Zelensky Presents Evidence of US Restricting Starlink, Claims 'Planned Operation'
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated he has proof that the United States intentionally slowed the Starlink satellite internet system within Ukraine, an action he characterized as a deliberate restriction.
President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Saturday that he possesses evidence demonstrating that the United States has restricted the functionality of the Starlink satellite internet system for military use in Ukraine. Zelensky stated that the system operated at reduced speeds within Ukraine, while functioning normally in the European Union, suggesting a deliberate intervention.
According to Zelensky, Ukrainian drones reliant on Starlink experienced connectivity issues when exceeding speeds of 160 km/h (99 mph) within Ukraine, a limitation not observed when the drones operated within the EU at speeds up to 180 km/h (112 mph). "The conclusion is clear: the restrictions are in effect within Ukraine but do not apply within the European Union. In other words, this is a planned operation," Zelensky told reporters via WhatsApp.
Starlink, operated by Elon Musk's SpaceX, provides high-speed internet crucial for Ukraine's military in defending against Russian drone and missile attacks. The Ukrainian military reportedly suspended operations due to the speed restrictions, which Zelensky asserted undermined the country's air defenses. Issues with Starlink persisted on Saturday, according to reports in The Times.
Earlier reports indicated that Elon Musk had approached then-President Donald Trump with the idea of imposing speed limits on Starlink in Ukraine. Sources familiar with the discussions suggested that Trump had agreed to implement these limitations on Starshield, the military-grade version of the system. However, Trump has publicly denied any involvement in slowing down internet speeds over Ukraine, stating, "We didn't do that. We didn't slow it down at all."
The situation arises amid reports of a deterioration in relations between the Ukrainian and US presidents. Zelensky previously criticized a decision by the Trump administration to block sanctions on oil and gas exports, which he argued benefited Russia. He also suggested that Ukraine's attacks on Russian oil refineries could lead to a reduction in US support.
Trump has also made public comments suggesting Zelensky should be replaced and has refrained from directly blaming Russian President Vladimir Putin for initiating the war in Ukraine, a stance at odds with international allies. Regarding the war's origins, Trump stated, "I know the details, OK, and at some point I'll release the details. But I don't care anything except for one. I want that war ended."
In parallel, Western allies are increasing their support for Ukraine. The UK, Germany, and France are planning a joint military exercise in Poland next month involving 1,500 troops. This exercise aims to simulate troop and supply movements and ensure NATO readiness to provide security guarantees to Ukraine post-conflict. The announcement was made by UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting, who emphasized the importance of Ukraine prevailing against Russian aggression.