It really is just a matter of time.

Perhaps the Perimeter, or Dead Hand, A.I. System also accounts for political statements, the posturings and threats and lies of politicians and diplomats.

Believing what they say may also comprise a decision basis.
After all, why not?

The media is used to condition the public to forthcoming government policy, aims and intentions.
Right now – 2019 – it appears very likely the US and British media is conditioning the public for a necessary and pre-emptive attack on China and Russia.

“When war is inevitable, strike first” – attributed to Vlad Putin.