Ukraine says Starlink still restricted despite Trump assurances
One Turn followed this story across 3 editions, from Kyiv, Ukraine on October 21, 2026. Newest first.
Ukraine's military relies heavily on SpaceX satellite internet. The Wall Street Journal reported that Musk ordered the slowdown; Trump asked him to lift it.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Friday that Starshield, SpaceX's military satellite service, remains slow. Trump said Elon Musk "will never do anything wrong" and promised to talk to him if needed. Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney said the limits are causing "direct casualties." Ukraine is working with Nokia and ICEYE on alternatives.
Why it matters: Slower satellite links weaken Ukraine's ability to intercept Russian strikes.
Ukraine said on Friday it was still experiencing slowed speeds on Starshield, SpaceX's military version of Starlink, hampering operations against Russia, after Trump said the limits had been lifted. Trump said he would talk to Elon Musk if the problem was not fixed, adding that Musk 'will never do anything wrong'. Musk had previously said any limits were decided by the US military and the president.
Why it matters: Ukraine's drones and air defenses rely on satellite links, so restrictions affect its ability to counter Russian strikes.
A report said Elon Musk ordered a reduction in Starshield satellite services used by Ukraine. Kyiv reported restrictions last week, shortly after Trump urged Ukraine to stop targeting Russian oil refineries.
Why it matters: Ukraine's military relies on SpaceX satellite links for battlefield communications.