequate informing of Members of Parliament regarding security matters are demanded, criticizing the current practice of briefings as insufficient and inappropriate for parliamentary procedure.
3 Speeches Analyzed