"I refer to calls for humanitarian intervention in the affairs of another state - a new idea, this - even when they are made under the pretext of defending human rights and freedoms"

Boris Yeltsin's quote is describing the idea of humanitarian intervention, which is when a state intervenes in the affairs of another state for humanitarian factors. This concept is fairly new, and is often utilized as a pretext for defending human rights and liberties. Yeltsin's quote suggests that he is skeptical of this concept, as he questions the real intentions behind such interventions. He might be concerned that the concept of humanitarian intervention is being utilized as a way to mask other political programs. He might also be concerned that such interventions could lead to additional conflict and instability in the region. Eventually, Yeltsin's quote recommends that he is wary of the concept of humanitarian intervention, which he thinks it needs to be used with caution.