Kyiv Internet Providers Report Major Outages After Russian Attacks Damage Data Centers

Drone Strikes Cause Widespread Internet Disruption

Russian drone attacks this week damaged data centers and telecommunications infrastructure in Kyiv, leading to significant internet outages. Internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported that at least four providers, including Kyiv Link, Pautina, Utels, and Crazy Network, experienced partial connectivity losses following Wednesday's drone attack.

Impact on Households and Providers

Ukraine's Ministry of Digital Transformation stated that approximately 100,000 households in Kyiv and the surrounding region faced internet problems. Repair crews are currently assessing the damage and working to restore stable connections. Several providers confirmed that the disruption was due to direct damage to facilities housing critical networking equipment.

Specific Provider Damages

Utels reported that a Kyiv data center containing its core network equipment was damaged and lost power, though service was largely restored within two hours. Pautina experienced more extensive damage, with nearly half its network temporarily losing service due to hits on several infrastructure sites. Crazy Network also reported outages in Kyiv, Vinnytsia, and Khmelnytskyi after a strike on a central internet traffic exchange facility.

Allegations and Civilian Impact

Russia's Defense Ministry claimed to have struck New-Telco and United DC data centers, alleging their support for Ukrainian defense and intelligence agencies; these claims remain unverified. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha stated that Russia targeted major data centers to disrupt information flow, emphasizing that internet connectivity is crucial for delivering timely warnings about incoming attacks and maintaining essential civilian functions.