If all you got is "nuke 'um" as a strategy, it suggests to other states that the only way to deal with the US is to attack with nuclear weapons.  If you were a Christian, you would be aware of the notion that he who lives by the sword, dies by the sword. Matt. 26:52. A one trick pony is very predictable and easy to defeat.  International relations is very complicated.  More complicated than health care.