Moscow, Russian Federation – Mobile TeleSystems OJSC (“MTS” – NYSE: MBT), the largest mobile phone operator in Russia and the CIS, announces that it has successfully appealed the decision of an Isle of Man court to decline jurisdiction over their claim for the unlawful seizure of Kyrgyz mobile operator, Bitel LLC.

On November 28, 2008, the High Court of Justice in the Isle of Man accepted that the Bitel case should proceed under its jurisdiction.

MTS welcomes this decision, and it will now proceed to prosecute its claims against a group of companies, including Altimo and Altimo Holdings, and all those who derive their interest from their illegal conduct. MTS seeks return of its interests, substantial damages and compensation.