Russia is striking Ukraine's data centers to pressure the economy — ISW

Russian forces since mid-September began attacking data centers and the telecommunications infrastructure of Ukraine. According to analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), the Russian leadership is attempting to affect the Ukrainian economy and digital systems. This is stated in the report for September 25.

ISW believes that Russia is expanding the list of targets. Previously Russian forces struck port, railway and logistics infrastructure, and now digital facilities have been added.

The consequences of some attacks have already affected the operation of internet networks. In particular, in Kyiv large-scale disruptions to network access were recorded.

The Russian Ministry of Defense confirmed strikes on data centers. The agency says their aim is to disrupt the transmission of information related to the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU).

At the same time, Ukrainian state authorities, as noted in the ISW report, have not found signs of damage to the communications systems of the AFU or government institutions. Internet providers also consider a complete shutdown of the internet in the country unlikely even after damage to individual infrastructure facilities, although temporary outages are already possible.

Analysts also warn about economic consequences: due to damage to telecommunications infrastructure, internet services may become more expensive, as operators will have to spend additional funds on network restoration.

ISW calls the strikes on data centers part of a broader Russian campaign against the Ukrainian economy. Analysts view the expansion of the target list as a search for new ways to pressure Ukraine in light of the outcomes of combat operations in 2026.

According to ISW, Russian offensive operations during the year did not achieve their stated objectives. Instead, Ukrainian forces have achieved operationally and strategically significant results.

As a result of one of the attacks, the data center «Datagroup» was damaged. Specialists are restoring its infrastructure.

Earlier we wrote:

• Could Ukrainians be left without the internet: what will happen after Russian strikes on data centers
• Russian attack destroyed a Roshen warehouse and damaged Comfy, «Avrora» and «House of Toys» centers in the Kyiv region
• The president’s adviser explained whether Ukraine faces a shortage of food products
• ATB explained the reason for restrictions on the sale of grocery items and eggs
• Communications and internet went out in Kherson and parts of Zaporizhzhia regions