My family is from the Soviet Union and yes people here do not understand how ridiculous, inefficient, and authoritative the government was. However, just because the other side was worse, doesn't mean one should just dismiss their argument all together.
The US will have to get used to a new type of global world soon or it will create a lot of strife. Europe, Russia, and Asia will all rise and create very powerful coalitions that will compete with US might. Whether that is worse/better is up for debate, however all trends point that this will happen regardless. So realistically a more diplomatic approach will be necessary soon. Bullying your way will be a lot less effective. Especially after your competitors will all have their own world banks and powerful economies.
Additionally, the US public is pretty pro when it comes to ousting dictators, but generally doesn't understand the pros/cons of doing so. Even when other nations tell the US that doing so will hurt everyone more.
Russia warned the US that going into Iraq/Syria and removing the leadership there will destabilize the region and make things significantly worse. However, the US felt that it would be prudent to go in and remove Russian influence from the region. As a consequence, they took two somewhat functional states and turned them into ISIS territory.
If you asked a citizen what they would have preferred I'm sure most would say they liked it better when Assad was in charge. The worst thing about it is that I'm sure that the upper echelon (CIA/Executive office) of our leadership knew what would happen, but proceeded anyway.
Now, imagine yourself to be in another country, such as Russia/China and then look at the US as an outsider. Here is a mega super power that essentially does what it wants and refuses to listen to any other power. From their point of view the US looks antagonistic.
Finally, Russia is by no means innocent here and is in all likelihood worse than the US when it comes to overreaching. Lets not forget Ukraine.
TLDR: The world is globalizing and the current system of US hegemony will come to an end. Better get used to it.