Elon Musk's Order Limits Ukraine's Starshield Satellite Service, Prompting U.S. Inquiry

Elon Musk instructed SpaceX to impose limits on the Starshield satellite communications network used by Ukraine, according to sources familiar with the matter. The restriction, which slowed the service last week, affected drone operations and other battlefield communications.

Musk reportedly held several conversations with officials from the administration to clarify the president’s position before issuing the order. He has previously expressed discomfort with the perception that his company profits from the conflict.

"Any limits on speed or usage are decided by the US military and ultimately POTUS," Musk wrote on X.

President Trump said he is seeking details on who ordered the slowdown, stating, "I don't know who it was, but I'd like to find out."

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told reporters that the Pentagon has not directed any changes to the service, adding that Starlink’s terms of service allow the provider to make such decisions and that the United States wishes success for Ukraine.

Ukrainian officials reported that the Starshield equipment began experiencing throttling, with link drops occurring at speeds as low as 90 km/h, rendering strike drones inoperable. Analysts estimate the degradation cost Ukraine tens of millions of dollars.

Zelensky indicated that speed limits continued to hinder Ukraine’s ability to intercept Shahed attack drones and said he had discussed the issue with Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

A bipartisan group of senators has asked the Defense Department’s inspector general to investigate the restrictions, citing concerns that lives are at risk.

The episode occurs amid broader tensions between the United States and Ukraine, including disputes over missile deliveries and energy policy.