Session Profile: Eerik-Niiles Kross
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
2025-02-11
Political Position
The most important topic is maintaining Estonian security and shaping a new world order amid the volatility of the US and the aggression of Russia. The political stance is strongly value-based, emphasizing the continuity of Estonian foreign policy over the last 30 years (freedom, responsibility, peace). The speaker criticizes the West for its insufficient speed and assertiveness in providing arms aid to Ukraine, as well as for European countries breaking unity due to internal political reasons.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in foreign policy and diplomatic history, referencing Lennart Meri's 1994 speech and the tradition established by Jüri Luik. He uses historical parallels (1994, the 1930s, the Peace of Westphalia) to analyze the current geopolitical situation. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of the USA and the long-term nature of Russian imperialism.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is formal, intellectual, and simultaneously incisive, utilizing numerous historical references and anecdotes (e.g., Putin leaving the hall). The speaker balances pessimistic assessments regarding Western inaction with an appeal to maintain Estonian optimism and composure during the crisis. Strong metaphors are used (e.g., "computer shutdown," "the elephant in the room").
3 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The presented data is limited to a single speech delivered during a Riigikogu plenary session, which served as a response to the Foreign Minister's annual address. The speaker references earlier actions taken in 1994 during the drafting of the speech.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
Strong criticism is aimed at Russia's aggressive imperialism and the inaction of the West (especially the "old West"), which has pretended for too long that Russia was moving toward the rule of law. Separate criticism is leveled against European countries that have broken European unity for domestic political reasons. Furthermore, Trump’s team is viewed as a force that will finalize the dismantling of the world order.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The emphasis of cooperation is at the international level, calling on Europe to articulate and assert its interests. Estonia's role in this volatile situation is seen as that of a more significant co-formulator. Data regarding domestic inter-party cooperation is absent.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is heavily international and geopolitical, analyzing shifts in the global order and the relations between the US, Russia, and China. Estonia is viewed as part of a belt of Central European nations stretching from Narva, through Ukraine, all the way to the Adriatic Sea, emphasizing the necessity of building a security zone.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic perspectives are tied to security expenditures, noting that the cost of Western inaction has become staggering. Concern is voiced over the freezing of the budget for US global aid programs (USAID). It is emphasized that it is time for Europe to start funding programs that protect its own interests (e.g., Radio Free Europe).
3 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Social issues are not directly addressed; the focus is on geopolitical values such as democracy, freedom, responsibility, and peace in an international context.
3 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Not enough data.
3 Speeches Analyzed