The Azov Brigade of Ukraine is determined to show the U.S. that lifting the ban on providing arms was the right call, according to its commander.
They plan to demonstrate the effectiveness of this decision through their bravery, discipline, and resilience on the battlefield.
This week, the U.S. State Department reversed a 2014 decision that prevented the Ukrainian Brigade from receiving American weaponry.
Despite some successes against the Russian naval fleet in the Black Sea, Ukraine is still facing challenges in stopping the Russian advance in eastern Ukraine.
Earlier this year, there were concerns about the supply of arms and ammunition for the Ukrainian front line as the Washington military aid dried up. However, a much-anticipated military aid package was passed by the U.S. in late April.
The Azov Brigade originated from the Azov Battalion of volunteers, which had ties to ultranationalist far-right ideologies. They have been fighting against pro-Moscow secessionists on the front line in Ukraine since 2014.
Despite accusations of neo-Nazi sentiments against its founders, the brigade members reject these links and emphasize their role in combating Russian forces.
The Kremlin’s claims of a ‘neo-Nazi government’ in Kyiv have been strongly refuted by Ukraine and the international community.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov criticized the U.S. decision, suggesting it is aimed at suppressing Russia by using Ukraine and Ukrainians as tools.
A spokesperson for the State Department, speaking to the BBC, highlighted the importance of not conflating the Azov Battalion with other militia groups.
Under the “Leahy Law,” the U.S. government is restricted from supporting foreign security forces with a history of human rights violations.
In a press release, the Azov Brigade expressed gratitude for the U.S. assistance, emphasizing the positive impact it would have on their combat efficiency and personnel’s safety.
The brigade sees this as the beginning of a new chapter in their history, boosting their professionalism and effectiveness in defending Ukraine.
Despite claims made by a Washington Post article, the Azov Brigade’s vice commander stated that they had not yet received U.S. weaponry.