Sudden Starlink limits sap Ukraine drone power as Kyiv fears U.S. intelligence squeeze

Ukrainian frontline soldiers have expressed deep concern over Starlink satellite service being restricted on their fast-moving military platforms. According to an experienced officer, this restriction is "comparable to a nuclear strike against us" and has halted all medium-range strike operations. This situation puts the Ukrainian frontline at a significant disadvantage, as they are now unable to support their infantry or strike multiple targets effectively.

The officer's unit, which operates American-made Hornet drones for striking targets up to 150 kilometers away, relied heavily on Starlink for operation and navigation. Since last night, all Starlink and Starshield terminals used by their forces have been subjected to a speed limit of 100 kilometers per hour, drastically reducing their effectiveness.

This disruption has revived concerns about the country's battlefield communications, which depend heavily on a service controlled by a U.S. company. The scale of the disruption remains unclear, and it is uncertain whether it was deliberate. Ukrainian missile-maker Fire Point CEO Iryna Terekh highlighted the severe impact of the restrictions, stating that the Ukrainian frontline is "very much dependent on Starlink-operated mid-strike drones."

The officer also warned that Russian troops may use this situation to reinforce their positions, particularly along key strategic routes in Crimea and the Black Sea.