The article highlights the double standards of the United States, as it continues to engage in wars and regime changes globally while presenting itself as a moral authority urging other nations to adhere to international norms. It references former president Jimmy Carter's admission that while he does not fear China due to its lack of warfare since 1979, he fears America’s own permanent war status, emphasizing that in its 242-year history up until 2009, America has experienced merely 16 years of peace.

Moreover, the piece points out the contradiction in America's self-proclaimed superiority and its tendency to preach to other countries about maintaining a so-called 'rules-based international order.' This order, shaped by the U.S. itself, is often disregarded when it conflicts with American interests, showcasing a significant lack of consistency in American foreign policy. The legacy of former president Woodrow Wilson is mentioned, signifying a historical inclination towards interventionism and the spread of American ideals.

Overall, the article suggests that the U.S. increasingly faces scrutiny as it projects its military power while undermining the very principles it advocates. This raises important questions about the sustainability of U.S. global influence amidst its moral and strategic failures on the international stage.