Session Profile: Marko Mihkelson

The political position is heavily focused on foreign and security policy, emphasizing that the ongoing conflict is a "new world war" initiated by Russia against the West. The main objective is to achieve Russia's strategic defeat in Ukraine and to maintain an unwavering commitment to the transatlantic security architecture and Western unity. This stance is value-based and driven by a sense of existential threat, criticizing the strategic hesitation of Western allies and their fear of escalating the war. Estonia should act as the trailblazer in shaping the West's strategy for victory.

The speaker demonstrates profound expertise in international security, the history of Russian aggression, and hybrid warfare tactics, citing examples dating back to the 2007 Munich speech. This expertise is grounded in direct contacts (Ukrainian commanders, a UN ambassador, the head of a Western intelligence service) and a detailed analysis of geopolitical alliances, detailing Russia's actions in Georgia, Syria, Catalonia, and during the US elections. Furthermore, the speaker is well-versed in defense spending levels (3% of GDP) and the operational challenges facing international organizations (OSCE, Council of Europe).

The rhetorical style is formal, analytical, and extremely forceful, employing strong language to emphasize the existential threat posed by the situation ("a new world war," "on the threshold of global catastrophe"). The speaker utilizes logical argumentation, presenting a chronological overview of Russia's aggression, but also incorporates personal encounters and quotes from Ukrainian heroes to create maximum impact. The overall tone is one of concern, yet confident in Estonia's capacity to take action.

The operational patterns demonstrate active international parliamentary diplomacy, highlighting recent joint visits to the USA/UN with colleagues from the Nordic and Baltic countries, as well as Taiwan. The work plan for the Riigikogu Foreign Affairs Committee includes upcoming visits to Ukraine, Norway, Japan, and South Korea. Domestically, the focus remains on monitoring the government’s activities and maintaining foreign policy consensus within the Riigikogu.

The main confrontation is directed against Russia and its allies (China, Iran, North Korea), who are attempting to change the world order by force. Criticism is also aimed at the internal political polarization and isolationist sentiments among Western allies, which are slowing down aid to Ukraine. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is criticized separately; his actions are causing "Orbán fatigue" among allies and undermining unity.

The speaker emphasizes the necessity of a strong political consensus in the Riigikogu on foreign and security policy issues to ensure the maximum effectiveness of Estonia's actions. Internationally, the central goal is maintaining the unity of the allied space and actively cooperating in shaping the West's broader victory strategy. He supports the election of former colleague Indrek Saar for the position of Secretary General of the Council of Europe, thereby demonstrating support for cross-party cooperation.

The regional focus is strongly international, concentrating on European security, the war in Ukraine, and transatlantic relations. Special emphasis is placed on the pivotal importance of cooperation between the Nordic and Baltic countries in the context of NATO enlargement (the accession of Finland and Sweden). Furthermore, developing ties with Asia is crucial, as confirmed by the Foreign Affairs Committee's visit to Taiwan and planned visits to Japan and South Korea.

Economic views are closely linked to security: there is support for keeping defense spending at 3% of GDP to guarantee independent defense capabilities. Furthermore, the need to strategically attract foreign investments is highlighted, along with creating new opportunities for Estonia’s creative industries to break into the global market. Sanctions are mentioned only lightly, with the observation that their effectiveness is limited by the actions of China and other nations.

Social issues are absent, with the exception of value-based opposition to authoritarian great powers and the emphasis placed on protecting the Western value space. Mention is made of Russia's support for European extremist forces "under the guise of protecting traditional values," as well as its assistance with immigration waves in cooperation with criminal organizations, which is part of Russia's broader anti-Western activity.

The legislative focus is on shaping parliamentary foreign policy, monitoring the government's activities, and approving foreign policy statements in the Riigikogu. The Foreign Affairs Committee has focused on taking the necessary political and diplomatic steps required for Ukraine's victory. It supports Indrek Saar's candidacy for the post of Secretary General of the Council of Europe and advocates for the dissolution of the OSCE and its re-establishment on new foundations due to Russia's veto power.