Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, sparked the start of the two-year conflict that has had a significant impact on the entire world. Long-standing tensions between Russia and Ukraine are the cause of the conflict, especially in light of Russia's 2014 annexation of Crimea and its support for separatists in eastern Ukraine.


Important Stages of the Conflict: February 2022, the First Invasion

Large-scale attacks were carried out by Russia on a number of Ukrainian cities and regions, including the capital city of Kyiv and other important cities. However, Russia was unable to win right away due to Ukraine's soldiers' outstanding resistance.


Ukrainian Resistance
: The Ukrainian military successfully defended important territories with the assistance of military hardware and training from Western nations. Russia suffered blows on multiple fronts and was unable to seize Kie


Western backing
: Ukraine received substantial financial, military, and diplomatic backing from the United States, the European Union, and NATO countries, which fortified Ukraine's resistance. Russia also faced economic sanctions, which had a significant negative effect on its economy.


Donbas conflict
: As heavy fighting was occurring in the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine, the conflict's focus shifted there. Russia attempted to exert further influence over this region, and Ukraine protected its borders.

Attack on the Crimean Bridge: The Crimean Bridge, a vital supply route for Russia, was severely destroyed by a large explosion in October 2022. Russia intensified its missile attacks on Ukraine in retaliation, declaring it to be a terrorist attack.

Nuclear Threats: Concerns about international security were aroused by Russia's threats to use nuclear weapons. Despite the fact that these weapons have not been deployed, they remain a threat to the conflict.

Failed Peace Negotiations: Despite several attempts to hold peace negotiations during the conflict, no significant progress was made. The demands of both parties continued to diverge, impeding any significant settlement.


Current Situation
:

 The conflict is still going strong in 2024, with both sides suffering heavy casualties and material losses. Although there has been progress made by Ukrainian forces in certain areas, Russia still controls a portion of eastern Ukraine. The crisis in Ukraine continues to be a major topic in world affairs, and the West continues to assist the country.

Estimates from the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) state that by mid-2023, over 9,000 confirmed civilian deaths have occurred. The UN has cautioned that the lack of confirmed data from multiple locations means that the true figure is probably substantially higher.


Civilian Casualties
: According to Ukrainian government and Western media, several thousand civilians have died as a result of Russian airstrikes and missile strikes on populated areas. Heavy casualties among civilians were the consequence of major attacks in cities like Bakhmut and Mariupol.


Deaths in the Military:


Ukrainian Military: According to reports, the military in Ukraine has sustained significant casualties. According to the Ukrainian government, the number of dead Ukrainian soldiers ranges from 60,000 to 70,000.
Russian Military: According to estimates from the West, Russia has suffered comparable losses. Between 50,000 and 100,000 Russian soldiers are said to have killed, according to certain accounts, while the Russian government has typically released lower death toll estimates.

Overall Estimates:

 Since the start of the conflict, around 200,000 individuals—military and civilian—are thought to have died or been injured on both sides.

These numbers contain a great deal of ambiguity because it is difficult to confirm correct information in areas of current conflict. International groups and the media are still unable to visit some places.