Azov’s drones return to Mariupol as Ukraine expands its kill zone
Ukrainian forces have resumed drone operations over Mariupol, a city heavily impacted by the war. The Azov unit, known for its role in the city's defense, is using drones to patrol and gather intelligence on Russian military activities. This development challenges Russia's narrative of a stable occupation and aims to disrupt their logistics in the region.
- ▪Mariupol has been under Russian occupation for four years, with significant military infrastructure established by Moscow.
- ▪The Azov unit has released footage of drones flying over the city, indicating a return to their hometown for reconnaissance and strike missions.
- ▪Ukrainian drones are now operating up to 160 kilometers behind the front line, targeting logistics routes crucial for Russian supply chains.
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Mariupol became one of the defining symbols of Russia’s invasion and Ukraine’s resistance. Russia reduced the southern port city to ruins during its siege in 2022. Tens of thousands are believed to have died. Satellite imagery later revealed sprawling mass graves outside the city. Among the Ukrainian units that fought there was Azov, whose last stand inside the Azovstal steel plant became one of the defining images of the war. Now Azov has returned to Mariupol from the air. On May 8, Ukraine’s 1st Azov Corps released footage showing reconnaissance and strike drones flying over the occupied city. The videos showed roads, industrial sites and military facilities used by Russian forces. Azov fighters described the operation as a “patrol” over their hometown.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Asia Times.
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