Main narratives:
- No need to increase defence spending;
- Soviet legacy can be good.
Overview:
Last week, pro-Kremlin commentators on social media expressed criticism of the “ReArm Europe” initiative proposed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, which aims to mobilise up to €800 billion for EU defence capabilities. In their statements, they asserted that Europe’s shift away from the trend of achieving peace with Russia and its increased investment in armaments suggests a potential for prolonging the war in Ukraine and undermining US efforts to establish peace and stability in Europe. While the Estonian political leadership has welcomed and supported the “ReArm Europe” initiative, pro-Kremlin critics have voiced concerns on social media that increased defence spending would negatively impact the European and Estonian economies. They argue that the proposed initiative is unnecessary, citing Trump’s previous commitment to a peace deal with Russia.
The celebration of International Women’s Day on 8 March has traditionally provoked some ideologically fuelled discussions on social media about whether this day is a legacy of the Soviet occupation of Estonia and should therefore be abolished and forgotten, or whether it is a good opportunity to remind ourselves of women’s strength and resilience and to highlight the commitment to empower women worldwide, especially in developing countries. Several pro-Kremlin commentators expressed great joy at the fact that many people in Estonia, especially Russian speakers, posted photos and videos with greetings to women, claiming that this tradition must continue regardless of government officials ignoring it.
