Russian forces captured the city of Mariupol after a month-long siege that virtually razed the city in spring 2022.

The city of Mariupol fell to Russian forces after being virtually razed in a month-long siege in spring 2022

Mariupol has since been occupied by the Russian army

Evacuated Ukrainian defenders from Azovstal received medical treatment

Helicopters flew a complex route, avoiding air defense systems by using terrain folds and ultra-low altitudes to remain undetected.

The unit was the first to conduct such a helicopter landing in Mariupol, causing Russian forces to be too shocked to offer full resistance.

The operation was carried out under the 'top secret' classification.

The soldiers landed near Azovstal and contacted their colleagues, who were later picked up by a car.

Russia captured the city of Mariupol after an 85-day siege

The part of the regiment that still remained there. The soldiers started leaving Azovstal on May 17, people came out bunker by bunker, in separate columns. Our bunker was the last one to leave, on May 20.