>>9,10That would be a sign of weakness and we all know, that there is no respect for the weak. Japan is already horrified at the pace America gives territory away to the enemies.
http://time.com/2946076/japan-ends-ban-on-military-self-defense/What real empire should have done is just postponing payment, because it has more important things to do, instead of sponsoring some Chinese bullies.
But no, America have not only betrayed its citizens, but also betrayed its allies, whom she owed to protect. That means everything is going to a huge period of full-scale wars, that usually happen when empire loses its monopoly on power. After Roman Empire collapse Greeks and other Roman allies were wiped out. That was the price to pay for weakness.