Veon CEO Kaan Terzioglu stated that Starlink users in Ukraine are expected to reach approximately 12 million by the end of the year, a significant increase from the current 5 million.
Veon, which partnered with Elon Musk's SpaceX last year, is leveraging Starlink to provide satellite connectivity to mobile users in remote areas. Veon's Ukrainian unit, Kyivstar, has rolled out the service.
Terzioglu noted that the ongoing electricity outages in Ukraine make satellite connectivity a crucial service. The projected 12 million users represent about half of Kyivstar's total customer base.
Veon also plans to integrate Starlink into its Beeline network in Kazakhstan and hopes for a full launch by the end of March. The company is exploring potential launches in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Uzbekistan this year.