Russia – Ukraine: Initiated by Russia in February 2022, the Ukraine conflict remains one of the deadliest globally. Estimates suggest that Russia has suffered nearly 1 million casualties—including both killed and wounded—by mid-2025, surpassing the combined death toll of all Soviet and Russian wars since World War II. Ukraine has also endured significant losses, with tens of thousands of soldiers killed and widespread infrastructure damage. Despite heavy casualties, Russia continues to prioritize military expansion, with defense spending projected to reach $172 billion in 2025
Sudan Civil War: Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a civil war between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The conflict has resulted in over 150,000 deaths and displaced approximately 14 million people. The humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by widespread famine and reports of genocide in regions like Darfur .
Myanmar Civil War: Following the military coup in February 2021, Myanmar has descended into civil war. Resistance groups, including the National Unity Government and various ethnic armed organizations, have clashed with the military junta. The conflict has led to over 50,000 deaths and displaced 3 million people, with significant regional implications .
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC): Eastern DRC continues to experience intense conflict, particularly in North Kivu, where the M23 rebel group and allied Rwandan forces seized control of Goma in January 2025. This has displaced over 700,000 people and contributed to a broader humanitarian crisis in the region .
Somalia – Al-Shabaab Offensive: In February 2025, Al-Shabaab launched a significant offensive in central Somalia, aiming to encircle the capital, Mogadishu. The Somali National Army, African Union forces, and allied militias have engaged in ongoing clashes, resulting in numerous casualties and displacement .
Ethiopia – Amhara Conflict: The conflict between the Ethiopian federal government and the Fano militia in the Amhara region has persisted for over 20 months. Recent drone strikes have resulted in civilian casualties, and the region remains heavily militarized with ongoing human rights concerns .
Libya – Tripoli Clashes: In May 2025, clashes erupted in Tripoli between rival factions of the Government of National Unity, leading to civilian casualties and a declared ceasefire. The situation remains volatile, with underlying political tensions persisting .
Colombia – Catatumbo Clashes: Since January 2025, the National Liberation Army (ELN) has been engaged in violent clashes with FARC dissidents in Colombia’s Catatumbo region. The conflict has resulted in over 100 deaths and the displacement of tens of thousands of people .
University students, the media, politicians, celebrities, intellectuals can pick any of these horrifying conflicts to protest and strive to bring peace and and an end to the senseless carnage.
But they pick “Palestine,” and that’s all you hear about. Why?
