‘Starshield systems are owned and controlled by the U.S. government.’ Musk responds to Ukraine’s complaints about restrictions on the military version of Starlink.

Ukrainian officials expressed gratitude to SpaceX CEO Elon Musk for restoring high-speed Starlink service in Ukraine, after the service was slowed down. Fedorov credited Musk, saying "Thank you, Elon Musk. We hope for your continued support." Musk responded, clarifying that Starshield systems are owned and controlled by the U.S. government.

Any restrictions on speed or usage are decided by the U.S. military and ultimately by the President. Musk reiterated that Starlink is a commercial service, limited to civilian or defensive activities. Despite SpaceX's claims, Ukrainian officials noted that the service still has a speed limit of 161 kilometers per hour on Starshield terminals.

The restrictions on Starshield, a military version of Starlink needed for drone launches, have been a major concern for Ukraine's armed forces. Some compared the slowdown to a nuclear strike. The restrictions came amid a strained relationship between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.