Elon Musk has indicated that the US government may be responsible for restrictions on the speed at which some of Ukraine's weapons can operate while connected to SpaceX's Starlink internet network. Starlink is essential for Ukraine's military operations, allowing the guidance of drones to Russian targets and the protection of its airspace. On Tuesday night, Ukraine reported that new speed limits were disrupting its battlefield missions. An adviser to President Volodymyr Zelensky suggested that the restrictions were linked to recent tensions between Kyiv and Washington.
Musk stated that Starshield, a military-grade service related to Starlink, is under the control of the US government, and that any limitations on speed or usage are determined by the US military and ultimately the US president. Responding to requests from Ukrainian officials, including Zelensky, who expressed hope that the issue was a technical error, Musk noted that Starlink is intended for civilian or defensive purposes and cannot be utilized for offensive military actions.
On Tuesday night, Starlink imposed a speed limit of 100 mph (160 km/h), which affected the connectivity of weapons traveling faster than that. By Wednesday evening, the speed limit had been partially restored, according to Ukraine's former defense minister Mykhailo Fedorov, who emphasized the need to remove the speed limit entirely for Ukraine's defense.
The restrictions coincided with a significant Russian attack on Ukraine, which resulted in multiple casualties in Kyiv and damage to military communications and energy facilities. Zelensky described the assault as one of the largest from Russia, noting that while many drones were intercepted, some still managed to strike.
Following the attacks, at least 600,000 people in Ukraine were left without electricity, and residents reported a lack of warning before the drone strikes occurred. Zelensky's adviser Serhiy Beskrestnov stated that the timing of the speed restrictions appeared to be related to the current political climate.
During a visit to London, Zelensky expressed feelings of betrayal regarding US actions, particularly in light of a deal to import Russian diesel. He acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, "Really yes... but it's a little bit more complicated than just my emotions or my feelings." Zelensky was welcomed by UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who reaffirmed support for Ukraine and announced expedited delivery of lightweight multirole missiles to assist in countering Russian drones.