Risa

Was it meant to stem from decades of Klingon encounters plus Kirk’s “advancing” age?

That and Klingons murdering his son which led to the death of his relationship with Carol. Dude went through some shit. I get why he reacted that way, not that it's good, but I get it. Still doesn't make it hurt less.

As for Picard... Totally down for Gul Dukats skull, the smug prick, but it was less disgust than abject horror. I mean there is disgust because Fascism Plus was clearly ordered from Ikea but seeing a man I idolized for so long being celebrated for doing horrific things... Sure I know it isn't the same JL that's on screen but it still sends me reeling a little bit.