Ukraine’s top carrier, Kyivstar, has announced plans to launch Starlink Direct-to-Cell mobile internet in 2026 making it the first operator in Europe to do so.
A partnership between Kyivstar (owned by VEON) and Starlink was signed in December 2024 to introduce satellite-to-cell connectivity, enabling regular 4G smartphones to connect directly to Starlink satellites without modifying hardware or software . Regulatory approval and technical integration—like SIM compatibility and network connectivity—have been completed. Field testing of SMS/OTT messaging began in mid-2025, with commercial rollout scheduled for Q4 2025, followed by voice and data services in 2026.
This is a game-changer for connectivity resilience, offering critical backup during blackouts, infrastructure damage, or in remote areas and conflict zones.
Ukraine will be among the first countries globally and the first in Europe to offer Starlink mobile internet via satellite directly to everyday smartphones.
Kyivstar’s “4G Everywhere” initiative is boosted by satellite reach, enhancing coverage across rural or disaster-affected regions.
What to Expect Next
Q4 2025: Launch of SMS and OTT messaging via Starlink.
2026: Expansion into voice and full data services for regular smartphones.
Ukraine is poised to lead Europe’s next frontier in mobile technology by 2026. This collaboration between Kyivstar and Starlink promises to reinvent connectivity, delivering uninterrupted service even beyond the reach of traditional networks.