Starshield restrictions hamper Ukraine's ability to defend energy infrastructure from Russian drones, Zelensky says

President Volodymyr Zelensky accused restrictions on Starshield, a modified version of Starlink internet service, for impeding Ukraine's ability to defend its energy infrastructure from Russian drones, according to a report on Nov. 15. The Ukrainian President linked the restrictions to successful Russian strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure.

These strikes target substations with Shahed drones, many of which successfully penetrate due to ongoing speed limitations for Starshield terminals on the front line and in temporarily occupied territories. Zelensky detailed this issue on Telegram, stating that the new restrictions limit Starshield's operating speed to 100 miles per hour, hindering Ukraine's capability to intercept Russian strike drones.

These drones, launched by Russia, have been a significant threat, with over 2,300 attack drones, 1,590 glide bombs, and 15 missiles targeting Ukraine in the past week alone. Russian forces have specifically attacked energy infrastructure in Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, Odesa, Zhytomyr, and Kirovohrad oblasts within the last 24 hours. The attacks have resulted in at least four civilian deaths and 69 injuries.

Zelensky emphasized that lifting these restrictions is crucial for protecting Ukrainian lives and energy infrastructure before winter. Since the summer, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukraine's energy facilities ahead of the winter season. Starshield, both commercial and militarized, has been instrumental for Ukraine in disrupting Russian logistics and hindering their advance on the front lines.

On Nov. 13, Zelensky highlighted the political implications of the speed restrictions on Starshield, warning that imposing them in occupied territories could be seen as recognizing them as part of Russia. This stance was echoed by the U.S. Congressional Ukraine Caucus, which demanded an explanation from the Trump administration and SpaceX and called for the immediate restoration of full access to Starshield for Ukraine.