I think it is the hallmark of privilege to not recognize itself. The US has unprecedented access to trade, and unprecedented military reach. These combine to give the US a massive global influence, and it has shaped the world in many ways to benefit itself and its allies.

But I think many believe this was all naturally due to US wealth. But that wealth, and the attendant military power, had to be projected and its influence codified, and this was done through many alliances, chief among them NATO and the US-EU alliance.

For Putin, every sign that he controls Trump is a win. Not just because it makes Americans question their government, though that is undoubtedly part of it, but because it makes Europe see America as unreliable. Which automatically helps Russia.

In some ways, this is welcome. Perhaps the American people needed a reminder that their power and influence isn't a given, and needs to be worked on. And maybe, just maybe, that will make them realize a moron like Trump shouldn't be anywhere near the Presidency.