Trump says Musk has restored Ukraine's internet access
This report details the ongoing dispute over Starlink connectivity in Ukraine, noting that despite claims from Donald Trump that Elon Musk restored access, Ukrainian officials continue to experience technical limitations. The network remains essential for military coordination and drone operations.
Why it matters
The intersection of private technology infrastructure and military defense strategy is a critical factor in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Share Save Add as preferred on Google Gabriela Pomeroy and Hafsa Khalil Watch: Trump says Musk has restored Ukraine's Starlink internet access after row Ukraine is still recording issues with the Starlink network, sources within the defence ministry say, after Donald Trump said limits on the satellite uplink had been reversed by Elon Musk.
The sources told the BBC that instances of drones experiencing connection loss at speeds of 161km/h (100mph) were being recorded, hampering military operations.
The US president had denied instructing the tech billionaire to restrict connectivity to Starlink's military-grade counterpart, Starshield, before saying on Thursday that Musk had "put it back".
Musk previously said he was not behind the slowdown, which affected Ukraine's ability to use attack drones and co-ordinate defensive operations.
The Ukrainian defence ministry sources said the military was constantly monitoring the performance of both the Starlink and Starshield networks.
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