Ukrainian defense sources have indicated that performance problems persist on both the Starlink and Starshield satellite networks, contradicting assertions that access limitations have been resolved. The military reported instances of unmanned aerial vehicles losing connectivity when traveling at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour, which disrupts combat operations and coordination efforts.
President Trump stated on Thursday that tech entrepreneur Elon Musk had reversed the restrictions on the satellite service. However, Trump had previously denied directing Musk to implement the limitations in the first place. Musk has also claimed he was not responsible for the slowdown. The Ukrainian defense ministry maintained that there is currently no verification that the reported restrictions have actually been lifted, and officials indicated they are actively monitoring network performance.
The connectivity issues emerged amid escalating tensions between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding military operations targeting Russian energy infrastructure. Trump expressed concern that strikes on Russian oil refineries have contributed to elevated global fuel prices, a position that differs from Ukrainian assessments of the strategic importance of such operations. The White House has repeatedly denied that it deliberately imposed restrictions on the network in Ukraine, while Musk suggested that the US military could be involved in any limitations affecting Starshield.
Ukraine relies on both civilian Starlink service and the more secure military-grade Starshield network for communications and drone operations. The satellite constellation provides coverage in remote areas and on the battlefield, with Starshield enabling real-time target visualization and drone control. Russian entities are prohibited from accessing Starlink, which limits Ukrainian long-range strike capabilities when targeting Russian territory.
Zelensky stated earlier on Thursday that network speeds had not been fully restored and indicated he was awaiting information from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio regarding the matter. Reports suggested that Trump had expressed frustration to Musk about the capped system speeds and that performance had improved following their conversation.
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