In General H. R. McMaster’s book, Battlegrounds: The Fight to Defend the Free World, the general notes that the Korean War, a conflict, which claimed the lives of millions and left no clear victor, serves as a poignant reminder of the grim consequences of armed conflicts. As we grapple with the potential dangers of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, it becomes crucial to examine why we selectively remember and romanticize certain lessons from history while neglecting others.

McMaster’s book brings forth the staggering human cost of the Korean War, presenting a grim account of lives lost and shattered. The numbers are harrowing: nearly 10,000 Americans, 200,000 South Korean and United Nations soldiers, 400,000 North Korean soldiers, 600,000 Chinese troops, and a devastating toll of 1.5 million civilians. The combined death toll amounts to approximately 3 million individuals, all victims of a war that ended in a stalemate, with neither side able to claim outright victory.

These figures emphasize the profound futility of war. Lives were destroyed, families torn apart, and entire communities decimated, all without achieving a decisive outcome.

The war between Russia and Ukraine threatens the stability of the region but also poses an existential threat to humanity itself. Yet, despite its potentially catastrophic consequences, it is mind-numbing to witness how this conflict fails to capture the same level of attention and concern as other global issues such as climate change or identity politics.

Perhaps it is the allure of triumphant narratives or the desire to highlight tales of heroism and resilience that helps distract us from the horrific consequences of a head-on confrontation with Russia.  Ukrainian flag icons and Tweets of support allow us to outsource our decision-making to the experts. But the forgotten casualties, the shattered lives, and the irreparable damage inflicted on societies by these wars demand our attention and remembrance.

The Future of Life Institute has produced a sobering video on how a nuclear exchange between the nuclear powers – the United States and Russia – would unravel.  Our news organizations should be focused on delivering this message to our populations and not on being the propaganda parrots for the foolish policies of the current administration and the US Congress’ immoral support of said policies.