Session Profile: Anti Poolamets

15th Riigikogu, 5th sitting, plenary session

2025-01-21

Political Position
The speaker prioritizes national defense and the rapid procurement of military equipment, emphasizing the need to correct past mistakes and prevent delays. He strongly opposes the green transition, arguing that it destroys the economy's competitiveness and diverts funds away from national defense. The political framework is heavily results-oriented and values rapid response to security threats. National defense must be the focus instead of the green transition.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise in national defense procurement processes and historical failures, highlighting specific examples (such as the Spitfires in 1938, and canceled ship and helicopter acquisitions). He utilizes technical details and statistics, referencing the Russian army's ammunition expenditure (40,000 units per day) and the estimated cost of anti-drone defense (€500 million). He underscores that it is the stockpiles and supplies that fight the war, not just the troops.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The style is urgent and combative, emphasizing the necessity of speed and referencing historical failures ("delays, letting things slide"). Both logical arguments are employed (e.g., procurements are delayed) and emotional appeals (Eldorado, throwing money into the sea). The speaker utilizes historical examples (Kiek in de Kök, the cancellation of the 1939 treaties) and quotes experts (General Sõrskõi, James Acuna) to bolster their position.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The speaker is actively participating in the plenary session debate concerning national defense, delivering extended remarks and requesting additional time. He/She also intervenes on procedural issues, drawing attention to the audibility problems in the chamber during presentations. This pattern of activity demonstrates a focus on the ongoing legislative debates.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The main criticism is aimed at the government and the coalition, who are accused of slow action and wasting national defense funds on the green transition (offshore wind farms). A personal attack is directed at the former prime minister, who engaged in business dealings in Russia after 2014 ("Eldorado"). The criticism is intense and focuses on political errors and the incorrect setting of priorities.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Insufficient data.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is heavily on national defense and the international security situation (Ukraine, NATO/EU 3% defense spending). Local attention is also being paid to Tallinn’s historical defense capabilities (Kiek in de Kök) and the participation of Estonian investors in subscribing to government bonds. It is also mentioned that the electricity generated by offshore wind farms flows mostly towards Germany.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
The economic perspective focuses on prioritizing national defense funding, supporting the use of bonds and ultra-low interest loans for rapid investment. The green transition (specifically the €2.6 billion offshore wind project) is viewed as killing economic competitiveness and wasting national defense funds. Swift and decisive government spending to ensure security is strongly supported.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Insufficient data.

4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The speaker is a strong proponent of the national defense bill currently under discussion, which aims to accelerate procurement processes and rectify previous shortcomings. His priorities include acquiring medium-range air defense capabilities, purchasing a multifunctional vessel and helicopters, and ensuring rapid and adequate preparation for drone warfare. He stresses the necessity of addressing the "gray zones" within national defense.

4 Speeches Analyzed