Elon Musk ordered Starlink slowdown that disrupted Ukraine’s drone operations: Report
A temporary slowdown in SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network disrupted Ukrainian drone operations, which US officials attribute to a direct order from CEO Elon Musk. The disruption affected both offensive and defensive missions against Russian forces, drawing criticism from Ukrainian leadership amid ongoing heavy military strikes.
Why it matters
Demonstrates the immense geopolitical influence held by private technology executives over active military conflicts and critical national infrastructure.
A slowdown in SpaceX’s Starlink satellite network that disrupted Ukraine’s drone operations was triggered by an order from company's CEO Elon Musk, The Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday, citing unnamed US officials and other sources.The move reportedly restricted Ukraine’s access to the satellite service, affecting the country’s ability to conduct both defensive and offensive drone missions against Russian forces.Ukraine relies on Starlink, operated by Musk’s space technology company SpaceX, to maintain satellite connectivity for drones used to intercept Russian attack drones as well as those deployed in strikes against Moscow.
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