Internet prices in Ukraine could rise as providers face higher costs

Internet services in Ukraine could become significantly more expensive as providers face rising costs and increasing pressure to maintain reliable networks, according to Alexander Polyudov, owner of internet provider UTELS.

Polyudov said providers were finding it increasingly difficult to keep monthly tariffs at between 300 and 350 hryvnias, or up to about $8, as operating expenses increase.

“Internet service prices should be expected to rise. Providers that ensure network resilience, backup power and backup communication channels can no longer continue providing internet for UAH 300–350. There will be a substantial increase in prices,” Polyudov said.

The warning comes amid reports of damage to Ukraine’s telecommunications and internet infrastructure. Ukrainian media previously reported that the data centre of hosting provider MiroHost had been destroyed. Company founder Alexander Olshansky confirmed the damage.

According to Olshansky, damage to the data centre could disrupt access to some websites hosted on its servers.

Internet provider Etherlink has also reported damage to its main network node. The company serves, among others, customers in central Kyiv, who are currently without internet access.

The developments follow an earlier warning from a Ukrainian internet infrastructure expert that Russian attacks on communications facilities could lead to broader disruptions. The expert said: “Russia has been systematically striking data centres and communications centres in Ukraine for the third consecutive week.”

The infrastructure damage and rising operating costs are adding pressure on Ukrainian internet providers, potentially affecting both the availability and cost of connectivity.

By Tamilla Hasanova