Can Russia completely turn off the internet in Ukraine: Zheleznyak's response

After Russian strikes on data centers in Kyiv and the region, about 100 thousand households were temporarily left without internet. In the video, Yaroslav Zheleznyak explained why these attacks cannot turn off communication throughout the country, but how dangerous they are for individual subscribers. This is discussed by the author of the channel «Iron MP». Earlier, we wrote about how attacks on data centers halted the broadcasting of TV channels.

Strikes on data centers in Kyiv: what happened in September 2026

According to Zheleznyak, the first attacks on telecommunications infrastructure occurred back in the summer. On September 23, during a massive shelling, three data centers were hit at once. Disruptions affected providers «Pavutina», Kiflinks, and Crazy Network, as well as the file-sharing service Fex.NET. In the «Pavutina» network, almost half of the subscribers were temporarily offline.

The video author calls this a new tactic from Russia. Strikes on communication before winter may complement attacks on energy and heating infrastructure. The internet is also used to receive alerts about aerial threats, so disruptions can affect not only everyday communication.

Is it possible to completely turn off the internet in Ukraine

Zheleznyak explains: the Ukrainian network consists of thousands of independent providers and communication channels. It does not have a single central node, the damage to which would turn off the internet across the country. A strike on a data center can disable a specific link, and switching to backup equipment takes time. Other details about the consequences of the data center attack were published earlier.

Zheleznyak identifies small providers as the most vulnerable, who may lack funds for backup sites and equipment. The second problem is power supply: a node may remain undamaged but stop due to a lack of electricity.

To enhance the network's resilience, he suggests that the state conduct an audit of critical telecommunications nodes, assist small providers with backup, and provide equipment with autonomous power supply. He advises users to have an alternative connection method: for example, mobile internet from another operator, as well as power for the router. During air raids, it is important to monitor alerts and respond to the siren, even if the internet is working. Tips on choosing home communication are collected in the material about Kyiv providers in 2026.