C. The US and Soviet Union were having a "war of words" is the most accurate description of the initial phase of the conflict between the two superpowers after World War II. This period is commonly referred to as the Cold War, and it was characterized by political, economic, and ideological rivalry between the United States (and its allies) and the Soviet Union (and its allies). While there were some military conflicts and proxy wars, the main form of confrontation was through propaganda, espionage, and diplomacy. The US and the Soviet Union were fierce competitors during this time, but the initial phase of the conflict was not defined by direct military engagement.