SpaceX limits Starlink operations in Ukraine, disrupting military ops., missile defense capability

SpaceX has imposed restrictions on Starlink operations in Ukraine, limiting the military-grade version to speeds under 100 miles per hour (160 km/h), disrupting combat missions and critical infrastructure. The Ukrainian presidential adviser Serhiy Beskrestnov reported this development on Telegram, noting that the Ukrainian defense forces were unaware of the limitation, which directly impacted multiple operations.

Ukrainian officials suspect the move may have been prompted by US President Donald Trump. Starlink terminals are essential for providing internet access to Ukrainians amidst the Russian invasion, and these disruptions have hindered several crucial operations. President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed that Ukraine was not warned about incoming Russian missile strikes, prompting criticism from US officials and accusations of inaction by the US.

Zelensky urged the US to expand Starlink access to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities, emphasizing that this would facilitate negotiations with Russia. Meanwhile, Ukrainian negotiators met with US officials to push for increased sanctions on Russia following a deadly missile attack that left over 70 people dead.