Ukraine and Finland Sign Satellite Deal as Kyiv Seeks Starlink Alternatives

Ukraine signed seven agreements with Finland on Oct. 22, including a nearly €300 million package to expand Kyiv's use of Finnish satellite capabilities through Nokia and ICEYE, following recent Starlink disruptions that exposed Ukraine's dependence on a single private provider. The deals also include Finland's free donation of 10 Dv12 diesel locomotives to Ukrzaliznytsia, making Finland the first country to donate locomotives to Ukraine. The two sides additionally discussed joint drone production, gas storage, and Ukraine's invitation for Finland to join its War Risk Insurance Fund. The satellite cooperation comes as Ukraine seeks alternatives to Starlink after speed restrictions were imposed on terminals in mid-October, crippling drone operations. The EU is negotiating Ukraine's access to its secure satellite communications program, with commercial services potentially expanding in early 2027.