Despite Trump’s claim, Ukraine troops report ongoing Starlink satellite network problems disrupting operations
Restrictions still disrupt operations
Ukrainian forces say Starlink disruptions remain widespread, even after Trump’s claim that Musk had lifted the restrictions. Beskrestnov said Ukrainian forces had seen no change to the limits.
The restrictions can break connections when military equipment, including drones, moves at high speed. That has hindered offensive drone missions and attempts to intercept incoming Russian attacks.
Responsibility remains disputed
The slowdown has prompted confusion over who ordered it and what motivated the decision. Both Trump and Musk have denied responsibility, while Ukrainian forces continue to report problems.
The report places the dispute amid heightened tensions after Washington lifted sanctions on Russia and began importing Russian diesel. Trump had sought to reduce US energy prices ahead of the midterm elections; maritime tracking data showed a Russian diesel tanker heading to New York on Thursday.
Talks set to resume in Abu Dhabi
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Friday that trilateral talks involving Russia, Ukraine and the US were expected to restart in Abu Dhabi in November. Earlier rounds had not produced a breakthrough, with Moscow and Kyiv far apart over peace terms.
Putin again questioned Ukraine’s sovereignty in remarks to a Russian state television reporter late Thursday. He cited unspecified genetic research to repeat his claim that Russians and Ukrainians were “one people,” and said Moscow would meet all the objectives of its full-scale invasion.
Key points
- Ukrainian forces report that Starlink restrictions remain in place.
- Speed limits disrupt fast-moving military equipment, including drones.
- Trump and Musk both deny responsibility for the restrictions.
- Russia, Ukraine and the US are expected to resume talks in Abu Dhabi in November.