Russia steps up strikes on Ukraine’s communications infrastructure

Russian attacks on Ukraine’s telecommunications infrastructure have become systematic over the past three weeks, with data centres and communications hubs increasingly targeted, according to Anatoly Frolenkov, a representative of an internet traffic exchange point.

Frolenkov said Kyiv is currently facing particularly intense pressure and warned that attacks could subsequently extend to western parts of Ukraine.

“They will take out data centers and communications centers. Operators will go down — yes. We will have problems with communications…,” Frolenkov said.

He urged residents to prepare for possible disruptions without panicking, saying efforts were under way to maintain connectivity.

“Do not panic, we are doing everything to keep you connected. Second — withdraw cash, because there really may be no connection for half a day, some service may not work. Print out your documents.”

Frolenkov also advised people whose work or other essential activities depend on uninterrupted connectivity to use multiple providers. He recommended having at least two SIM cards from different operators as well as a backup home internet connection.

“Two operators are a must-have: one goes down, the second one picks you up.”

By Tamilla Hasanova