The author, Valeriia ‘Nava’ Subotina, served with the press service of the Azov Regiment. For 86 days, Ukrainian troops maintained their defensive positions in the besieged city of Mariupol and on the grounds of the Azovstal steel plant. Thanks to the Azov Regiment’s press service, the world learned about the tragedy unfolding in Mariupol, about its defenders, and about the civilians seeking refuge at Azovstal. Camera operators, photographers, and journalists produced material that left no one indifferent, sparking a wave of support under the hashtag #SAVEMARIUPOL in numerous countries. Those trapped under siege were short of food, water, and medical supplies, yet the soldiers stood by their orders—to hold their positions. All the while, the enemy methodically destroyed the city and Azovstal…
