Denys Prokopenko's Appointment
On September 18, 2026, Denys 'Redis' Prokopenko was announced as the commander of a newly established Azov military grouping in Donetsk. This formation combines several brigades and specialized units, aiming to improve command efficiency and coordination of combat missions. Under Prokopenko’s leadership, Azov evolved from a volunteer battalion into the 1st Corps of the National Guard of Ukraine, a transformation expected to significantly influence ongoing battles in the region.
Brigadier General Denys Prokopenko, a Hero of Ukraine, joined Azov in July 2014 as a regular soldier. He fought in key battles including Mariinka, Ilovaisk, and the Pavlopil-Shyrokyne offensive while commanding the 1st Company. At just 26 years old in 2017, he became the youngest regimental commander in the Ukrainian military. During the 86-day defense of Mariupol in March 2022, tactical combat casualty care (TCCC) protocols were implemented under his command, saving hundreds of lives. For his bravery, Prokopenko was awarded the Golden Star Order and the Hero of Ukraine title in March 2022.
The Formation of the Azov 1st Corps of the National Guard
In August 2026, Ukraine’s president announced the creation of two additional operational-tactical formations in Donetsk as part of a military restructuring effort. Establishing a corps-level structure helped eliminate inter-agency confusion and boosted operational effectiveness. According to official statements,
“The 1st Corps of the National Guard 'Azov' takes on the most challenging front-line sectors and is building a new-generation defense system.”
The 1st Corps of the National Guard 'Azov' comprises:
- 1st Presidential Brigade 'Bureviy'
- 14th Brigade 'Chervona Kalyna'
- 15th Brigade 'Kara-Dag'
- 20th Brigade 'Liubart'
- 12th Special Purpose Brigade 'Azov'
- 8th Separate Artillery Brigade 'Garmash'
- 41st Separate UAV Regiment 'Pilum'
- Separate Special Purpose Detachment 'Tuman'
- Anti-Aircraft Missile and Artillery Battalion 'Strazh'
This Azov grouping is actively recruiting specialists such as FPV pilots, sappers, signal operators, drivers, and medics. It is emphasized that
“training always begins with foundational tactical medicine following TCCC protocols,”a practice that proved lifesaving in March 2022, rescuing hundreds of fighters. Those interested in serving under experienced commanders within a professional team are encouraged to submit an application on the official website azov.army to join Azov.
Prokopenko’s appointment as commander marks a pivotal moment in the reorganization of Ukrainian military forces in Donetsk. Given his extensive combat experience and proven leadership, the new Azov formation is expected to respond more effectively to frontline challenges. The establishment of the 1st Corps also highlights a strategic move toward enhanced coordination among military units, which is crucial for the success of operations in contemporary warfare.
In light of recent military developments, the establishment of new task forces, such as the Azov and Center formations, underscores Ukraine's strategic efforts to bolster its defenses in Donetsk. These initiatives align with Prokopenko's new command, aiming to enhance operational capabilities and ensure a coordinated response to ongoing challenges in the region.