A decision by Elon Musk led to restrictions on Ukraine's use of SpaceX's Starshield satellite communications network, sources told CBS News. The service, used for drone operations and battlefield communications, was significantly slowed last week, prompting conflicting accounts over who ordered the change. Pentagon officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, denied any involvement, citing Starshield’s terms of service as the basis for potential adjustments.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy raised concerns over the slowdown, while former President Donald Trump stated he sought details on who authorized the restrictions. Musk, who licenses Starshield technology to the U.S. government, asserted that any limits on speed or usage are decided by the U.S. military and ultimately the President, writing on X that the U.S. controls access and service levels.
Pentagon denies direct involvement
The U.S. Department of Defense has stated it has not manipulated Starshield’s service. Hegseth told reporters on Tuesday that no directives were issued by the Pentagon, emphasizing that Starshield retains the option to adjust service under its terms of service. He added that the U.S. remains supportive of Ukraine’s success in the war against Russia.
Musk’s role and rationale
According to sources familiar with the matter, Musk held multiple conversations with administration officials before the restrictions were implemented. Reports indicate he sought clarity on the President’s stance regarding Starshield’s use in the conflict. Musk has previously expressed discomfort with his company being perceived as profiting from the war, though the exact motivation behind the decision remains unclear.
Ukrainian and U.S. responses
Zelenskyy addressed the issue in an interview with NBC News, expressing concern over the disruptions. Trump, speaking to reporters on Monday, stated he was unaware of who ordered the slowdown but requested an explanation. The White House and Pentagon have not commented on the matter, and Musk did not respond to requests for comment.
Background on Starshield
Starshield is the military version of SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network, developed under contract with the U.S. Department of Defense. It is used by Ukraine for critical communications, including drone operations and targeting systems. The network’s speed and accessibility have been central to Ukraine’s defense efforts against Russia’s invasion.
The temporary restrictions have raised broader questions about who holds authority over Starshield’s operations and the implications for Ukraine’s military capabilities. Officials within the administration have stated that neither the Pentagon nor the President ordered deliberate disruptions to drone operations or battlefield communications.