SCM, the owner of Ukrtelecom, announces the operator's operational and financial results for the first quarter of 2026. Ukrtelecom maintained its focus on developing modern optical infrastructure, enhancing network resilience, and fulfilling the demand for energy-independent internet connectivity.
Financial Performance and Tax Contributions
During the first three months of 2026, Ukrtelecom demonstrated robust operational efficiency despite the severe challenges posed by the war with russia. The company recorded revenue of UAH 1.36 billion ($30.9 million), marking a 16.5% increase compared to the first quarter of the previous year. Even with a nearly 45% surge in electricity prices, the business achieved an EBITDA of UAH 252 million ($5.7 million) and an EBITDA margin of 18.5%.
Ukrtelecom paid UAH 417 million ($9.5 million) in taxes and levies to various levels of the state budget, supporting the national economy. Revenues from optical internet services rose by 14.2%. Commercial leasing of real estate freed up by network modernisation generated over UAH 155 million ($3.5 million), a 22% year-on-year increase.
Infrastructure Development and Strategic Vision
This sustained investment reflects the strategy of our shareholder, Rinat Akhmetov, to ensure Ukraine's technological infrastructure remains robust during the war.
Ukrtelecom's optical network now spans over 93,500 kilometres, with expansion efforts continuing actively, including in frontline settlements. A major advancement in Q1 2026 was the nationwide implementation of a 1 Gbps speed standard for all households on the GPON network.
The necessity for energy-independent internet during power outages has driven consumer demand. The B2C segment saw new optical connections increase by nearly 118% compared to the same period last year.
Supporting the State and Society
Ukrtelecom continues to integrate critical social infrastructure into its fibre network. By the end of Q1 2026, the company provided optical connections to over 1,410 medical facilities and 1,990 educational institutions, with 26 hospitals and 67 schools connected this year.
Yuriy Kurmaz, CEO of Ukrtelecom, stated the company systematically invests in optical infrastructure and network energy independence. He emphasised that the objective remains unchanged: to guarantee stable communication for the Defence Forces of Ukraine, state institutions, commercial enterprises, and the population. He noted that during recent meetings at the European Parliament and the European Commission, it became evident that Ukraine's experience in maintaining network resilience offers highly relevant insights for the wider European telecommunications industry.
