MYTH 4: The Azov symbol has neo-Nazi implications

The Azov symbol, like the Azov flag, has never been associated with Nazism or neo-Nazi ideology. Since the unit's establishment, the Azov patch has always had a single meaning — National Idea. These two words abbreviate the combination of letters "N" and "I", depicted in the Azov logo. The National Idea for the Azov fighters implies a militant devotion to the Ukrainian people and willingness to sacrifice their own health and even their lives for the well-being and safety of Ukrainians. Nation in this context is not interpreted in some biological sense, which is confirmed by the presence of representatives of different ethnic groups in the ranks of the unit. Azov’s nationalism was structured around the value of a civil nation and its political freedoms: democracy, pluralism, and tolerance.

During one of the ceremonies to present the fighters of the brigade with Azov patches, Colonel Denys Prokopenko, the commander of the brigade, stated: "My brothers-in-arms, today I have the honor of awarding you the Azov Brigade patch, which you have earned with your blood and sweat, and which bears the great names of our fallen brothers-in-arms and those who remain in captivity. This should be the greatest honor and the greatest award for you, as you become one.