Ukraine's military regains Starshield access as zelenskyy says starlink is working again, thanks americans who took disruption seriously

Access restored for Ukraine

Zelenskyy announced on Saturday that his military could again use the satellite network. His statement followed about 10 days of concern after a presidential adviser said drones and other projectiles were losing access to Starshield, Starlink’s military application.

Ukrainian forces use the system to control fast-moving drones and interceptors. A connection also helps them counter some of Russia’s slower drones as Russia prepares to bombard Kyiv ahead of an expected brutal winter.

Zelenskyy thanks supporters

In a video posted to X, Zelenskyy thanked Americans and partners, including members of Congress, senators, media, the State Department and the president. He said they had taken the issue seriously and provided meaningful help.

The disruption drew an unusually sharp response from Zelenskyy, who has sought to manage his public demeanor since a difficult Oval Office meeting with Trump last year. In an October 14 interview with Piers Morgan, Zelenskyy called the slowdown “a big mistake” and warned it would cause human losses.

Responsibility remains disputed

The Wall Street Journal reported that Musk ordered the slowdown. Musk, SpaceX’s CEO, wrote on X that limits on speed or usage are set by the US military and ultimately the president.

Tensions over Ukraine policy

The dispute followed Ukraine’s targeting of Russian oil facilities earlier this month. Musk and Trump both made statements criticizing Zelenskyy; Musk wrote on X on October 10 that Zelenskyy had gone too far. Trump has sought to reduce high gas prices, which rose after the US attacked Iran in February, by easing sanctions on Russian energy.