Agenda Profile: Urmas Reinsalu
First reading of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu, "Submitting a proposal to the Government of the Republic to close the temporary control line between the Republic of Estonia and the Russian Federation" (562 OE)
2025-03-20
15th Riigikogu, 5th session, plenary session
Political Position
The political position focuses heavily on national security, demanding the immediate closure of the Estonian-Russian temporary control line due to the threat of sabotage by Russian special services and ongoing violations of sanctions regulations. This stance is strongly value-based and highly critical of the government, accusing them of indecisiveness and unacceptable delays (70 days). It prioritizes security considerations over subjective local concerns. Furthermore, the closure of the border is viewed as a symmetrical counter-signal to Russia’s actions, such as the damage inflicted on Estlink 2.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Topic Expertise
The speaker demonstrates expertise regarding security threats (terrorist acts, sabotage) and the border regime, referencing specific incidents in Estonia and Europe, as well as warnings issued by security institutions. They utilize statistical data concerning border crossings (e.g., 3,958 Russian citizens per week) and are familiar with the legal foundation (State Border Act § 17 subsection 1 point 1) and the border closure practices of neighboring countries (Finland, Latvia). Emphasis is placed on consulting with professional security officials and diplomats.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Rhetorical Style
The rhetorical style is urgent and serious, emphasizing the acute nature of security threats and the need to classify Russia's actions as an act of terrorism. Many logical arguments are employed, referencing facts, statistics, and legal expertise, but simultaneously, the tone toward the government is sharply critical and accusatory regarding the delays. An effort is being made to achieve a consensus mood in parliament in order to strengthen the message being sent to the government.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Activity Patterns
The pattern of activity shows a reaction to security incidents (the Estlink 2 failure at the end of December), followed by an immediate appeal to the government and the submission of a draft bill on January 13. Consultation with security officials and diplomats is noted, hinting at the use of non-governmental information channels. It criticizes the government's slow pace (the threat assessment will only be ready by April) compared to Isamaa's swift initiative.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Opposition Stance
The primary opponents are the Government of the Republic and former Minister of the Interior Lauri Läänemets. Criticism is aimed at the lack of decisiveness, procedural delays (such as ordering a threat assessment only for April), and the government's earlier political calculation, which prioritized avoiding the dissatisfaction of Narva residents over security concerns. The Centre Party and the Reform Party, which raised objections, are viewed as opponents relying on incompetent arguments.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Collaboration Style
The position is aimed at finding consensus in parliament in order to send a unified political message to the government. It emphasizes close, yet confidential consultation with professional security officials and diplomats, offering them a full guarantee of trust and confidentiality. It criticizes the Legal Affairs Committee for failing to consult with security agencies during the discussion of the draft bill.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Regional Focus
The regional focus is on Estonia's eastern border, particularly the Narva area, where closing the border would cause confusion and resentment among local residents. The social impact on Southern and Southeastern Estonia is also mentioned. It is stressed that while closing the border creates organizational challenges, national security remains the priority.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Economic Views
Economic considerations are subordinated to security and the enforcement of law and order. Support is given to closing the border to halt the violation of sanctions rules and massive illegal business activity (e.g., the transport of weapon suppressors, currency exchange in Narva). It is noted that closing the border would reduce the current workload of the Police and Border Guard Board at border crossing points, freeing up resources to increase the number of patrols in border regions.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Social Issues
The impact of the border closure on family reunification and the right of Estonian citizens to return is addressed, confirming that Estonian citizens always retain the right to re-enter the country, albeit by using alternative travel routes. It is emphasized that while closing the border is a measure of serious consequence, security considerations outweigh social and humanitarian concerns, citing Finnish practice. The danger of exploiting Russian citizens, a risk that security agencies have warned about, is mentioned separately.
20 Speeches Analyzed
Legislative Focus
The legislative focus is on the initiation of the draft resolution of the Riigikogu (562 OE), the purpose of which is to propose to the Government of the Republic that the temporary control line be closed pursuant to the State Border Act. The speaker is a strong initiator and advocate whose goal is to compel the government to fulfill its duty of care in mitigating security risks.
20 Speeches Analyzed