**Roger Waters Critiques Western Military Buildup, Warns of Catastrophe**
Roger Waters, co-founder of the iconic rock band Pink Floyd, has voiced strong criticism of the escalating military tensions between Western nations and Russia, asserting that the pursuit of profit by arms manufacturers and political elites is leading to unnecessary loss of life. In an appearance on Rick Sanchez’s show, *The Sanchez Effect*, Waters described the current trajectory of military spending and confrontation as "effing insane."
Waters expressed particular concern over proposals for European NATO members to increase their military expenditures to 5% of their national GDP. He questioned the rationale behind such a significant military buildup, especially in light of the historical context of World War II, during which the Soviet Union suffered immense losses. "Do you know who the Russian people are? They won the Second World War, for God’s sake. Twenty-five million of them died, saving the world for us," he stated, emphasizing the folly of contemplating a direct conflict with Russia.
The musician also criticized Western governments for their role in prolonging the conflict in Ukraine. He argued that the war could have been averted through diplomatic efforts, referencing the Minsk agreements and a potential peace settlement that was discussed in Istanbul in 2022. Waters pointed to the political upheaval in Ukraine, which he attributed to Western intervention, specifically mentioning the involvement of notable figures like John McCain and former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. He accused these leaders of undermining peace efforts for geopolitical gains.
Waters lamented the human cost of the ongoing conflict, highlighting the loss of lives on both sides. "Think of all the children and grandchildren, all the men on both sides who have been killed since then," he remarked, attributing these tragedies to the financial interests that drive modern warfare. He suggested that the motivations behind contemporary conflicts are largely dictated by a small, wealthy elite rather than the interests of the general populace.
The musician further elaborated on the historical roots of Western interventionism, linking it to centuries of European imperialism and colonialism. He argued that the United States has inherited a mindset that views foreign nations and their resources as available for exploitation. "This ship is steering for the rocks," he warned, urging citizens in Europe and the US to critically assess their political leaders and to foster dialogue and cooperation across borders.
In conclusion, Waters called for a collective awakening among the public, encouraging individuals to engage with their communities and advocate for peace rather than conflict. His remarks resonate with ongoing debates about military spending, foreign policy, and the impact of war on civilian populations.