Agenda Profile: Rene Kokk

The political focus is heavily centered on strengthening national defense and security, firmly supporting withdrawal from the Ottawa Convention to restore the capability to use anti-personnel mines. The speaker emphasizes that this was an earlier proposal by EKRE (2022/2023), criticizing the government for its delayed response and viewing it as confirmation of their previous stances. The position is strongly value-based and results-oriented, stressing the importance of deterrence.

The speaker demonstrates expertise in the fields of national defense and military tactics, detailing the role of anti-personnel landmines in slowing down, obstructing the enemy, and reinforcing defensive positions. Technical arguments are put forward regarding the benefits of mines (relative low cost, long storage life, minimal maintenance requirements), alongside a reference to the necessity of adhering to international law and properly documenting minefields (minefield passports). Furthermore, the speaker refers to personal experience gained during mandatory military service at the time the convention was being ratified.

The rhetorical style is partially combative and critical, repeatedly stressing that EKRE had been right about this topic all along ("But we told you this is what would happen!"). Both logical arguments (deterrence, cost-effectiveness) and emotional appeals are utilized, for example, by drawing an analogy to protecting one's family. The address is formal, yet it includes a common proverb ("better late than never") and references to Ukrainian practices.

The speaker actively participates in discussions on Riigikogu bills, utilizing these platforms to highlight previous proposals (2023) and criticize the government's actions. This pattern of behavior involves recalling the past voting records and stances of political opponents.

The primary criticism is directed at members of the government (Prime Minister Kristen Michal, Finance Minister Jürgen Ligi, Andres Sutt) for their previous opposition to withdrawing from the convention in 2023. The criticism specifically targets their indecisiveness and their underestimation of the security situation, which subsequently forced them to support the EKRE initiative.

While EKRE supports the current bill, it is stressed that this measure originated as an earlier EKRE proposal, which suggests a political victory rather than sincere cooperation. The cooperation is confined to supporting this specific security matter, yet they are using it as a tool to criticize the government.

The focus is clearly on national security and international treaties (the Ottawa Convention), while addressing the defense capability of Estonia as a small state. The example of Ukraine is also mentioned to justify the use of anti-personnel mines for defense.

Economic considerations are linked to national defense, emphasizing the relative cheapness and cost-effectiveness of anti-personnel mines as a deterrent. The low cost and low maintenance requirements of the mines are considered a significant advantage compared to today's expensive and complex weaponry.

Social issues are not directly addressed, but a strong moral framework and the analogy of personal defense (protecting one's family by any means necessary) are used to justify the state's right to employ all necessary defensive measures. The security aspect is emphasized over civil rights.

The main legislative priority is supporting the draft law (Bill 642 SE) on withdrawing from the Ottawa Convention, which prohibits the use of anti-personnel landmines. The speaker positions EKRE as the initiator of this topic, referencing a proposal of the same substance already made in 2023.