UK Leader Expresses Concern Over Starlink Slowdown Affecting Ukraine

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has voiced concerns over restrictions to Ukraine's access to Starlink satellite services, a move that has reportedly impacted the country's ability to defend against Russian attacks.

Speaking at Prime Minister's Questions on Wednesday, Burnham stated that he held "concerns about any move that diminishes the military capability of Ukraine in the position in which it finds itself at this moment in time." He described the situation between the United States and Ukraine as "currently fragile" and requiring "careful handling."

The comments come amid reports that Elon Musk's Starlink, via his SpaceX firm, had restricted services to Ukraine, potentially hindering its defense against Russian drone and missile attacks. Kyiv has claimed that speed limits imposed on some Starlink services left its forces with insufficient warning.

Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey questioned Burnham in Parliament, citing reports that Musk approached former President Donald Trump with the idea of slowing down Starlink in Ukraine, a suggestion Trump allegedly agreed to. Davey urged the Prime Minister to work with European allies to prevent Musk from expanding his Starlink services across the continent, asking if the Prime Minister agreed that such actions would be "beyond the pale."

Burnham acknowledged the sentiment but emphasized the need for delicate handling of the situation. He noted that talks had occurred between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff in Oslo on Tuesday, and that the UK government was represented at these discussions. "I think at this moment in time, I think we need to handle the situation carefully so that we can bring back all sides to get the support behind President Zelensky and Ukraine," Burnham said.

Starlink, a satellite internet constellation, has been a crucial tool for Ukraine's military communications and operations since Russia's invasion. Reports of restricted access have led to accusations from some Ukrainians that Trump or Musk bear responsibility for casualties attributed to the service limitations.

Trump himself has stated he was unaware of the specifics behind the Starlink slowdown and expressed a desire to investigate the matter. Meanwhile, Witkoff reportedly met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg the day after his discussions with Zelensky in Oslo.