On September 27-28, Russian drones targeted several telecommunications infrastructure sites in Kiev, Ukraine, including a data center operated by Ukrtelecom. According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, these sites were allegedly used by Ukrainian military forces. Ukrtelecom confirmed damage to one of its sites but stated that its services remain operational and that no employees were injured.
The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that the strikes targeted logistic and communication centers, port facilities, and ships used "for the benefit" of the Ukrainian army. The base in Vassilkov, Kiev region, and ports in the Odessa region were also allegedly targeted. Moscow identified the Ukrtelecom site as a key provider of high-speed internet services to Ukrainian armed forces and a storage facility for significant databases.
In addition to Ukrtelecom, Russian drones reportedly struck data centers operated by Omega Telecom and Cosmonova. Moscow alleged that Cosmonova provided mobile internet and supported the Starlink satellite system for Ukrainian military use. However, Ukrtelecom did not confirm the specifics of the Russian claims, including the address or military use of the targeted site.
Ukrainian operator Ukrtelecom reported that its services were not disrupted and that it was assessing the damage. This attack follows a similar incident on September 23, when a data center in Kiev housing equipment for provider Utels was damaged. Ukrtelecom had previously suffered a massive cyberattack in March 2022, which temporarily reduced client connectivity to 13% of pre-war levels.
The Russian Ministry of Defense released a statement via the TASS news agency, detailing the targets of the drone strikes. The claims of military use by Ukrainian forces have not been independently verified. The Ukrainian government has not publicly commented on the specifics of the Russian allegations.
The drone strikes are part of an ongoing series of attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. The situation remains tense, with continued exchanges between Russia and Ukraine. The international community is monitoring developments, with various countries and organizations calling for restraint and diplomatic resolution.
The impact of these strikes on Ukrainian operations and the potential for further escalation are being closely watched. Ukrtelecom's confirmation of damage but not of military use aligns with previous incidents where infrastructure targets have been disputed. The situation continues to unfold as global attention focuses on potential diplomatic and military responses.
Key points
- Russia claims drone strikes targeted Ukrainian military data centers and infrastructure.
- Ukrainian operators confirm damage but dispute or do not verify Russian military claims.
- The strikes are part of an ongoing series of attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure amid heightened tensions.
