Ukraine is set to become the first European country to introduce Starlink mobile services. Messaging capabilities are expected to launch by the end of this year, while mobile satellite broadband will be available around mid-2026.

This information comes from Reuters, citing the CEO of "Kyivstar," Oleksandr Komarov.

Field trials have commenced as part of an agreement made with Space at the end of 2024. This will allow Elon Musk's company to provide direct communication services for mobile phones in Ukraine.

Communication will be facilitated through satellites equipped with modems, functioning like cell towers transmitting phone signals from space directly to smartphones.

"The first phase involves messaging via OTT (over-the-top) technologies... meaning messaging through WhatsApp, Signal, and other platforms," Komarov told Reuters in Rome.

According to him, this will be implemented by the end of the year.

"And likely, in early 2026, during the second quarter, we will be able to offer mobile satellite broadband... and voice services," added the director of "Kyivstar.".