Musk Approached Trump to Slow Starlink in Ukraine, Sources Claim
Tech billionaire and former president allegedly discussed restricting satellite access that helped Ukraine intercept Russian attacks.
Elon Musk approached Donald Trump with the idea of limiting the functionality of the Starlink satellite system in Ukraine, with the intention of hindering Kyiv's ability to intercept Russian drone and missile attacks, according to sources cited by The Telegraph.
Musk had previously publicly stated that the U.S. administration was responsible for the decision to restrict Kyiv's access to the satellite system, which has since been restored. However, sources familiar with the discussions suggest that Trump agreed with Musk's proposal to implement speed restrictions on Starshield, the military-grade version of the satellite communications system.
Musk indicated that any changes to the system would have required approval from the Pentagon, and by extension, the U.S. president. At the time of these discussions, Trump was reportedly in a dispute with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over Ukraine's strikes on Russian oil refineries. Trump's administration had warned Ukrainian officials that continued attacks could lead to a reduction in U.S. support.
Sources told The Telegraph that both Musk and Trump were involved in the decision to limit Starlink's capabilities. One source stated, "The reality is that they were both in it." This account was corroborated by two well-placed Ukrainian sources and a high-ranking European official.
These revelations emerge as Trump has suspended new sanctions on Russia, a move that occurred shortly after a reported agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply the U.S. with over 300,000 tons of diesel fuel. Trump informed Congress that this suspension was in the national interest, reversing legislation signed just weeks prior.
Trump has also refrained from directly blaming Putin for initiating the war in Ukraine, a stance that has caused friction with allies like Britain. When questioned about this, Trump implied the situation was complex and stated his priority was to see the war end.
Meanwhile, other international partners are increasing their support for Ukraine. British Defence Secretary Wes Streeting announced that the UK, alongside Germany and France, will participate in a significant military exercise in Poland next month. This exercise aims to ensure NATO forces are prepared to provide security guarantees to Ukraine post-war. Approximately 1,500 troops are expected to participate, simulating the movement of troops and essential supplies.
Despite these efforts, Russia's bombardment of Ukraine continues. Kyiv has reported further strikes causing civilian casualties, damage to infrastructure, and power outages. Officials in Kyiv have warned that Russia may be stockpiling missiles for increased attacks in the coming months, particularly targeting Ukraine's energy grid as winter approaches.
SpaceX has been contacted for comment. The Pentagon has not provided a public explanation for the previous restrictions on Starlink in Ukraine.