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Kyivstar Reaches 3 Million Customers with Starlink Direct to Cell and Strengthens Ukraine's Connectivity

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In a short time, the satellite-to-mobile service has reached an unprecedented number of customers wi...

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AI Summary

Kyivstar launched satellite service, gaining over 3 million subscribers in months. Service is vital for communications in Southern and Eastern Ukraine. Kyivstar opens SMS testing for iPhone users on the new network. A strategic investment of $1 billion in Ukraine is planned. Company supports defense forces, contributing over UAH 3.4 billion recently.

Sentiment Rationale

Kyivstar’s innovative satellite service directly enhances operational efficiency, indicating potential revenue growth. Historically, advances in tech infrastructure correlate with stock price increases in telecom sectors.

Trading Thesis

The long-term investment strategy and technological advancements will likely stabilize and grow customer base, sustaining future revenue.

Market-Moving

  • Kyivstar launched satellite service, gaining over 3 million subscribers in months.
  • Service is vital for communications in Southern and Eastern Ukraine.
  • Kyivstar opens SMS testing for iPhone users on the new network.

Key Facts

  • Kyivstar launched satellite service, gaining over 3 million subscribers in months.
  • Service is vital for communications in Southern and Eastern Ukraine.
  • Kyivstar opens SMS testing for iPhone users on the new network.
  • A strategic investment of $1 billion in Ukraine is planned.
  • Company supports defense forces, contributing over UAH 3.4 billion recently.

Companies Mentioned

  • VEON (VEON)

Corporate Developments

The article outlines significant developments and investments that directly enhance Kyivstar's market position, indicating strong future growth potential.

Kyivstar Achieves Milestone with Starlink Direct to Cell Service

KYIV, Ukraine, January 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kyivstar (Nasdaq: KYIV; KYIVW), a leading digital operator in Ukraine, has successfully reached over 3 million subscribers with its innovative Starlink Direct to Cell satellite service. Launched in November 2025, this service has provided critical connectivity during challenging times, delivering essential communication capabilities across the nation.

Significance of Starlink Technology in Ukraine

The implementation of Starlink technology has been particularly vital in the southern and eastern regions of Ukraine. It has played a crucial role in maintaining communication in areas where traditional networks are compromised. According to company reports, more than 1.2 million SMS messages have already been sent via this satellite service since its inception.

Starlink Direct to Cell has found its highest usage in major cities, including:

  • Kyiv
  • Lviv
  • Vinnytsia
  • Khmelnytskyi
  • Dnipro

Expansion of Services for iPhone Users

Kyivstar continues to enhance accessibility by introducing the capability for iPhone users to utilize the “Kyivstar | SpaceX” network. Devices operating on iOS 26.2 or later can automatically connect to the network when terrestrial signals are unavailable, ensuring ongoing communication support.

“The broad adoption of Starlink Direct to Cell satellite service validates our strategic investment in Starlink technology to bring connectivity directly to Ukraine's residents,” said Oleksandr Komarov, CEO of Kyivstar. “This technology supplements our terrestrial network capabilities and provides essential communication when other means are unavailable – which is exactly what Ukraine needs right now.”

Future Prospects and Services

Currently, satellite connectivity is available for SMS messaging at no additional cost for Kyivstar subscribers using their existing tariff plans. As the technology advances, services will eventually expand to include data connectivity, making it even more critical for users needing uninterrupted access.

Operationally, this technology excels in open areas where a clear line of sight to the sky is maintained, enhancing the reliability of the service.

About Kyivstar Group Ltd.

Kyivstar Group Ltd. (“Kyivstar” or the “Group”) operates JSC Kyivstar, the foremost digital operator in Ukraine, and is the first Ukrainian company to have its shares traded on the U.S. stock exchange. As a Nasdaq-listed entity (tickers: KYIV; KYIVW), Kyivstar offers a diverse range of digital services, ranging from mobile and fixed-line voice to data, ride-hailing, e-health, digital TV, and enterprise solutions, including Big Data and cybersecurity.

Through its ongoing partnership with VEON, Kyivstar has committed to investing USD 1 billion in Ukraine from 2023 to 2027, focusing on infrastructure improvements, technological development, charitable contributions, and strategic acquisitions.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Kyivstar not only leads in connectivity but also plays a significant role in social responsibility. Over the past three years, the company has allocated more than UAH 3.4 billion to support the Defense Forces and implement crucial social projects, reflecting its commitment to the community amid challenging circumstances.

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