And the US gets to sell their weapons to allies. This acts as a subsidy on the development of new weapons systems, and prevents possible competitors from developing theirs. It is easier to win a war when your opponent cant make any weapons, or cant scale their weapon making fast enough.

It also provides an ever present treat to Europe: All those US bases scattered over the European continent are a reminder that Europe is free to choose their own political path, as long as they don't deviate much from what Washington approves.

i think your point also adds up to how they view power: zero empathy, only chest hair moves are allowed.

there's exceptions but only if backed by gold.