Starlink imposed unexpected speed limits on its network late Tuesday, restricting connectivity to weapons traveling faster than 100 mph, according to Ukrainian officials. The restrictions coincided with Russian strikes on Ukrainian targets and drew complaints from Kyiv that the limitations were hampering defensive operations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope the slowdown was a technical error rather than intentional policy, while an adviser suggested the timing was deliberate and tied to deteriorating relations between Washington and Kyiv.
Elon Musk addressed the situation through social media posts, clarifying that Starshield, the military-grade version of the service, is controlled and operated by the US government rather than SpaceX. He stated that any restrictions on speed or usage are determined by US military leadership and ultimately by the US president. Musk also reiterated that Starlink is restricted to civilian or defensive activities and cannot support offensive military operations. The service was partially restored by Wednesday evening, with Ukraine’s former defense minister calling for complete removal of speed limits.
The incident reflects escalating tensions between the United States and Ukraine over military strategy. US President Donald Trump has expressed frustration with Ukraine’s continued strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, and reports suggest the US threatened to restrict intelligence sharing unless Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire on energy targets. Trump has publicly called for a change in Ukrainian leadership, statements echoed by Musk. During a visit to London, Zelensky acknowledged feeling betrayed by recent US actions, including a reported American deal to import Russian diesel, though he noted the situation involved complexities beyond his personal feelings.
The restrictions occurred during one of the heaviest Russian bombing campaigns of the conflict. Strikes killed multiple people across Ukrainian territory and left approximately 600,000 people without electricity. The US government has not issued any official statement regarding the speed limitations or their origins.
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