He was also supporting the softest approach on Ukraine back in the 2013-2014 crisis, way less interventionist than what Obama ended up doing. Maybe he’s wised up over the years or is at least trying to change his image. But the US hegemony will last longer if it acts less rash than it has been, so it is the smart thing to suggest.
The lifestyles of the rich and powerful is an institution itself that turns people into institutionalist liberals.
Once you have it in good with the right people – the rich/powerful, why would you ever want anything to change?