SpaceX founder Elon Musk reportedly ordered speed restrictions on the Starshield satellite system used by Ukrainian forces, impacting military operations.
Key facts
- •Ukrainian forces reported restrictions on Starshield satellite terminals beginning on October 14.
- •The service disruption lasted for one day and affected drone operations and air defense missions.
- •Elon Musk and President Donald Trump discussed the restrictions in a phone call after the slowdown was reported.
- •President Trump stated he did not order the restrictions and did not know who was responsible.
- •Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is working to restore satellite access as part of broader efforts to repair relations with Washington.
SpaceX founder Elon Musk reportedly ordered restrictions on Starshield, the military-grade version of the Starlink satellite communications system, disrupting Ukrainian military operations. The move, which occurred in mid-October, reportedly hampered Ukrainian drone missions and air defense capabilities. Both Musk and the Trump administration have denied responsibility for the service limitations.
Disruptions to Military Communications
On October 14, Ukrainian forces reported that their access to Starshield terminals had been restricted, leading to a loss of service for one day. The system is critical for Ukraine's battlefield communications and drone operations, including both attack and air defense missions. Reports indicate that the slowdown caused significant concern within the Ukrainian government.
Discussions Between Musk and the White House
Sources familiar with the matter stated that Elon Musk and President Donald Trump discussed the Starshield restrictions in a phone call after the issue became public. Some accounts suggest the two also communicated about the matter prior to the implementation of the restrictions. While some officials claim Musk acted unilaterally, other reports suggest the directive originated from within the White House. President Trump has publicly stated he did not order the restrictions and was unaware of who might have been responsible.
Diplomatic Context
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has sought to restore full access to the satellite system amid broader tensions in US-Ukraine relations. Zelenskyy traveled to Oslo to address these issues, including the status of Starshield, with US officials. The situation occurs against a backdrop of shifting US policy toward Russia, including the waiving of certain sanctions and a deal to purchase Russian diesel.
Timeline
- October 8, 2026Elon Musk attended a summit in Washington, DC.
- October 14Ukrainian forces reported restrictions on Starshield satellite communications terminals.
- October 16President Trump stated he did not order restrictions on Starshield and did not know who did.
- October 20Reports regarding the Starlink slowdown were published by the Wall Street Journal.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Meduza (English), Rappler.
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