Musk's SpaceX is still restricting Starlink in Ukraine and the toll is rising - CNBC
Ukrainian officials report that SpaceX continues to throttle Starlink and Starshield internet services, hindering military drone operations. Despite claims of restored service, officials maintain that speed limits remain in place, impacting the country's defense capabilities.
Why it matters
The reliance on private satellite technology in active war zones raises critical questions about corporate influence on geopolitical conflicts.
SpaceX 's Starlink internet system continues to be throttled in Ukraine as the stakes rise for the war-torn country, Ukrainian officials and a national security expert said Friday.
"Every day matters for Ukraine, because every Ukrainian life matters," wrote Denys Sienik, Ukraine's deputy ambassador to the U.S., in a Friday post on X .
"Our people are waiting for positive news, hoping that the restrictions will be lifted and our defenders will have the capabilities they need to protect lives," Sienik said. "Unfortunately, as of today, nothing has changed. We continue to wait."
Since Oct. 14, Ukrainian officials have accused SpaceX of undermining the country's ability to defend itself by imposing speed limits on Starshield, the military-grade Starlink offering. Any drone traveling above 100 mph lost its connection, disrupting some missions, officials said.
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Elon Musk Admits SpaceX Throttled Starlink as Ukraine Connectivity Recovers
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