Formation of the 'Azov' and 'Center' Military Task Forces
The Ukrainian Defense Forces are currently establishing a provisional military group named 'Azov,' led by Brigadier General Denys Prokopenko. At the same time, another unit called 'Center' is being formed under the command of Brigadier General Andriy Biletsky. This strategic decision was made by President Volodymyr Zelensky in coordination with Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Mykhailo Drapatyi, the General Staff, and Defense Minister Yevhen Khmara. The primary objective behind creating these two sizable formations is to reinforce Ukraine’s military presence in the Donetsk region.
Operational Responsibilities Along the Front
The 'Center' and 'Azov' groups will share responsibility for sectors of the frontline in Donetsk and likely parts of Luhansk. These areas currently host the largest concentration of Russian troops, with the most intense clashes occurring near Pokrovsk and Kostiantynivka. Recent intelligence indicates a rise in enemy offensives on the Kostiantynivka axis, demanding an urgent and robust Ukrainian military response.
Denys Prokopenko, a Hero of Ukraine and commander of the 1st Corps of the National Guard's 'Azov' unit, joined the battalion in the summer of 2014. His combat experience includes key battles in:
- Marinka
- Ilovaisk
- Shyrokyne
During Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Prokopenko led the defense of Mariupol and surrounding areas. After enduring a prolonged captivity, he was released and returned to Ukraine in September 2022, resuming command of 'Azov.' In April 2025, he was appointed commander of the newly formed 1st Corps of the National Guard's 'Azov.'
Andriy Biletsky, also a Hero of Ukraine, commands the 3rd Army Corps of the Armed Forces. President Zelensky awarded him this title on August 24, 2026. Like Prokopenko, Biletsky brings extensive battlefield experience and is responsible for critical strategic positions in Donetsk.
President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the creation of these two major military groups, emphasizing the necessity of proactive measures to safeguard Ukrainian territory in the region.
The establishment of the 'Azov' and 'Center' formations highlights the Ukrainian military leadership’s intensified focus on the Donetsk front, where significant Russian forces remain concentrated. With fighting escalating particularly around Kostiantynivka, these organizational changes are poised to play a key role in stabilizing the frontline. Moreover, this restructuring reflects efforts to improve command efficiency and enhance defensive capabilities in vital conflict zones.
The recent establishment of the 'Azov' and 'Center' task forces marks a significant step in bolstering Ukraine’s defenses in the Donetsk region. This move follows the announcement of the appointments of Prokopenko and Biletsky as leaders of these new military formations, aiming to enhance operational effectiveness against increasing enemy activity. For more details on their roles and the strategic implications of this decision, read about Prokopenko and Biletskyi's leadership in the new Donetsk groupings.