Brief
Zelensky says Starshield speed cap remains despite US denials
Ukraine alleges a deliberate speed limit on its military Starshield network, while US officials and Elon Musk offer conflicting explanations.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told reporters on Saturday that a speed cap of about 160 km/h on Starshield, the military‑grade version of SpaceX’s Starlink used by Ukrainian forces, appears deliberate rather than technical. He said the network has been partly restored but the cap remains in place.
Poland’s foreign minister earlier accused SpaceX CEO Elon Musk of "playing politics" after unexpected restrictions were reported earlier in the week. Musk responded on X, stating that the United States owns and controls the system and that any decisions about its use rest with the military and ultimately the president.
Reuters sources indicated that an order to slow down the service originated inside the White House. President Donald Trump, however, told reporters on Friday, "It wasn't me" and added, "I don’t think it was Elon, and from what I understand, it's the same as it’s always been."
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the claim that the government ordered restrictions "categorically false" and said Ukraine does not have access to the military version of the network, contradicting reports that Ukrainian forces have used both Starlink and Starshield.
Olena Tregub, founder and Secretary General of Ukraine’s Independent Anti‑Corruption Commission (NAKO), warned that the Trump administration could be challenged legally if it is found to have cut Starshield connectivity, noting the political risk ahead of the November elections.
Key facts
- Zelensky says a 160 km/h speed cap on Starshield remains in place. (france24.com)
- Elon Musk said the US government owns Starlink and decisions rest with the military and president. (france24.com)
- Donald Trump denied ordering any slowdown of the service. (france24.com)
- Marco Rubio called claims of a White House order "categorically false". (france24.com)
Where accounts differ
- Who ordered the speed limits on Starshield: Reuters sources said an order came from inside the White House. (france24.com); Donald Trump said he did not order the slowdown. (france24.com); Marco Rubio said no one at the White House ordered the slowdown. (france24.com)
Sources
- [1] france24.com — originally reported as “Tech 24 - Who capped Starlink in Ukraine? Musk, Trump and Rubio give three different answers”
