Zelensky ordered to strengthen protection of data centers after Russian attacks

Ukraine will strengthen protection of data centers and other facilities critical for stable communications. This decision was made amid a series of Russian strikes on digital and telecommunications infrastructure.

President Volodymyr Zelensky reported this on September 25.

According to the head of state, authorities separately analyzed the situation with facilities on which communications and digital services depend. Additional protection reinforcement is provided for data centers and other critical communication infrastructure.

The decision came after Russian attacks on Kyiv, which recently damaged infrastructure of several internet and hosting providers. In particular, data centers, trunk sites and network equipment were reported damaged.

After the strikes, users of several providers experienced problems. Hosting company MiroHost reported destruction of a Ukrainian data center where part of its infrastructure was located. Cityhost announced loss of part of its equipment, and Etherlink—damage to the main network node and the need to relocate the network core. Other operators also reported disruptions.

Presidential advisor on defense technology development Serhiy "Flash" Beskrestnov previously noted that the distributed structure of Ukrainian internet networks reduces the risk of a large-scale disconnection of the country from the internet. At the same time, certain areas and users may face local disruptions after infrastructure damage.

Authorities had discussed strengthening protection of critical facilities earlier. Following the Staff meeting on September 15, Zelensky reported an increase in procurement of defense systems, strengthening of electronic warfare means, and changes in operation of some mobile fire groups and air defense lines. At that time, special attention was paid to critical infrastructure and logistics facilities.