Ukraine Reports Continued Starlink Restrictions Despite Trump's Claims

Sources within the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense report that problems persist with the Starlink network, even after former US President Donald Trump announced that Elon Musk had reversed limits on the satellite uplink. These sources told the BBC that instances of drones losing connection at speeds of 161 kilometers per hour (100 mph) are being recorded, hindering military operations.

Trump had previously denied instructing the tech billionaire to restrict connectivity to Starshield, Starlink's military-grade counterpart, before stating on Thursday that Musk had "put it back." Musk, for his part, had earlier said he was not behind the slowdown.

Highlights

• Ukrainian Ministry of Defense sources claim that restrictions on Starlink and Starshield networks are still in place.
• Former US President Donald Trump asserted that Elon Musk had restored Starlink access.
• Ukrainian officials report that drones traveling faster than 161 km/h are losing connection.
• Ukraine emphasizes the vital importance of Starlink, especially in remote areas and on the battlefield.
• The reported restrictions coincide with a diplomatic dispute between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil infrastructure.

Details

Ukrainian military officials stated that they are constantly monitoring the performance of both Starlink and Starshield networks and that there is currently no confirmation that these restrictions have been lifted. Last week, Kyiv reported that uplink speeds to low Earth orbit satellites had been restricted, affecting drone travel speed. Musk had suggested that Starshield, which Ukraine uses for some operations, is controlled by the US military, implying the Pentagon could be behind the issues. The White House has repeatedly denied deliberately placing limits on the network in Ukraine.

Ukraine utilizes both the civilian Starlink service and the more secure Starshield, depending on communication needs, particularly in remote areas and on the battlefield. Starshield allows Ukrainian drone operators to view targets in real-time and operate interceptor drones. One Ukrainian soldier remarked that there is "simply no alternative" to Starshield, adding that its complete shutdown "would be an absolute catastrophe."

Why it matters

Restrictions on the Starlink and Starshield networks are critically important for Ukraine's battlefield operations. The country heavily relies on these networks for the use of attack drones and the coordination of defensive operations. These ongoing issues could negatively impact Ukraine's efforts to maintain a technological advantage in its conflict with Russia and highlight the potential impact of diplomatic tensions on essential technology services.