Ukraine learns to fight without Starlink as Musk plays politics with satellites
Summary
Ukraine has relied heavily on Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service to maintain communications and control drones during its conflict with Russia. However, recent disruptions and restrictions on Starlink service, possibly linked to Musk’s political decisions, are forcing Ukraine and its European partners to find other ways to stay connected and defend themselves.Key Facts
- Starlink provides high-speed internet via satellites and has helped Ukraine with civilian and military communications since Russia’s invasion.
- The US and European countries have bought tens of thousands of Starlink terminals for Ukraine and pay for the service.
- Ukraine also uses a military version called Starshield, provided by the US, for secure operations.
- Starlink supports drones and robotic devices used by Ukraine on land and in the Black Sea.
- Russia used smuggled Starlink terminals before SpaceX cut off access to unauthorized terminals inside Ukraine in early 2026.
- In February 2023, SpaceX blocked the use of Starlink for Ukrainian military drones after Musk objected to using it for long-range drone strikes.
- On October 13, 2026, SpaceX began throttling Starlink speeds for Ukrainian military terminals moving faster than about 99 miles per hour.
- Musk and President Trump have denied involvement in the throttling, and each has blamed the other.
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