A delegation of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine and the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov conducted a working visit to the United States, traveling to New York, Washington, and Philadelphia.
The purpose of the visit was to strengthen partnerships, advocate for the release of prisoners of war, expand cooperation in the field of veteran policy, and mobilize support for Ukraine’s Defense Forces.
During the meetings, the delegation presented the combat experience of the First Corps Azov and the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov in modern warfare, as well as practical cases of employing innovative technologies on the battlefield, and developments in veteran support and work with the families of prisoners of war. The sides discussed approaches to rehabilitation, personnel training, and institutional development of veteran services.
Members of the delegation once again drew the attention of U.S. partners to the issue of releasing all prisoners of war — one of the highest priorities that must remain an integral part of any peace negotiations. “Azov Brigade servicemen have been held in Russian captivity for nearly four years. They are subjected to torture, sentenced to decades or life imprisonment on fabricated charges for defending their country. These are blatant violations of international humanitarian law. Our efforts to secure their release are well understood by partners in the United States, particularly by veteran communities, because for us, as for them, the promise to leave no one behind is a moral duty,” noted Nestor Barchuk, representative of the Strategic Communications Department of the First Corps Azov, during the visit.
A key aspect of the visit was the dialogue with the Ukrainian diaspora and volunteer organizations. The delegation held meetings with leaders of more than 18 Ukrainian communities and charitable initiatives that actively support the Ukrainian army through information efforts and financial aid. American partners reaffirmed their readiness to strengthen support for Ukraine and expressed interest in practical cooperation with combat units of the Defense Forces. The parties agreed to expand cooperation and prepare further joint projects.
We extend our gratitude to the Ukrainian community and volunteers in the United States for their unity and unwavering support.
