Agenda Profile: Leo Kunnas
First reading of the draft resolution (705 OE) of the Riigikogu, "The use of the Defence Forces in fulfilling Estonia's international obligations in a North Atlantic Treaty Organization or member state, European Union, or United Nations-led international military operation involving the initial contribution thereto."
2025-09-24
Fifteenth Riigikogu, sixth sitting, plenary sitting.
Political Position
The political position involves strong support for the government's request to grant a mandate for the initial contribution of up to 100 servicemen to international operations (NATO, EU, UN). The stance is policy-based, emphasizing the legal foundation (Section 34, Subsection 4 of the National Defence Act) and the justification of previous practice. At the same time, it is stressed that the current security situation requires attention domestically in Estonia, which justifies the planned, record-low level of participation in foreign operations.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates significant expertise in national defense legislation and mandates for foreign operations, citing a specific statutory provision and historical precedent. Detailed figures regarding the involvement of the Defense Forces are presented, including a planned record-low ceiling (6.5 mandates) for the upcoming year. This expertise stems from comprehensive committee work and consultation with senior military officials and ministry representatives.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, procedural, and informative, making it suitable for the rapporteur presenting a draft bill in the Riigikogu. The address is logic-based, relying heavily on specific legal statutes, prior practice, and the detailed minutes of committee meetings. Emotional appeals are avoided; the primary focus is on justifying the procedure and maintaining transparency.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively involved in the work of the National Defence Committee, referencing two recent sessions (September 15 and 22) where the draft bill was discussed. A recurring pattern is noted, as the speaker has also served as the rapporteur for the same draft bill during previous compositions of the Riigikogu. These patterns of activity demonstrate systematic and consistent participation in defence policy legislation.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
There is no opposition, as the speaker is focusing on outlining the procedure of the draft legislation and the consensus decisions of the National Defence Committee. No criticism is being leveled against any political group or individual.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The collaborative style is consensual and broad-based, emphasizing the unanimous procedural decisions made by the National Defence Committee to conclude the first reading of the draft legislation. Cooperation is also maintained with the executive branch and the leadership of the Defence Forces, who were involved in the bill's discussions to provide an overview for internal use.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on international obligations (NATO, the EU, and UN-led operations) and Estonian national security. It is emphasized that the current security situation demands attention within Estonia, which serves as the justification for reducing foreign involvement.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
There is not enough data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data.
1 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The primary legislative focus is securing the mandate for the deployment of the Defense Forces in international operations (705 OE) pursuant to the National Defence Act. The speaker, acting as the bill's rapporteur, is concentrating on the procedural steps: proposing the conclusion of the first reading and setting the deadline for submitting amendments at ten working days.
1 Speeches Analyzed