It is better that we not fight wars and that we endeavour to increase the quality of life for all then we win some made up game of geopolitical competition.

I agree, but does EU via NATO not fight or encourage wars? And is encouraging or sending weapons but no soldiers to proxy war morally better? Ukraine?

This might be the sad truth. Good morals don't look like a winning strategy

safety and trust are hard to sell. it is widely known. What you say shows that "immediate gains always win" with no context.. It is literally unwise over time.