Reporting From Ukraine:https://www.youtube.com/@RFU/videosExcerpts from the video transcript:
Russians Panic! Most Feared Ukrainian Unit Unleashed!
Today [ Apr 24, 8 pm ], there is interesting news from the Toretsk direction ... the Ukrainian high command has completed the formation of yet another new Army Corps, led by the well-known Azov Brigade. Tailored to operate effectively in the dynamic frontline near Toretsk, this Corps poses a major obstacle to Russian plans, potentially dealing a decisive blow to their entire Donbas operation ... the newly created 1st Army Corps, Azov of Ukraine:
The 12th Special Purpose Assault Brigade, "Azov" has long been one of Ukraine’s most iconic and formidable fighting units. Originally formed in 2014 as a volunteer regiment during the earliest stages of the war in Donbas, Azov evolved from a militia-style formation into one of the most disciplined and combat-experienced brigades in Ukraine’s National Guard.
The 1st Presidential Operational Brigade "Burevii" is an elite unit that defended Kyiv in 2022 and later held critical lines in Bakhmut and the Kupiansk-Lyman axis.
The 14th Brigade "Chervona Kalyna" is known for its proficiency in urban warfare and effective coordination with drones and artillery, having rotated through Kreminna, Svatove, and Bakhmut.
The 15th Brigade "Kara-Dag", composed largely of volunteers from southern Ukraine and Crimea, played a decisive role in halting a Russian breakthrough at Selydove and has seen extensive action in the Zaporizhzhia sector.
The 20th Brigade "Lubart", newly elevated from a special-purpose battalion of the Azov brigade, has extensive experience in halting Russian advances and conducting ambushes in forested terrain near Kupiansk and Siversk.
What makes this transformation into a Corps even more consequential is the dynamic tactical situation in Toretsk itself. Russian forces are locked in brutal close-quarters fighting, expending thousands of troops in a desperate attempt to maintain a foothold. By prematurely committing reserves initially intended for a summer campaign toward Kostiantynivka, Russia is showing signs of operational overstretch. This creates an opportunity for the new Corps, with its expanded area of responsibility and operational flexibility, to exploit Russian fatigue. Moreover, Azov and their new companion brigades’ proven ability to quickly adapt and dominate urban and semi-urban terrain, gives Ukraine a qualitative edge.
Overall, the creation of the 1st Azov Army Corps reflects Ukraine’s push to streamline command around experienced, high-performing units. Each brigade keeps its identity, but gains from centralized leadership and shared resources. This isn’t just symbolic but a strategic move to stabilize the eastern front. With elite brigades under one proven command, Ukraine aims to halt and reverse Russian advances, starting with Toretsk.
[ 20,000 ] troops all in all. ]