"Vietnam was a lie but at least there was a political agenda. It was the domino theory. Iraq is about nothing but George Bush's ego laced with imperialist ambitions. And it was helped by your government"

In this quote, Donald Sutherland is assessing the distinctions in between the Vietnam War and the Iraq War, critiquing the inspirations behind each conflict. He begins by describing Vietnam as "a lie", acknowledging the controversy and deceptiveness associated with U.S. involvement. In spite of this, he concedes there was at least a "political program" rooted in the belief of the domino theory-- the idea that the spread of communism in one country would lead to its spread in surrounding nations, thus justifying U.S. intervention in Vietnam to avoid a more comprehensive communist takeover.

Transitioning to the Iraq War, Sutherland's criticism intensifies. He suggests that the war in Iraq did not have a legitimate political agenda, lowering it to "absolutely nothing but George Bush's ego laced with imperialist aspirations". This recommends that Sutherland sees the motivations behind the Iraq War as individual and self-serving rather than rooted in wider political or ideological objectives. By focusing on George Bush, he critiques the leadership and decision-making procedures, implicating them of focusing on personal and nationalistic ambitions over authentic geopolitical method or humanitarian objectives.

Even more, Sutherland's mention of "your federal government" suggests a direct review not only of U.S. leadership however also of the complicity or assistance offered by other governments associated with the conflict. This phrase highlights his belief in shared obligation for the war, recommending a wider indictment of international politics and alliances that helped with or endorsed the intrusion of Iraq.

In general, Sutherland's quote communicates a deep hesitation of governmental motivations in warfare. He contrasts the ideological reasoning of the Vietnam War with what he views as the ego-driven and imperialistic inspirations behind the Iraq War, ultimately condemning leadership for the human expenses and political fallout arising from such disputes.