Russia struck the headquarters of Kyivstar, Ukraine’s largest mobile service provider, in Kyiv on September 27 as attacks continued to target communications and data infrastructure across the country.
Kyivstar confirmed to Interfax Ukraine that its head office had been hit and said there were no casualties. The company is Ukraine’s largest mobile operator, making the strike significant for the country’s telecommunications infrastructure.
Russia Claims Vodafone Ukraine Data Centre Was Hit
Russia’s Defence Ministry separately said its forces had struck a data centre belonging to Vodafone Ukraine, the country’s second-largest mobile network provider.
Vodafone Ukraine did not immediately respond to Reuters’ request for comment. Reuters also noted that the Russian military’s claims about the wider strikes could not be independently verified.
The developments come amid a broader series of attacks affecting Ukrainian communications infrastructure, including data centres operated by internet providers.
Data Centre Attacks Cause Service Disruptions
According to Ukraine’s Digital Ministry, Russian strikes on data centres belonging to Ukrainian internet providers during the previous week caused service outages affecting around 100,000 households in Kyiv and the surrounding region.
Ukrainian officials have described the attacks as an effort to disrupt communications and information flows. Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said that rapid warnings about missile and drone threats remain important for public safety.
President Volodymyr Zelenskiy also said that a data centre in Kyiv was struck twice on Sunday morning, with two children and an adult reported wounded in connection with the attack.
Communications Infrastructure Remains Under Pressure
The latest strikes highlight the vulnerability of telecommunications and data infrastructure during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Damage to major facilities can affect mobile connectivity, internet services and the wider flow of information.
For organisations operating across multiple jurisdictions, disruptions to digital infrastructure can also create business-continuity and compliance challenges. Companies reviewing operational and financial risks may benefit from appropriate [Business Advisory] support.
The extent of damage to the affected facilities and the longer-term impact on Ukrainian telecommunications services remain under assessment. Further details are expected as authorities and telecom operators evaluate the consequences of the strikes.