Azov, previously known as Azak , is a town in Rostov Oblast, Russia, situated on the Don River just 16 kilometers (9.9 mi) from the Sea of Azov, which derives its name from the town. The population is 81,924 in the 2021 census, 82,937 in the 2010 census, 82,090 in the 2002 census, and 80,297 in the 1989 Soviet census.