As long as the opposition believes the world will stand with Ukraine's democrat reformers, they will have the leverage and the courage to establish a legitimate republic under the leadership of Viktor Yushchenko.

Bob Schaffer’s quote, "As long as the opposition believes the world will stand with Ukraine's democrat reformers, they will have the leverage and the courage to establish a legitimate republic under the leadership of Viktor Yushchenko," highlights the critical role that international support plays in the political struggles of countries undergoing democratic transitions. Schaffer is emphasizing that the opposition in Ukraine, a key faction in the country’s political transformation, will be empowered if they perceive that the global community stands behind Ukraine’s democratic reformers. The world’s support, particularly from influential countries or organizations, gives them the leverage to challenge the status quo and the courage to pursue necessary reforms.

The quote also underscores Schaffer’s belief that the establishment of a legitimate republic depends not only on internal efforts but also on external backing. In this context, Schaffer is referring to the struggle for democracy in Ukraine, particularly during the period of the Orange Revolution in the early 2000s. He suggests that with international support, the opposition leaders, such as Yushchenko, could succeed in creating a more stable and democratic government, one that would be recognized as legitimate both domestically and abroad.

Viktor Yushchenko, who later became the President of Ukraine, is central to Schaffer’s statement. As a pro-democracy leader, Yushchenko became a symbol of Ukraine’s push for political reform and democratic values. Schaffer’s quote reflects a moment of optimism in the Ukrainian political landscape, where the courage and resolve of reformers, bolstered by external support, could lead to the foundation of a new political order that would replace old, authoritarian systems.

This statement is rooted in the historical context of Ukraine’s struggle for democracy in the face of corruption and political interference, particularly from Russia. Schaffer, an American politician, recognized the importance of international solidarity in helping countries like Ukraine assert their sovereignty and pursue democratic reforms. The quote speaks to the broader idea that democratic movements are often stronger when they receive encouragement and support from the global community.