Nov. 24 at 4:53 PM
Kyivstar Group has launched Starlink’s Direct to Cell satellite service for its customers, becoming the first mobile operator in Europe to offer the technology. The service will keep users connected during prolonged outages, in remote areas, and in recently liberated regions where terrestrial networks are damaged. It will begin with SMS support and expand to voice and data in 2026.
The rollout comes amid renewed attention on potential peace efforts in Ukraine, with U.S. President Donald Trump hinting at “major progress,” though President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned against territorial concessions.
Direct to Cell is available at no extra cost to all Kyivstar subscribers with a 4G smartphone, covering all Ukrainian territory except occupied areas, border zones, and active combat regions. CEO Oleksandr Komarov said the launch significantly strengthens national connectivity.
The move follows VEON’s framework agreement with Starlink.
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