[A_Duck]

Yes, it's potentially a case of a country taken in by their own propaganda

We do a lot of important and meaningful work around the world to support democracy, peace and stability. This isn't selfless — it's to create a market for goods and services, and maintain our sphere of influence.

We're so good at shouting the first bit and whispering the latter that voters have come to fully believe it's all charity work, and feel like it's taking bread out of their mouths.