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Ukraine’s largest mobile operator, Kyivstar, has entered into a partnership with Elon Musk’s Starlink to introduce direct-to-cell satellite connectivity. This development was announced on Monday by VEON, Kyivstar’s parent company.
Direct-to-cell technology enables devices to connect directly to satellites equipped with modems that act as virtual cell towers, transmitting phone signals from space to smartphones.
Service Timeline and Expansion
Kyivstar plans to launch the direct-to-cell service, starting with messaging functionality, by the fourth quarter of 2025. The rollout will expand to include voice and data services in subsequent phases, according to a joint statement from Kyivstar and Starlink.
While financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed, the initiative is poised to make Ukraine one of the first countries globally—and the first in a conflict zone—to deploy this advanced connectivity.
Starlink’s Role in Ukraine
Starlink, a division of SpaceX, has been instrumental in providing essential internet connectivity to Ukraine, including support for its military amid ongoing conflict. Earlier this year, Starlink launched its first batch of satellites with direct-to-cell capabilities.
In addition to Ukraine, Starlink has secured agreements with local providers to deliver direct-to-cell services in the United States and seven other nations, including Japan and New Zealand.
Technological and Strategic Significance
Ukraine’s adoption of direct-to-cell technology represents a major leap in satellite communication, particularly for a country in a conflict zone. This comes as Russia continues its efforts to jam signals between Starlink satellites and ground terminals, a challenge that has persisted since 2022.
Musk’s Ongoing Involvement
The announcement coincides with increased engagement by Elon Musk in U.S. foreign policy discussions, particularly regarding Ukraine. Axios recently reported that Musk participated in a call with President-elect Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in November, reaffirming his commitment to supplying Starlink technology to Ukraine.
This agreement underscores Starlink’s growing role in delivering innovative solutions for connectivity, even in the most challenging circumstances.
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