26 march, 2026 | 21

Fighters of the First Corps “Azov” of the National Guard of Ukraine receive high state awards

Marking the 12th anniversary of the National Guard of Ukraine, a ceremonial event was held, attended by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and senior leadership of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the National Guard. During the ceremony, 25 National Guard service members were honored, including representatives of the 1st Presidential Operational Brigade Burevii, the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov, and the 20th Operational Brigade Lubart, which are part of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine.

From the first days of the full-scale invasion, the National Guard of Ukraine, together with the Armed Forces of Ukraine, has been heroically defending our state, holding positions, and inspiring other components of Ukraine’s Defense Forces with its strength.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy

President of Ukraine

President of Ukraine said also emphasized that everything is being done to return all National Guard service members currently held in captivity, and despite the difficulties, this goal will be achieved.

National Guard service members continue to play an active role in repelling the armed aggression of the Russian Federation. Together, we destroy the enemy and defend the freedom and independence of our Motherland.

Glory to Ukraine!

1 corps azov 1 corps ngu azov 20 brigade lubart azov corps bureviy bureviy brigade corps azov lubart lubart brigade national guard national guard of ukraine ngu president of ukraine volodymyr zelenskyy

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FAQ

Unlike the operational and tactical group model, a corps commander can exercise command and control over subordinate units.

The corps system enables more efficient management of combat forces at the operational-tactical level. It addresses the issue of fragmented command structures, strengthens unit cohesion, improves combat effectiveness, and ensures a unified chain of command — critical for conducting large-scale combat operations.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine is responsible for key tasks related to both defensive and offensive operations in the frontline sector designated by the High Command, including:

Liberating the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine;
Destroying enemy personnel and equipment;
Increasing the combat effectiveness of National Guard units and advancing the profession of arms;
Implementing standards and exchanging experience.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine is commanded by Brigadier General Denys “Redis” Prokopenko.

The following units operate as part of the corps:

1st Presidential Operational Brigade “Bureviy”;
8th Artillery Brigade “Harmash”;
12th Special Forces Brigade “Azov”;
14th Operational Brigade “Chervona Kalyna”;
15th Operational Brigade “Kara Dag”;
20th Operational Brigade “Lubart”.

Yes. Units within the corps continue recruiting volunteers. As Azov’s responsibilities and operational scope grow, its recruitment center network will serve the needs of all Corps units. Azov Brigade’s recruitment centers will now be joined by representatives from other brigades that make up the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine.

The 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov serves as the foundation for the newly established First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine. However, the corps itself is led by a corps-level command group formed based on the officer cadre of the 12th Brigade.

Fighters of the First Corps “Azov” of the National Guard of Ukraine receive high state awards

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FAQ

Why was the corps system introduced?

What tasks will the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine carry out?

Who is the commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine?

What units comprise the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine?

Does the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine recruit new service members?

Is the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine expanding into a corps?

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