Azov Corps drones strike Russian logistics in Mariupol

The National Guard's 1st Azov Corps released footage of Ukrainian reconnaissance and strike drone systems in Mariupol, announcing their "return" to the Russian-occupied city, according to a May 8 statement on Facebook.

'The Azov (Corps) is already patrolling its hometown of Mariupol. For now, from the air. But there's more to come," the statement read.

Mariupol, in Donetsk Oblast, has been under Russian occupation since May 21, 2022, when Ukrainian forces withdrew from the Azovstal Steel Plant. Among those defending the city were fighters from the Azov Battalion, who later surrendered to Russian forces, with some still remaining in captivity.

The Azov Corps drones are patrolling roads up to 160 kilometers (100 miles) behind the front line, according to the statement.

Footage released by the corps showed the city of Mariupol and military facilities under Russian control.

The video also captured an up-to-date view of the Azovstal Steel Plant, which became a symbol of Ukrainian resistance at the onset of the full-scale war, as Ukrainian soldiers valiantly defended it during the Russian siege.

A Ukrainian service member, whose identity was withheld for security reasons, told the Kyiv Independent that the footage of her hometown filled her with "delight and joy," as she "recognized nearly every street and building" shown in the video.

Видео Azov Corps drones strike Russian logistics in Mariupol канала Kyiv Independent