The Verkhovna Rada has endorsed Bill No. 9549, which aims to expedite the development of digital infrastructure by making it easier to install base stations – especially crucial in rural and remote areas. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov expressed confidence that this law will bring 4G networks to currently underserved regions, advancing the nation’s goal of providing nearly universal mobile coverage.
1. Key Highlights of Bill No. 9549
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Reduced Approval Time for Land Use
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The new legislation cuts the average timeframe required for operators to secure land for base stations from six months down to three.
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This streamlines the bureaucracy that previously slowed infrastructure development, allowing operators to accelerate 4G deployment.
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Support for Deoccupied Territories
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Emphasis is placed on rebuilding connectivity in areas affected by active hostilities and regions recently liberated from Russian occupation.
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Many base stations in these locales were destroyed or severely damaged; the law simplifies procedures for swift reconstruction and installation of new towers.
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Preventing Dismantling Risks
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Operators will now have stronger legal guarantees to prevent the dismantling of antennas and related equipment once installed.
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This removes a major disincentive for companies considering investment in conflict or remote zones.
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National Coverage Goals
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By 2030, the government aims for 98% of Ukrainians to have quality mobile coverage.
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According to Fedorov, the newly adopted measures are a big step toward achieving these nationwide connectivity targets.
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2. Changes Introduced in the Law
According to parliament’s official explanation and the President’s proposals, the new editorial version of Bill No. 9549 includes:
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Clearer Procedures During Martial Law
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Establishes explicit guidelines for prioritized or forced land use if required for urgent infrastructure during wartime.
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Transparent Criteria for Alienation
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Outlines the specific criteria that define which territories and enterprises might be affected by forced land transfer.
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Streamlined Governance
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Defines the flow of decision-making, detailing who can approve land transfers and the roles of various government agencies, including the Cabinet of Ministers.
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Guarantees for Property Owners
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Ensures property owners receive just compensation where forced land transfer takes place, and clarifies their rights to reclaim the property once martial law ends.
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Preventing Undue Bureaucracy
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Reduces the administrative burden on operators by unifying or shortening approval procedures for installation of telecommunications towers.
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3. Potential Impact on Ukraine’s Digital Landscape
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Boost to 4G and Potential 5G Rollouts
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By making it easier to build base stations, Bill No. 9549 lays the groundwork not only for 4G but also for eventual 5G expansion.
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Economic Development
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Reliable connectivity can stimulate local businesses, create e-government opportunities, and foster digital education programs across rural communities.
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Enhanced Public Safety and Morale
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In liberated or front-line regions, stable communication plays a key role in emergency services, family reunification, and overall morale.
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Progress in E-Transformation
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Aligns with Ukraine’s broader digital strategy to bring key public services online, bridging urban-rural digital divides.
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Conclusion
With the Verkhovna Rada’s endorsement of Bill No. 9549, Ukraine moves closer to ensuring 4G reaches even its most remote corners—vital for supporting citizens, local economies, and strategic defense interests. Simplified land acquisition for base stations will allow operators to quickly reconstruct and expand networks, particularly in areas recovering from conflict. The new law, strongly championed by Minister Fedorov, represents another milestone in Ukraine’s push to become a fully connected nation and realize its vision of providing 98% of Ukrainians with dependable mobile coverage by 2030.
