Short version...
We chose not to attack the Soviet Union during the Cold War, and concentrated on a strong defense, including deterrence through the prospect of retaliation; and on smaller-scale maneuvering through proxies at times, more often through diplomacy and economic pressure. We won that way.
Of all the wars of aggression attempted since WWII, including actual invasions by the Soviets or their puppets, I can't really think of one that was stopped solely by the simple existence of overwhelming American force. Unless you and I have a somewhat difference interpretation of the term "smaller-scale maneuvering."
And obviously, the insane can't be deterred at all.