Zelenskyy says Ukraine still unable to intercept Russian drones amid Starlink speed restrictions
Speed limits disrupt drone systems
Zelenskyy said Saturday that Ukraine remains unable to use its interceptor systems against Russian drones because of speed restrictions on Starshield. The system is an upgraded military version of Elon Musk’s Starlink.
He said Starlink in Ukraine stops working above 161 km/h, cutting off drones and connectivity. In the European Union, he said, it works continuously at speeds above 180 km/h. Kyiv is discussing the issue with U.S. officials, who told him the restrictions were tied to technical problems.
Dispute over who sets limits
Musk said Wednesday that Starshield is owned and controlled by the U.S. government, and that the U.S. military and ultimately the president decide its limits. President Trump said he did not believe he or Musk was responsible, and said he understood the system was operating as it always had.
The comments came amid an ongoing dispute between Trump and Zelenskyy. The White House had not responded to CBS News’ request for comment.
Sanctions and energy prices
Zelenskyy argued the waiver could embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin. He told reporters he believed the “diesel deal” was only the first step as sanctions were lifted.
Key points
- Zelenskyy says Starlink’s speed restrictions prevent Ukraine from using interceptor systems against Russian drones.
- He says Starlink stops above 161 km/h in Ukraine but works above 180 km/h in the European Union.
- Musk says the U.S. government controls Starshield, with limits set by the military and ultimately the president.
- Zelenskyy reported that Russia attacked more than 15 critical energy facilities across Ukraine.