IMO it's because shifting towards self-reliance usually means shifting investment away from international investment and implementing protectionist regulations which are seen as economically hostile towards other states. So perhaps just the act of shifting towards domestic investment and protection will be taken as instigation.
I agree with you, though, and I think the "icing on the cake" instigations are in large part political maneuvers.
I agree with you, though, and I think the "icing on the cake" instigations are in large part political maneuvers.