Battalion Azov

Battalion Azov: Five Months That Changed Ukraine

An Ongoing War

russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine shocked the world, revealing that humanity once again faces the threat of war with the potential to grow to global proportions. However, this threat, which set in motion a series of events that transformed modern Ukraine, began much earlier.

The war in Donbas, mistakenly portrayed by international media as a mere “conflict,” was not just a precursor to today’s war—it was its direct beginning. The vile tactics of the enemy, KGB-style operations, and hybrid warfare strategies meant that Ukraine once again had to confront the true face of its aggressive neighbor, enduring an onslaught from a nation hungry for foreign lands. The treachery with which moscow initiated its occupation—sending forces across our borders without a declaration of war and subsequently denying any involvement—complicated global perceptions and left Ukraine’s weakened military struggling to respond. Years of downsizing and corruption had left the Ukrainian armed forces in a precarious state.

Low morale and a lack of training played into the enemy’s hands, allowing them to annex Crimea without resistance. Contrary to the notion that an army reflects the state of its society, Ukraine’s case proved different. While some officers in their offices observed the brazen aggression with detachment, many Ukrainians were unwilling to passively witness their land being overrun under the guise of “defending” a population allegedly in need.

While Ukraine’s Armed Forces struggled to mount a full-scale defense, volunteer formations began to emerge spontaneously, particularly in the threatened eastern regions. Comprising mostly individuals without combat experience but driven by a deep love for their country, these groups played a crucial role in Ukraine’s defense. They also marked a pivotal moment, showing Ukrainians that they could unite and act independently of state institutions unprepared for the seriousness of the challenges they faced.

Battalion Azov: Born in Flames

Battalion Azov was established in the first month of the war in Donbas, on May 5, 2014, in the city of Berdyansk. This was a period of chaos and widespread concern due to the aggressor’s support of pro-russian groups in eastern Ukraine. Like other new formations, Battalion Azov emerged as a response to this threat, uniting volunteers from across Ukraine, primarily patriots, football ultras, and Maidan activists determined to face the enemy.

Battalion Azov’s baptism by fire came with the liberation of Mariupol. This strategically vital city, under the control of pro-russian militants who planned a “referendum” to facilitate its annexation to russia, was to become a key link in creating a land corridor to occupied Crimea. Terrorist groups led by criminal figures, such as “Chechen,” seized the city council and fortified their positions, attempting to replicate the takeover scenarios already enacted in Donetsk and Luhansk.

To secure approval for the Mariupol offensive, the commander of Battalion Azov persistently sought the support of military leadership. After much hesitation, permission was granted the night before the operation. Though poorly equipped and lacking formal training, the battalion, driven by determination and an unbreakable spirit, launched an assault on June 13, 2014. Joining forces with Battalion Dnipro-1 and units from the National Guard, Battalion Azov began the operation. Its arsenal was modest: a few Soviet-era pieces of equipment, including ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft guns and the “Utyos” heavy machine gun, alongside a makeshift armored KAMAZ truck.

The success of this operation had a profound psychological impact on both sides: Ukraine realized it could resist a numerically superior enemy that kept the world in a phantom fear of past glories. This victory marked a significant achievement for Ukrainian forces in the renewed fight for independence and a moment of national confidence. Battalion Azov became a serious obstacle to the kremlin’s plans, sparking a campaign to discredit the unit, which would eventually escalate to a global scale.

Battalion Azov: No Glory Without Battle

Throughout the summer of 2014, Battalion Azov continued participating in various operations, gaining experience, confidence, and refining its organization. From the initial attempts to counter the enemy in chaotic conditions, the formation strengthened its discipline and deepened its understanding of its mission. Each successful operation reinforced motivation and highlighted the importance of Battalion Azov’s role in defending Ukraine. The liberation of Maryinka at the beginning of August presented yet another test, and the operation’s success underscored the battalion’s ability to act decisively and in unison.

The town, long under the control of pro-Russian militants, held strategic value for Ukrainian forces. Regaining it established a defensive line and prevented further enemy advances near Donetsk. Alongside other volunteer battalions and units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, Battalion Azov exhibited determination and courage, garnering even more public support and earning the reputation of true warriors.

However, soon the battalion faced one of the war’s most brutal episodes—the battle for Ilovaisk. The summer campaign of 2014 tested the resilience of Ukrainian forces, and the Ilovaisk operation became one of the darkest chapters of the war. Battalion Azov, along with other units, participated in an attempt to liberate the city, which had become a significant enemy stronghold. Despite heavy losses, the battalion held its ground. After grueling battles, the commander made the difficult decision to withdraw from the city, preventing further casualties and preserving part of the personnel. This operation left an indelible mark on the battalion’s history, a tragic but defining moment in Battalion Azov’s development. Through this harrowing conflict, the fighters gained invaluable combat experience and realized their most crucial resource was their will to win.

Battalion Azov held its status for only five months. During this period, the unit transformed from a poorly equipped volunteer group into heroes whose sacrifice prevented Ukraine from plunging into chaos and panic. Having earned the support of the people and the respect of fellow soldiers, Battalion Azov continues to write its history, multiplying its strength and standing firm in its principles.