Centuries of experience tell us that most revolutions fail, and those that “succeed” usually turn into fun house versions of the previous regime in the long run. That said, our country embodies values that cannot be completely ignored when obviously ineffective, brutal, and corrupt regimes are challenged by their citizens. What is the most appropriate response to revolutions, particularly when we have interests that are supported by the regime?
I think the best answer is to compartmentalize, and be honest. We need to make two things clear: first, we believe, based on our own national experience, that it is in the best interests of the people of the country in question to have a truly democratic government; and second, that the United States is not responsible for the outcome of the political struggle in that country, and will pursue its own interests. By being honest about the conflict between our interests and values, and how it will be resolved, we can avoid some of the complaints about hypocrisy that inevitably arise in these situations and maintain some degree of credibility with all of the concerned parties.