Musk Ordered Starlink Slowdown That Blindsided Ukraine
The SpaceX founder authorized the move and has been discussing Ukraine with Trump, but the president has denied ordering the restrictions.
Elon Musk has ordered a slowdown of Starlink speeds for Ukrainian military use, causing panic in Kyiv and confusion in the Trump administration, according to U.S. officials and people familiar with the matter. The slowdown, which began on October 14, has rendered offensive and interceptor drones nearly useless, drawing criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Musk and Trump discussed the decision in a call shortly after it became public, and SpaceX representatives have been in contact with White House counterparts to coordinate a unified response. Trump has expressed anger at Ukraine for attacking Russian refineries, which he blames for high energy prices, while Musk has stated that any changes to Starlink's speed or usage are decided by the U.S. military and the president.
The incident has heightened tensions between the U.S. and Ukraine, but it has also underscored Musk's significant influence over the war, as Starlink provides crucial connectivity for Ukrainian forces.
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