Ukraine is set to become the first country in Europe to offer Starlink-powered mobile services, according to Kyivstar CEO Oleksandr Komarov. The leading Ukrainian telecom operator plans to roll out messaging services by the end of 2024 and launch full mobile satellite broadband by mid-2026. This initiative stems from an agreement with SpaceX, Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, enabling the use of its direct-to-cell satellite network in Ukraine. Field tests are already underway. These direct-to-cell devices connect directly to satellites with built-in modems, acting like mobile towers in space to transmit signals straight to smartphones.

Komarov explained that the initial rollout will include over-the-top (OTT) messaging services—such as WhatsApp and Signal—by year’s end. Broader services like mobile satellite broadband and voice calls are expected by the second quarter of 2026. While SpaceX did not respond to a request for comment, U.S. telecom company T-Mobile previously announced it would begin offering satellite-to-cell data services using Starlink in October.

Komarov made these remarks in Rome before attending a Ukraine recovery conference hosted by Italy. The event, the fourth of its kind since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, will also see President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in attendance. Komarov stated his primary goal is to support the Ukrainian government and forge new partnerships, including with Italian companies interested in expanding into Ukraine.

Kyivstar, a subsidiary of telecoms group VEON, is also progressing toward a listing on the U.S. NASDAQ stock exchange. Komarov hopes the listing will be completed in the third quarter of this year, calling it a historic first for a Ukrainian company going public on a U.S. exchange during wartime. He also noted that Ukraine’s telecom infrastructure has become more resilient despite Russia’s intensified attacks. Even during widespread blackouts—such as those caused last year by strikes on power and transmission facilities—the network can now operate for up to 10 hours without external power.