Kyivstar PJSC, Ukraine’s largest mobile operator, signed a deal with Elon Musk’s Starlink to introduce satellite-powered cellular service in the war-torn country in a bid to place telecom infrastructure beyond the reach of Russian attacks.

The news caught Elon Musk's attention when a X user tagged him in a post, and alleged him for 'Starlink' being misused by terrorists in Manipur. To which, Musk promptly denied the claim, stating, 'This is false.

While financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, Kyivstar and Starlink’s partnership is set to make Ukraine a pioneer in direct-to-cell satellite connectivity. This breakthrough technology could transform communication in conflict zones and remote regions, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity in the face of infrastructure challenges.

Ukraine’s leading mobile operator expects direct-to-cell services with messaging functionality to be operational in the fourth quarter of 2025

A new partnership has been forged between SpaceX’ s Starlink, owned by Elon Musk, and Ukraine’s top mobile operator, Kyivstar PJSC. This collaboration aims to provide satellite-based cellular services in Ukraine, enhancing the country’s telecommunications infrastructure.

Elon Musk’s Starlink is set to give Ukraine “uninterrupted” service through its satellite network through a partnership with Kyivstar (VEON), the country’s largest mobile operator.

Customers of Ukraine’s largest mobile operator will be able to use space-based connectivity when terrestrial network service is unavailable.