Agenda Profile: Urmas Reinsalu
Second reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu "Use of the Defence Forces in fulfilling the international obligations of the Republic of Estonia in the European Union's international military operation EUNAVFOR Aspides" (482 OE)
2024-12-04
15th Estonian Parliament, 4th session, plenary sitting
Political Position
The political position is strongly defense-oriented, supporting all proposed military missions, but expressing deep concern over the government's inaction regarding national defense spending and the procurement of supplies. Criticism is aimed at the government’s poor performance and the untrustworthiness of the narrative used to justify tax hikes by citing defense expenditures. The government’s actions are assessed based on results, highlighting delays spanning eighteen months in meeting critical capability requirements.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The expert analysis clearly focuses on the specifics of national defense financing and the budget, particularly concerning the Ministry of Defence's operating costs and the budget lines for ammunition procurement ("Special Defence Equipment"). It utilizes specific figures (a 96 million decrease, a 75 million increase) and points out contradictions within the budget's explanatory notes. It quotes the assessment of the director of the Centre for Defence Studies regarding the speed of ammunition acquisition and employs economic terminology such as GDP and price inflation (25%).
4 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetoric is sharp, accusatory, and forceful, emphasizing the government's inaction and hypocrisy. Strong emotional expressions are used ("cynical game," "A damn cynical game," "Poor job!") alongside comparisons ("Alice in Wonderland, in the world behind the looking glass"). The style is formal, yet highly confrontational, demanding answers and accountability.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
An active participant in the Riigikogu session, presenting detailed questions and requesting additional time for the thorough presentation of their views during the second reading of a specific draft bill. Refers to previous questions and proposals (Isamaa's proposal to the Parliament's Board), which demonstrates consistent activity regarding defense procurements.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The opposition maintains a strong stance against the government and the ruling coalition, accusing them of inaction, hypocrisy, and manipulating budget figures. The criticism targets both the political will and specific budgetary decisions, particularly the delay in procuring provisions and the attempt to mask cuts to defense spending as mere administrative savings. The government's actions have been labeled "two lies at once."
4 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
Not enough data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The focus is on national defense, allied relations, and international operations (EUNAVFOR Aspides). A proposal is put forward to use European Union structural funds for one-off defense investments, which demonstrates interest in EU-level financial mechanisms.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Critical of the government's justification for tax increases if they do not lead to the actual strengthening of defense capabilities, but instead result in a reduction in the expenditure line for specialized defense equipment. It emphasizes that inaction (the delay in ammunition procurement) has resulted in significant additional costs (estimated at 1% of GDP). Supports the use of EU structural funds for defense investments in order to find alternative funding sources.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
Not enough data.
4 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
Supports the specific draft resolution concerning the deployment of the Defence Forces in an international operation. The primary legislative focus is demanding a plan for the urgent implementation of defense expenditures and ammunition procurement within the 2025 state budget. It criticizes the Parliament's Board for rejecting Isamaa's proposal to provide clear guidance for ammunition procurement.
4 Speeches Analyzed