Rinat Akhmetov’s exchanges with the Azov commander
Ukrainian businessman Rinat Akhmetov shared details of his communications with Denys Prokopenko (callsign “Redis”), commander of the National Guard’s 1st Corps unit Azov, during the defense of Mariupol. Their last conversation took place just 15 minutes before the defenders left the Azovstal steel plant on May 20, 2022. Akhmetov noted that at that moment, the fighters had received an order from higher command to surrender.
Akhmetov reportedly spoke with Prokopenko several times a day and was deeply impressed by his strength and courage.
“There was never any panic in his voice. They were all conscientious, dignified, and ready to give their lives for every inch of land,” the businessman said.During one call, Akhmetov asked what he could do to help, and the commander replied that he should only worry about his men. Prokopenko knew he would be taken prisoner but requested no personal privileges.
Resistance and Mariupol’s strategic importance
According to Akhmetov, the defenders of Azovstal held out against 73,000 Russian soldiers. After the destruction of Mariupol, the Azov unit announced it had returned to the city for the first time since May 2022. It is known that Azov drones carry out precision strikes on enemy targets, and pilots patrol roads and military installations up to 160 km from the front line. Akhmetov also emphasized that Mariupol remains part of Ukraine, and when the Russians arrived, no one greeted them with flowers—even children were ready to fight.
Commander of the Third Army Corps, Andriy Biletsky, stated that Ukraine will reclaim Mariupol and believes 90% of this goal can be achieved through military means. The occupiers use Mariupol and its surroundings as a strategic logistics hub, so a favorable historical moment is needed to retake the city.
These statements from Akhmetov and Biletsky highlight Mariupol’s significance not only as a symbol of resistance but also as a strategic asset for military operations in the region. Regaining control of the city could substantially shift the balance of power in the conflict, as Mariupol serves as a key logistics center for Russian forces. Operations conducted by the Azov unit indicate a resurgence of Ukrainian activity in the area, which may set the stage for further military successes.
As the situation in Mariupol continues to evolve, the recent return of the Azov unit to the city marks a significant moment for both the defenders and the local population. This development underscores the ongoing strategic importance of Mariupol, where the Azov Regiment is now conducting operations against enemy forces. To learn more about their first return since 2022, read about the Azov Regiment's recent activities in Mariupol.