Proxy War

Definition

A proxy war is an armed conflict where major powers support opposing sides without directly engaging each other, typically by providing weapons, funding, training, or intelligence to local combatants. Proxy wars allow great powers to project influence and pursue strategic objectives while avoiding the political costs and escalation risks of direct military confrontation. During the Cold War, proxy wars were prevalent in Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. Contemporary examples include external power involvement in conflicts in Syria, Yemen, and Libya. Proxy warfare blurs lines of accountability and often prolongs conflicts beyond their natural duration.