This is a benefit. The logic of authoritarianism requires constant conflict and adversaries to face down or blame, both internal and external. America’s actual adversaries— Russia, China, Iran, North Korea— are dangerous and conflict with them carries the risk of real and immediate negative consequences to the regime.
Petty quarrels with friendly nations and the slow dismantling of a system that benefits America offers opportunities by contrast. There is a chance to win and trumpet small, stupid victories as proof of your strength. There is the opportunity to frame low-stakes, expected negative reactions as intolerable insults to national strength, prestige, and sovereignty. The long-term negative impacts of isolation and mistrust will bolster the narrative of a strong regime as the fortress against a hostile and unfriendly world. The Viktor Orbans and Robert Ficos and Alisher Aliyevs and Lukashenkas of the world delight in isolating their countries.
And it is time to begin talking about “regime interests” as opposed to “national or American interests.” We only have the former now, which will be cast always as inseparable from the latter.