Meaning: The quote "You know in the West they support realistic forces" is attributed to Eduard Shevardnadze, a prominent politician who served as the Foreign Minister of the Soviet Union from 1985 to 1991 and as the President of Georgia from 1992 to 2003. This statement reflects Shevardnadze's perspective on Western political and military support for certain factions or groups in various regions of the world, particularly during the latter half of the 20th century.

During the Cold War era, the world was divided into two major blocs: the Western bloc, led by the United States and its allies, and the Eastern bloc, led by the Soviet Union and its allies. This division created a global geopolitical landscape characterized by ideological and military rivalry between the two superpowers. As a key figure in Soviet diplomacy during this period, Shevardnadze was intimately familiar with the dynamics of international relations and the strategies employed by both sides to advance their interests.

The notion of "realistic forces" in the quote likely refers to political or military entities that were seen as pragmatic or aligned with the strategic objectives of Western powers. In the context of Cold War politics, the West often provided support to groups or governments that were perceived as advancing Western interests or serving as a counterbalance to Soviet influence. This support could take various forms, including economic aid, military assistance, and diplomatic backing.

Shevardnadze's observation about Western support for "realistic forces" sheds light on the complexities of international relations and the pursuit of strategic interests by major powers. It underscores the role of geopolitical calculations and realpolitik in shaping the alliances and interventions that characterized the Cold War era and its aftermath.

Moreover, the quote invites reflection on the moral and ethical dimensions of foreign policy and the implications of aligning with certain actors or factions in pursuit of national interests. It raises questions about the consequences of such support for the internal dynamics of the countries or regions involved, as well as for broader global stability and peace.

In the context of contemporary international relations, the concept of supporting "realistic forces" remains relevant, albeit in a transformed geopolitical landscape. The dynamics of great power competition, regional conflicts, and the pursuit of strategic advantage continue to shape the decisions of major powers and their interactions with local actors and governments.

The quote attributed to Eduard Shevardnadze thus provides a lens through which to analyze the historical and ongoing complexities of international politics, offering insight into the strategies, alliances, and interventions pursued by major powers and their implications for global stability and security.

In conclusion, the quote "You know in the West they support realistic forces" attributed to Eduard Shevardnadze encapsulates a perspective on the role of Western powers in backing certain political or military entities deemed aligned with their strategic interests. It invites reflection on the complexities of international relations, the moral dimensions of foreign policy, and the enduring relevance of geopolitical calculations in shaping global dynamics.