Aug 13, 04:45 AM

Ukraine Tests SpaceX Starlink Direct-to-Cell Tech; USAID Report, Kyivstar Nasdaq Debut, 3,100 Honduran Schools Connected

Ukraine has successfully tested SpaceX's Starlink direct-to-cell technology, marking a significant advancement in connectivity for the war-affected region. This technology aims to provide more reliable communication by enabling direct cellular connections without the need for traditional infrastructure. Gwynne Shotwell, SpaceX's President and COO, confirmed that additional coverage from Starlink Direct to Cell will be available later this year. Meanwhile, Ukrainians are adapting Starlink equipment to withstand ongoing Russian assaults, highlighting the critical role of this technology in the conflict. However, a recent Inspector General report revealed that USAID’s negligence allowed about half of the Starlink terminals in Ukraine to fall into Russian-controlled areas, where they are likely being used by Russian forces. In related developments, Kyivstar, a Ukrainian telecommunications company, made its Nasdaq debut, becoming the second U.S.-listed company fully exited from Russia-linked groups since the Ukraine war began. Separately, Starlink is also expanding its high-speed internet services to 3,100 schools across Honduras, demonstrating its broader global connectivity efforts.