There seems to be a critique of the United States that it has been weakened globally and has lost respect (Fear) due to a shift away from military intervention on foreign soil. I am curious as to the validity of this position outside the U.S. and if people believe we should revert to our older ways of "Diplomacy through Warfare". I would also like to hear any thoughts on alternative strategies.
Inconsistency makes us look weak. Not following through with things makes us look weak. Telling the Russians that we'll have more "flexibility" after an election makes us look weak.
I think your premise is flawed. We are losing credibility because of the misuse/abuse of power, not the failure to exercise it. Droning civilians, spying on our allies, almost launching an unnecessary war into Syria, etc etc etc.
The problem is that some people will take any stance and assume it is "weakness". Strike at Iraq for invading Kuwait? Why, we are weak and want their oil. Strike Iraq as part of the UN No Fly Zone? Why, we are weak and afraid to not show weakness. Attack Iraq for plotting to kill a US President? Why, same reason, we are weak to be seen not to do anything. And it goes on and on and on. No matter what action the US takes, some will perceive it as weakness. And to be honest, I really could not care less what others think. I can't control it, I can't change it, so I do not care. The US is still here making history, the vast majority of her enemies are now part of history. So what does the opinion of some people matter?
I'm not seeing any shift away from military intervention. If we have lost respect, it is because of failed neoconservative foreign policy (Middle East domination on behalf of Israel) and two recent failed military interventions. But the neocons are still at it. They'll get their wars. Almost had us going in Syria.