Modern War Institute Inside the Battle of Azovstal
12 snips
Nov 27, 2024 
Arseniy Fedosiuk, a Ukrainian soldier who bravely defended the Azovstal steel factory during the 2022 Russian invasion, shares his gripping experiences on the front lines. He recounts the intense three-month siege in Mariupol, detailing the staggering numerical and equipment disadvantages faced by his unit. Listeners hear about life in the factory's basement amidst relentless bombings, the psychological toll on defenders, and the critical role of technology like Starlink in communication during combat. His firsthand narrative offers an eye-opening perspective on resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.
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Joining the Military and Azov Regiment
- Arseniy Fedosiuk, lacking prior military experience, joined the Ukrainian military in 2014 as a volunteer.
- After basic training and fighting in Ilovaisk, he served in Azov Regiment, including as a sniper, until resigning in 2021, only to rejoin on February 23, 2022.
Evacuation and Early Combat
- Fedosiuk's company, stationed near Mariupol, evacuated to the city after the invasion began.
- They engaged in combat in outlying villages, including Stary Krim, facing Russian forces with superior equipment.
Asymmetrical Warfare and Betrayal
- Ukrainian forces in Mariupol were at a disadvantage due to a lack of defensive lines in the west and north.
- A Ukrainian general's alleged betrayal further hampered their defense preparations.