Session Profile: Maria Jufereva-Skuratovski

15th Estonian Parliament, 3rd session, plenary session

2024-02-13

Political Position
The political stance is firmly rooted in values and is centered on supporting Ukraine to achieve victory against the aggressor. We stress the necessity of standing firm against Russian propaganda and preserving the unity of democratic nations. There is unwavering support for Ukraine's territorial integrity, and we demand that the perpetrators of the crime of aggression be held fully accountable. Security and the defense of our values are prioritized over economic concerns.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in the fields of international security, geopolitics, and information protection, referencing Zbigniew Brzezinski’s work "The Grand Chessboard." The focus is placed on the topics of Russian aggression, propaganda, and the reform of international organizations (OSCE, UN). The question is raised concerning plans and research in Estonia regarding how to engage with supporters of pro-Kremlin narratives.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, serious, and pressing, emphasizing the need to steadfastly resist the aggressor. Both strategic arguments (geopolitical significance, shift in the world order) and value-based appeals (fighting for freedom and Western values) are employed. Strong terms, such as "the language of brutal or even barbaric force," are used to describe Russia's actions.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The records indicate active participation in the plenary session of the Riigikogu on February 13, presenting both an extended report and specific questions directed to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the rapporteur. The inquiries addressed both domestic counter-propaganda efforts and the reform of international organizations.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main adversary is the Russian Federation, which is criticized for aggression, the use of barbaric force, and attempts to divide democratic states. Resistance to submitting to Russia's rules of the game is intense and uncompromising. Supporters of Kremlin-friendly narratives in Estonia are also indirectly criticized.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Emphasis is placed on the need for democratic states to achieve consensus and unity in supporting Ukraine to resist Russia’s subversive activities. Support is given to developing economic and security cooperation with countries that share the same values. The necessity of cooperation in reforming global organizations is also recognized.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is strongly international, centering on European security, the war in Ukraine, and the reform of global organizations (OSCE, UN). The domestic security issue within Estonia is also being raised concerning supporters of Kremlin-aligned narratives and the necessity of addressing them.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Negative economic concerns stemming from the war are acknowledged, including the disruption of supply chains and rising prices. However, it is stressed that security and supporting Ukraine outweigh economic considerations, as solutions can ultimately be found for economic problems. The enlargement of the European Union is supported.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The primary social concern revolves around national security and core values, specifically focusing on the impact of Russian propaganda on residents living in Estonia. There is a demand for the government to produce a concrete plan detailing how to engage with citizens who support pro-Kremlin narratives and encourage them to adopt Western values.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is aimed at reforming international organizations (the dissolution of the OSCE and its establishment on new foundations) and supporting the enlargement of the European Union. Emphasis is placed on the need to hold accountable the perpetrators of the crime of aggression committed against Ukraine.

4 Speeches Analyzed