Starlink Mobile Internet Service to Launch First in Ukraine in Europe

Metaverse Planet July 11, 2025Last Updated: November 3, 2025

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Ukraine is set to be the first European country to offer Starlink-backed mobile internet. Kyivstar plans to launch messaging services by the end of this year, with satellite broadband service rolling out in 2026.

Ukraine is preparing to become the first country in Europe to offer Starlink-powered mobile internet service. Kyivstar, one of the country’s largest operators, will launch OTT messaging services via platforms like WhatsApp and Signal by the end of 2025, followed by mobile satellite internet and voice services in the second quarter of 2026. The company’s CEO, Oleksandr Komarov, announced that the process is being carried out in cooperation with SpaceX.

First in Europe: Ukraine

Starlink’s “direct-to-cell” technology provides direct connectivity to smartphones via satellites, without the need for traditional base stations. The satellites are equipped with modems that can transmit cell phone signals directly to devices.

In the initial phase, Kyivstar will launch OTT messaging services via platforms like WhatsApp and Signal by the end of the year. Satellite-backed mobile broadband internet and voice services are planned for the second quarter of 2026. T-Mobile in the U.S. had also announced plans to launch a similar mobile data service operating via Starlink in October 2025.

Meanwhile, it has been reported that Ukraine’s telecommunications infrastructure has largely remained intact despite recent increases in Russian attacks. According to Komarov, networks can now provide uninterrupted service for up to 10 hours even during nationwide power outages. During major attacks in 2023, almost half of the country’s energy production capacity was disabled, leading to daily outages in cities. However, today’s situation points to a much more resilient infrastructure.