Musk chose to restrict Ukraine's access to SpaceX satellite network, sources say - CBS News
Elon Musk reportedly restricted Ukraine's access to the Starlink satellite network, impacting drone operations and battlefield communications. While Musk claims access is controlled by the U.S. government, administration officials expressed surprise at the sudden service slowdown.
Why it matters
This highlights the immense geopolitical power held by private tech CEOs and the complexities of relying on commercial infrastructure for military operations.
A decision by Elon Musk led to restrictions on Ukraine's use of SpaceX's satellite communications network, people familiar with the matter told CBS News.The satellite service, which is used for drone operations, hitting certain targets and protecting sites in Ukraine, was slowed significantly last week.Musk held multiple conversations with administration officials leading up to the order, the sources said. He wanted clarity on the president's thinking on the matter. Musk has expressed distaste with his company being seen as profiting from the continued war between Russia and Ukraine.It's not clear how Musk's order to curtail service was executed. Musk licenses SpaceX's Starshield technology to the U.S. government. He said last week the U.S. controls who can access the technology and what level of service those users receive.
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