Zelenskyy on Starlink operations: test in EU has proved restrictions apply only in Ukraine

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said a test conducted by Ukraine in EU countries has confirmed that the restrictions on its use of Starlink have been imposed as part of a planned operation.

Source: Zelenskyy answering questions from journalists online, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Zelenskyy said interceptors designed to take down jet-powered Shahed drones using Starlink are currently unable to function due to a speed limit of 161 km/h (approx. 100 mph).

Quote from Zelenskyy: "To understand whether these are really technical problems at SpaceX, or whether it is some kind of operation or agreement to restrict us, to disconnect us, to prevent us from defending ourselves and protecting our people... we sent a couple of cars with Starlink to the territory of European Union countries, and they drove at speeds of over 180 km/h where permitted. Starlink works. We have the corresponding records and the corresponding evidence."

Details: Zelenskyy said this implies the restrictions are in effect in Ukraine but not in EU countries.

"In other words, this is a planned operation," he said.

The president separately emphasised Starlink's importance for both civilian safety and for troops on the front line, where it helps ensure the delivery of food and water to soldiers at their positions.

Zelenskyy also noted that a dialogue on this issue is ongoing at both the military and diplomatic levels.

"We're in contact with everyone, including SpaceX. At the moment, no one there is responding to our military or the Ministry of Defence. At various levels, we're being told these are technical issues. But as I've already said, these technical issues are affecting Ukraine; there are no such issues in the European Union. We've verified this," he said.

Background:

• According to The Telegraph, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk approached Donald Trump with the idea of slowing down Starlink operations in Ukraine.
• Speaking at the White House on 16 October, Trump said he does not believe that either he or Musk is responsible for Ukraine losing access to Starlink. The Pentagon has not publicly explained the reasons for the restrictions.

Your support on Patreon helps us keep the news free and accessible.