Ukraine is set to become the first European nation to roll out Starlink’s mobile services, with telecom operator Kyivstar announcing plans to launch messaging services by the end of 2024 and mobile satellite broadband by mid-2026. Kyivstar’s Chief Executive, Oleksandr Komarov, revealed that field tests are underway under a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX, aiming to provide direct-to-cell services across the war-affected country. These services will enable smartphones to connect directly to satellites, effectively turning them into mobile towers in space.
Komarov explained that the initial rollout will focus on over-the-top (OTT) messaging services, including platforms like WhatsApp and Signal, set to go live by year-end. The second phase, which includes broadband data and voice services via satellite, is targeted for Q2 2026. While SpaceX has not officially responded to inquiries, similar developments are ongoing elsewhere, with U.S. carrier T-Mobile planning to launch its Starlink-powered satellite data service by October.
Speaking ahead of a Ukraine recovery conference hosted by Italy, Komarov noted his primary mission was to support the Ukrainian government and explore fresh investment opportunities, particularly with Italian companies. He also revealed Kyivstar’s strategic move toward listing on the NASDAQ stock exchange, with plans to finalise the listing in the third quarter of 2025. If successful, it would mark a historic first: the direct placement of a Ukrainian entity on an American exchange during wartime.
Despite continued Russian attacks on Ukraine’s infrastructure, Komarov expressed optimism about the resilience of the nation’s telecom systems. He said the network has adapted since 2022, and now, even during national blackouts, fixed and mobile services can operate for up to 10 hours. Last year’s attacks, which damaged the power grid and halved the country’s energy capacity, had caused widespread blackouts, but Kyivstar’s improved systems appear more robust today.