Report: Elon Musk Ordered Slowing Down Starlink Access for Ukrainian Army
Effects on Ukrainian operations
A military technology adviser to Zelensky told The Guardian that the restrictions hampered Ukraine’s attack and air defence drone missions. The adviser said they also contributed to several failed combat missions last week. Zelensky told Piers Morgan Uncensored that he felt betrayed and warned that “people would die,” attributing those words to the president.
Dispute over responsibility
On Tuesday, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said Washington had not withdrawn Ukraine’s access. Asked about Starshield, he said service terms needed to be followed and that Starlink could make decisions under those terms.
Criticism and access update
Poland, which says it pays for Ukraine’s Starlink subscription, criticised Musk over the decision. Musk had previously said Starlink would not turn off its terminals or use them as a bargaining chip, regardless of his disagreement with Ukraine policy.
Key points
- The Wall Street Journal reported Musk was responsible for a Starlink slowdown affecting Ukrainian military operations.
- A Ukrainian military technology adviser said restrictions hampered drone missions and contributed to failed combat missions.
- Hegseth said Washington had not withdrawn access and pointed to service terms.
- Zelensky said intelligence access had resumed after discussions involving Steve Witkoff.