Azov Targets Russian Supply Lines around Mariupol

Four years after the Azov Regiment surrendered its last position in Mariupol following the Russian siege, the rebuilt Ukrainian formation is targeting Russian supply routes in occupied eastern Ukraine. Its commanders say the aim is to disrupt military logistics and weaken Moscow’s ability to wage war.

According to the Ukrainian military, drones belonging to First Corps Azov attacked Mariupol’s strategic port last week, striking electrical substations, repair facilities and a sanctioned ship and causing a blackout. Reuters verified the location of parts of footage published by the corps.

Azov says dozens more operations will follow. Col Arsen Dmytryk, the corps’ chief of staff, acknowledged that any effort to drive Russian forces from Mariupol would be a long-term undertaking that could take years.

The campaign focuses largely on roads and transport hubs used to move supplies, particularly fuel, to Russian troops. Analysts say the strikes are cumulative rather than decisive, requiring Russian forces to take longer routes and move more frequently at night.

Russia uses Mariupol, around 120 km behind the front line, as an important economic and logistical hub. Moscow is also expanding infrastructure in the city in an effort to consolidate its control over occupied southern Ukraine.

(Reuters, bak)