The situation
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is putting the spotlight on a massive issue: Ukraine’s military is still facing partial restrictions on the SpaceX satellite system. Even though there were rumors earlier this week that full access had been restored, Zelensky confirmed on Saturday that the tech is still lowkey failing when it matters most.
What’s the real tea?
This isn't just about slow internet. These restrictions are preventing the Ukrainian military from using drones to intercept Russian attacks or deliver supplies to soldiers on the front lines.
So, who is to blame? It’s giving a total blame game. Ukrainian officials are hearing different stories from everyone involved:
- SpaceX claims it’s just a “technical problem.”
- But contacts inside the company are whispering to officials that the order is coming from the White House.
- When they ask the White House, the finger gets pointed right back at Elon Musk.
Musk claimed on X that the U.S. government controls the Starshield systems, implying the decision comes from the top. President Trump, however, has denied any White House involvement, calling reports that he and Musk discussed throttling the service “totally false.”
The proof in the pudding
Zelensky isn't buying the “technical error” excuse. He noted that the system worked perfectly fine for cars driving 180 km/h in the European Union, but the second those cars crossed into Ukraine, the connection cut out at 161 km/h. “The conclusion is that the restrictions apply inside Ukraine but do not apply in European Union countries,” Zelensky said. “In other words, this is a planned operation.”
Why it matters
Ukraine relies on these satellite networks for everything from logistics to defensive drone operations. When the system is throttled, their ability to gather intel or take down incoming Russian drones takes a major L. With Ukrainian negotiator Rustem Umerov meeting with Trump adviser Jared Kushner to discuss these issues and future peace talks, the pressure is on to get this fixed fast.
