Agenda Profile: Marko Mihkelson
A debate on foreign policy initiated as a matter of significant national importance by the Foreign Affairs Committee.
2025-02-11
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly value-based and focuses on Estonia's existential security, emphasizing the principle "Never again alone." The speaker vigorously supports the narrative of Ukrainian victory and demands a significant increase in defense spending from Western Europe and the allies, citing Trump's idea of 5% of GDP as an unavoidable reality. The main goal is the final collapse of empires in Europe and the expansion of the democratic security space.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in security policy and geopolitics, drawing on historical parallels (Munich 1938, Churchill) and detailed data (e.g., the number of North Korean poppy factories). This expertise is substantiated by recent personal experience near the Ukrainian front and comprehensive knowledge of the defense cooperation between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. The speaker quotes authoritative figures such as MI6 Director Richard Moore and the commander of a Ukrainian assault brigade.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is formal, analytical, and highly cautionary, emphasizing the existential nature of the threat facing the West and the necessity of avoiding strategic errors. Both logical arguments (the inadequacy of defense spending) and historical narratives (Churchill, Pearl Harbor) are employed to support the critique of Western inaction. The overall tone is urgent, stressing that the defeat of the collective West is "only a matter of time" if no action is taken.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker maintains a highly active and internationally focused schedule, which recently included a visit to the Ukrainian frontline region and meetings with special forces personnel. As a member of the Riigikogu Foreign Affairs Committee, he has coordinated parliamentary diplomacy, including trips to East Asia last autumn (Taiwan, South Korea). A joint visit by the chairmen of the Nordic-Baltic Foreign Affairs Committees to Moldova is scheduled for next month.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main adversary is Russia, which is described as an aggressor seeking to restore its empire and an existential threat, and more broadly, the "authoritarian quartet" (China, North Korea, Iran). Criticism is also directed at the major Western European powers, who have disarmed and stubbornly deny the reality of war. The speaker sharply criticizes those who hope for a quick peace or are ready to yield to Russia's nuclear blackmail.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The cooperation style is active and focused on the unity of the allied space, emphasizing the critical importance of regional cooperation among the Nordic-Baltic states and Poland. Direct communication with the US Congress is considered vital to maintaining contact with the majority that highly values allied relations. The necessity of avoiding divisions within the alliance framework, such as the trade dispute between the US and the European Union, is stressed.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is distinctly international, addressing the global confrontation with authoritarian powers and attempts to establish a new world order. Regionally, emphasis is placed on Nordic-Baltic cooperation (NB8) and Baltic Sea security, as well as support for Moldova’s and Ukraine’s aspirations for European Union and NATO membership.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic outlook focuses on prioritizing defense spending, calling for allies to make substantial investments in defense capabilities, potentially reaching 5% of GDP. Criticism is leveled at the pressure exerted by fiscal policy and decades of disarmament, which have resulted in 9 trillion euros being diverted away from the defense sector in Europe. Furthermore, the considerable economic strength of the BRICS nations is highlighted.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
There are no direct positions stated regarding social issues; the topic is covered more broadly within the context of defending democratic freedoms and institutions. Emphasis is placed on the need to prevent the "internal illiberalization of the free world" through Russian influence campaigns.
7 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is directed towards strengthening the foreign service and intensifying international cooperation through parliamentary diplomacy. The speaker awaits the position of the Government of the Republic regarding the amendments initiated by the Foreign Affairs Committee to the pending draft Foreign Relations Act. The active work of the Riigikogu's foreign delegations in representing Estonia's interests is recognized.
7 Speeches Analyzed