"He said that if we were going to have a war, they would never be the first ones to start it"

This quote by Samantha Smith suggests that the people she is describing are not interested in starting a war. It indicates that they want to protect themselves if essential, however they are not aiming to start a conflict. This might be interpreted as an indication of strength and resilience, as they are not ready to be provoked into a battle. It might also be viewed as an indication of peace and diplomacy, as they are not aiming to start a war. This quote could be viewed as a call for peace and understanding, as it suggests that individuals in question are not wanting to begin a dispute, however want to safeguard themselves if essential. It could likewise be seen as an alerting to those who may be aiming to begin a war, as it suggests that the people in concern are not happy to be provoked into a fight.