Ukraine reports stable Starlink service after temporary limits
Ukraine's government said its military has a stable Starlink connection after restrictions were imposed 10 days earlier. The satellite terminals, made by SpaceX but managed by the US government, are important for Ukrainian military operations. Speed caps had disrupted drone interception and some strikes behind enemy lines.
Kyiv said its forces again had dependable satellite links on Saturday, ten days after access was curtailed. The terminals are manufactured by SpaceX yet administered by Washington; the temporary cap limited use at high speeds and coincided with failed combat tasks, weakened drone interception and cancelled rear-area strikes.
During the dispute, Trump denied responsibility, Rubio described SpaceX as a private firm outside presidential control, and Musk said US authorities set the limits. Zelenskyy attributed the move to both Washington and SpaceX, noted that only Ukraine was affected, and thanked US officials after service was restored.
The episode may heighten concerns in Ukraine about relying on externally controlled communications for air defence and frontline logistics, with possible consequences for civilian safety if links falter. It could also prompt allies and private contractors to clarify responsibility for such systems, affecting how governments and companies are trusted to manage wartime infrastructure.