By Months: Marko Mihkelson

The speaker demonstrates authority on the subject of historical crimes committed by the Soviet regime (the deportation of Crimean Tatars, the Holodomor) and crimes of genocidal dimensions committed in the context of the war in Ukraine. Specific historical dates (1944, 1989, 2014) and statistics (over 46% perished in the first year) are used. The necessity of establishing an international legal framework is emphasized, referencing Estonia's prior role in recognizing the Holodomor as genocide.

The speaker demonstrates authority regarding the procedural processes of the Riigikogu (Estonian Parliament) and the work of the Foreign Affairs Committee, referencing specific sittings, invited experts, and the drafting of amendments. Furthermore, the speaker is knowledgeable about the substance of the Foreign Service Act, being able to compare it with the systems of other European countries and highlighting technical details, such as changing the law's effective date. This expertise is further supported by references to feedback from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' legal counsel and Human Resources department.

The speaker demonstrates expertise in international law, the implementation of sanctions, and the handling of foreign treaties. He/She demonstrates knowledge of international developments (e.g., Belgium’s decision regarding the use of interest for arms aid) and Estonian legislative procedures. Furthermore, he/she presents statistics on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' workload concerning foreign treaties, showing knowledge of the ministry's internal processes.

The speaker demonstrates authority regarding the legislation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the procedural processes of the Riigikogu, referencing specific details such as written answers to 15 clarifying questions. The expertise is clearly aimed at the technical and legal aspects of lawmaking, with mention of ministry departments and bureaus. He/She emphasizes that the issues requiring amendments have been discussed in great detail and depth.

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in international security policy, transatlantic relations, and Russia's long-term aggression strategy, referencing the chain of events starting with the 2007 Munich speech. This specialized knowledge also encompasses hybrid warfare methods, such as interference in elections and the support of independence movements (e.g., Catalonia, USA). Specific examples are drawn from the battlefields (Bakhmut) and the diplomatic front (UN Ambassador Kyslytsya).

The speaker demonstrates a deep understanding of the work carried out by the Riigikogu Foreign Affairs Committee and parliamentary procedures, especially regarding the process of submitting draft decisions for consideration. This expertise covers the technical details involved in establishing and modifying international delegations.