SpaceX restores full Starlink bandwidth in Ukraine

Elon Musk stated on Saturday that SpaceX ordered a reduction in Starlink speeds in Ukraine, a move that disrupted military operations. The admission followed confirmation from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that satellite access had returned to previous levels.

Zelenskyy said the restrictions impaired front-line activities for more than seven days. He noted that the restoration began overnight and was complete by Saturday morning. The improved connectivity aids logistics and defenses against Russian Shahed drones.

Musk justified the limitation by citing a violation of commercial terms of service. He argued that using the civilian service for offensive drone strikes was not permitted. He said a loophole allowing such usage was closed during the prior week.

The company maintained that the U.S. government controlled the Starshield military-grade system. However, Ukrainian officials expressed alarm over the changes to their communications infrastructure. Commanders reported lost drones and interrupted missions during the period of reduced speeds.

Yevhenii Khmara, the Ukrainian Defence Minister, credited direct dialogue with Washington for the resolution. He emphasized the importance of the fix for drone operations and logistics. Zelenskyy also attributed the outcome to diplomatic efforts with the United States.

U.S. President Donald Trump said he did not make the decision but advised against blaming Musk. Vice-President JD Vance suggested White House coordination occurred, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth denied administration involvement.

The technical fix arrives as Russia agreed to resume three-way talks with the U.S. and Ukraine next month. A localized ceasefire around Oleshky in the Kherson region was also brokered by First Lady Melania Trump. Fighting continued elsewhere, with Ukrainian forces striking a chemical plant in Tolyatti and an electronics plant in Oryol.