Meaning: The quote by Bob Schaffer, a politician, reflects the strategic goal of demonstrators in a political context, specifically in the context of the Kiev protests. The quote suggests that the demonstrators aim to gain the support and empathy of the armed agents of the government, which in this case refers to the Kiev police. By winning the affection and support of the police force, the demonstrators hope to sway the balance of power in their favor and advance their cause. This quote captures a key aspect of protest dynamics, where the relationship between the protesters and the authorities can play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the protests.

The context of the quote can be traced back to the Kiev protests that took place in Ukraine in late 2013 and early 2014. These protests, known as the Euromaidan movement, were sparked by then-President Viktor Yanukovych's decision to suspend an association agreement with the European Union in favor of closer ties with Russia. The protests quickly escalated into a broader movement against government corruption, authoritarianism, and economic hardship. As the protests intensified, the role of the police and security forces became central to the dynamics of the conflict.

In the midst of the protests, the relationship between the demonstrators and the police became a focal point. The quote by Bob Schaffer highlights the strategic importance of winning over the armed agents of the government, in this case, the Kiev police. It suggests that the demonstrators recognized the potential impact of gaining the support of the police force, which could potentially undermine the government's ability to suppress the protests and bolster the legitimacy of the demonstrators' cause.

The idea of winning over the police force is not unique to the Kiev protests but is a recurring theme in various protest movements around the world. The dynamics of protesters seeking to build empathy and support among the security forces are shaped by a range of factors, including the behavior of the security forces, the goals of the protesters, and the broader political context.

In many instances, protesters seek to engage in non-violent tactics and communication strategies to appeal to the conscience and empathy of the security forces. This can involve gestures of solidarity, dialogue, and efforts to highlight the shared interests and grievances between the protesters and the security forces. By doing so, the protesters aim to create a moral and ethical dilemma for the security forces, challenging them to reconsider their loyalty to the government and align with the people.

The quote also alludes to the shifting loyalties within the police force during the Kiev protests. As the demonstrations gained momentum, reports emerged of police officers defecting from their posts, refusing to carry out orders, and even joining the protesters. This defection of the police force was a significant development that signaled a loss of confidence in the government and a shift in support towards the demonstrators. The quote by Bob Schaffer captures this dynamic and underscores the impact of the police pledging their support for the people.

The strategic objective outlined in the quote reflects the complex and often unpredictable nature of protest movements. While the goal of winning over the armed agents of the government can be a powerful strategy, it also raises questions about the ethical and practical implications of such tactics. In some cases, the relationship between protesters and the security forces can evolve into a delicate balancing act, with both sides seeking to assert their influence and achieve their objectives.

In conclusion, the quote by Bob Schaffer encapsulates the strategic objective of protesters in the Kiev protests and speaks to the broader dynamics of protest movements seeking to gain the support of the armed agents of the government. It sheds light on the intricate interplay between protesters and the security forces and underscores the significance of the police pledging their support for the people. The quote serves as a reminder of the strategic calculations and ethical considerations that shape protest dynamics and the pursuit of social and political change.