In brief
Ukraine’s defence ministry still reports a slowdown in Starlink coverage that is causing drones moving faster than 100 mph to lose contact. President Trump claimed that Elon Musk had lifted the limits, but Ukrainian officials say no full restoration has yet been confirmed. Musk has denied that the slowdown was deliberate, while Ukraine’s use of the military‑grade Starshield raises questions about U.S. involvement. The dispute comes amid tensions over Ukraine’s satellite‑based warfare capabilities and U.S. sanctions on Russia.
Ukraine officials say their satellite‑based Starlink network is still slashing drone speeds, even after President Donald Trump told the press that co‑founder Elon Musk had restored full access.
Drone Operations Hit by Connectivity Cut
Military drones travelling faster than 100 mph lose connection when the network limits the downlink speed to 161 km/h (100 mph), a problem that could hamper attack and surveillance missions, the defence ministry sources reported.
Trump’s Statement and Musk’s Response
Mr. Trump said, I have not spoken to Mr. Musk...I might have to, but I have not. He added that the issue may be resolved, though Ukrainian officials say there is still no confirmation it has been lifted.
Elon Musk has repeatedly denied that the slowdown was deliberate, though Ukraine’s use of Starshield—a more military‑grade variant—has raised questions about possible U.S. involvement.
Ukrainian Military’s Reliance on Starlink
Ukrainian soldiers highlighted that in the absence of Starlink, there is simply no alternative, and the loss of seconds could be fatal on the battlefield.
The system’s 10,000‑satellite constellation provides real‑time targeting and interception, which are vital when Russia blocks service to its own territory.
Diplomatic Backdrop
The limit row arrived amid heated exchanges between the U.S. and Ukraine over satellite access, oil‑refinery strikes, and new U.S. sanctions on Russia—issues that have amplified tensions ahead of the U.S. mid‑term elections.
