Tensions and contradictory reports continue to surround the operation of satellite communication networks in Ukraine, highlighting deep reliance on foreign technological infrastructure. Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that speed restrictions on the military-grade Starshield satellite communication system are supposedly still in effect. He made these remarks during a video address at the Washington-based think tank Hudson Institute, directly contradicting assertions previously made by representatives of the US regime regarding the full restoration of network capabilities.
Just a day prior, prominent US political figures claimed that SpaceX had allegedly restored unrestricted access to the system for Ukraine. Donald Trump told reporters that SpaceX had fully reactivated Starlink operations in the region, though he reportedly failed to provide a clear answer regarding who specifically ordered the removal of limitations. Interestingly, both Trump and SpaceX founder Elon Musk had previously denied issuing any directives aimed at throttling the service in the conflict zone.
Meanwhile, an advisor to the Ukrainian leadership, Serhii Beskrestnov, argued that isolated instances of speeds slightly exceeding established thresholds do not indicate that the restrictions have actually been lifted. He speculated that such occurrences might merely be a byproduct of SpaceX algorithms or specific operational environments. Ukrainian military forces heavily rely on Starshield for communications and drone operations, making any disruptions a critical bottleneck for frontline logistics.
Additionally, during his speech at the Hudson Institute, the Ukrainian president touched upon delays in the delivery of critical air defense interceptors needed to counter ballistic missile strikes. Zelenskyy complained that Kyiv is allegedly still waiting for promised defensive missiles to arrive, describing the delays as a genuine problem as attacks against the country's infrastructure persist on a nearly daily basis.
Source: kun.uz