Ukraine’s largest mobile operator Kyivstar has become the first in Europe to launch Starlink’s direct-to-cell satellite technology, enabling millions to stay connected amid wartime blackouts and damaged infrastructure, according to Reuters. The service, initially offering SMS capabilities with voice and data to follow in 2026, represents a collaboration between Elon Musk’s Starlink and telecoms group Veon, which owns Kyivstar. The technology allows regular 4G smartphones to connect directly to