Ukraine's Azov Brigade teases a return to occupied Mariupol (video)
Photo: Azov Brigade says it is patrolling roads leading to Mariupol (Getty Images)
1st Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine Azov says it is returning to Mariupol. For the first time since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, the brigade says it has captured footage of its hometown and is striking Russian targets there.
Details
Azov drone pilots are patrolling roads up to 160 kilometers from the frontline. The coverage area includes Mariupol and nearby settlements.
Russian forces are using roads in the occupied city to move troops and military equipment. Those routes are now being targeted by the regiment’s reconnaissance and strike systems.
"First Corps Azov continues to establish a "sanitary zone" for Russian logistics. The strike depth will increase," Azov said.
Azov returns to Mariupol. For now, through reconnaissance-strike systems.
— First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine (@azov_media) May 8, 2026
Pilots of First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine patrol roads up to 160 km deep behind the line of contact.
In the cameras of reconnaissance-strike drones: Mariupol and enemy military targets.… pic.twitter.com/9QcTBiZr6I
For now, Azov has returned to Mariupol from the skies. But the unit hinted that this is only the beginning.
Meanwhile, Russian occupation authorities are trying to strengthen their grip on Mariupol through new infrastructure projects. As RBC-Ukraine previously reported, the so-called Donetsk People's Republic authorities plan to launch direct railway service between Mariupol and Donetsk by summer 2026.
Officially, the project is framed as preparations for the resort season, but the real goal is believed to be creating a logistics corridor for moving troops and transporting looted property.
As a reminder, drones also struck temporarily occupied Mariupol on the night of March 11. The attack reportedly triggered an explosion at an ammunition depot, followed by secondary detonations.
