What does the proverb when elephants battle the ants perish mean?

It's a metaphor. The elephants are rather large and obviously more powerful. The ants cannot really escape. 

Think of it in terms of war. When large countries engage in battle, the smaller countries around will be greatly affect jut solely based on the fact that they're too small to get away.

I hope this helped! :)

Ill have to say false. hope this